2 weeks Ago By Pauline Gillera
Art, nature and culinary mastery seamlessly fused together and delighted audiences and visitors during The Grand Bohol Harvest, a two-day event held at the BE Grand Resort Bohol Convention Center, that took place from Nov. 21 to 22, 2024. This celebration brought together international floral artisans, local fashion designers and the province’s best food and wine exhibitors, showcasing the beauty, creativity and flavors of Bohol.
The Bohol International Flower Festival Fashion Show The festivities began with the Bohol International Flower Festival on Nov. 21, where the convention center bloomed with life as 20 floral masters from across Europe and Asia collaborated to create stunning arrangements inspired by the region’s iconic blooms. Their creations transformed the venue into a mesmerizing floral paradise.
On Nov. 22, the stunning floral displays during the fashion show were paired with beautiful outfits created by 10 talented designers from Cebu and Bohol. Each piece was carefully designed, combining high fashion with the island’s natural beauty and culture.
The fashion show truly honored Bohol’s rich heritage and the creativity of its people. Bohol Food and Wine Festival The celebration continued on Nov. 22, with the Bohol Food and Wine Festival, where 16 exhibitors proudly showcased the finest culinary offerings from the province.
Guests were able to indulge in a wide array of delicious delights, from traditional Boholano dishes to innovative creations paired with exquisite wines. The festival showcased the province’s burgeoning food scene, providing a platform for local businesses to shine. It was a feast for the senses, and attendees savored the flavors of Bohol while celebrating its culinary artistry.
The Monkey Bar, led by Chef Jenzel Fontilla, stood out as a guest favorite with its innovative dishes inspired by Mabini and Buenavista, two flourishing municipalities in Bohol. Highlights included a sand-baked bibingka with salted duck egg compote and Nitro cheese foam, and an oyster sphere with lemon foam and fermented onions. Using molecular gastronomy, Chef Fontilla’s team transformed local traditions into unforgettable bites, capturing the essence of Bohol’s rich culinary heritage.
Chef Fontilla’s annual team adventures to Bohol’s hidden gems fueled the creativity behind the festival. Chef Fontilla shared, “Every year, I organize an annual adventure with my chefs to explore the hidden gems of Bohol. We visit lesser-known destinations and have the opportunity to immerse ourselves in local culture, engaging with residents who welcome us to learn their traditional methods and flavors.
This annual tradition has transformed into a meaningful bonding experience that goes beyond our work together.” These immersive journeys inspire not only the dishes but also the intricate tablescapes designed by his wife’s team to reflect the places they visit. The festival showcased century-old recipes with modern techniques, striving to honor local stories and flavors in every dish.
A tribute to Bohol’s beauty and spirit The Grand Bohol Harvest showcased the island’s natural beauty, creative spirit and cultural richness. By bringing together talents from across the globe and the region, the event positions Bohol as a vibrant hub of art, fashion and gastronomy. Whether it was the breathtaking floral displays, the stunning couture inspired by nature, or the delectable flavors of the food and wine festival, each moment of The Grand Bohol Harvest celebrated the essence of Bohol and its unparalleled beauty and the boundless creativity of its people.
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