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More than 400 guests were introduced to 82 contestants as part of the build up to the 2009 Vodafone Hibiscus Festival at Albert Park last night.
The program started with the Fiji Arts Council Heritage Arts Awards before culminating with the introduction of the contestants which drew out the crowd to mark the end of day one.
“We started the event with an introduction for our contestants because I believe that people should get to know them better before the festival begins,” Hibiscus Event organizing committee chairman Dhasuk Lal Bhika said
“The Hibiscus is an event like no other in the Pacific and it’s the pride of Suva because it’s the premier festival of the South Pacific. We’re expecting a bigger turn out this year and undoubtedly this event is going to attract more than 250,000 people.”
Bhika said that the eight day event which officially opens this afternoon after a parade through Suva City is expected to draw out the crowd. He said this year’s event has been designed in such a manner for everyone to enjoy.
He warns parents to take care of their children and be aware of their whereabouts.
“We’ve provided some well trained securities to look for missing children if they are reported missing, however, its parents responsibility to look after their kids during this event,” he said.
Meanwhile, the parade begins at 2pm following the Chinese Acrobatic Performance at the Albert Park Main stage. The final of the Kaila Star Search show kicks off at 7pm along with the Kings Contestants first Public judging at the Hibiscus tent.
