#United States #Crucian Christmas #U.S. Virgin Islands #Machel Montano #St. Croix

U.S. Virgin Islands Unveils Carnival Schedule for the 2024/2025 Crucian Christmas Festival

The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism has officially announced an exciting update to the 2024-2025 Crucian Christmas Festival schedule, highlighting a vibrant lineup of performances and cultural events. Set to take place on the stunning island of St. Croix, the festival promises to deliver unforgettable experiences, uniting locals and visitors through the celebration of cultural traditions. This year's theme emphasizes the deep connections with neighboring Caribbean islands and features a diverse array of performances from both regional and local artists.

Festival Highlights

Kicking off the festivities, the renowned soca band Kes the Band will take the stage, leading the celebrations into the holiday season. Following this, the Reggae Star Sizzla Kalonji is set to grace the festival with a performance that promises to captivate attendees. The festival aims to bring a vibrant mix of cultures to the forefront, showcasing the richness of the Caribbean through music, food, and dance.

The Crucian Christmas Festival Food Fair will take place on January 1, 2025, inviting attendees to indulge in local culinary delights, reflecting the heritage and traditional flavors of the Virgin Islands. The next day, the festival will celebrate J'ouvert, an event characterized by a unique mix of music, dance, and revelry, showcasing the spirit of the community as it takes over the streets of Frederiksted.

Performance Line-up and Schedule

The festival is set to commence on December 27, 2024, and will feature an impressive lineup of performances over a span of ten days:

• - December 27: Calypso Monarch Competition
• - December 28: Band Clash
• - December 29: Cultural Night - Featuring DJ Poppy Pops, Willy Chin, RVP, and more
• - December 30: International Night - Showcasing Unlimited Sound, Triple Kay, and others
• - December 31: DJ Night
• - January 1: Soca Monarch
• - January 2: Flag-O-Rama Night - Featuring performances from DJ Avalanche, Lips International and numerous other artists
• - January 3: Reggae Night with an impressive collection of reggae artists, including Sizzla Kalonji
• - January 4: Madras Mas Night - Headlined by the legendary Machel Montano

With such a robust schedule filled with musical talent and cultural activities, Commissioner Joseph Boschulte emphasizes that the festival aims to provide an unparalleled experience for all attendees, aligning with the territory’s pride in celebrating its rich heritage.

A Commitment to Culture

Shamari Haynes, Deputy Commissioner of the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism, remarked, “We are excited to continue evolving the Crucian Christmas Festival experience while celebrating our roots and cultural heritage.” The festival serves as a testament to the U.S. Virgin Islands' commitment to preserving its traditions, all while fostering inclusivity and joy among festival-goers.

The Division of Festivals invites everyone to partake in this year’s celebration, urging both locals and tourists to join in keeping the vibrant traditions of St. Croix alive. The Crucian Christmas Festival not only marks an important cultural event but also showcases the island's appeal as a travel destination filled with rich experiences. For more information and the complete festival schedule, visit VisitUSVI.com and discover the magic of the U.S. Virgin Islands from a cultural perspective.

The U.S. Virgin Islands, only about 40 miles east of Puerto Rico, boasts stunning beaches and an array of attractions. The islands offer a unique blend of leisure and business opportunities, making it an ideal destination for travelers. U.S. citizens enjoy visa-free travel from the mainland, simplifying the journey to this beautiful Caribbean locale.

Join us in celebrating and experiencing the festivities of the Crucian Christmas Festival—an event where traditions come alive and community spirit shines bright.