Crop Over 2025 kicks off Saturday with culture, colour at Queen’s Park

The spirit of Crop Over is back and bolder than ever! Get ready to jump into the rhythm of the season as the National Cultural Foundation (NCF) launches Crop Over 2025 with a high-energy Opening Gala and Ceremonial Delivery of the Last Canes this Saturday at Queen’s Park — and it’s going to be epic.
 

The team at the NCF led by Event Coordinator Karen Pestaina has curated a spectacular Opening Gala that promises to be a vibrant celebration of Barbadian culture and excellence.
 

The highly anticipated Opening Gala will feature cultural presentations, showcasing Barbadian dance, music, art, culture, heritage, food, demonstrations and workshops.
 

A special invitation has been issued to visitors to the island who are seeking an authentic cultural experience to top off an awesome vacation to the island.
 

“This is the real taste of Barbados. We’re inviting locals and visitors alike to soak up the energy, the culture, and the history of Crop Over from the very first event,” said Pestaina.
 

Her invitation is also extended to those here for the year-long We Gatherin’ celebrations, to be in the Park for the 2 p.m. start to ensure they do not miss the symbolic reenactment of the last sugarcane harvest with cane cutters donned in colourful, traditional dress, while the energetic congregation from the Sons of God Apostolic Church will bless the event.
 

In addition to honouring the stalwarts of the cultural industries, a select group of outstanding agricultural workers will take pride of place during the evening’s celebrations.
 

Stroll across the lush grounds of the Park for vendors and craft exhibitions highlighting mouthwatering culinary delights, handcrafted items from basketry to jewellery, while also experiencing stick licking demonstrations. You can also support cultural practitioners and emerging businesses who will displaying their offerings in the Steel Shed.
 

On the Spartan Playing Field where cricket legends emerged will be the Kids Play Park; the Mobile Health Unit offering screening and information; and the National Library and Archives Department giving a look into the extensive historic and genealogy records of the island.
 

The playing field will also be the place when the sun sets for the entire family to experience a mesmerising Floodlight Tattoo by the officers of the Barbados Police Service. It is also where the ever-popular Grand Finale Concert will be held featuring the best of the best in local soca and calypso.
 

The line-up includes Junior Monarchs Shakara and Mr Showman, along with soca stars including Edwin, RPB, Alison Hinds, Timmy, Peter Ram, Mr Blood, Lil Rick, TC, AC, Biggie Irie, Grynner and many others.
 

Admission is free. Come with your crew, bring the kids, rep your parish, and kick off Crop Over 2025 with pride and passion!