Guam prepares for biggest cultural event this October

The island of Guam is preparing for the biggest cultural event to hits its shores this year—the 21st Guam Micronesia Island Fair—to be held Oct. 17-19 at Guam’s Ypao Beach Park.

The fair, hosted by the Guam Visitors Bureau, will focus on seafaring traditions with the master canoe builders of Micronesia gathering to showcase their art in tribute to 2008 being the year of the Proa, the local word for the handcrafted seagoing canoes of Guam and Micronesia.

In keeping with the history of past fairs, the 21st Guam Micronesia Festival will welcome representatives from all parts of Micronesia.

Currently, the islands of the Commonwealth of the Northern Marianas (Saipan, Rota, and Tinian) will participate along with the Federated States of Micronesia (Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Kosrae), the Republic of Palau, the Republic of the Marshall Islands, and Guam.

The fair will feature cultural performances, exhibits of traditional and contemporary arts and crafts, many products from Guam and Micronesia that will be available for purchase, a traditional Chamorro hut display, and a botanical garden.

A display of traditional outrigger canoes will be displayed, courtesy of Project Proa and TASI—Traditions About Seafaring Islands. TASI will also be giving rides on a real proa. Local produce and livestock will be exhibited and there will be plenty of activities to keep children entertained. Food and drink booths, many featuring authentic Micronesian cuisine, will insure tummies stay happy and full during the Guam Micronesia Island Fair.

Two other signature events will occur during the weekend of the 21st Guam Micronesia Island Fair. The 10th Annual Micronesia Cup (Outrigger Canoe Races) will take place over the weekend and on Sunday, runners from around the world will participate in the 3rd Guam Ko’ko’ Road Race, also sponsored by GVB. An exciting feature of the Guam Ko’ko’ Road Race is the live cultural entertainment that takes place along the streets of the race course and the many local spectators that come out to cheer the runners on.

To express interest in becoming a vendor at the 21st Guam Micronesia Island Fair, simply visit www.visitguam.org , click on the logo and then select vendors to download an application form.

Alternatively, application forms can be picked up at GVB’s offices in Tumon during regular business hours, for additional information please contact event organizer Ruder Integrated Marketing Strategies.

Artists who are registered with CAHA and wish to showcase their art at the 21st Guam Micronesia Island Fair are also encouraged to apply.

The deadline for artists and vendors to submit their applications is 5 pm on Friday, Sept. 12, 2008. [B][I](GVB)[/I][/B]