More than a year in the making, this capstone moment bought together influential celebrities and philanthropists, as well as those who have been instrumental in the island’s rebuilding efforts, including humanitarian chef and author of The New York Times bestselling ‘We Fed an Island’ José Andrés.
On November 09 through to November 11, socially-minded celebrities and tastemakers joined the magnificent resort in raising their voices to not only celebrate the recovery and resurgence of Puerto Rico, but to let travellers across the world know that the island is ready to welcome visitors with open arms.
“We are celebrating the resilience of the people of Puerto Rico, and the best way to help them now is for everyone to come visit again,” said, Chef José Andrés. “The tourism industry is coming back stronger than before, and Dorado Beach is an amazing part of the island.”
Over the course of the weekend, high-profile guests enjoyed spectacular and exclusive performances by Questlove, Grammy and Tony Award Winner, Leslie Odom Jr. of the original cast of Hamilton, the Puerto Rico Philharmonic Orchestra and Tony Okungbowa, as well as a memorable Chefs of Puerto Rico event hosted by Chef José Andrés in collaboration with the island’s most elite culinary talent.
Perhaps the most moving moment of the weekend occurred on Saturday evening when Tony Okungbowa invited guests to join him in a ceremonial blessing of the island. Hundreds of well-wishers tossed herb satchels into the flames of a beach bonfire as inspired by Puerto Rican tradition and with them their hopes for a bright future for the stunning island.
