The Tribune

By ALESHA CADET

Tribune Features Reporter

acadet@tribunemedia.net

WHETHER you are rooted in the Family Islands or not, there is always something about homecoming and regatta festivals that creates a sense of community spirit.

The celebrations have always been special for many Bahamians, who return home to their roots to reunite with family members and friends.

Many Bahamians also make the decision to escape the fast paced city life of Nassau for peace and tranquillity in the islands, or to experience the culture and culinary talents of the Family Islands.

This Easter season, Bimini and Rock Sound, Eleuthera are hosting their customary annual homecoming festivals.

“I’m from Nassau, but I’ve attended Rock Sound Homecoming before as well as Bimini a long time ago. There is no experience like one on the island. Everyone is partying with friends, dancing, enjoying some good food and just having a clean-fun time,” said Angela Sands.

Melissa Davis said: “Last year I attended Rock Sound and I can still remember the great time I had, from the homecoming site to the pool party. This year I am going to try out Bimini Homecoming because I’ve never visited before and I want to have a chance to try it out. A few of my friends are going back to Rock Sound as well, but I’m pretty sure both events will be successful. Partying on the island is so care free and I love it.”

According to the Rock Sound resident and member of the Rock Sound Homecoming Committee, teamwork is going to make this year’s homecoming bigger and better than last year’s. “We’ve seen a shift in the amount of participation that we usually get from the community. They have really come on board to support us and overall I think that is what we need. It is just a matter of everybody working together for a common goal and it is going to be a success,” said the committee member.

Homecoming is expected to begin on Palm Sunday, with the site opening to all vendors the following day.

“Respecting Good Friday celebrations in the settlement, we take the party outside the residential area, to the Rock Sound Club for a pool party on Friday. Kalik has been a sponsor for two consecutive years. Friday night there will be a feature by local and homegrown talent, this year we will have our own rising star Gia Miran,” said the Rock Sound resident.

People are expected to flock from North and South Eleuthera to party in Rock Sound.

“The homecoming is held around the longest holiday weekend in the year, so if you invest money to buy a ticket or come over to Eleuthera it will be a guaranteed full four days of entertainment, as opposed to homecomings or activities which would be limited to three days.”

“In years past, we would have managed everything, and it is good that we are at that level where we can divest some of the responsibilities,” according to a committee member.

Over in Bimini, residents are looking forward to a great turnout. D-ano Duncombe, Bimini homecoming committee member and deejay told Tribune Entertainment: “We feel like this year is going to be the best because right now everything is sold out. From the hotels to the golf carts. A lot of people are talking about it and they are excited to come to the island.”

Under the theme “Bimini Island Here I Come” on March 28-31, Mr Duncombe said “Biminites” will be focusing on efforts to strengthen camaraderie and boost their economy with the homecoming festival. The entertainment lineup includes live music, a Junkanoo rush out, a model competition and the LOL Beach Party.

“We have some deejays coming out of Miami, Florida to come and play. We are also keeping it homegrown, so our very own Bimini legend Stevie S will be performing at the homecoming site as well. This would be his first time performing at the Bimini homecoming, so people can look forward to that. The beach party, hosted by myself and a few others is always a good event to attend around the homecoming festivities,” said Mr Duncombe.

Mr Duncombe compared Easter weekend in Bimini to spring break for international visitors. “The Fast Ferry will be transporting islanders back and forth from Miami to Bimini,” he said.