A collage of Wyclef Jean, left, Dexta Daps, upper right, and Kes.
The V.I. Department of Tourism, in collaboration with the Division of Festivals, has officially unveiled the schedule and lineup for the much-anticipated 2024 St. John Celebration. This annual event, now in its 70th year, will also mark the 126th anniversary of the Virgin Islands Emancipation.
Kicking off on June 8 with the Pan-O-Rama, the celebration will span the entire month, featuring an array of cultural events. These include the Princess, Jr. Miss, and Queen Pageants, a Food Fair, and Boat Races, enriching the island's festive atmosphere.
V.I. Dept. of Tourism Commissioner Joseph Boschulte, expressed his enthusiasm for the upcoming festivities, saying, “As we continue to grow our cultural events and welcome more visitors to join in on the festivities, we are excited to share this year’s exciting schedule for the 70th annual St. John Celebration and 126th commemoration of the Virgin Islands Emancipation.”
The Festival and Children’s Villages, central to the festivities, will open on June 28 near the Cruz Bay ferry dock. These villages will host seven nights of concerts, accessible freely to the public, featuring a lineup of renowned artists. International superstar Wyclef Jean will headline the event, with performances by other notable artists such as Kes the Band, Patrice Roberts, Dexta Daps, and many more, enriching the festival experience with their diverse musical styles.
Ian Turnbull, director of Festivals, highlighted the importance of the festival in preserving and showcasing the cultural heritage of St. John. “Together with our local partners and volunteers, the Division of Festivals team is excited for the launch of the 2024 St. John Celebration,” he said. “As we continue to honor the deep, rich cultural history of the island of St. John, we look forward to showcasing it to the world.”
The festival will showcase traditional events like J’ouvert, Emancipation Day Programming, the Torch Light Parade, and culminate in a grand Parade Day. The celebrations will conclude with a spectacular fireworks display over Cruz Bay harbor on July 4th.
This year, the festival will honor several community figures who have significantly contributed to the cultural richness of the island. Ms. Gwenda Dagou will be recognized at the Celebration Village, Ms. Margaret Sayer at the Celebration Food Fair, and past royals of St. John will serve as Parade Marshalls, celebrating their ongoing legacy and contribution to the island’s festive spirit.
For further details on the St. John Celebration and the full event lineup, visit the official tourism website at https://www.visitusvi.com/experiences/carnivals-festivals.
