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Sankofa Pilgrimage to Barbados

Sankofa Pilgrimage to Barbados

Historical ties between Barbados and Liberia will be celebrated and strengthened in May 2024, with a Back2Barbados pilgrimage to Barbados by Liberians with roots on the island. This is a story of exploitation, resilience, and the ultimate triumph of freedom.

Historical Ties

Timeline of the relationship between Barbados and West Africa from the start of the transatlantic slave trade to the relocation of Bajans to Liberia.

The relationship between the island of Barbados and the African continent traces back to the mid-17th century with the transporting of enslaved Africans to the Caribbean islands by Europeans.

By the late 17th century, Barbados was one of the major destinations for enslaved persons, with sugar production driving the demand for labor in the British colony.

The abolition of the slave trade in 1807 marked the official end of the horrendous transatlantic slave trade throughout the British Empire, including to Barbados. However slavery itself was not abolished until 1834, with full emancipation granted in 1838.

In 1865 approx. 50 families, totaling 346 persons, made the momentous journey back to the continent from Barbados – this time a journey of choice and freedom made by descendants of enslaved Africans.

These Barbadian migrants contributed to the cultural and social fabric of Liberia during its formative years. In fact two of Liberia’s presidents – Arthur Barclay and Edwin Barclay – were of Barbadian descent.

The Pilgrimage Back To Barbados

In May 2024, Barbados will welcome Liberians and other Africans of Barbadian ancestry for a special Sankofa pilgrimage. The event promises to strengthen ties, raise awareness, and celebrate the 159th anniversary of the Barbadian settlers journey to Liberia.

Fittingly the pilgrimage takes place during the Season of Emancipation, a time of reflection, education, and celebration commemorating the end of slavery in Barbados.

While in Barbados, visitors will trace their genealogical ties to Barbados, visit historical sights on the island, and celebrate our shared heritage.

“Sankofa” represents the importance of learning from the past, understanding your roots and history, and using that knowledge to guide and shape the future.

Follow the Pilgrimage

Visit back2barbados.com for up to date information on the pilgrimage.

Sights of Interest

Rock Hall Freedom Village: site of the first freehold village created by former slaves in 1841.

Newton Slave Burial Ground: the largest and earliest slave burial ground discovered in Barbados.

Emancipation Statue: symbolizing the breaking of the chains of slavery at Emancipation.

Monument to the Barbadian Family: following the Barbadian Family’s journey, past and present.

Golden Square Freedom Park: a place for reflection, education and agitation.

Golden Square Freedom Park

Island Tours

 

Allstars Festival: a journey of music, laughter, and inspiration

Allstars Festival: a journey of music, laughter, and inspiration

Get ready to be swept away on a journey of music, laughter, and inspiration like never before!

Friday 15th March: Opening Opera Gala
Join us for a spectacular evening of Opera & Broadway hits, with the American Tenor Todd Wilander, Baritone Nathan Richards, Sopranos Melinda Hughes, Shantal Martin and special guest Andre Hoyte. They are accompanied by Trinidadian pianist Enrique Ali.  After the show, enjoy delicious food from one of the many food vendors for an al fresco dinner under the stars with live further entertainment.

Cast of the Opening Opera Gala at the Allstars Festival in Barbados

🎫 Tickets: Early bird $75 BBD, Standard $95 BBD
⌚ Doors Open: 6.pm. Show 7pm
🎭 Duration: 70 mins (no interval)


Saturday 16th March: Comedian Rich Hall
The award-winning Montana native is renowned for his expertly crafted tirades, quick-fire banter with audiences and delightful musical sequences. Rich won the Perrier Award (Edinburgh Comedy Festival) and Barry Award, (Melbourne International Comedy Festival). He has fronted the hugely successful BBC documentaries. He wrote and starred in Rich Hall’s (US Election) Breakdown and has appeared on BBC One’s QI, Live at the Apollo and Have I Got News for You. An unmissable hour of irreverent satire & song from one of the greatest comedians around.

