Our theme this year was most appropriate as we were recovering from Hurricanes Francis and Jeanne.  In fact as we were still recovering from these devastating storms in November, we laid down our tools and work gloves  to come together and celebrate the burning of the 'GUYS'!  It was wonderful celebrating together and we were once again reassured that all would be okay through the promoting and remembering of our wonderful heritage that brought us through good times and bad.

To help us celebrate our nautical roots, The Schooner William H. Albury returned to our shores.  This ship was built at Man O War Cay in 1964 and has been providing sail training courses, private charters and Boy Scout summer trips ever since.  The Schooner was designated the Tall Ship of the Bahamas by order of the Government of the Bahamas in 1976 and represented the Bahamas at the American Bi-Centennial event and the re-opening of the Statue of Libery in 1986 and other important events. Tours of this magnificient vessel were offered during the festival weekend.

Nautical displays on rope tieing, nautical flag communication and much more was provided by Amy Roberts Primary School, Joe Albury returned with his abaco dinghy and offered skulling lessons so that races could be  held throughout the weekend.  Key West's Lofton B. Sands African Bahamian Museum presented us with a historical display and timeline.  Our arts and crafts tents included quilting, straw work, paintings, jewelry, wood carvings, turned wood, engraved glass and native plants.  There was delicious food and drink from morning to night and all the booths were decorated beautifully!  On stage we had native performers offering song and poetry throughout the day and early evening.  There was Rake and Scrape Bahamian music, talks on Lucayans and Archeology, school performances and the Fire Department hosted games throughout the day.  The Maypole dancers returned and entertained the crowds with their beautiful plaiting of the Maypole dance.  And to the delight of all who attended the festival, The Royal Bahamas Police Force Band returned to march through the streets and onto the Festival Site with a grand marching display!  Geno D, The Gully Roosters , Little Joe Cartwright and the Royal Bahamas Police Force Pop Band entertained us throughout the evening!

The weekend was officially closed after a beautiful Community Service of Thanksgiving held on the Festival Site Sunday morning.  It was well attended and a great way to give thanks for this tremendous gathering of family and friends from far and near.