Clear blue skies, dynamic double Dutch skippers and a record 3,533 participants yesterday officially opened the 70th Annual Exhibition.

Hundreds of eager children, parents, participants and invited guests descended on the Botanical Gardens to witness a little bit of agriculture, live shows, food and more.

Categories this year include vegetable critters, model gardens, flower arrangements, potted plants, the food section — baked goods, decorated cakes, decorated Easter eggs — paper maché, kites, recyclable milk cartons, educational displays, aquariums and horticulture featuring roses, orchids, cut flowers, fruits and vegetables.

Best Farmer's Collection is the only monetary prize where first place is $1,000, $500 for second and $250 for third prize.

Gates opened at 8 a.m. with the Main Ring showcasing local equestrian talent.

However, the official opening wasn't until 1 p.m. when Premier Ewart Brown took centre stage and welcomed everyone to the event.

Dr. Brown arrived on the field in a GP car followed by the Governor, Sir Richard Gozney and Lady Gozney.

He said: "It is a pleasure for me to come today to open this event which has happened 70 times including today. Last year over 20,000 people came.

"I did want to take a moment to acknowledge the work done by Mr. James' predecessor, Neletha Butterfield who took this event to another level. It's my pleasure to declare the 70th event now open."

Minister of Environment and Sport El James said: "It is with pleasure, pride and excitement that I welcome you to the 70th Bermuda Annual Exhibition.

"As usual, our team has been working diligently to bring to you another three days of first class displays and fun-filled entertainment.

"All of this in the beautiful grounds of the Bermuda Botanical Gardens where I also encourage you to enjoy the immaculate flower beds, shrubs and tree collections as you spend time with us. I extend a warm welcome to all of you."

Leyoni Junos performed the opening song while the UDP dancers, dressed in rags, danced to 'It's A Hardknock Life' for the opening dance.

The prize presentation followed with winners being presented their awards by Deputy Premier and Minister of Finance Paula Cox and Mr. James.

This year's imported act was the Dynamic Diplomats of Double Dutch, a professional double Dutch team who have performed live at many events for Sports Authority, Nike Town, Adidas, Tribeca Film Festival, Bloomberg Media and more.

Three ladies and one male put on a show skipping to high energy old school hip hop music with all kinds of tricks and stunts including flipping over the ropes, doing splits while skipping, back bends, cartwheels, handstands and more.

In the Lower Ring, Warwick Academy Primary kicked off the event with a few songs followed by the Jesse White Tumblers. Heron Bay Primary School, Elliott Primary School, Sandys Middle School, St. George's Preparatory, Victor Scott Primary School and CedarBridge Academy all performed under the tent.

Overseas dignitaries included Kearney Gomez, Permanent Secretary of Ministry of District Administration, Planning, Agriculture and Housing, Cayman Islands, Telford Miller, Senior Agriculture Officer, Department of Agriculture, Cayman Islands and Rena Glinton, Under Secretary, Ministry of Agriculture and Marine Resources.

Food and refreshments are provided for sale by local charities, churches and clubs. They are located throughout the grounds of the exhibition

Over 25,000 people are expected to show up to the three-day event which takes place from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. today and tomorrow.

The price of admission for children over five is $4 and $8 for adults. Senior citizens pay half price. Pedestrian entrances are located on South Shore Road, Point Finger Road and Berry Hill Road.

The vehicle entrance is on South Shore Road and Berry Hill Road.