Families opt for a quiet close to 2025

Brandon’s Beach provided a calm, family-friendly setting for several Barbadians and visitors as 2025 drew to a close, with small groups opting for relaxation over revelry to usher in the New Year.

Among those enjoying the final hours of the year were members of the Gill family, who gathered on the sand for an evening of food, games and fellowship. The family spent the night playing traditional games, sharing a meal and planning a final sea bath for the year.

“Well, as you can see, we’re having a picnic. We were playing some games – dodgeball, Xs and Os in the sand, racquetball, and a variation of Bajan games. Then we had a colour-themed gift exchange. We plan to go into the sea a little bit later,” one family member shared.

“We have macaroni pie, rice and chicken, sandwiches – lots of food. It’s just to enjoy the evening.”

They said gathering together at year’s end has become a meaningful tradition.

“We try to come together as much as possible. We already came together at Christmas, and we decided we would come together again to end the year.”

Nearby, veteran taxi operator Horace Bailey said he chose a quiet night in, prioritising rest and safety.

“When about eight o’clock tonight, between eight and nine, I will be in my bed. I’m 76 years old and I’m not going out there for nobody to kill me. The car lights too bright at night – blind me – nothing like that. So, I’ll be in my bed,” he said, adding that his daughter planned to head out for the night.

Bailey said business had been steady throughout the year despite growing competition in the transport sector.

“Business has been very good. Don’t mind competition getting a little rough with the Uber thing, but whatever little I get, I say thanks to God. Once there are ships, we get a little something every day.”

Meanwhile, a visitor from the United States, soaking in the tranquil beach atmosphere, shared positive first impressions of the island.

“I will tell you, all the people are very nice. [It’s my] first time [in] Barbados – loving it every minute.”