Travels In A Suitcase: Celebrating Barbados' 50th Anniversary of Independence

by Dale Ho

Some time ago I developed a program entitled Travels in a Suitcase, a program designed for use within schools, daycares, after school programs and more, the intent was and still is to bring the rich history, culture and the arts from around the world to children everywhere, to create a mutual respect, understanding and appreciation for our global neighbors, from time to time I will highlight some of these 'travels' on the blog… 

Today's Travels In A Suitcase takes us to Barbados. Measuring 166 square miles, this small island in the Caribbean celebrates its 50^th anniversary of independence on November 30, 2016.  After being settled in 1627 Barbados remained a British colony until it achieved independence on the 30^th of November, 1966.  Independence Day is a national holiday and is celebrated as such each year with community events, fairs, food and more!

Bridgetown, Barbados. Photo courtesy of G.Kirton

Communities and local schools come together as a nation and join hands around the island each year, many others enjoy the special light displays around town which quickly become a favourite family tradition and let's not forget 'conkies', a traditional cornmeal based delicacy made with sweet potatoes, coconut, pumpkin and cornmeal and steamed to perfection in banana leaves, conkies are especially enjoyed during the month long celebrations in November.

To find out more about Travels in a Suitcase please contact me at dale_ho@hotmail.com