102 Drum: ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE
As the sugar industry in Barbados declined, so too did the Crop Over festival and in the 1940s the
festival was terminated completely. However, the festival was revived in 1974 and other elements
of Barbadian culture were infused to make the extravaganza that exists today…an event that
attracts thousands of people from across the globe.
The festival begins with the Ceremonial Delivery of the Last Canes and the crowning of the King and
Queen of the Festival - the most productive male and female cane cutters of the season. Bridgetown
Market consists of many vibrant stalls which sell local food and beverages as well as local arts and
crafts. Enjoy the calypso music and the live tuk bands as you browse through the stalls.
Cohobblopot is a huge carnival-like show with members of the Kadooment bands displaying their
elaborate and stunning costumes. In recent years there has also been a huge entertainment package
with the most popular calypsonians and bands performing to packed audiences. The children are not
left out as they can participate in the Kiddies Kadooment, donning beautiful costumes and joining
their friends in a band to parade before the judges of the competition. Folk concerts and art and
photographic exhibitions are integral parts of the festival, highlighting Barbadian history, culture
and the artistic talents of Bajans.
Calypso is one of the main features of the Crop Over festival. The calypsonians are organised
into “tents” (Conquerers, Untouchables, House of Soca, Pioneers, Stray Cats, etc) and these tents are