Pic-O-De-Crop Finals Confirmed for National Botanical Gardens

The National Cultural Foundation confirms that the 2026 Courtesy Garage Pic-O-De-Crop Finals will proceed on its original date, Friday, 31 July 2026, at 8:00 p.m., and will now be staged at the National Botanical Gardens.

The date and start time remain unchanged.

Following extensive consultation and negotiations this evening, agreement on the way forward was reached first and foremost with the finalists, alongside the tent managers. Ronnie “De Announcer” Clarke acted as spokesperson for the calypsonians and tent managers during the negotiations. Several venue options were placed on the table. Kensington Oval remained unsuitable for the same reason the Finals were first relocated: preparations for the State Service of Thanksgiving for National Hero, The Right Excellent Sir Garfield Sobers, on Wednesday, 29 July, do not allow the turnaround required for Friday’s competition. The discussions also fostered a greater shared appreciation of why the original move was necessary.

During the negotiations, the finalists and tent managers agreed on the National Botanical Gardens as their preferred venue and the best path forward in the interests of the calypsonians, patrons and the integrity of the competition. The Chief Executive Officer of the NCF subsequently sought and received the necessary support and approvals from Prime Minister, the Honourable Mia Amor Mottley, S.C., M.P.; Minister of State with responsibility for Youth and Culture, Senator the Honourable Shane A. Archer; and the Board of Management of the NCF.

This outcome reflects a constructive and collaborative process, with all parties now united in moving forward. The Foundation thanks the finalists, tent managers and other stakeholders for their engagement and cooperation. NCF teams and partners are working assiduously to prepare the venue and deliver a grand, professionally produced spectacle that provides the best possible experience for artistes and patrons.

National Cultural Foundation