It’s now June which means the Crop over festival season has begun which means a trip to Barbados in this time will be even more colourful and exciting. If you’re not familiar with the Crop over festival it is the season which marks the end of the Sugar Cane harvest with festivals and events happening to celebrate. We’ve got all the information you need to know for one of the most exciting seasons on the Caribbean island.
For the official dates of the Crop over Festival, click here!
The Barbados Crop over festival has been going since the 1780’s so the festivities and celebrations have been going on for a long time making it a fantastic tradition! The festival did stop in 1940’s however the locals brought it back in 1974 and it has been going to this day. There are some colourful and fun events going on that attractions people from around the world every year.
Opening Gala
It all starts with the Opening Gala and Ceremonial Delivery of the Last Canes. This is where the King and Queen are crowned to the man and female who have been the most productive cane cutters of the season. It’s also not very rare to see a certain celebrity here, she celebrates every year… can you think of who it is? Rihanna! She comes back every year to join in the celebrations.
Bridgetown Market
When on holiday, you can never go wrong with a market, especially if it’s part of Barbados’s crop over events. The Bridgetown Market opens up for the celebrations where you can find everything from food and drinks to local arts and crafts. With live music and entertainment, it’s a superb afternoon of browsing through some stalls.
Calypso
One of the main parts of the Barbados crop over festival is the Calypso where there are tents which are sponsored by Barbados businesses and the Calypsonians compete for prizes! One of the most popular competitions of the festival is the Sweet Soca competition. Music and entertainment will be filled and your Barbados holiday will be transformed into a local adventure.
Grand Kadooment
At the very end of all the events and celebrations, the big finale is the Grand Kadoomet. It is one big carnival with large bands, elaborate costumes with each section showcasing a different theme. There are also competitions including Designer of the Year! It’s a great carnival where everyone just has a good time. With calypso music playing, the party continues after the parade with lots of Bajan food and drink as well as a party on the beach – a fantastic end to the season.
So if you’re over in Barbados for the Crop over festival you’re certainly in for a treat, be sure to check out the calendar and head down to some local events – you’ll have an unforgettable holiday. The Caribbean Island transforms during this season and celebrating with the locals is a fantastic way to spend your holiday. Will you be joining in?