Freeport , Grand Bahama - If you are a “regular” at Festival Noel, having attending the event in years past, you know what to expect: a glittering setting with tasty wines, delicious foods, fabulous art and jewelry. It is always a time to look forward to. However, if you have never attended the annual event, which is the main fundraiser for the Grand Bahama branch of the Bahamas National Trust, then you are in for a treat. You will truly enjoy this unique evening experience.

Festival Noel, being held at the Rand Nature Centre, is primarily a wine tasting soiree. Bristol Wines and Spirits is the sponsor for this portion of the event. They will bring to the table many wines from all over the world. Upon entry into the event you will be given a card that details each wine and a map where you can find them, at stations placed around the Rand Nature Centre. You can make notes about the wines you’ve tried and know the pricing so you’ll be able to purchase them later from Bristol Wines and Spirits. This is a truly rare opportunity for you to try many wines and talk to the knowledgeable staff of Bristol Wines and Spirits about them. That way you’ll be better informed when you next go to purchase your wines for that special occasion. The variety of wines will range from the very pricey to the more affordable. So you can enjoy a taste of something really special that you may never be able to afford, but also become familiar with varieties of wine that are more in your price range.

New to Festival Noel this year, is John Bull, as a sponsor of this event. Established in 1929, John Bull has become a tradition of shopping excellence in The Bahamas. Starting out as an old English tobacco house in Nassau, John Bull now represents many of the world's most sought after brand name luxury goods. Product categories include watches, fine jewellery, leather goods, perfume, cosmetics, photographic equipment, writing instruments and cigars. John Bull boasts stores and boutiques throughout The Bahamas and has truly evolved to what most deem "the shopping mecca" of the Caribbean.

At Festival Noel, John Bull has arranged for some special items to be offered for a Silent Auction. This is an excellent opportunity for you to bid to purchase some top quality items, all in support of the Rand Nature Centre. Items to be included in the Silent Auction are, from Dooney and Burke, a gorgeous Hang Bag and Wallet. The Dooney and Burke line of handbags is extremely popular with the movie stars and you are sure to love the one they have brought for the auction. From Movado, elegant His and Hers watches.
Movado really communicates Italian style, elegance and design. Their recognizable style looks great on everyone!

The Kenneth Cole line is highlighted here with a Leather Document Case, a stunning Brief Case and Leather Portfolio. These fine items are designed for the business person who wants to showcase their style and professionalism! Other items include a Sterling Silver Key Ring by Dorfman, which would be a delightful Christmas gift for anyone on your list.

Additional items will be auctioned as well, including special gift items and packages from Animale, La Spa at La Belle, La Dolce Vita, the Pub at Port Lucaya, Bristol Wines and Spirits, Top Notch and a special piece from Eddie Minnis.

Art, of course, is being showcased as well, with the feature artist being Bahamian legend Eddie Minnis. He will be joined by his talented daughter and fellow artist Nicole Minnis-Ferguson. Many other local artists will all be displaying and selling their finest works at this premier event.

While you are sampling the fine wines and perusing the art and jewelry, you will be fortified by the very best samplings from many Grand Bahama restaurants. Featured for the gala event are returning champion Iries Restaurant. They are bringing with them Chine Beach, another well known restaurant from Our Lucaya. Added to this will be Old Bahama Bay, the always popular School of Hospitality, the Harbour Room, Joe Ret and new comer the Grouper Grill from Ocean Reef & Yacht Club. Each restaurant will be competing to be the coveted Chef Noel at Festival, so be sure to sample everything and vote for your favourite!

Festival Noel will be held on Friday, December 1st at the Rand Nature Centre. Tickets are now on sales for $50 at Bristol Wines & Spirits, the Rand Nature Centre and John Bull at Our Lucaya. The price of the tickets will go up to $60 at the door, so be sure to purchase yours early. Friday night events start at 7 pm and Saturday’s Arts and Craft Festival begins at 11 am. Don’t miss out on the premier holiday event that kicks off the Christmas season!