The University of the Virgin Islands is calling on the community to come out Sunday for the 34th Annual Afternoon on the Green, a long-running event that combines food, music, culture, and family activities with a scholarship mission aimed at helping Virgin Islands students pursue higher education at UVI.
Set for Sunday, March 15, from noon to 5 p.m. at the Herman E. Moore Golf Course on UVI’s Orville E. Kean Campus on St. Thomas, the event is UVI’s signature community gathering and is held each March as part of the university’s Charter Month celebrations.
Afternoon on the Green brings together residents, students, alumni, and visitors for an afternoon centered on Virgin Islands culture and cuisine, while also raising funds for the Edward Thomas Volunteer Scholarship Fund. The scholarship supports Virgin Islands high school students who have shown a strong commitment to community service and plan to attend UVI.
This year’s theme, “A Culinary & Cultural Mix for 2026,” is intended to spotlight the traditions of Virgin Islands food and culture through live entertainment, interactive activities, and a community food competition.
“We are excited to welcome the community back for another vibrant Afternoon on the Green,” said Dr. Kyza A. Callwood, chair of the Afternoon on the Green Committee. “This event celebrates the culture, talent and generosity of the Virgin Islands while supporting scholarships that help local students pursue their education at UVI. It’s a day where the entire community can come together for great food, great music and a great cause.”
A major feature of the event will be its entertainment lineup. UVI said the program will be headlined by Klimaxx Band and will also include performances by the Jairay Petty Quintet, a live DJ, the UVI Buccaneer Twirlettes, the Mungo Niles Cultural Dancers, and the St. John Dynamic Dancers.
Beyond the performances, attendees will be able to visit interactive displays hosted by UVI schools and colleges, giving prospective students and families the chance to learn more about the university’s academic offerings. The event will also feature children’s activities, a car show, and sponsor exhibits.
One of the central attractions each year is the Afternoon on the Green Food Tent, where community cooks donate signature dishes, desserts, and drinks for the public to sample and judge. Attendees will be able to vote for their favorites, with prizes set to be awarded to the overall top vote-getter as well as winners in several categories: main dishes, seafood, vegetarian dishes, soups, side dishes, bread, pastries or sweets, and native drinks.
UVI said it is making a final call for cooks to take part in this year’s culinary showcase. Community members who want to share their favorite dishes are being encouraged to register by March 12 at aog.uvi.edu.
According to the university, donating a dish gives participants the chance to support scholarships for Virgin Islands students, showcase their culinary abilities, and take part in one of the territory’s best-known community traditions. UVI said all cooks who contribute will receive a special gift in appreciation for their support.
The event will also create scholarship opportunities directly for students from Charlotte Amalie High School and Ivanna Eudora Kean High School. High school seniors from those schools are invited to apply for scholarships supported by Afternoon on the Green. Applicants must have at least a 2.5 GPA, demonstrate community service through volunteer hours, and submit a video along with a completed application to UVI for the upcoming academic year. Students are being asked to contact their senior guidance counselors and submit applications online at aog.uvi.edu by March 11.
After the main event concludes, the day’s activities will continue with a pickleball tournament at the adjacent UVI tennis courts. Check-in begins at 4 p.m., and the tournament is scheduled to run from 5 to 9 p.m. Those interested in participating are asked to register at aog.uvi.edu.
UVI said Afternoon on the Green is being made possible through the support of a wide group of sponsors, including Indelible (Premium Sponsor), the Virgin Islands Council on the Arts, the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism, One Communications, First Bank, Estate Shield VI, the UVI Research and Technology Park, the Virgin Islands National Guard, Tradewinds Chiropractic, WTJX/PBS/NPR, the Community Foundation of the Virgin Islands, the Virgin Islands Board of Education, the Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority, Department of Health – Maternal & Child Health (MCH), West Indies Corporation, Bellows International, Cost U Less, AARP, the Virgin Islands Department of Public Works, DaVybe Radio, St. Thomas East End Medical Center Corporation, CC1 Wines and Spirits, Holsum, Fabien’s Trucking and Tropical Shipping.
The entrance to the event is free. UVI said there will be a $5 parking fee per vehicle, and tasting tickets will cost $4 each. Attendees are encouraged to bring a lawn chair and sun protection.
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