Mark & Katt Take WRS to Barbados for Crop Over 2026
For one week only, the WRS Breakfast Show is broadcasting live from Barbados, bringing listeners a taste of the island's biggest and most colourful festival season.
Join us every weekday from Wednesday 29 July until Tuesday 4 August between 06:30-10:00 as we explore Barbados, discover the stories behind Crop Over, meet the people who make the island special, and bring you along for the journey.
Staying at Savannah Beach Club
Our home for the week is the beautiful Savannah Beach Club, located within the historic Garrison area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Mark sat down with General Manager Rodcliff Massiah to learn how the property blends centuries of history with modern comforts. From multiple restaurants and a stunning pool to direct beach access, Savannah Beach Club offers an ideal base from which to explore Barbados. It's also located within an important turtle nesting area. Rodcliff spoke about balancing guest experiences with environmental responsibility and why preserving both heritage and local wildlife is so important.
WRS' Katt Cullen (left) and Mark Butcher (right) with General Manager, Rodcliff Massiah (centre) at the Savannah Beach Hotel, Barbados, 2026
Understanding Crop Over with Barbados Tourism
Crop Over isn't just a festival. For many Barbadians, it's a season, a celebration and a way of life. Liane Clarke from Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. has been looking after us since we arrived and has been an incredible guide to the island. Liane spoke on-air about the festival's history, which dates back to the island's sugar cane industry, along with some of the key terminology visitors will hear throughout the season. She also shared why Crop Over is her favourite time of year and why 2026 is particularly special: her birthday falls on Grand Kadooment Day - Monday 3 August this year - when she'll be "jumping" (participating) with friends in the island's biggest parade.
Liane Clarke from Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc. at the Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary in Barbados
Sunrise at Pebbles Beach
When you're in Barbados, set your alarm and head to Pebbles Beach between 5am and 7am. That's when racehorses from the nearby Garrison Savannah make their daily journey into the sea for daily hydrotherapy, creating one of the island's most iconic sights. Over time, the beach has also become a gathering place for retired racehorses and their handlers, giving visitors an opportunity to meet these gentle animals and even enjoy a stroll along the shoreline.
We met Bajan local Tony to talk about the tourism trade at the beach and his horse, appropriately named "Instagram"
We followed this up talking to Nola, who runs PUC for Pop Up Coffee, down on the beach for early mornings 7 days a week, and about horse wefare and her journey from life in the US and UK, to ultimately choosing Barbados as her home.
Wildlife Encounters at Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary
We also visited Graeme Hall Nature Sanctuary, where dedicated conservation staff work to protect some of the island's most important ecosystems and wildlife. Paul and Linda shared some of their favourite facts about Barbados' birdlife and explained why the sanctuary plays such a vital role in protecting native species.
We also met one of the sanctuary's most famous residents: Gary the Goose. Acting as an unofficial ambassador, Gary has a habit of leading visitors around the grounds and making sure everyone feels welcome.
Barbadian Hotelerie Entrepreneur Peter Odel at the Savannah Garrison - on his winning horse.
Barbadian entrepreneur and hotelier Peter Odle discusses his passion for horse racing, the thrill of watching his horses compete, and what it takes to own a Sandy Lane Gold Cup winner. We caught up with the Order of Freedom recipient at the historic Garrison Savannah racecourse during Barbados' racing season.
Liane Clarke, Peter Odle and Katt Cullen at the Garrison Savannah racetrack, Barbados, 2026
Dawn Lisa Smith on the cultures of Cropover
Fresh from receiving the 2026 Crop Over Stalwart Award, cultural practitioner and heritage guide Dawn Lisa Smith of DL Smith Productions explains why preserving and sharing Barbados' traditions is more important than ever. She discusses the workshops helping visitors and locals connect with the deeper meaning behind Crop Over.
Claudia's story of an accidental expat
Originally from Germany and now based in Barbados, Claudia discusses island life, entrepreneurship and her work with Sea Jewels Barbados.
