Crucian Christmas Festival Official Kicks Off With Carnival Meets The Runway; A Dazzling Display Of Costumes

ST. CROIX — Since it began four years ago, Carnival Meets The Runway has grown into the official kickoff for the Crucian Christmas Festival, as multiple troupes have used the event to display their costumes, and also to lure potential Adults Parade participants into their groups.

This year, as with last year, the troupes were flanked by onlookers as they made their way up a runway outside the dinning area of The Palms at Pelican Cove on Saturday night, strutting to Caribbean Soca music and displaying an array of costumes — from nine different troupes — to the cheers of the audience.

But the difference this year came in variety and creativity. While some troupes used the opportunity to simply dance down the aisle, others, especially the group Regal Dynasty, put on a full production complete with moko jumbies and a man blowing fire on the south side of the aisle, as the organization’s members modeled in a variety of costumes representing multiple aspects of carnival.

The runway, as well as the audience, expanded from last year, too, growth that is sure to please Alvin Burke, Jr., who worked tirelessly to bring the event to life. So did media coverage of the affair, as it continues to gain prominence as St. Croix’s carnival premier opening showcase.

There was music entertainment by Daddy Jones and the Crew, Shamall and Nikki Brooks. Returning to host this year was Temisha Liburt.

Below, find a list of carnival events, made available by the Crucian Christmas Carnival Committee:

Sunday, December 19, at Island Center for the Performing Arts

Miss St. Croix Centennial
St. Croix Centennial Prince
St. Croix Centennial Princess
St. Croix Centennial Duchess

Village Opens

Thursday December 29, Village Opens
Monday January 2, Cultural Night in the Village
Tuesday, January 3, Soca Monarch Competition in the Village
Wednesday, January 4, Jouvert
Wednesday, January 4 Food, Arts and Crafts Fair
Wednesday, January 4, Reggae Night in the Village
Thursday, January 5, Latin Night in the Village

Parades

Friday, January 6, Children’s Parade
Saturday, January 7, Adults Parade
Saturday, January 7, Caribbean Night and closing Fireworks in the Village