Blackest of Black Empire. By. V.I. CONSORTIUM
ST. CROIX — The Crucian Christmas Festival Parade winners for the 2023-2024 season have been officially announced, celebrating the vibrant talent and spirited competition among participants.
In the Children’s Parade Troupe category for groups under 50, TSK Children Troupe emerged victorious, followed by CMC Arts as the first runner-up and Lights on Connecting securing the second runner-up spot. For troupes exceeding 50 members, Juanita Gardine School won, with Pearl B. Larsen School taking the first runner-up position.
Individual talent in the Children’s Parade was also recognized, with “An Ode to My Ancestors” winning in the individual category. The St. Croix Majorettes were awarded the top spot in both the Children’s Parade Majorette and Moko Jumbies categories, with 175 Emancipation earning the win for the Moko Jumbies. The Rising Stars Steel Orchestra was celebrated as the winner in the Children’s Parade Steel Pan category.
The Adult Parade featured an array of winners in various categories. Gentleman of Jones won the Floupe category for groups under 100, with Reveling Masqueraders as the first runner-up. TSK was announced as the winner for Adult Troupe under 100, with Gallows Barians and Caribbean Revelers as the first and second runners-up, respectively. The St. Croix Majorettes also took home the win for Adult Majorette, while Guardians of Culture won the Adult Moko Jumbies category.
In the category of Adult Parade Steel Pan, the Rising Stars Steel Orchestra once again clinched the top spot. The Road March title went to Black Empire for their performance “End of the Road.”
In a special recognition category, the USVI Festivals & Viya’s People's Choice Award was presented to Guava Tart for their outstanding contribution to the festival’s success.
The announcement of the winners marks the culmination of the festival’s competitive events and highlights the diversity and creativity of the participants, who have made significant contributions to the cultural tapestry of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The Department of Tourism and the Division of Festivals extend their congratulations to all the winners and participants for a successful parade season.
