Crop Over originated in the 17th century as a way to celebrate the end of the sugar cane harvest. It blends many African traditions together, namely masquerade traditions which influence the costumes and dress seen at the festival today.
After World War 2 the festival died off due to decreased sugar production in Barbados but in the 1970s the festival was revived in its modern form, 2024 marks 50 years of celebration since Crop Over’s revival.
Crop Over runs for 3 months with mid-July to early August being the busiest part of the festival.
If you don’t have tickets for a match, fear not. Many bars and other venues will be live-streaming the matches. There are three official fan zones – guaranteed to be showing the games, and guaranteed Bajan vibes.
The Ceremonial Delivery of The Last Canes marks the official launch of the Crop Over Festival. It features the decorated cart parade, where the last of the sugar cane harvest is delivered by donkey cart.
Junior Kadooment is a chance for children and families to participate in Crop Over. The event features bands of younger participants dressed up in colorful masquerade in a smaller version of Grand Kadooment.
The Junior Monarch Finals are the climax of the junior calypso and soca competitions that are held throughout Crop Over. Young artists showcase their skills and carry on the rich musical heritage associated with Crop Over.
Beginning in the early hours of the morning, Foreday Morning is one of the largest events on the Crop Over calendar where participants cover themselves in paint and mud in a massive street party.
The Pic-O-De-Crop Finals crown the year’s Calypso Monarch as finalists go head to head with live performances of their songs.
Showcasing local art, craft, and food, the Bridgetown Craft Market highlights the talent of local artisans in a large street fair.
Held at Farley Hill National Park, Soca on de Hill is a live showcase of some of the best soca and soca artists in Barbados.
Soca 5.0 is a celebration of Barbadian soca talent with a thrilling concert that showcases the best soca of the year.
Considered the main event of Crop Over, Grand Kadooment is a large street parade that features bands of colorfully dressed masqueraders that travels through Bridgetown in the biggest party of the Crop Over Festival.
You can find a spot to watch the event anywhere along the route, just be sure to arrive early to secure your spot. The NCF facebook and youtube pages also livestream the event.
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