Georgina Callender introduces us to the Mother Sally, Shaggy Bear and Donkey Man characters of Barbados
Georgina Callender of Characters of Town explores the colourful historical characters, customs and traditions that have helped shape Barbadian culture. Learn how Barbados' unique history has given familiar Caribbean folklore its own distinctive identity.
Kaveh of Kaveh Kouture
Costume designer Kaveh Devon of Kaveh Kouture shares the creativity behind Crop Over costume-making, while leading a hands-on headpiece workshop in the heart of festival season. Discover the artistry, craftsmanship and culture woven into Barbados' biggest celebration.
Kaveh Devon, Barbados, 2026
Shelly and the Landship
Shelly Durant-Forde of the Pinelands Creative Workshop introduces Landship, one of Barbados' most distinctive cultural traditions. Rooted in maritime heritage and inspired by life at sea, this unique dance form combines storytelling, symbolism and movement while preserving an important part of Barbados' cultural identity for future generations.
Sean Carter, our heritage railway guide at St. Nicholas Abbey.
St. Nicholas Abbey is a historic 1658 Jacobean mansion, working sugar plantation and rum distillery in the northern hills of St Peter, Barbados, and during our heritage railway journey through the estate’s mahogany groves and cane fields, we spoke with our guide Sean Carter aboard the carriage, with the sound of the vintage steam whistle in the background, as he shared the story of this remarkable piece of Barbadian history.
Jameez and Jennifer: How Barbadians prepare for Crop Over's biggest parade
Katt speaks with Jameez and Jennifer from Romp International about how participants decide which band to jump with, what influences their costume choice, and the preparations that go into the big day. From selecting a costume design months in advance to early-morning hair, makeup and fitting sessions, they reveal what it takes to transform into a Grand Kadooment masquerader.
Dooren and Linda - it's never too late for Grand Kadooment
Doreen and Linda have been friends forever, but it took them until they were 50 before they decided to participate in Grand Kadooment. This year, they're back watching the celebrations (which is arguably just as fun), but they talk fondly about the times they got involved and what made them decide to take the leap, reminding us that it's for all ages!
Shane on how Crop Over brings everyone together
Growing up in the Barbadian countryside, Shane remembers travelling into town for Crop Over with his family. He shares why the festival welcomes everyone, brings people together, and always comes with a little rum.
Amal: loving Grand Kadooment from the sidelines
Amal has never taken part in Grand Kadooment, but that doesn't mean he misses out. He shares why he loves watching the tradition, the incredible atmosphere, and what he can see from the studio as the crowds descend. And despite calling himself a “non-party person”, Amal admits he still makes it to a few parties!
Roshana and Ashanti - had barely slept in anticipation
Cousins Roshana and Ashanti talk about jumping with Zenobia, remembering watching their parents take part in Grand Kadooment. They share the excitement, costumes, music and early-morning preparations.
Tim and Leena - WRS winners discover Barbados for the first time
Competition winner Leena and her husband Tim came to Barbados to experience Crop Over, enjoy the parties, food and festivities, and even visit the Prime Minister’s residence for "Dis Gotta Be Mas". But Leena had one big goal: seeing turtles! After their catamaran trip, Mark catches up with them to find out if they finally spotted one - and what other highlights made their Barbados adventure unforgettable.
Join the Adventure
Throughout the week we'll be sharing more stories, interviews, Bajan music and unforgettable experiences from Barbados. Tune into the WRS Breakfast Show every weekday from 06:30 to 10:00 as Mark and Katt continue their Crop Over adventure.
Have a question about Barbados? Email us at studio@worldradio.ch or send a WhatsApp to 022 575 25 50.
And if this week's broadcasts have inspired you, perhaps it's time to start planning your own Barbados adventure - whether that's for Crop Over 2027 or even sooner. Explore at visitbarbados.org
This week, the WRS Breakfast Show is brought to you by Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc.
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