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~ From the Sea to the Pot ~
A huge turnout is expected once again on Sunday, May 3, for the extremely popular Fish Day cultural extravaganza, now in its 13th year at French Cul-de-Sac Bay. The day-long schedule of activities, starting at 7am with the fish and conch sale and ending at 10pm, promises to be a fun-filled family occasion, reminiscent of days gone by. Everyone is welcome to spend the day, meet up with friends and family, enjoy the music, food and drinks; become a part of the village community and be entertained by the island's talented artistes.
The official opening commences at 9:30am with a tribute to St. Martin's fishermen by President of the Collectivité Aline Hanson. Veteran fisherman Gregoire Ratchel will also receive a special honour. This will be followed by the placing of a wreath in the waters of the bay to commemorate fishermen who have passed away.
At 10:30am, the entertainment gets under way with MCs Ricky the Phox and Old Man Paben taking over the helm. Gunslingers Steel Band will be up first, playing until 11:30 with DJ+ taking it up to midday, when a traditional blowing of the conch to signify the people's appreciation of the fishermen, takes place.
An excursion to Tintamarre Island is scheduled for noon, as are Kayaking activities for the children; the latter will continue all day.
Vice President in charge of the economy Wendel Cocks and Territorial Councilor in charge of culture Rollande Questel will each give a speech, and a plaque will be presented to Caribbean Liquors and Tobacco distributor for the main sponsors of Fish Day; Coors Light, Hennessy and Evian.
Day Schedule of Events for 13th Annual Fish Day
7:00am Fish and Conch sale
9:30am Opening Ceremony by Aline Hanson, President of the Collectivite
10:30am Ricky the Phox and Old Man Paben
11:00am Gunslingers Steel Band
11:30am DJA+
12:00pm Blowing of the conch shell, Excursion to Tintamarre, kayaking
activities for kids begin
Speech by Wendel Cocks, Vice President in charge of the economy
Rollande Questel, Territorial Councilor in charge of Culture.
Presentation of a plaque to main sponsor Caribbean Liquors
& Tobacco
Performance by the New Generation Status Band
12:30pm Performance by Juko Band
1:30pm Theatrical skit and fashion show
2:00-3:30pm Jolly Boys entertain
3:00pm Presentation for the Big Catch of the Day
Repeat of the fashion show
3:30-5:00pm Unique Band and the Soca Dancers
4:00pm Crab races
5:00-10:00pm Youth Waves Band, Control Band and a dance group perform
There will be free shuttle service between French Cul-de-Sac Village and HOPE Estate, and some free parking available in the village, as well as paid parking made available by nearby landowners.