The V.C. Bird International Airport (VCBIA) officially launched the Independence weekend celebrations with the hosting of its 9th Annual Independence Food Fair on Friday, bringing a burst of local flavour and national pride to the airport grounds.

The event, organised by the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA), has become a beloved tradition since it first began in 2016. It brings together airport staff, stakeholders, and members of the wider public to celebrate the nation’s culinary heritage.

Commercial Manager at ABAA, Geneva George, said the initiative was created to highlight the spirit of unity and togetherness that defines the airport community.

“As the Airport community, you know that we operate 24/7, so many stakeholders and ABAA came together and thought up the idea of having our little food fair where stakeholders and staff alike are allowed to come and demonstrate the local dishes of Antigua and Barbuda,” George explained.

“It’s a way of just fostering good camaraderie, which is all about independence at the airport, it’s our way of expressing our independence at the airport,” She noted

Stalls were decked out in the national colours, offering traditional favourites such as ducana, saltfish, fungee, pepperpot, and a variety of local sweets and drinks.

Visitors, staff, and even passengers passing through the terminal joined in the celebration, enjoying the festive atmosphere.

The food fair also serves as a welcoming gesture to travellers arriving for the Independence holiday, giving them a taste, literally, of Antiguan and Barbudan culture from the moment they land.

As the nation heads into the 44th anniversary of Independence, the event once again underscored the role of the airport community in showcasing local culture and pride.