The U.S. Virgin Islands aren’t just about postcard-perfect beaches and clear blue waters—though those are definitely worth the trip! In 2025, festivals and events across St. John, St. Croix, and St. Thomas come alive with events and festivals, offering locals and visitors a chance to experience the rich heritage of the islands. Read on to find out why this year is the perfect time to visit.
Major Annual Festivals in 2025
Virgin Island Events 2025 has quite the lineup. Let’s kick things off by discussing the annual celebration of Carnival, where St. Thomas and St. Croix offer visitors more than two weeks to celebrate local heritage and exciting activities.
St. Thomas Carnival
The St.Thomas Carnival is the grandest carnival celebration in the USVI, offering a mix of pageantry, music, and cultural pride to celebrate the island’s emancipation. Dazzling parades, waterfront street dancing, brilliantly clothed dancers, and live Caribbean music light up the area, giving the carnival its high-energy atmosphere. The Carnival Village serves as the festival’s home base, with its vibrant food fair, free concerts, and nightly entertainment.
When & Where
- Dates: April 27, 2025 – May 3, 2025
- Location: St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
St. John Festival
Like the St. Thomas Carnival, The St. John Festival celebrates the emancipation of African slaves in the Virgin Islands on July 3, 1848. However, the St. John Festival intermingles this celebration with American Independence Day. It culminates with a vibrant 4th of July parade and fireworks over Cruz Bay Harbor—just as it does on the mainland. Highlights include Pan-O-Rama with daily concerts and a steel pan competition. There’s also the Food Fair, where you can dine on island fare like conch fritters and roti prepared by local chefs.
When & Where
- Dates: June 29, 2025 – July 4, 2025
- Location: St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
Tips for Carnival Visitors
- If it’s your first time at Carnival in the USVI book a guided tour to make things easier.
- The festivals are super popular, so book your accommodations early to avoid last-minute stress.
- Pack two pairs of sneakers: one old pair for J’ouvert (it gets messy!) and one colorful pair to match your costume.
- Wear light, comfortable clothing suited for tropical weather and dancing.
- Arrive early for parades to secure the best viewing spots for colorful floats and performances.
- Try everything. Seriously. Don’t leave without trying mouthwatering local staples like callaloo, guava berry tarts, and saltfish paté.
St. Croix’s Crucian Christmas Festival
Set against the stunning waterfront, the Crucian Christmas Festival dates back to the 1800s. During that period, enslaved Africans were granted time off and celebrated with music, dancing, and handmade costumes. These joyful traditions were later formalized into an annual festival in 1952 that blends historical significance with modern-day festivities.
Kids will love the children’s parade held on January 3rd, as it features colorful costumes and lively performances. The adults’ parade on January 4 closes out the festival with grand floats, elaborate outfits, and an unforgettable celebration of Crucian culture.
Highlights include:
- Festival Village: The heart of the festival, featuring crucian favorites like savory tamarind stew and curries accompanied by roti bread for dipping.
- Artisan Booths: These booths feature paintings and handmade crafts like madras clothing and coconut bird feeders. They also offer carnival games for all ages.
- Pageants: From the Junior Pageant to the Miss St. Croix Festival Queen competition, these events celebrate local talent and culture with dazzling ballgowns and creative performances.
- Fireworks: End your festival experience with the breathtaking fireworks show over Frederiksted’s harbor on January 4.
When & Where
- Dates: The Crucian Christmas Festival Event ran from December 26, 2024 to January 4, 2025. When the venue will be held from 2025 to 2026 hasn’t been announced yet. However, expect it to be held at roughly the same time as the 2024 festival.
- Location: Frederiksted, St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
Unique Cultural and Heritage Events
The Virgin Islands honor their storied past with celebrations like Emancipation Day which reflect on pivotal moments in history. On a lighter note, they also embrace the rhythm of island life with lively Full Moon Parties that bring music and magic to the beaches each month.
