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Barbados On The Water was a authentic celebration of the stunning island nation and the unique beauty of Barbadian Culture. It was put together by the Barbados Tourism Authority and the Consulate General of Barbados. It was held in the heart of Toronto’s waterfront, Harbourfront Centre.

The weather could not have been more perfect for this three day event which featured the best Barbados had to offer.

The festival had something for everyone young and old. It was a true family affair. There was tasty cuisine, steel pan drumming workshops, literary events, information seminars and the fabulous haute couture fashion by top Barbadian designers. For the kids there was storytelling, costume making and face-painting and of course the large open space for them to run freely and joyously which made for new friends and bonds being formed.

Unfortunately I missed the Iron Chef Competition with award winning Barbadian Chef Paul competing against Toronto’s finest Chef Howard Cubrovsky.

It was a day for music lovers of all kinds. There were the soulful sounds of Jazz, the sweet sounds of Calypso and the piercing beat of Steel Pan Drums.

Featured Musical guest included; Elan Trotman (saxophonist) with Eddie Bullen and Band, Joe Lovell and the Traces Steel Band, Toronto Children’s Concert Choir, University of Toronto Gospel Choir, Jaicko, Ria Borman and Bajan Soul and Spirit International Jazz sensation CiCi who I had the pleasure of meeting ... talk about one fun and may I add absolutely gorgeous lady.  Her powerful and stunning singing will lift you to new heights.

I got to witness some real Barbados Calypso and sweet Soca tunes. Performances took place in the York Quay Center featuring Red Plastic Bag (reigning Calypso Monarch), TC (Party Monarch-2009 and Sweet Soca Monarch-2009), and Neu Jenarashun. Jaicko also performed at this show getting the young girls in a tizzy as he sang his new hit R&B song “Oh Yeah” and many others.

I always look forward to this festival every year. It sets the stage for all the other great festivals that will follow in T.O.  It is never a disappointment.

Fefe Fabulous

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>> View Barbados On The Water Gallery