Antigua and Barbuda Mango Festival celebrates 10 years

The twin island destination of Antigua and Barbuda known for its 365 turquoise beaches and the ‘Antigua Black’ Pineapple, will celebrate the king of tropical fruit, this summer when the Antigua and Barbuda Mango Festival hosted by the Ministry of Tourism and the Ministry of Agriculture returns to the lush and breath-taking Christian Valley this July 26 and 27.

Sweet, juicy and versatile, delicious mangoes of every size and type will be in abundance as the Antigua and Barbuda Mango Festival celebrates its ten year anniversary in Antigua.

The annual Mango Festival will offer every imaginable mango-made delight, from fruity soaps and mango preserves and sauces to scented candles and wine. Under the shade of mango trees at Christian Valley, guests will encounter a mango market, exhibitions, children’s activities, games, mango-eating competitions, explore the nature trails laden with mangoes and green vegetation and enjoy live performances.

The Festival also promotes economic opportunities through the sustainable use of the mango, and educates participants on the many benefits of the much-loved fruit.

A Mango Pineapple Culinary competition featuring Antigua and Barbuda’s best chefs from the destination’s hotels will highlight the tropical fruit, and inspire guests interested in learning about utilizing mangoes and pineapples in creative Caribbean cuisine. Witness the exciting Mango Pineapple Culinary Competition on July 11 and July 12 at the Antigua and Barbuda Hospitality Training Institute.
Known as the “king of fruit” throughout the world, mangoes were brought to the West Indies by Portuguese traders. In some cultures, the mango tree is a symbol of love, and the fruit is known to be bursting with flavor as well as protective nutrients including vitamin C and beta carotene.

Food and craft vendors interested in participating in the 10 year celebrations of the Antigua and Barbuda Mango Festival are asked collect a registration form from the Ministry of Tourism on Queen Elizabeth Highway before the registration deadline of July 21st. For more information, contact the Mango Festival Committee at 460-7277 or 764-8231 or visit the Facebook page: Facebook.com/annualmangofest.