Huge Crowds, Great Music And Good Food Make Food Truck Festival A Massive Success

ST. CROIX — News of criminal activity here did not deter residents from heading to the Frederiksted waterfront last night for the first annual Food Truck Festival, part of Dept. of Tourism’s Dine VI roster of events, made possible in partnership with the Frederiksted Economic Development Association (FEDA).

The idea was to bring together some of the island’s best food trucks and line them on the waterfront in an effort to expose part of the culture of cooking here. And the crowds — drawn by superstar Pressure and singing sensation, Tia, and by the aromas of pate, bull foot soup, paella, chicken and Johnnycake and so much more — gave the festival a sense of unity as smiles could be seen from a distance, and laughs could be heard over the loud music.

It is safe to deduce that even Tourism and FEDA were surprised by the event’s success.

It was also one of the bigger crowds of any event held in Frederiksted this year, and people weren’t simply gazing; they were buying, eating, drinking and having a great experience. The Consortium spoke with dignitaries, some present with their families — all expressing satisfaction.

“I think the Food Truck Festival is a case of perfect timing,” said Senator Novelle Francis, a first-term Democrat. “We’ve had a lot of unrest in our community, and this gives people an opportunity to enjoy themselves. I’m happy for the turnout I see here, and I’m hoping that it does catch on.”

Delegate to Congress Stacey Plaskett, seen with her husband, also chimed in.

“I think anything that brings Virgin Islanders together and is a really safe and enjoyable time for Crucians to come out and enjoy themselves, I’m down for it,” said the freshman congresswoman. “I’m here to support the guys together, and we always want to support all Virgin Islanders in the positive things that they’re doing. So the music is good, the company is even better, and the food is excellent.”

And Senator Sammuel Sanes, ubiquitous at cultural and community events, couldn’t contain his excitement.

“I love this!” Mr. Sanes raved. “This is what I’m talking about,” he added, motioning to the hundreds of people traversing the waterfront. “I think this is going to catch on. I see a lot of people here enjoying themselves and eating all kinds of food. The good music, the good vibes — I see a lot of police officers, too, so it’s a safe environment. I see families coming out here –I mean, this is what St. Croix is all about. I love it.”

On stage, Tia, backed by the True Vibes Band, serenaded an attentive crowd eager to dance. Cruz Rock, one of St. Croix’s recording artists’ who’s made waves internationally, joined Tia for a duo dubbed “This is Love”, in a simple yet engaging performance.

The night, though, belonged to VI superstar, Pressure. Welcomed by FEDA’s President Melody Rames, the hit maker’s band followed with a pulsating reggae intro, leading to Pressure’s arrival on stage, opening up his performance with “Love and Affection”, a breakout single for the St.  Thomas native.

The festival took a turn for the better as event goers compressed the stage area, dancing and singing along with Pressure.

“This is what we need,” one person told The Consortium, contrasting the event with recent gun violence that has seen multiple lives lost. “St. Croix needs to be saved, and we are the only ones who can do it.”