Page 1043 - Visitor Guides

U S V I F U N F A C T

Most large carnival costumes
are made from bent wires,
then covered with papier-
mâché, foam, feathers,
sequins, foil and glitter.

V.I. CARNIVAL (April - May)
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
1912 but didn’t become an annual event until 1952. Since that
time, the V.I. Carnival has been a time to reconnect with family
and friends and enjoy the captivating music, vivacious dance,
savory cuisine and spirited pageantry that make V.I. Carnival
the second most popular celebration in the Caribbean.

ST. JOHN FESTIVAL (June - July)
Carnival in St. John combines the excitement of carnival with the
spirit of emancipation. July 3, 1848, marks the date slaves were
emancipated in the USVI. In honor of the USVI’s independence,
the St. John Festival takes place in late June and traditionally
SET YOUR INNER culminates on July 4th. It’s an exciting time of year, as Cruz Bay
becomes hopping with life, and the ferries between St. Thomas
and St. John are filled with Carnival revellers. Don’t miss special
DANCER FREE events like the opening of the village, the food fair, the parade or

the exciting 4th of July fireworks display.

CRUCIAN CHRISTMAS FESTIVAL (December - January)
Let the rhythm of carnival move you. In the USVI, it’s carnival all year long! Experience the rich heritage and culture St. Croix has to offer

Dance to your heart’s delight as quelbe and calypso float through the during the Crucian Christmas Festival. Started in 1954, this
air. Try a Johnny Cake or a shellfish paté as you watch mocko jumbies festival is celebrated from December through New Year’s.
Delicious culinary treats are yours to enjoy as carnival participants
parade through the streets and steel pan bands battle to see who will are adorned in an endless variety of madras colors and patterns.
take the crown at Panorama. Each year brings with it new foods, exciting The festivities are spread throughout “Twin City,” so be sure to
performances, vibrant parades and colorful costumes. Take in one or all visit both Christiansted and Frederiksted.

three of our lively festivals, each offering its own unique experience.

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