Comedian Rich Hall

🎫 Tickets: Early bird $75 BBD, Standard $95 BBD
⌚ Doors open 6.pm. Show 7pm
😁 Duration 70 mins (no interval)
🍹 Food & Drinks from vendors on terrace after show


Sunday 17th March: Stars of the Future
The Allstars Festival presents a showcase of musical talent from graduates of The Barbados Community College. The BCC Music Department started in 1998 and has graduated over 400 musicians. This evening’s performances are by current students and recent graduates. These young vocalists and instrumentalists will enthrall you with a variety of selections from classical to jazz.

Musical graduates of The Barbados Community College.

🎫 Tickets: Early bird $25 BBD, Standard $45 BBD
⌚ Doors open 6.pm. Show 7pm
🎵 Duration 70 mins (no interval)
🍹 Food & Drinks from vendors on terrace after show

Allstars Festival - Opera, comedy, music and dining under the stars at Haymans Market.

About Festival Director Melinda Hughes
Melinda Hughes is an opera singer and comedian . She attended the Maastricht Conservatory of Music, Royal College of Music and Brussels Opera Studio. She then toured Europe for three years as the soloist with the André Rieu Strauss Orchestra. Her operatic career took her to more than forty countries singing over twenty leading roles. As a social and political satirist Melinda has had much success performing with lyricist and composer Jeremy Limb often performing at The Edinburgh Fringe and at venues in New York and London.
Melinda first came to sing at the Holders Festival Barbados in 2014 and fell in love with the island. For four years she curated the Cobblers Live series at Cobblers Cove and set up the non-for-profit Speightstown Allstars, a company encouraging collaboration between Bajan musicians and visiting performers. During lockdown, Melinda produced three songs promoting tourism for the island. These songs featured prominent artists such as Sir Cliff Richard, Sir Emile Straker, Alison Hinds and RPB.

 

Delta returns to Barbados in November 2024

Delta returns to Barbados in November 2024
Delta Airlines aircraft

Starting from November 23rd 2024, you can hop on a daily flight from Atlanta, Georgia and within a few hours be relaxing on a palm-lined Barbados beach, cocktail in hand, soaking up the sunshine!

Or, if you prefer, the once-weekly flight (Saturday) from New York’s JFK starts December 21st, just in time for a Christmas getaway!

Flights continue from both Atlanta and New York through April 2025.

✈ Flight Times

Atlanta 9:45 am departure -> Barbados 3:20 pm arrival
Barbados 4:40 pm departure -> Atlanta 9:00 pm arrival

New York 8:15 am departure -> Barbados 2:05 pm arrival
Barbados 3:25 pm departure -> New York 7:35 pm arrival

Find somewhere to stay in Barbados | Find Delta flights to Barbados

 

Beyond the Surface, A Poet’s Journey

Beyond the Surface, A Poet’s Journey

At first glance, a realm forgotten, lost in time,
Where stillness reigns, and shells with stories lie,
But look again, with poet’s eye refined,
And secrets hidden in the shadows fly.

Amidst the silence, life starts to stir,
As snails in silent ballet grace the floor,
Their slow procession, a tale of nature’s spur,
Revealing truths unseen from shore to shore.

Beneath the waves, a world in motion lies,
Where fish dart swift, and seaweed dances free,
A symphony of life beneath the skies,
In tide pools’ quiet realm, a jubilee.

And as the mighty Atlantic’s waves relent,
Upon the reef they break, a gentle kiss,
Bringing with them life’s vital nourishment,
To tide pools’ edge, where mysteries persist.

So let us learn from this enchanted view,
That in the depths, true treasures often hide,
And with a poet’s heart, let’s venture through,
To find the beauty lingering inside.

Kathy-Lynn Ward

 

A Barbados T20 World Cup Grand Finale!

A Barbados T20 World Cup Grand Finale!

As the cricket world eagerly anticipates the upcoming Twenty20 World Cup, all eyes are on Barbados, the proud host of the tournament’s grand finale. Kensington Oval, with its history of successfully hosting monumental cricket clashes, emerges as the perfect setting for the final showdown.

Mark your calendars for June 29th, 2024, the big day of the tournament final following a series of group matches and the intense ‘Super Eight’ battles featuring the top two teams from each group.

