ETW Staff– Mumbai
Goa Tourism has organised Coconut & Cashew Festival 2014 from May 21 – 25, 2014 at Campal Grounds in Panjim. This festival, which is being organised for the first time, will focus on the role that coconut and cashew nut play in Goa. The event will feature a wide range of activities like cookery shows, cocktail demos using Feni, music concerts and stalls featuring handicrafts and artifacts that are made using coconut shells and other by-products.
Dilip Parulekar, minister of tourism, Government of Goa, said, “Coconut and cashew nut are very important for every Goan. This festival will also offer visitors a glimpse into Goan culture. This is the first time we are organising this event and are expecting tourists in large number. We are optimistic that it will be a huge success and will turn into an annual event.”
Feni, a local beverage made in Goa using coconut or cashew nut, will have special focus during this festival. This beverage has been conferred with the Geographical Indication (GI) status, which means that authentic Feni is only produced in Goa. There will be a demonstration of the Feni distillation process set up, which will allow visitors to get a peek into making of this beverage. Guests can also enjoy some Feni cocktails at the bar during the event. The Goan Culinary Club will conduct demos and workshops on different styles of cuisines available in Goa, like Saraswat, Portugese, Christian and Muslim.
