Junior Kadooment and Fair a hit with youngsters

Over 2 600 young masqueraders had a blast yesterday while taking part in the Junior Kadooment and Fair at the National Stadium.

An annual event, it was held in association with MQI and the Barbados Lumber Company Ltd. It provided the little ones with an opportunity to showcase an array of bright, colourful and skilfully designed costumes.

Some of the themes this year focused on activities children enjoy, such as kite flying and snacking on a variety of sweet treats. There were also themes which highlighted upcoming events like CARIFESTA while others focused on popular activities which take place during the Crop Over season like Pan Pun De Sand and Grand Kadooment.

Meanwhile tribute was paid to the late band designer, Renee Ratcliffe by The Dragonfly Kids Band. Additionally, the band Blackbird Productions, through its sections, paid tribute to calypsonian, Anthony “Mighty Gabby” Carter. The costumes worn by the young members of the visiting band from Bermuda were also seen on parade.

Yesterday’s fun-filled day of activities began after nine under the watchful eye of parents, guardians and other spectators, who braved the heat to see the youngsters as they enjoyed themselves. They also listened attentively as detailed descriptions were given by Master of Ceremonies Margaret Allman-Goddard, Antoine Williams and Cheyne Jones as the young masqueraders went before the judges while in the stadium.

The Kings and Queens of the bands went first and then next up was Quimby’s Explosion, the first of the over 15 bands to go across the stage. Following this, the youngsters, who range in age from two to 15, made their way to the nearby street where they jumped and danced to the songs played by the music truck. They travelled from inside the Stadium onto Codrington Road and along Bush Hall road.

This year as an added plus for the juniors, there was the Pinehill Party and Cool Down Zone where they could play in the large jumping tents and on the slide. The Junior Kadooment and Fair also featured an After Party where entertainers including Stiffy and Fadda Fox were expected to perform.