A drive-through food festival will be the City of Hamilton’s first big event since the coronavirus pandemic hit the island, it was announced yesterday.

Cooking demonstrations and food-themed films will be among the attractions at Taste of Bermuda in the Par-la-Ville car park from October 9 to 11.

A city spokeswoman said that the annual event was adapted to become a “bespoke, drive-through culinary experience that will still adhere to the health and safety guidelines as mandated by the Government”.

Jessica Astwood, the event project manager, said: “We had to pivot our initial plans for this year’s Taste of Bermuda event because of Covid-19.

“With social-distancing and mask-wearing a part of our everyday life, we reimagined the concept of Taste of Bermuda.

“Globally, drive-in events have become increasingly popular. We now have the opportunity to apply this format to bring the Bermuda public together in a way that is safe for all to celebrate something we all love — food and drink.

“Our main goal is to provide a safe and responsible, food-centric, contactless event that will allow for an elevated experience in the wake of Covid-19 in the city as well as create opportunities for our city eateries.”

The City of Hamilton submitted an application to the Government for a large group exemption to hold the event and hoped for “a favourable response”.

A spokeswoman said: “The public can expect the car park to be transformed into an experiential drive-through event space, featuring drive-by cooking demos, drive-in food-themed movies, giveaways, a drive-through photo booth and some international foodie celebrities checking in, virtually.

“The Taste of Bermuda weekend will be opened with a featured ‘Vegan Vibes’ theme on the Friday night.

“City restaurants have been extended the opportunity to showcase their eats and be a part of the event.”

A receipt showing a spend of at least $25 at any city food establishment between September 8 and October 9 will be needed for each car’s entry to the event.

Ms Astwood said: “We all have a duty of care to support our local businesses as they navigate the recovery process.

“It’s pretty easy to spend $25 at a Hamilton restaurant, so hold on to those receipts between September 8 and October 9 and we’ll see you at the car park.” Only cars — no pedestrians or motorbikes — will be allowed entry in an effort to maintain physical-distancing.

Masks will be mandatory for entry and guests will be expected to stay in their vehicles unless they are visiting the bathroom or choose to sit on top of their cars.

Security staff will be present to make sure that safety rules are met.