Program & Schedule

February 27 – March 1, 2026 | Inside AGROFEST, Bridgetown, Barbados

Friday, February 27, 2026 – Opening Day
9:00
Festival Gates Open & Welcome

Official opening remarks by A. Ashanti Trotman and special guests from the Ministry of Culture and Creative Industries.

10:00
Grand Carving Unveiling

Live reveal of the 2026 festival theme sculpture created by master carvers over the past months.

11:00 – 16:00
Live Carving Demonstrations – Stage 1

Three master carvers working simultaneously on large-scale mahogany pieces with audience Q&A.

14:00
Youth Spotlight Showcase

Selected young carvers (ages 12–18) present their pre-festival work and receive mentorship feedback.

18:00
Sunset Carving & Music Night

Relaxed carving sessions with live calypso and reggae performances + food & craft stalls open late.

Saturday, February 28, 2026 – Main Festival Day
9:00
Gates Re-Open

Morning yoga & mindfulness session among the mahogany displays (optional).

10:00 – 17:00
Live Carving Competition – Round 1

Eight carvers compete in the 4-hour “Spirit of the Land” category. Public voting via QR code begins.

11:30
Beginner Youth Workshop Block 1

Ages 8–12: “First Cuts” – safe introduction to tools and basic shaping (limited spots, pre-registration recommended).

13:30
Intermediate Youth Workshop Block 2

Ages 13–18: Relief carving techniques on small mahogany panels (pre-registration advised).

15:00
Panel Discussion: “The Future of Barbadian Craft”

Carvers, educators, tourism officials and youth representatives discuss sustainability and market access.

19:00
Awards Ceremony & Gala Evening

Competition winners announced, live music, carved pieces auction, networking reception.

Sunday, March 1, 2026 – Closing Day
9:00
Family Morning

Free entry for children under 12 + family-friendly carving demos and mini-workshops.

10:30 – 14:00
Live Carving Competition – Final Round & Judging

Top 4 from Saturday finish their pieces; public vote closes at 13:00; judges deliberate.

14:30
Grand Finale & Prize Giving

Overall winners announced, People’s Choice award, closing remarks, group photo with all participants.

15:30 – 17:00
Farewell Carving Circle

Informal carving jam session, last chance to purchase pieces, photo ops, and goodbyes.

17:00
Festival Closes

Thank you & see you in 2027!