Bermudian artists and performers took to the streets of Barbados at the weekend for the start of Carifesta 2017.

The event’s opening ceremony had been postponed from Friday until Sunday because of Tropical Storm Harvey, but this did not prevent a raft of Bermudian acts including Chris Astwood, Cindy Smith, Joy T Barnum and the Gombeys taking to the stage.

Zane DeSilva, the Minister of Social Development and Sports, commended all the local acts.

“I was so impressed by the calibre of Bermudian talent and their energy, enthusiasm and world-class professionalism,” he said. “Barbados is in for a special treat judging by the quality of our Bermudian performances. I would like to commend all of our participants; they are making Bermuda proud.”

The Caribbean Festival of Arts takes place every two years and sees Caricom and Cariforum countries of the Caribbean and Latin America gather to celebrate the spirit of their people through art, craft, music, food, fashion, film and dance.

Heather Whalen, the Director of Community and Cultural Affairs and head of the Bermuda delegation, said: “The Bermuda contingent’s energy was incredibly well-received by the audience of the parade and opening ceremony. All of the participants talked about how excited, proud and energised they felt.”