ST. JOHN — Virgin Islands National Park will celebrate the return of the Folklife Festival Revival later this month as part of the national observance of Freedom 250, a milestone recognizing the 250th anniversary of the establishment of the United States following the Revolutionary War in 1776.
The event is part of a broader effort by the National Park Service, which has planned special programs in parks across the country to highlight local expressions of freedom. On St. John, that observance will take shape through music, movement, hands-on demonstrations, and cultural activities rooted in Virgin Islands traditions.
“We invite the community to come out and carry on the culture through music and movement,” said Penelope Del Bene, superintendent of Virgin Islands National Park. “This festival is a testament to the vibrant culture of the Virgin Islands community and their dedication to preserving these traditions.”
The Folklife Festival Revival will begin on March 27 at the Cruz Bay Ball Field adjacent to the visitor center from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Cultural demonstrators, vendors, and culture bearers will be on site to engage with students and members of the public. Visitors will also have the opportunity to take part in a range of hands-on demonstrations, including Tyre palm broom making, wood carving, Quadrille, mauby making, May Pole, and live Quelbe.
The celebration will continue on March 28 at the Annaberg Sugar Factory Ruins from 2 to 6 p.m. That portion of the festival will include guided tours, educational programs, family-friendly entertainment, and light refreshments.
According to the announcement, activities at Annaberg will include dumb bread making, drumming, Bamboula dancers, Quelbe, and Quadrille.
The V.I. National Park said it is grateful for the support of its partners in the community, including Ten Sleepless Knights, U.S. Virgin Islands AARP, Starfish Market, Dolphin Market, the Friends of Virgin Islands National Park, and dedicated volunteers.
For program information, the public is being directed to the park’s Calendar of Events.
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