What is this project?

This digital collection offers a virtual experience of three delightful paper- based activity colouring books designed by the NCF for children aged 8 to 11. Each one is brimming with activities that spark creativity, foster a love for reading, and celebrate the vibrant cultural heritage of Barbados. Created by the Research Desk in 2019, 2023, and 2024, these engaging fun-books provide an excellent opportunity for young readers to explore the rich intangible cultural heritage traditions of Barbados while enhancing their cognitive skills through activities such as dot-to-dot, mazes, word searches, and spot the differences as well as colouring and cross word puzzles. Their offerings encompass an array of themes and subjects, from annual festivals and celebrations such the Crop Over Festival, the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and the Festival of Eid ul-Fitr and Holi, the Hindu Festival of Colours, to cultural traditions such as the Landship, excursions, service of songs, and kite flying to the artistry of indigenous handicrafts like basketry, the excitement of heritage games such as potta and warri, along with rousing outdoor sports like road tennis, beach cricket, and sticklicking.

What is the National Cultural Foundation?

The National Cultural Foundation (NCF) is a statutory body established by an Act of Parliament in 1983. Its mandate is to oversee the cultural landscape of Barbados. In the first two years of its operation, 1984 and 1985, the Foundation was housed at Culloden Farm, St Michael and then relocated to West Terrace, St. James in 1986. It is currently housed in the two buildings specifically constructed for CARIFESTA 1981.

Learn more about the NCF on its website