The most popular festival in Barbados, Crop Over has its origins in the seasonal work of Sugar Plantations. The festival was once, as it is now, an annual celebration of the end of a season of hard work growing and harvesting the sugar cane crop.  This three week festival is the highlight of summer activities on the island and runs from mid-July to early August. The festival begins with an opening gala which has traditionally featured the delivery of the last canes. Throughout the festival, a street market is pitched in the middle of Bridgetown. You can get the best of the island's tasty Bajan cooking here, and shop for local handicrafts.  Today, Crop Over is a lively showcase of all facets of Barbadian culture. A “cohobblopot” of drama, dance and music ensures that the best talents of Barbados are available to our visitors. The sound of calypso fills the air for the duration of the festival and the energy is high! The Calypso Competition is judged at the official "Pic-o-de-Crop" and Party Monarch finals, where a Calypso King or Queen is crowned.  In the lively final days, costumed bands fill the streets and create an lively carnival atmosphere. The entire festival is topped off by Kadooment Day, the first Monday of August. Grand Kadooment Day is the biggest event of the Barbadian calendar and a universally celebrated national holiday. The streets are filled with costumed dancers and the evening ends with fireworks. Click here for more festivals.