Judges weigh a bucketful of red snapper during last year’s Fisherman’s Day celebration at Long Bay, Beef Island. File photo: ERIC VOORHIS

In celebration of the 25th anniversary of Fisherman’s Day, this year’s event will include two days of activities over the coming long weekend.

Judges weigh a bucketful of red snapper during last year’s Fisherman’s Day celebration at Long Bay, Beef Island. File photo: ERIC VOORHIS
The events, which are scheduled to start Sunday, will be held under the theme “Creating Opportunities to Maintain a Healthy Fishery,” according to Government Information Services.

“Every year we have worked towards increasing community attendance and including activities for all ages,” said Samuel Davies, a Conservation and Fisheries Department officer who coordinates Fisherman’s Day. “This year, as we celebrate 25 years of Fisherman’s Day, we have encompassed two days, and we want to invite one and all to come out to the festivities.”

On Sunday the annual two-day fishing tournament will start at 4 a.m., and activities are scheduled to get under way at Long Bay, Beef Island at 2 p.m.

Entertainment will be provided by Virgin Islands deejays and Show Time Band.

On Monday, the tournament is to continue, along with other activities at Long Bay from at 11 a.m., including a fashion show, soldier-crab races for children, a BBQ cook-off, and entertainment by VI deejays and Venomous Poizon Band.

A “Sand Shark” sand sculpture competition will include two categories: ages 5-11 and 12-older. Winners will receive cash prizes.

“Fisherman’s Day is not only about fun and excitement on the beach, but more importantly celebrating our tradition of Virgin Islands fishing,” Mr. Davies said. “Everyone is invited to come and enjoy the beach, the activities, and to learn something about the environment and our fisheries cultural heritage.”

For information on purchasing a commemorative T-shirt or registering for the fishing tournament, call 468-2700 or 544-6262.

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