Barbados' Crop Over – not to be confused with Carnival, which is tied to Lent – honors the end of sugar cane season. This explosion of revelry features beautiful, vibrant costumes, bass-heavy sound systems that keep the crowds dancing, live music concerts, and, of course, all the things make Barbados such a great travel destination: clear, calm ocean, tasty cuisine and plenty of sunshine.
Parties and celebrations begin as early as May, kicking off with the ceremonial presentation of the last sugar cane from the previous season. The finale, Grand Kadooment, is held on the first Monday in August.
The Kadooment is a big affair filled with fun and merriment that dates back to the 1780s. Though it's a uniquely Bajan celebration, it brings revelers from all over the world to dance and sing through neighborhoods in colorful (sometimes barely there) costumes.
Truthfully, this annual celebration is a test of your physical limits – whether the party starts before the sun rises or you fete long enough to see it, stamina is key when it’s time to wuk yuh waist. With some good planning and preparation, though, you'll have the time of your life.
If you’ve ever considered being part of Barbados’ biggest party, here’s our first-timer’s guide to Crop Over.
From selecting accommodations to deciding what parties to attend, a lot of planning goes into attending Crop Over. But your biggest (and most exciting!) decision is what band to play in.
Kadooment is divided into bands – think large teams donning different color schemes and costume styles. The goal is to tell a beautiful visual story through throngs of people showcasing their garments in a gradient of stunning hues.
Band launch season, which typically takes place in May, unveils the year’s themes, colors and costumes. For those not in the country, every band posts their costumes on their respective websites. But you’ll have to move quickly, as popular bands like Zulu International, Baje International and the Aura Experience (Rihanna’s brother’s band) sell out fast. Costume prices range from $USD250 to $1500 based on the style and add-ons like wings.
You want to give yourself a little time to acclimate to time differences – and the heat – before Grand Kadooment, so arrive a few days early; the biggest, most popular parties take place the week before the finale, too, so you'll be there in time to warm up your party endurance for the big day.
An early arrival will also give you time to problem solve should any unexpected obstacles pop up, like your costume not fitting – you can find a seamstress. But if you’re looking to keep costs down, arrive the Friday before Kadooment.
The easiest and truest answer is: party. As Bajans say, the key is pacing yourself, as there
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