Emancipation Day Celebrations
Observed annually on July 3, V.I. Emancipation Day commemorates the 1848 abolition of slavery in St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas, formerly known as the Danish West Indies, by Governor-General Peter von Scholten. Considered an important day in Virgin Islands history, it is celebrated with enthusiasm, especially in Frederiksted, or “Freedom City,” where the 1848 insurrection took place.
The week leading up to Emancipation Day, known as Freedom Week, includes cultural events like the St. John Festival and U.S. Independence Day, creating an electric atmosphere of revelry. Frederiksted hosts fireworks, children’s games, music, dance performances, and local food and crafts.
In 2025, highlights will include historical reenactments, parades, and discussions reflecting the legacy of emancipation, including:
- Freedom Walk and Fort to Fort Walk: Symbolic journeys starting at dawn from Fort Christian to Fort Frederik, honoring Moses Gottlieb’s revolt.
- Emancipation Day Parade: Beginning at the Frederiksted Post Office and concluding at Buddhoe Park with a ceremony.
- Living Legends Reception and Art Exhibit: Celebrating individuals preserving the Emancipation legacy across St. Croix, St. Thomas, and St. John.
- Poetry and Quelbe Performances: Showcasing cultural pride while addressing contemporary issues.
Full Moon Parties
Full moon parties in the U.S. Virgin Islands are, as their name suggests, held once a month under the full moon. They are known for their lively atmosphere and attractions such as fire
shows, live music, and themed events. You can find them on all three islands in the USVI at various locations like beaches, boardwalks, and bars. Some notable ones include:
- Sapphire Beach Club: This St.Thomas club overlooks the Caribbean Sea and offers a grand club experience. Every month they throw a raucous, legendary full moon party that’s filled with Mocko Jumbies, fire dancers, live DJ music, and more.
- The Windmill Bar: If you like a more laid-back vibe and one of the best views in St. John, head to the Windmill Bar. Their full moon party features live steel drum players and DJs that let you relax with your toes curled in the sand and cocktail in hand.
- St. Croix (Various): On St. Croix, full moon parties are hosted at various bars, and you can check the full moon party event calendar for upcoming parties.
Arts & Crafts Fairs and Movie Nights
Whether you’re browsing handcrafted treasures or enjoying a film with a waterfront view, these events offer something for everyone to enjoy.
St. John Arts Festival
The St. John Arts Festival is a must-attend event for art enthusiasts, showcasing the island’s rich culture, history, and traditions, including those of its indigenous people. Featuring a children’s art and music show, delicious local food, dance, fresh produce, and a variety of artwork and crafts, the festival is a vibrant celebration of creativity.
By attending, you support St. John’s creative community, helping to preserve cultural traditions and bolster the local economy. The St. John Art Festival is traditionally held in February, so be sure to check The News of St. John and other news announcements for details about the 2025 venue.
Folklife Festival
The Folklife Festival invites everyone to celebrate St. Croix’s vibrant culture with traditional dance, music, crafts, and local cuisine—all free to attend. This year’s festival will include an exciting mix of performances, craft workshops, demonstrations, and discussions, with details to be announced soon. Last year’s event, held from March 2 to July 3, 2024, included quadrille dancing under the stars, panel discussions on the history of the U.S. Virgin Islands, and insights into the history of Moko Jumbies.
Movie Nights
For a relaxed and unique evening, enjoy Moonlight Movies on the Christiansted Waterfront on St. Croix. The event runs from November 15, 2024, to January 17, 2025, offering feature films at the Christiansted National Historic Site with a stunning waterfront backdrop. Check their Facebook page for details.
The Water Island Art Fair
The Water Island Art Fair is a short water taxi or ferry boat ride away from St. Thomas. The event will feature a variety of crafts and artworks created by local artists. All of the creations are available for purchase, and artists get to hold on to 100% of their sales. While this year’s annual Water Island Fair hasn’t been announced yet, the 2024 fair was held December 21st.
Nature and Adventure-Based Festivals
The Virgin Islands combine natural beauty and adventure through annual regattas and eco-focused festivals, offering unique ways to explore the islands.
