Festive crowds filled Front Street yesterday evening as Street Fest helped crowds to get ready for SailGP.

Charles H Jeffers II, the CEO of the Bermuda Tourism Authority, said the event was a “great reopening” of tourism on the island.

“After more than two years of a virtual tourism hiatus, it was great to see all parts of Bermuda, young and old, engaging and interacting with visitors,” he said.

“Front Street was alive, and the street was full of visitors and residents shopping, enjoying the entertainment, meeting our maritime community and patronising local restaurants and vendors.”

Mr Jeffers thanked the event partners, including the Corporation of Hamilton, SailGP and Team Canada and praised the Working Title Band and DJ Chubb, who performed.

Tashae Thompson, BTA director of experiences, added: “It was lovely to see our restaurants packed again, our vendors saw great activity during the night.

“Cruise ship guests travelled from Dockyard and hotels sent their guests to the City for entertainment.

“The SailGP Street Fest captured everything that we have been working towards and it was a great kick off not only for SailGP but also for the return of tourism.”

Dwayne Caines, CEO at the Corporation of Hamilton also praised the BTA and SailGP for the event.

He said: “Seeing a bustling and vibrant City, underscores what happens when local stakeholders work together to make Bermuda a priority.”

A gallery of pictures from the event is available online.

SailGP racing is to begin tomorrow with a special ferry service for people in the East End who want to watch the event from the Cross Island Event Village.

The special ferry will depart Penno’s Wharf, St George’s at 11.30am on Saturday and Sunday and will return at 6.30pm.

A BTA spokeswoman said that in addition to the races, the event village will host performances by Gombeys, Arijahknow Live Wires and the Kings Band, plus DJ Rusty G.

A raft-up has also been organised to take place at Mangrove Bay from 3.30pm tomorrow with music provided by Jugglin Jason.