Thousands flocked to the annual Agriculture Show on March 5, 2025, solidifying its position as the biggest one-day event on the Cayman Islands' calendar. The show, celebrated at the vibrant showground in Bodden Town, not only spotlighted the farming sector but also showcased the rich cultural heritage of the islands under the theme, "Food security – everyone’s business."
Attendees, eager to immerse themselves in the local culture, began arriving early as the sun shone brightly. George Bustillo, 44, who visited the show with his children Sam, 8, and Mila, 4, mentioned, "The show is kind of like tradition for us. We come every year. The kids like it. It’s a different experience for them. For me, it’s a break – and the food is good. The only part I don’t like is the sun.” George and his family were among many enjoying games, food, and the various activities offered throughout the day.
Ophelia Ebanks, attending with her husband Jason and their two young children, echoed similar sentiments. It was Jaiya’s first attendance, whereas her 3-year-old brother Jru was already familiar with the event. "It’s something we did as kids growing up and we want our kids to experience the same culture. We love it. It’s hot, but we love it,” Ophelia explained, sharing how their children had particularly enjoyed the animals at the show. “They really loved the cows, goats, and chickens – all the animals.” Jason added, laughing, "They liked the food most of all.”
Exhibitors like cousins Nick Powery and Joey Miller, hailing from West Bay's NR Farm, showcased their prize poultry. "Our grandparents got us involved in farming when we were little. We’re third-generation farmers,” Miller stated proudly. The high demand for eggs was evident as he shared, “We can’t get enough eggs – they are in high demand. Yesterday, we sold 30 dozen in just one hour. That’s just to local people.” The surge was attributed to the global avian flu crisis which had adversely impacted egg production and driven prices up.
With vendors ranging from sweet treats to unique Caymanian crafts, including Just Ice Cream KY, the marketplace buzzed with excitement. One vendor noted, "Business is good … it’ll be over at 6 pm, but we expect to have sold a lot by then.” Marylyn Camargo, who offered herbal salves, expressed her enthusiasm as this was her first time as a vendor: "I think the show is amazing. It’s very busy. I’m enjoying it – it’s marvelous. They should have more of these kinds of shows in Cayman.”
The event was also graced by dignitaries, including Governor Jane Owen and Agriculture Minister Jay Ebanks, who officially launched the show from the main stage. Ebanks highlighted the significant strides made by the farming industry, announcing plans for the introduction of a new initiative next month aimed at increasing access to land for Caymanian farmers. “At the rate we are going now, in the next two years the Cayman community will no longer have to import eggs. This is what food security is all about,” he declared to the cheers of the crowd.
Another exciting development was the addition of live auctions at the show, where two red poll cattle from Cayman were featured. Ebanks noted, “There is a lot more we want to add for next year’s show. We will put out little teasers about it.”
Governor Owen, who toured the showground with other government officials and Harriet Cross, the governor-designate of Montserrat, expressed satisfaction at the event's success. "It’s fantastic. There’s so much to see, such a mixture of animals and produce and more people going to farming, which is what the government is aiming for,” Owen remarked, emphasizing the vibrancy of the community spirit.
Officials estimated the attendance to be between 6,000 and 8,000 throughout the day, marking yet another successful year for the Agriculture Show. The event underscored the resilience and potential of the Cayman Islands’ agriculture sector, creating memories for families and fostering appreciation for the island’s farming heritage.