CROP OVER Local News A kaleidoscope of colour as young revellers celebrate Crop Over Shamar Blunt19/07/20260203 views A young masquerader takes centre stage during Junior Kadooment. (Shamar Blunt) Young revellers lit up the National Botanical Gardens on Saturday as the 2026 Sandy Lane Charitable Trust and Affinity Plus Junior Kadooment Parade showcased the creativity, energy and cultural pride of Barbados’ youngest masqueraders. Hundreds of children, dressed in colourful and intricately designed costumes, entertained spectators as they paraded to pulsating music in a vibrant celebration of Crop Over, community, and youth spirit. A total of 24 bands took part in this year’s parade, representing a mix of community groups, schools, and private organisations. Their presentations reflected a wide range of themes, from Barbadian culture and national heroes to technological innovation, music, and imaginative fantasy. Although brief showers interrupted the latter part of the event, the rain did little to dampen the enthusiasm of the young participants, who continued to dance, wave, and perform for cheering family members and supporters lining the route.