From the time we heard the news in April that the 2022 Crop Over Festival was a go we felt a sense of joy mixed with reservation. Like many others we too pondered the staging of this mass event as the country was battling the deadly COVID-19 pandemic.But this sweet summer festival, born out of a rich cultural and slave heritage, clearly remains treasured by Bajans from all walks of life. Crop Over’s origins emerged from the days when slaves celebrated the harvest they had laboured on all year round. The African-descendants took a pause from their oppressive slave masters to come together for a grand time of food, music, fun and festival.Today, Crop Over remains an intrinsic part of our culture. Crop Over is a significant money-earner as the Governor of the Central Bank Cleviston Haynes reminded us on Wednesday. Crop Over continues to be the event that brings people together as “one feting family”. It’s a celebration where all things Bajan are on display and embraced second only to Independence.Notwithstanding a few rumblings, thus far the festival has had some stand out moments.