Page 108 - The Virgin Islands

USVI FUN FACT V.I. CARNIVAL (April - May)
Most large carnival costumes V.I. Carnival in St. Thomas is the first Carnival of the year, usually
celebrated from mid-April to the beginning of May. It began in
are made from bent wires, 1912 but didn’t become an annual event until 1952. Since that
then covered with papier- time, the V.I. Carnival has been a time to reconnect with family
and friends and enjoy the captivating music, vivacious dance,
mâché, foam, feathers, savory cuisine and spirited pageantry that make V.I. Carnival
sequins, foil and glitter. the second most popular celebration in the Caribbean.

SET YOUR INNER ST. JOHN FESTIVAL (June - July)
DANCER FREE Carnival in St. John combines the excitement of carnival with the
spirit of emancipation. July 3, 1848, marks the date slaves were
Let the rhythm of carnival move you. In the USVI, it’s carnival all year long! emancipated in the USVI. In honor of the USVI’s independence,
Dance to your heart’s delight as quelbe and calypso float through the the St. John Festival takes place in late June and traditionally
air. Try a Johnny Cake or a shellfish paté as you watch mocko jumbies culminates on July 4th. It’s an exciting time of year, as Cruz Bay
parade through the streets and steel pan bands battle to see who will becomes hopping with life, and the ferries between St. Thomas
and St. John are filled with Carnival revellers. Don’t miss special
take the crown at Panorama. Each year brings with it new foods, exciting events like the opening of the village, the food fair, the parade or
performances, vibrant parades and colorful costumes. Take in one or all the exciting 4th of July fireworks display.

three of our lively festivals, each offering its own unique experience. CRUCIAN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL (December - January)
Experience the rich heritage and culture St. Croix has to offer
10 during the Crucian Christmas Festival. Started in 1954, this
festival is celebrated from December through New Year’s.
Delicious culinary treats are yours to enjoy as carnival participants
are adorned in an endless variety of madras colors and patterns.
The festivities are spread throughout “Twin City,” so be sure to
visit both Christiansted and Frederiksted.

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