More than 30 vendors including farmers and fishers, agro-processors, schools, and local food and juice providers are expected to participate in the 2026 World Food Day Market and Food Fair tomorrow, October, 16.

The Department of Agriculture and Fisheries will be hosting the event with a ceremony at 10:00 a.m. at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park as The Virgin Islands join its Caribbean neighbors and countries around the world in marking World Food Day.

Director of Agriculture and Fisheries, Mr. Theodore E James said preparations are complete, and the department is ready to welcome the community. He said, “World Food Day reminds us that food security is built at home, by the farmers who work our land and the fishers who work our waters. This year’s theme, ‘Innovate Today, Nourish Tomorrow’, points to where the Virgin Islands must go next.”

Mr. James added, “When we take what we grow and catch and turn it into new products, more of the food on our tables, and more of the money we spend on it, stays right here in the Territory. Every purchase on Friday invests in that future. I invite every resident to come out, meet our producers, taste what they have created, and see for themselves what local food can become.”

Event Coordinator Ms. Nichollicia Kitaman-Sampson said this year’s theme, ‘Innovate Today, Nourish Tomorrow’ calls on people to take action today to introduce new ideas and better ways to produce, process, preserve and supply nutritious food for future generations. 

Ms. Kitaman-Sampson added, “This means encouraging our young people to get involved in agriculture and fisheries, helping them develop skills in value-added products, and supporting and investing in our local farmers and fishers. That is how we build a sustainable and food-secure Virgin Islands.”

The programme is designed to show the public innovation in action. The H Lavity Stoutt Community College Culinary and Hospitality Studies Department will lead a demonstration on preservation techniques and how local fruits and other ingredients can be transformed into new products, and GreenVI and Steakation Butchers will lead further demonstrations during the day.

The public is encouraged to come out early, shop local, and support the producers of The Virgin Islands.