From high energy concerts in Jamaica to the electric carnival in Trinidad — the people of the Caribbean know how to do a party right.That’s why residents are in for a big treat this weekend as the West Indian Association of Bermuda hosts its annual Dine and Dance Around D’ Caribbean.On offer is a buffet-style meal featuring home-cooked dishes from countries throughout the Caribbean.Organisers also promise a mix of reggae, soca and other island music guaranteed to keep partygoers off their feet from 7pm until 1am on Saturday, at Bermuda College.“I am not sure if anyone has done a party in this kind of way we do, “ said association president Susan Moore Williams. “The thing about the event that was so satisfying to us [last year] is it was at the BIU multipurpose hall and the place was rammed to the gills. It was an atmosphere of relaxation and enjoyment and we got the feedback that people had a good time.“People like the fact when they come to events they are safe and you see people from all walks of life. Last time we had the Deputy Governor; the Premier came down to mingle and relax. There is that kind of feeling of family. When you have events like this it focuses on that safety, hospitality and the verve and energy of the Caribbean. You get all that when you come to this kind of event.”Ms Moore Williams said the West Indian Association of Bermuda was “very passionate” about honouring the culture of the Caribbean and its impact on Bermuda.Over the past ten years more Bermudians have been celebrating and examining their heritage and cultural ties with the Caribbean. The association had played a “very significant” role in encouraging these ties, she said.They helped work towards Bermuda becoming a Caricom member in 2003; they also had an exhibition honouring Caribbean artists for Heritage Month in 2005.“When you think about Bermuda a lot of the people can track their roots back to the Caribbean and not just the English-speaking parts, but you also have the influences of the French and Dutch.”She said the region was diverse in terms of its history and geography with places like Cuba and Belize, St Lucia and Guyana. Each island also features different flavours in food and styles of music.“The thing about our food, it’s authentic dishes we will be presenting [at the event] so we do not try to water it down for people.“Sometimes you find people may modify the dish to cater to the Bermuda palate, but when [our members] cook it we do it in the authentic way because we want it to be as true as we can get it to the flavours we can have in the Caribbean.”The West Indian Association of Bermuda has few formal members, but a following of around 500 people.Ms Moore Williams said tickets, priced at $25, were selling fast.“I don’t know where else you are going to eat the amount of food [we will have on offer] for $25. By the time you sample everything we have out there the plate is full.“We are very proud to be able to create the spirit of the Caribbean warmth and hospitality, which is also part of Bermuda’s culture that we all share.”She said the music would also be reflective of the diversity.“Everyone is familiar with soca and reggae, these are the things they know about. But how about zouk or cadence which is actually a lot of the more French African music?“So we want to spice it up. People can have a little taste of Caribbean music. This is what we want to bring.”She said the event was open to anyone age 18 and older. “If you have an interest in sampling different foods and Caribbean culture you are welcome.“There will be a positive energy and vibe and we think, particularly in these times, where we hear so often of the negative things that are affecting our community, it’s important to shine a spotlight on the strong community spirit here in Bermuda.”She encouraged people to get their tickets early to avoid disappointment.“I want people to not only enjoy the food, but come prepared to have a good party. You have a mature vibe, people are having a good time. It’s not the same sort of experience where everyone is at a carnival party, but you all have the spirit of joy warmth and people do get down on the dance floor and have a good time.“They may not bring a flag, but they might bring their rag.”For tickets to Saturday’s event call Ms Moore-Williams on 599-5502 or the group’s vice president George Dove on 520-5317. Alternatively, e-mail westindianber@yahoo.com.