Minister for Community Affairs and Sport Randolph Horton yesterday urged residents to turn out this week in support of the Island's Homecoming Folklife Festival.

He said the festival had two immediate goals: to honour the participants and the cultural groups that are represented; and to make the public more aware of the rich cultural traditions that exist on the Island.

He said: "A lot of individuals, businesses and organisations have put a lot of work into ensuring that this festival, Bermuda Connections: Homecoming is something that can and should be embraced by every segment of our community.

"I was privileged to enjoy this exhibit last summer in Washington DC and I am particularly looking forward to its re-creation here in Bermuda.

"This is why I extend a special invitation to everyone, our residents and our visitors, to come to the Botanical Gardens next week.

"Between the Bermuda Connections: Homecoming Folklife Festival and the annual Agricultural Exhibition, there will be much to see, do, learn and enjoy."

He said the festival would allow people to meet and interact with many of our community tradition-bearers, from musicians, storytellers, craftsmen, cooks, ritual specialists, skilled workers, and others.

He said each day will include educational workshops and late afternoon musical performances.

On Thursday at 2 p.m., seniors will be able to share their memories with schoolchildren.

On Friday, teachers will have a workshop on how to use oral history in the classroom

But the Saturday workshops have been geared for the whole family to learn about collecting family folklore and ways to collect and preserve family traditions.

The Minister also thanked the Department of Agriculture and Fisheries and the Ministry of Works and Engineering, along with the many individuals and businesses who have offered support and sponsorship.

He added: "Thursday, Friday and Saturday, April 18, 19 and 20. This is the place to be. I encourage all of you not to miss the Festival because I can assure you that you will leave with a renewed interest and greater understanding of the cultural traditions that make our Island home special and uniquely Bermudian."

Copies of a video showing Bermuda's participation last year in the Smithsonian Folklife Festival in Washington DC are now available from the Department of Cultural Affairs, priced $15 to the general public, and $10 to participants.