While your review of the Tropical Rhythms Port Royal Seafood Festival's entertainment package gave an idea of the excitement generated in the night, the day's activities were a big disappointment.

At this 'seafood festival', there was only fish, shrimp and lobster (and conch soup from Maggi) done in a limited range of culinary styles. This was my first visit and, while it provided enough entertainment for my daughter, I was quickly bored. Throughout the day, the adults toddled behind their children to the bounceabouts or 'blow-up Dora the Explorer' vendor or simply sat (if you held on to one of the scant chairs) in the shade of the big tent in the middle of the field ... waiting.

'There was nothing!'

I was there from 11 a.m. and waited throughout the day for something new. I thought I would have the opportunity to test delicacies such as oyster, mussels, octopus, even crab, sautéed, flambé, jerked, in garlic butter or ginger scallion sauce. There was nothing! Not even jerk fish!

Whatever committees put these events together (I'm talking to you too, Albert Town, Trelawny), please remember that a festival should be a celebration of an item or activity. We will celebrate with you, but it must also be worth the money.

So here's an idea. Long before the festival, open the invitation to cooks and chefs to submit their most innovative dishes. The one with the best variety on the theme can win a free booth and some ingredients.

I remember the joy of seeing jerk goat at one Portland Jerk Festival. I miss those days. I left with a bad taste.

I am, etc.,

REDD LOXX

reddloxx@hotmail.com

Hope Road

Kingston 6