Previously, I had very limited knowledge on the festival known as Crop Over; Barbados’ largest national festival. A big reason for this was the fact that Crop Over runs during the same time as Caribana in Toronto (my hometown). Hence, there are 101 different ways to become distracted and not pay much attention to what’s going on in the Caribbean. However, this year, I was afforded the opportunity of a lifetime to check out Barbados for a week and experience Crop Over first hand for myself.
Crop Over originally started out as a celebration to mark the end of the yearly sugar cane harvest during the days of slavery on the island. It was tradition to celebrate over eating and drinking competitions accompanied by festive music. Since then, it has grown into becoming Barbados’ largest national festival. It attracts visitors from all over the world all in anticipation of soaking in the positive vibes, partying at events (called fetes) and of course, liming (chilling out) to the warmth of the Caribbean sun rays. While many draw comparisons to Trinidad’s carnival, I think it’s best to assess Barbados on its own to see how it truly is such a special time to visit.
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Barbados, in large part, has been marketed as one of the top destinations for basking in the sun and having prestine sand in between your toes. But my experience has now taught me that Barbados is much deeper than what it’s been commercialized to be. Although my main purpose was to visit for Crop Over, I believe Crop Over was the bait in allowing me to learn so much about the Bajan culture and geographical landscape.
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Here are some of the key takeaways from my week spent there:
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1. There is a vast difference between the west side (Caribbean) and the east side (Atlantic) of the island. Typically, the east side of the island is not explored much simply due to the fact that the terrain is rugged. A lot of the roads are best accessed by a 4x4 vehicle. However, for those like myself, who love seeing rugged beauty, this is something not to be missed! Some key spots to check out are definitely Bathsheba, Little Bay and Animal Flower Cave. Trust me, it will be a refreshing switch up from your usual scenic beach vacation. Wrapping around the island coming down the west side, you’ll enter some serious wealth as seen by One Sandy Lane and the Platinum Coast. Rihanna also owns a home here so you can imagine how beautiful this area is! A great company to do your island tour would be Island Safari Tours.
The Cliffs at Animal Flower Cave (St. Lucy, Barbados)
Standing at the Edge of Little Bay (St. Lucy, Barbados)
Animal Flower Cave (St. Lucy, Barbados)
2. The food in Barbados is impeccable and it covers the whole palate spectrum. It truly does have cuisine for everyone. Not only that, but Barbados is boastful in the sense that it is home to the top chef in the Caribbean! Damian Leach has won several top chef awards year after year. He currently has two restaurants on the island. The one I was able to eat at was called The Mill. The Mill offers a variety of unique food options that you can’t find elsewhere (not only on the island but in the world). Vegans will be pleased to know that there are some food offerings for the health conscious as well!
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Island Spiced Chicken (The Mill Restaurant)
If I’m in the Caribbean, I always seek out some soulful, Caribbean home cooking. You know the type that tastes like mom’s cooking? Well, Brown Sugar restaurant hit the spot for me! The food was absolutely incredible and made with so much love. I also loved the fact that it was buffet style. You absolutely have to try the fried marlin topped with creole sauce with some peas n’ rice and a side of mac pie.
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Traditional Bajan Food (Brown Sugar Restaurant)
If you’re into restaurants with a view, then an amazing choice would be Primo. Set in the St. Lawrence Gap, this fine-dining seafood restaurant is perched along the Caribbean Sea. Since the Caribbean Sea is on the west, you’ll be sure to see a fantastic sunset on a clear day.
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3. Every Friday, there is a street party called Oistin’s Fish Fry. What I love most about the fish fry is that it’s not a tourist trap. Most of the people who attend the fish fry are Bajan! It’s as if the whole town comes out at night to vibe out to some live performances, mouth-watering fish, BBQ’d meat and a cup or two of rum punch to wash it down. The party runs late into the early hours of the next morning.
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4. Parties in Barbados are called fetes. The days leading up to the massive street parade (called The Grand Kadooment) are loaded with fetes of all styles. There were literally more options than I could handle. The highlight parties for me were:
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Fyah de Wuk – Known as a “cooler fete” in which you literally can bring a cooler full of alcohol and have a great time with your friends and family. Along with getting yourself tipsy, you’ll definitely be entertained by the various, high-energy performances from the top artistes in the game.
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Foreday Morning – This was definitely my favourite fete! Foreday Morning brought me back to my childhood days when it was okay to be silly and have fun with paint and water. That’s exactly how the vibes were. No one was concerned about their clothing, makeup, hair or overall look! Everyone was just there to have a great time from late night until the sun rises the next morning! The best part is that you’re jumping (dancing) down the roads within town so you’re not stuck to a particular venue.
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Foreday Morning (w/Jambalasse)
Bliss – This by far was Crop Over’s most upscale fete. I loved the fact that I got to dress up a bit and look classy for such a beautiful event. The event is all-inclusive so once you enter, you’re free to have as much premium alcohol and food as you wish. And for any reason you’re not fully prepped for such a party, you’ll be happy to know that there is a full service barber shop, salon and spa on site to get you looking right!
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Bliss All-Inclusive Fete (1 of 2)
Bliss All-Inclusive Fete (2 of 2)
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Jammin’ Catamaran – If you’re more of an aquatics person, then look no further than this catamaran party! Fully equipped with two large slides, you’ll need to have your water camera ready to capture the amazing shipwrecks that you’ll spot while you snorkel. Also make sure that you make room for the all-inclusive food and drinks.
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5. The Grand Kadooment happens the first Monday of every August. This is the grand finale of Crop Over where locals and tourists alike dress in masquerade costumes. The costumes are prepared months in advanced in order to handle the demand of the orders. While some costumes are hand-made, a lot of them are sent to China in order to be mass produced. Most of the effort goes into designing the womens’ costumes as there isn’t a whole lot that the men wear. The absolute best way to have fun is to fully participate in the parade. Don’t even bother trying to be a bystander because you’ll be kicking yourself in the butt asking yourself why you didn’t join the festivities!
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Grand Kadooment Production in Full Effect
Grand Kadooment Parade
The Top Designers Create Grand Kadooment Costumes
One Of This Year’s Top Looks for Grand Kadooment
When I ruminate about the week spent in Barbados, I’ve come to realize that Barbados was one of the few places that I truly felt at home. I truly appreciate meaningful interactions with locals and Barbados offered me just that. Maybe I’m feeling this way because I have Caribbean roots. But I’ve also heard the same sentiments from non-Black and non-Caribbean people. So truly, Barbados speaks to the heart of the people. It welcomes and caters to all. If there is one take away from this – the next time you have the chance to go to Barbados for Crop Over, make a point to go and don’t “crop it out” of your plans. I guarantee you’ll reap the benefits of the feelings it will harvest within you.