Barbados will also host several of the group matches including the highly anticipated clash between Australia and England on June 8th. Additionally, Kensington Oval hosts three Super Eight matches in the lead up to the final.

🎫 Tickets

Visit https://tickets.t20worldcup.com to apply for up to six tickets per match and as many matches as you want. With high demand expected for all games, the ICC is using a ballot system open from Feb 1st to 7th, with all applicants having an equal chance of obtaining tickets.
Following the ballot, any remaining tickets will go on general sale on Feb 22nd on the same website.
Ticket prices start at just US$6.

🤼 Groups

Group A: India, Pakistan, Ireland, Canada, USA

Group B: England, Australia, Namibia, Scotland, Oman

Group C: New Zealand, West Indies, Afghanistan, Uganda, Papua New Guinea

Group D: South Africa, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Netherlands, Nepal

✈🏏 Join Us In Barbados!

Renowned for its state-of-the-art facilities and electric atmosphere, Kensington Oval has a track record of delivering unforgettable moments in cricket history. Expect a thrilling and seamless experience during the T20 World Cup final!

Wide view of Kensington Oval cricket ground in Barbados

Cricket enthusiasts are already eagerly awaiting the fast-paced action, breathtaking moments, and nail-biting finishes that characterize Twenty20 cricket.

Don’t miss a moment of the action as the cricket fever sweeps through the heart of the Caribbean.

Make your way to Barbados and soak in the vibrant culture, warm hospitality, and unparalleled cricketing spirit. Join fellow fans as they cheer for their favorite teams, creating an atmosphere that transcends borders and unites cricket enthusiasts from every corner of the world.

📅 Tournament Schedule

June 1 USA vs CanadaGroup ADallas
June 2 West Indies vs Papua New GuineaGroup CGuyana
June 2 Namibia vs Oman Group BBarbados
June 3 Sri Lanka vs South AfricaGroup DNew York
June 3 Afghanistan vs UgandaGroup CGuyana
June 4 England vs ScotlandGroup BBarbados
June 4 Netherlands vs NepalGroup DDallas
June 5 India vs IrelandGroup ANew York
June 5 Papua New Guinea vs UgandaGroup CGuyana
June 5 Australia vs OmanGroup BBarbados
June 6 USA vs PakistanGroup ADallas
June 6 Namibia vs ScotlandGroup BBarbados
June 7 Canada vs IrelandGroup ANew York
June 7 New Zealand vs AfghanistanGroup CGuyana
June 7 Sri Lanka vs BangladeshGroup DDallas
June 8 Netherlands vs South AfricaGroup DNew York
June 8 Australia vs EnglandGroup BBarbados
June 8 West Indies vs UgandaGroup CGuyana
June 9 India vs PakistanGroup ANew York
June 9 Oman vs ScotlandGroup BAntigua and Barbuda
June 10 South Africa vs BangladeshGroup DNew York
June 11 Pakistan vs CanadaGroup ANew York
June 11 Sri Lanka vs NepalGroup DLauderhill
June 11 Australia vs NamibiaGroup BAntigua and Barbuda
June 12 USA vs India Group ANew York
June 12 West Indies vs New ZealandGroup CTrinidad and Tobago
June 13 England vs OmanGroup BAntigua and Barbuda
June 13 Bangladesh vs NetherlandsGroup DSaint Vincent and the Grenadines
June 13 Afghanistan vs Papua New GuineaGroup CTrinidad and Tobago
June 14 USA vs IrelandGroup ALauderhill
June 14 South Africa vs NepalGroup DSaint Vincent and the Grenadines
June 14 New Zealand vs UgandaGroup CTrinidad and Tobago
June 15 India vs CanadaGroup ALauderhill
June 15 Namibia vs EnglandGroup BAntigua and Barbuda
June 15 Australia vs ScotlandGroup BSaint Lucia
June 16 Pakistan vs IrelandGroup ALauderhill
June 16 Bangladesh vs NepalGroup DSaint Vincent and the Grenadines
June 16 Sri Lanka vs NetherlandsGroup DSaint Lucia
June 17 New Zealand vs Papua New GuineaGroup CTrinidad and Tobago
June 17 West Indies vs AfghanistanGroup CSaint Lucia
June 19 A2 vs D1Group 2Antigua and Barbuda
June 19 B1 vs C2Group 2Saint Lucia
June 20 C1 vs A1Group 1Barbados
June 20 B2 vs D2Group 1Antigua and Barbuda
June 21 B1 vs D1Group 2Saint Lucia
June 21 A2 vs C2Group 2Barbados
June 22 A1 vs D2Group 1Antigua and Barbuda
June 22 C1 vs B2Group 1Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
June 23 A2 vs B1Group 2Barbados
June 23 C2 vs D1Group 2Antigua and Barbuda
June 24 B2 vs A1Group 1Saint Lucia
June 24 C1 vs D1Group 1Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
June 26 TBDSemi-final 1Guyana
June 27 TBDSemi-final 2Trinidad and Tobago
June 29 TBDFinalBarbados
Group of men and boys playing beach cricket in Barbados at sunset
Aerial view of Kensington Oval

