Fifty media persons and influencers from Barbados’ major tourism source markets, who are assisting in sharing the Crop Over Festival worldwide, were welcomed to the island last evening by Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill.
In welcoming the group, at a reception at Halo Lounge, St. Lawrence Gap, Christ Church, Minister Gooding-Edghill told them that the “sweetest summer festival” has a mix of heritage, creative arts, music, parties and masquerading.
“I know that you were not able to be here for the full two months of celebration, but, … this week, you will have a front row seat as Barbados comes alive like no other time of the year.
“As you experience this week, take in the fun of Grand Kadooment; see all the vendors at Bridgetown Market and interact with Barbadians, …I want each of you to pay attention to the way Barbados comes alive; the happiness and bliss on each Barbadian’s face and the rich culture,” he stated.
In addition to experiencing and learning about the history of Crop Over, the group will also do island tours and learn about other significant events on the Barbados calendar, including plans to host a music festival next year.
The Tourism Minister pointed out that the team at the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. (BTMI), has been promoting the island as a 365-day destination, and Government is doing what is necessary to make that happen by having charters and airlift capacity.
Mr. Gooding-Edghill also thanked BTMI’s Chairman, Shelly Williams, and staff for their work to increase airlift capacity and for continually engaging with source partners, especially the media, to create unique itineraries that help share the story of Barbados’ major calendar of events, including the Food and Rum festival, and the Run Barbados Marathon.
Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office with responsibility for Culture, Senator Dr. Shantal Munro-Knight, also welcomed the group and noted that in hosting the festival in 2022, after coming out of the pandemic, it was not “as big” as this year’s.
“It wasn’t as big, as we were still trying to work it through. But we really wanted to make it special and big this year and I think we’ve been really successful. And I know that you’re going to have a … wonderful time and experience because a full cultural experience is exactly what we’re hoping to give you,” Senator Munro-Knight said.