Several big events brought excitement to the U.S. Virgin Islands this weekend, with one — WTJX's Foreday Morning Tramp with Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Knights on St. Croix — currently ongoing. The event, which continues at 12:30 a.m. on Dec. 24, features TSK serenading St. Croix communities in the early morning hours with a variety of Christmas songs, all performed in authentic Quelbe style.
On Saturday, the annual Coquito Festival held at La Reine Chicken Shack drew huge crowds. The parking lot was lined with vendors offering a variety of goods, while those competing in the coquito competition provided eager patrons with a taste of their creations. The event's main attraction this year was the well-known Puerto Rican recording artist Tito Nieves.
Here are this year's Coquito Festival winners:
1st Place: Gely Santiago
2nd Place: 4T’s Coquito
3rd Place: Yvi’s Coquito
Meanwhile, in St. Thomas, patrons enjoyed another thrilling horse racing event at the recently reopened Clinton Phipps Sr. Race Track. Called the "Festive Finish," the event saw a strong turnout and delivered plenty of excitement.
Watch the Coquito Festival here, the horse racing action here, and the foreday morning serenade here.
Looking ahead, Virgin Islanders are gearing up for the Crucian Christmas Festival 2024-2025, which promises seven days of nonstop activities. Highlights include Village entertainment featuring artists like Machel Montano, Kes, Konshens, and Sizzla, as well as beloved events such as the Adults' and Children's parades, Food Fair, and J'Ouvert.