 

Open House Programme Returns!

Open House Programme Returns!

After a 3 year pandemic break, the very popular Open House Programme by the Barbados National Trust returns in 2024! Starting in January and running through February and March, the Programme will see the return of some favourites as well as new venues, from historic homes to official residences and even a modern farm!

Official Residences

One of the highlights of the 2024 calendar is the inclusion of two official residences – Ilaro Court (residence of the Prime Minister) and State House (residence of the President – formerly Government House, residence of the Governor General). The former is a lovely home built in 1928 and set in a wonderful garden, while the latter is an exquisite 18th century mansion that is classically furnished.

Ilaro Court *

Stepping Back In Time

The season kicks off with the opening of Clifton Hall, a historic plantation home nestled in the serene countryside. Here you’ll discover exquisite architecture, lush gardens, and a living piece of Barbadian history.

Next up is George Washington House & Museum reflecting a bygone era… and concealing a network of tunnels!

Tunnel at George Washington House

Tyrol Cot House showcases a fascinating adaptation of Palladian architecture to the tropical climate of Barbados, maximizing airflow and minimizing heat.

Religious Places

Religious buildings are also part of this years Programme with visits to St. John’s Parish Church, The Synagogue Historic District, and All Saints Church.

Nidhe Israel Synagogue
Nidhe Israel Synagogue

Don’t Forget The Rum!

There’s an old joke that there are an equal number of churches and rum shops in Barbados! Perhaps it’s fitting then that the oldest running rum distillery is also part of the Programme! Venture north to explore Mount Gay Distillery renown for its commitment to craftsmanship, traditional methods, and quality rum production.

Farm Fun

PEG Farm and Nature Sanctuary makes its debut to the Programme, offering a chance to explore a biodynamic farm and a medicinal plant sanctuary, combined with stunning panoramic views of the east coast.

Garden Delight

Visit Landis Garden for breathtaking views of the south-east coastline as well as stunning landscaping! The gardens have also been featured in the Open Garden Programme of the Barbados Horticultural Society.
Afternoon tea will be available when the property opens on March 13th.

Fabulous Fustic House

Fustic House is a historic plantation house transformed by English theatrical designer Oliver Messel. The home captures the elegance of the plantation era while incorporating modern amenities and is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens and tropical grounds.

📅 See the full calendar of events and get directions to the properties at http://barbadosnationaltrust.com/openhouse/

Jan 10 Clifton Hall
Jan 17 George Washington House & Museum
Jan 27 PEG Farm
Jan 31 St. John’s Parish Church
Feb 7 Mount Gay Distillery
Feb 14 Ilaro Court
Feb 21 The Synagogue Historic District
Feb 28 State House
Mar 6 All Saints Church
Mar 13 Landis Garden
Mar 20 Fustic House
Mar 27 Tyrol Cot

🎫 Pricing

Adults: US $25 BDS $50
Members of National Trusts: US $20 BDS $40
Members of BARP/AARP/CARP: US $20 BDS $40
Children aged 12-17 (with an adult): US$10 BDS $20
Students of BCC, UWI, Polytechnic: US$10 BDS $20
Children under 12: free

Photo Credits

* By Barbados National Trust – https://whatsoninbarbados.com/event/36218-open-house-ilaro-court/, CC BY-SA 4.0, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=101105364

 

Nature’s Treasures Transformed

Nature’s Treasures Transformed

In the hands of talented Barbadians the simplest of materials is transformed into beautiful and functional items. Here are 3 wonderful examples…

Coconuts Become Bird Feeders…

The transformation - a whole coconut on the beach, a coconut shell in the sand, and a coconut bird feeder.

