FALMOUTH, Trelawny — With about 3,000 people turning out for this year’s staging of the Artisan Village Food Festival in Falmouth, tourism officials are hoping this increase in popularity will translate into more visitors to the venue outside of staged shows. About 2,000 people were at last year’s event.

“Whether you come at the food fest or otherwise, it’s open with so many of our outstanding Jamaican artisans supplying and showcasing outstanding Jamaican products, art and craft, displays and experience,” Tourism Enhancement Fund (TEF) Executive Director Dr Carey Wallace told journalists during the early stages of the event last Thursday.

He noted the Artisan Village’s range of local craft, products, and culinary experiences, including rum-tasting, and lessons in how to make Jamaican jerk. All that and more was on display at the food festival staged on Independence Day.