The fourth edition of the highly anticipated Ti-Vilaj Kwéyòl has officially been launched, marking a significant milestone in Dominica’s cultural calendar. Scheduled to take place from October 20 to 23 at the Botanic Gardens, the event is a cornerstone of the island’s Independence Celebrations. This year, the festival will place special emphasis on honey, highlighting its cultural and economic significance.
Fenella Wenham-Sheppard, Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Education, Human Resource Planning, Vocational Training, and National Excellence, emphasized the event’s growing prominence during the launch ceremony on Thursday. ‘Ti-Vilaj Kwéyòl has firmly established itself as a household name and a cultural product in Dominica,’ she stated. ‘Last year, the event attracted approximately 9,100 paying patrons, and this year, we aim to surpass that number by 50 percent.’
Wenham-Sheppard underscored the collaborative efforts of the ministries of labor and tourism, as well as the public and private sectors, in supporting the event. ‘Ti-Vilaj Kwéyòl is more than just an event; it is a platform for commerce, exposure, entrepreneurship, networking, reconnection, entertainment, cultural affirmation, and nation branding,’ she explained.
Over the four-day festival, attendees can expect a vibrant showcase of music, food, crafts, storytelling, demonstrations, and immersive experiences. The event aims to draw Dominicans from across the island and international visitors, fostering a sense of community and cultural pride. Ti-Vilaj Kwéyòl continues to serve as a testament to Dominica’s rich heritage and its commitment to cultural preservation and economic growth.