Coconuts are quite precious to Bajans, who savour the refreshing water and use the coconut meat in delicious treats such as sugar-cakes and coconut bread.

But the coconut shells are not wasted! Talented local artisans husk and clean the coconut shells then transform them into charming bird feeders. Some are painted or decorated while others remain in a more natural state. You’ll often see these feeders displayed for sale on our beaches and in craft shops.

Coconut bird feeders displayed on the beach
Coconut bird feeders displayed on the beach

Washed-Up

Washed-Up Artworks transforms beach finds into creative, whimsical works of art and functional pieces.

Pieces of green and brown sea glass become tropical coconut trees; sea turtles emerge from sea glass and sea shells; shells and seaweed decorate handy key holders; and beach driftwood transforms into a Caribbean Christmas tree!

Discover more of this creative work on Instagram @washedup.bb

Barbados beaches are a great source of these materials. The east coast is the perfect spot for collecting varied seashells and driftwood; the southern beaches yield lots of sea fans; and the west coast provides pieces of glass smoothed by the action of waves, creating beautiful, frosted gems.

Innovating With Ash

In April 2021 the La Soufrière volcano on Barbados’ neighbouring island St. Vincent erupted, causing a massive ashfall in Barbados.

As we began the daunting cleanup task, local business development agency Export Barbados inspired us to imagine the potential products that could emerge from the ash!

This Volcanic Ash Product Challenge was won by Rhea Gilkes and Selina Craigg, who created the La Soufrière Foot Scrub by first sanitizing the ash and then combining it with essential oils.

Rhea explains: “The fineness of the ash is very effective. It’s not hard and rough. It’s actually finer and smoother than sand, and it has grit. It’s like the difference between a rough sand paper and a finer sand paper. When you rub it on your skin, it is a really good exfoliant and of course, volcanic ash has a lot of minerals, like magnesium, which is good for your skin. So we thought the scrub would be a good idea.”

Barbados Craft Tours

 

From Starlit Beaches to Vibrant Nightlife: Unveiling Barbados After Dark

From Starlit Beaches to Vibrant Nightlife: Unveiling Barbados After Dark

When the sun sets in Barbados, it’s not the end of the day… it’s the beginning of a whole new adventure. Whether you prefer relaxation, excitement, or a mix of both, the island offers lots of ways to make your evenings as memorable as the sunny days.

On and Under Water

For a really unique experience, head underwater on an Atlantis Submarines Night Tour. The stunning coral reefs and fascinating marine creatures of Barbados take on a whole new level of awesomeness at night!

Atlantis Submarines illuminated at night, getting ready to dive below the ocean's surface.

Hop aboard the submarine and dive into the mysteries of the ocean after the sun sets. We’re talking about going as deep as 150 feet (that’s 46 meters!), giving you the chance to spot elusive nocturnal marine creatures, bask in the beauty of illuminated corals, and witness the underwater world come alive after-dark.
🐟 Check prices and availability.

Kayak At Night!
Get Ready to GLOW on the waters of beautiful Carlisle Bay. Climb onto your kayak, floating on the tranquil waters as the sun sets in all its glory. As darkness falls, the magic begins as the LED lights on your kayak illuminate not just your boat but also the surrounding water, turning your kayaking adventure into an amazing nighttime experience.

A group of kayaking on glow in the dark kayaks on the tranquil waters of Carlisle Bay, Barbados.

Underneath the twinkling stars, you’ll paddle through shallower areas, and the lights will reveal the secrets of the sea and the sandy bottom. Your clear kayak becomes a window into a world below the water’s surface!
🌊 Book your glow in the dark kayak.

