We Gatherin' 2025: Barbados Announces Year-Long Cultural Celebration Under 'Come ‘long Home' Theme

Barbados is gearing up for another year-long celebration as Culture Minister Shantal Munro-Knight officially announced the launch of We Gatherin’ 2025, set to kick off in January.

Taking on the theme Come ‘long Home, the 52-week festival calls on Barbadians across the diaspora to return home and join in honouring the island’s culture and achievements.

Speaking to reporters, Munro-Knight noted that We Gatherin’ 2025 will be overseen by a newly established Secretariat, led by Senator John King.

Known for his extensive experience in cultural affairs and community engagement, Senator King will collaborate with Senior Minister Kerrie Symmonds of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Tourism Minister Ian Gooding-Edghill, and the Prime Minister’s Office, creating a comprehensive team to guide the celebration.

“We want to invite Barbadians from every corner of the globe to return to their roots and immerse themselves in all the wonderful elements of Barbadian culture,” Minister Munro-Knight said.

“This year-long event is more than a celebration; it’s a call to reconnect with the island and its heritage, particularly as we reflect on the resilience and achievements that have carried us through challenges like COVID-19.”

To make We Gatherin’ 2025 as inclusive and interactive as possible, she noted that the event will feature a series of competitions spotlighting Barbadian culinary traditions.

A national cook-off will crown the best makers of traditional dishes such as black cake and macaroni pie, showcasing Bajan cuisine. Additionally, a Star Bajan Competition will honour Barbadians who continue to provide exemplary service in their fields, with the grand finale of the contest set to be a televised reality show, the first of its kind on the island.

Branding and promotion efforts are set to start on Monday, ensuring Barbadians at home and abroad are well-informed about the event, the minister noted.

“We Gatherin’ 2025 is set to be a memorable experience, one that unites Barbadians from all walks of life under the shared pride of their heritage,” she said.

As part of the buildup, the Secretariat will roll out additional details in the coming weeks, inviting nominations for the Star Bajan competition and unveiling more events designed to celebrate Barbadian culture and community ties. (SM)