The Family Festival will take place this weekend at The Royal Naval Dockyard thanks to the efforts of The Committee of Five.

The committee consists of Nicole Bean, of Dazzle Bug, Eugene Dean, of Emperial Group, Tracey Smith, of Top Dog, and Colette and Crystal Lightbourne, both of Play Games Entertainment.

The press conference launch, held yesterday in the Opposition Leader’s office on Front Street, revealed that the two-day event would include highlights such as a display of arts and crafts created by school students and prison inmates, dance groups, and powerboat racing by King’s Wharf and Heritage Wharf on Sunday.

The race will be the Bermuda Power Boat Association’s first of the season.

Other aspects of the festival, which will take place in the victualling yard of Dockyard, include archery, laser tag, horseback riding and other activities. Food vendors will also be on hand.

The event was inspired by the cancellation of the 77th Agricultural Exhibition.

The Committee of Five is described as “a progressive group of young, energetic and enthusiastic social entrepreneurs all striving to bring Bermuda together in a positive light”.

The group says they “have pooled our resources and aligned our efforts in the face of pressing social needs that continue to plague our community at alarming rates”.

Mr Dean said that the event was aimed at providing an environment filled with fun activities, entertainment, competition, vendors, arts and crafts.

“Schools and prisons have been invited to participate, and add to the creative elements already in Dockyard by showcasing artwork and crafts by students and inmates.

“Gombeys, local entertainment and dance groups have also been called upon for demonstrations, performances and competitions respectively.

“With the current economic and social climate in Bermuda, it is imperative that we, as community leaders, come forward and provide wholesome activities for families and our youth.

“In that light, the Royal Naval Dockyard Family Festival will provide activities for all ages, including fun castles, train rides, slides, laser tag, archery, glass-bottom boat tours, pony rides, fun games, local vendors, DJ music and a showcase of local entertainment.”

Parking will be available at Malabar Field at a cost of $8. There will be a free shuttle service into Dockyard and there will also be buses and additional ferries running.

“We call everyone to come out,” Mr Dean said. “We encourage the community to come out and support us.” On Saturday, activities get under way at noon and will run until 7pm. On Sunday, the starting time is also at noon, with the event closing at 6pm. Admission is free.

Rebekah Cabrall, marketing co-ordinator for Wedco, and Shadow Minister of Community, Culture and Sport Michael Weeks were also in attendance yesterday.