Goring Avenue was filled Saturday with the sweet-smelling fragrance of mangoes permeating the air, as the Cayman Islands National Museum held its annual Looky Ya! Mango Fest – a showcase for one of the most beloved fruits in Caymanian culture.
Over 300 residents and visitors alike indulged in traditional Caymanian culture and cuisine, which featured some 22 vendors offering a morsel of mango, including local juices, jams, ice-cream, sauces, dishes, and jewellery, as well as artefacts and clothing.
“The event is hosted to celebrate one of the most loved seasons of the year, coinciding with the hurricane season, rainy season, crab season, and the time when mosquitos come out. It is a time for the community to come together and celebrate the mango, which holds a special place in their hearts and culture,” Mango Fest organiser, Brian Watler told the Cayman Compass.
This year also included a mango cocktail, mango dessert, and mango peeling and eating competition. The event did not include the usual annual cooking competition due to the date change.
Despite the festival being dedicated to mangoes, many tents and tables also hosted women thatch-roping hats, bags, and small household decorations – another taste of old-time Cayman, aligned with the event’s mission and purpose.
“Everyone loves mangoes, which are considered Cayman’s unofficial national fruit. Mangoes hold a significant role in Caymanian culture due to the fond memories associated with them. The festival evokes nostalgia as many people would recall spending time at the beach… and enjoying the sweet and salty combination of eating mangoes in the sea. These experiences make Mango Fest a highly anticipated event each year… they create a strong cultural connection to the fruit,” Watler said.
Additional reporting by Cayman Compass intern Henri Morineau.
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