Organisers are finalising plans for this year’s National Food Fair, set for 3 November at the Sir Vivian Richards Cricket Stadium.

Gilbert Laudat, co-chair of the organising committee, said accommodating 245 vendors—up from 205 last year—has posed logistical challenges. Some vendors requested larger stalls, requiring adjustments to ensure fairness.

“We aim to make sure all vendors are comfortably placed,” Laudat said. “We are keeping the total at 245 to match expected visitor numbers.”

The layout will mirror last year’s, with odd-numbered stalls on the east side and even on the west. Vendor numbers will be assigned next Tuesday at a meeting at People’s Place.

The event will also include a children’s zone and a seniors’ section for dining and entertainment. Visitors can locate vendors via a mobile-friendly system, supported by helpers in distinctive T-shirts.

At 3:30pm, a parade featuring the Skelly Hoppers, Moko Jambi, and other characters will entertain attendees as part of the Independence celebrations.

The National Food Fair remains a key feature of the country’s Independence festivities.