On Saturday, October, 13th, Belize celebrated its first-ever Rum Festival at the People’s Stadium in Orange Walk Town. The event featured the three major rum companies of Belize in conjunction with cultural presentations.
For those who are fond of rum, the launch of the first-ever Annual Sugar City Rum Festival was pleasing and memorable, as it literally implied an evening of showcasing, sampling and demonstrating the different ways in which rum is presented and served.
At the commencement of the event, spectators from across the country were briefed on the value and history of rum in Belize.
The rum companies: L&R,Cuello’s and Travelers ,displayed their various rum products at their respective stalls. Cheap rum prices also attracted the large crowd.
Other activities included two fun games, a cooking demonstration, a rum-infused presentation, cultural performances, musical performances by Super Furia and the Abraxas Rock Band but the highlight of the event was centered on a mixology competition.
Each rum company was represented by a representative. Lewis Velasquez of San Pedro represented Travelers; Monica Chable of Orange Walk represented L&R Liquors; and Fermin Choc of Placencia represented Cuello’s.
The three representatives battled it out in three rounds. Firstly, their ability to produce a frozen daiquiri was tested. On the second round, the representatives made an original cocktail and in the final round, each representative mixed three drinks.
At the end of the competition, the judges announced Monica Chable as the winner. According to organizers the event turned out good in spite of being a first. Those in attendance were asked to present their ID’s.
The event is a signature of the north and it is intended to become an annual event.