Family Fun

Explore the wonders of the night sky at the local observatory!
On Friday nights join the Barbados Astronomical Society at the Harry Bayley Observatory for a look through their incredible 16-inch telescope and an informative lecture.
🌔 Contact the Observatory to plan your visit.

For a memorable and enjoyable family night out, head to the Globe Drive-In! Bring blankets, pillows, and your favorite snacks as you enjoy enjoy the movie under the stars or from the comfort of your car. It’s a break from the usual routine, spark the little ones’ imagination!
🎥 Check out what’s showing

Adults Only

Enjoy food and drinks at discounted prices at Happy Hour!
Unwind, socialize, and check out local cocktails at bars and restaurants across the island.

A row of colorful tropical cocktails on a bar

Most happy hours start at sunset, with some bars offering drinks deals well into the night, especially on nights featuring live entertainment.
🍹 Find the best Barbados happy hour deals.

Evening Hike

Whether you’re a history buff, a nature enthusiast, or just someone up for a fantastic night out, join the Moonlight HARP Gun Hike!

Hike guide standing on the HARP Gun in Barbados under a moonlit sky

With an expert guide leading the way, you’re in for an unforgettable moonlit hike to the site of the former HARP (High Altitude Research Project) gun. Yes, those massive guns from the Cold War era!

Learn the secrets of the top-secret military research project that once called this place home. It’s like stepping into a spy movie, right here in Barbados!

After the hike you’ll be off to a rum shop, a place to relax and socialize in true Barbadian style.
🚶‍♂️ Book your moonlight hike


 

Finding Fresh Fish and Smiles in Barbados

Finding Fresh Fish and Smiles in Barbados

Visiting the fish market yesterday for Flying Fish it was lovely hearing the vendors chatting away with a visitor who was leaving the island but just had to stop in for some fresh snapper to cook up for their final lunch in Barbados.

As they enquired if she’d enjoyed her visit, offered up suggestions for preparing the snapper, and wished her safe travels back to the UK I was reminded of what makes Barbados such a special place to live and visit. The people.

Maybe her sign says it all… smiles, love and thanks are all free. Stop in at Ms. Young at the Paynes Bay Fish Market… for fresh fish and smiles 🙂

Oh and the beach view wasn’t too shabby either! And the flying fish were delicious! What a wonderful day.

 

Barbados Food and Rum Cookbook

Barbados Food and Rum Cookbook

Get ready to spice up your kitchen and stir up some culinary magic, because the Barbados Food and Rum Festival is turning up the heat with an irresistible treat!

Introducing the sizzling sensation: the “Flavours of the Festival” cookbook launched for the 2023 Barbados Food and Rum Festival featuring tantalizing dishes and mesmerizing mixology.

Fire Roasted Breadfruit with Lobster & Salt Fish

Bring home the enchantment of the festival and cook up a storm worthy of a five-star feast!

Aprille Thomas, BTMI Director, Public Relations and Corporate Communications reveals “This is a special project for us, spearheaded by the team to further celebrate our chefs and mixologists in another way. And what better way to immortalise the talents of our culinary team than creating a cookbook that credited their favourite recipes.”

Each of the 22 superstar local chefs and mixologists at the heart of the festival has contributed their favourite recipe and the heartfelt reason behind it.

Lady holding tropical cocktail with colorful sunset in the background

This cookbook will be your ticket to flavourful Barbados bliss with each turn of the page. You’ll discover dishes that dance across your plate like Fire Roasted Breadfruit with Lobster & Salt Fish, topped with Tobiko & Bajan Pepper Sauce Aioli courtesy of the culinary maestro Chef Damian Leach from Cocktail Kitchen. And who can resist the intriguing embrace of Cold Set Plantain Cheesecake by the talented Pastry Chef Shaunté Flatts? Master mixologist Philip ‘Cassanova’ Antoine even has a spirited concoction called Bay Passion up his sleeve!

So get ready to cook, create, and celebrate the mouthwatering talents of Barbadian chefs and mixologists – all in your very own kitchen.

Snag your copy at the Community Pop-Ups and Barbados Food and Rum Festival Events (see festival events schedule). Embrace the flavors, savor the stories, and let the culinary adventure begin!

 
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