The eighth edition of Fish Day with a packed agenda of activities and entertainment will take place at the Pinel Island embarkation area on Sunday, May 2, from 10:00am until 9:00 pm, organizers announced at a press conference Tuesday. A truly traditional local event that draws thousands from both sides of the island, Fish Day is one of the most important cultural events on the Collectivité’s annual calendar.
This year the theme is “From the Sea to the Pot.” New sponsor Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco is providing 30,000 biodegradable cups to the vendors to serve mixed drinks and beers. “Fishing is a centuriesold tradition handed down from generation to generation and represents a valuable asset to our local economy,” noted Territorial Councillor Carenne Mills in her introduction.
“Fish Day is a special occasion to highlight the profession and the product from the sea. It is much appreciated by tourists and our own inhabitants, and has become a must for families who enjoy the festive and convivial atmosphere. Today it has grown to attract some 10,000 visitors.” People come and go throughout the day, browsing up to 80 stands that include arts and crafts, jewelry, cakes, and confections, and sampling delicious local dishes from 45 food stands with emphasis on fresh seafood, while enjoying live entertainment from the main stage.
Activities include a fish pot exhibition, fishing competitions, traditional boat races, various games organized for children, and cockfighting. Culture, Sports, and Youth Affairs Director Thierry Gombs noted the area set aside for the Fish Day village had increased in size this year. “We also aim to ascertain exactly how many people are coming to Fish Day so there will be a welcome stand at the entrance with someone tagging you as you come in,” explained Gombs. “There will be students taking information such as where you are from, Dutch side or French side, whether you are a tourist or local, etc.” The opening ceremony will include an address by an elected official and benediction by Johnny Gibbons, followed by the laying of a wreath in the sea to honor past fishermen.
Gunslingers band will perform from 10:30 to 11:30am, followed by Rhythm Boys for the following hour. At 12:00 noon there will be a rendition of the St. Martin Song, an official speech will be made, and after that blowing of the conch shell. At 12:20pm there will be a parade by the New Generation Status Brass Band. Entertainment from the main stage begins at 12:30pm with dance performances by Grain D’Or, V.I.D. Dancers, and Afro Latin Move. Singers include Blunty, Nicolio and Rickolio, Velly, Crom Ex, and Oswald. The fishing competition and sales of fresh fish begin at 1:00pm.
From 1:30pm onwards there will be performances by Jolly Boys, Creole Stars, Prince and Majestic Band, M. Ruffy and Pure Band until 6:00pm. On stage from 6:00 to 7:00pm will be Sister Marlene, Sensual Riddim Junior Lion, and Red Eye Crew, and dancing by Honey Dance, Mysterious Crew, and Afro Latin Move. Closing off the day from 7:00 to 9:00pm will be Respekt Band with King Timo and Pinky. The always entertaining Ricky the Phox is the emcee for the event. Entry to the event is free. Parking is organized outside the Fish Day village on land loaned to the organizers for the day. There also will be a shuttle service to take visitors into the village.
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