The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries will host its 2026 Agriculture and Fisheries Exhibition and Market on April 11-12 at the Festival Grounds in Road Town, bringing together farmers, fishers and members of the public for two days of exhibitions, competitions and entertainment aimed at promoting local food production and the territory’s agricultural and fisheries sectors.
The annual event will feature displays of livestock, crops and fisheries products, alongside competitions and demonstrations designed to highlight the work of producers across the Virgin Islands. Organizers said the exhibition also seeks to encourage greater public interest in farming and fishing while supporting those industries.
Lloyd Williams, food production manager at the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries, said the relocation of the event to the Festival Grounds is intended to allow for wider participation and increased visibility.
“We want the entire public to come out and support this event,” Williams said. “There is so much to see, from animals to crops, and we are encouraging everyone to attend.”
Miclain Francis, an agriculture officer, said competitive categories will include best bull, best sheep, best goat, and best displays of fruits and green leafy vegetables, among others.
Kia Soares, a fisheries assistant, said the event will also include a range of entertainment and cultural activities across both days, including music, traditional performances and competitions.
Activities are expected to include the annual grease pig competition, as well as expanded strongman contests with new categories for women, couples and juniors. Organizers also plan live demonstrations and presentations as part of the program.
Preparations are underway at the Festival Grounds, where exhibition spaces are being arranged to accommodate participants and vendors.
The event will be held under the theme “Farming the Land, Fishing the Seas, Nourishing Lives and Legacies,” with officials encouraging residents to attend and support the local agriculture and fisheries industries.
