We Gatherin’ 2025 kicks off with island-wide motorcade

We Gatherin’ 2025 kicked off on New Year’s Day with a motorcade that journeyed across the island, beginning at the National Cultural Foundation headquarters in West Terrace, St James.

The motorcade is expected to make its final stop at De Corner Bar in Crab Hill, St Lucy.

In an interview with Barbados TODAY as the vehicles lined up to hit the road, Michelle Maynard, deputy permanent secretary of the Division of Culture, explained the initiative’s core purpose: “We Gatherin’ is all about uniting families and communities—both local and overseas—to celebrate family, friendship, and community spirit. It’s about rekindling the cultural values we’ve always cherished.”

Akhnaten Burrowes, social media and digital coordinator for We Gatherin’ 2025, called on Barbadians everywhere to participate. 

“Get involved in something that reminds you of the old Barbados, something that brings joy and makes you feel proud to be Barbadian,” he said. “Whether it’s a humanitarian project, a community giveback, or simply reconnecting with people you haven’t seen in years, we want you to participate. Let’s gather in 2025, from St Lucy to St Philip, and beyond. Whether you’re in the UK, Africa, Canada, or anywhere in the Caribbean, we want you to come home and join us. If you can’t make it in January, don’t worry—there’s something happening every month, so you can come in February, March, or beyond. We just want you to come home and get involved.”

At the motorcade’s third stop in Oistins, Christ Church West Member of Parliament Dr William Duguid joined the celebration and also appealed to Barbadians, both at home and abroad, to take part.

“Come back home, immerse yourself in our culture, reconnect with your roots, and celebrate with family and friends. Barbados is gathering in 2025, and we want everyone to be part of it,” he said.

Duguid also announced that nominations were open for the Pride of Barbados Awards and shared details of the upcoming events. “There will be a series of competitions showcasing Bajan culinary traditions, along with the Star Bajan Competition, which will honour outstanding Bajans,” he noted.

The energy was palpable as local entertainers Chrispen Hackett, Ishiaka McNeil, Antoine Williams, and Carl Alf Padmore energised the crowd along the route. Spectators lined the streets, eager to collect paraphernalia and join in the celebration. (STT)

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