In the US Virgin Islands archipelago, Carnival is a much-anticipated traditional event, renowned for its vibrant array of parades and performances. On St. Thomas Island, Carnival celebrations last well into spring, taking place from April 12 to May 2.
A unique aspect of this Carnival is the annual theme, serving as a narrative thread for every event. This year’s inspiration is “Echos through time“, which brings memories across eras to life. Through lively parades showcasing local costumes, steel pan bands, and a host of performances, the rich cultural history of the islands comes alive. Every tradition and aspect of local life is celebrated. Amid this celebration of heritage, island cuisine takes center stage, offering the most authentic flavors of Caribbean cooking.
The Carnival in the Virgin Islands offers three weeks of nonstop festivities, from sunrise to sunset, culminating in a highlight: the crowning of the Prince and Princess of the year. These mascots, chosen in an exciting show, accompany the events throughout the celebrations.
The election of the Carnival Queen is another grand event. Young women aged 16 to 21 get the chance to compete in various disciplines, from fashion and elegance to public speaking and dance. This beauty pageant for the Virgin Islands offers the future Queen and her court the opportunity to represent the islands throughout their reign—across local parades, throughout the Caribbean, the United States, and the rest of the world. Among the notable appointments is the Miss World Beauty Pageant.
Nights fill up with Latin music and Calypso, the heartbeat of island culture. Calypso—or Kaiso—is the classic Caribbean sound, playing a key role in educating, informing, and entertaining people. Every calypsonian is invited to create an original piece centered on the theme of the year. Calypso tents are scattered all over St. Thomas, hosting over a hundred artists vying for the top ten spots. The winning performer is then celebrated as Carnival hero.
During the Calypso Revue, local calypsonians from the US Virgin Islands meet with others from the region for friendly, artistic competition—blending poetic, musical, and vocal skills. The top talents and the king of Calypso will showcase their distinctive creativity and cultural background, performing throughout the St. Thomas Carnival, which bursts with musical events every day.
On the final night, the festivities close with the adult parade and a fireworks display over the picturesque Charlotte Amalie Bay. This year, the event pays tribute to US President Barack Obama.
Central to the festivities is the Caribbean Village, which celebrates the best of local food and crafts. More than thirty stalls encircle a central stage for live performances. Sample local delicacies, exotic desserts, and international tastes—there’s something to delight every palate.
The village is a lively meeting space to relax, enjoy company, and savor the island’s culinary pleasures.
Families are also in mind, with a dedicated Children’s Village. Here, kids are treated to games and themed entertainment in a Coney Island atmosphere. The village stays open until 1:00 a.m., giving parents the chance for some well-deserved fun and relaxation.
