History

1780

The Start of Barbados Carnival

The origins of the Crop Over Festival date back to the 1780s, when Barbados was the world’s largest sugarcane producer.

The festival began as "Harvest Home," a celebration traditionally held in July to mark the end of the sugarcane harvest season, which concluded with the final harvesting of crops.

Cane workers, accompanied by folk characters like Shaggy Bear and Mother Sally, paraded through the streets, infusing the event with music, dance, and cultural rituals.

1974

Revival of Barbados Carnival

In 1974, Crop Over was revived by the Barbados Tourist Board, led by Julian Marryshow, who is often called the "Father of Crop Over."

Marryshow’s vision aimed to reinvigorate June’s tourism lull by drawing inspiration from plantation celebrations.

The festival opened with the ceremonial cutting of the last canes, often harvested by government officials to symbolize unity.

The iconic dray cart parade became a crowd favorite, featuring cane-laden and ornately decorated carts.

1990-2000

Commercialization and Globalization

In the early 1990s, corporate sponsorships grew, with international brands getting involved, while increased media coverage boosted Crop Over’s global profile, establishing Barbados as a top summer tourism destination.

In the mid-1990s, major regional and international artists performed at Crop Over, attracting large numbers of tourists and boosting the festival’s economic impact.

In the 2000s, Crop Over attracted international visitors and gained global exposure through media coverage.

Today

The Impact of Carnival

Today, Crop Over is a major cultural and tourism event, drawing people worldwide. The festival has embraced inclusive elements like the Kiddies Kadooment, celebrating youth participation.

Though influenced by larger Caribbean carnivals, especially Trinidad’s, Crop Over retains its unique Barbadian flavor, blending modern entertainment with historical traditions like the iconic "Grand Kadooment" parade.