Annual Regattas
The Virgin Islands are a premier destination for sailors, offering steady trade winds, calm waters, and stunning scenery. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sailor, the islands provide a wealth of things to do, with protected bays, short island-hopping distances, and vibrant marine life ideal for both competitive and casual sailing.
One of the biggest events in 2025 is the St. Thomas International Regatta (STIR), happening March 28–30. This world-class event features exciting classes like the VX One Caribbean Cup and the IC24 Caribbean Championship. Other sailing opportunities include the International Optimist Regatta in June and year-round sailing courses and clinics at the St. Thomas Sailing Center.
In the British Virgin Islands, the 52nd BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival is scheduled for March 31–April 6, 2025. This seven-day event kicks off with the Round Tortola Race for the Nanny Cay Cup, a 37-nautical-mile race around Tortola, followed by the Scrub Island Invitational, a 12-nautical-mile race.
The main regatta features three days of competitive racing, attracting a diverse fleet from performance racing boats to a competitive bareboat fleet.
The Virgin Islands’ sailing reputation stems from its reliable infrastructure and natural advantages. With numerous marinas, repair services, and excellent spectator spots, it’s an easy choice for both sailors and fans.
Tips for Spectators and Participants
- Spectator Access: Arrive early to secure a prime viewing spot along race courses or designated event areas.
- Local Guides: Use local charters or tour operators to follow races from the water for an up-close experience.
- Gear Up: Bring essentials like sunscreen, hats, and water to stay comfortable under the Caribbean sun.
- Explore Beyond Sailing: Take advantage of nearby attractions, snorkeling spots, or cultural festivals happening around regatta dates.
- Prepare Your Boat: If participating, ensure your vessel is inspected, stocked, and ready for varying conditions.
- Network: Engage with other sailors and spectators at post-race events to share tips and build connections.
Eco-Focused Events
The U.S. Virgin Islands feature six national parks across its three islands, offering diverse experiences. From the reefs of St. Croix’s Buck Island Reef National Monument to over 11,500 acres of protected land on St. John, nature lovers have plenty to explore. History enthusiasts can visit the 19th-century fortifications on Hassel Island near St. Thomas.
St. John shines with eco-focused events like guided nature trails and Marine Conservation Festivals, offering activities such as beach clean-ups, coral restoration, and sustainability workshops.
Looking ahead to 2025, St. John will expand its ecotourism with snorkeling tours, wilderness hikes, and organized clean-up events. One to mark on your calendar is the Earth Day celebration hosted by The Friends of Virgin Islands National Park, featuring a conservation panel, beach clean-ups, and an Earth Day fair.
Culinary Experiences and Food Festivals
From iconic dishes to creative culinary fusions, food festivals across the islands give you the perfect opportunity to indulge your taste buds while celebrating the region’s rich cultural traditions. The foodie in you will particularly enjoy the following events.
Taste of St. Croix
The Taste of St. Croix is the Caribbean’s largest culinary event, uniting over 60 restaurants, chefs, caterers, and farmers for an unforgettable evening of food, drink, and celebration.
This event has drawn notable guests in the past, including James Beard Award winner Sam Choy, the “Godfather of Poke,” and Duff Goldman, the creator of Charm City Cakes shop and star of Ace of Cakes. Alongside these appearances, international winemakers, rum distillers, and beer brewers have added to the festival’s dynamic atmosphere.
While the lineup of local cuisine and chefs competing in the 2025 Taste of St. Croix hasn’t been announced yet, last year’s winners showcased the island’s incredible talent:
- Appetizer: Jubilee by Yaadie in St. Croix (1st Place), Wokame Island Bar & Restaurant (2nd Place), Rita Chiverton (3rd Place).
- Entrée: Turkey Leg On The Go (1st Place), Grapevine Restaurant (2nd Place), Rowdy Joe’s (3rd Place).
- Soup & Stew: St. Croix Central High School (1st Place), Saviors Journey (2nd Place), Vital Vibration (3rd Place).
- Local Fare: Chef Camisha Lynch (1st Place), Jubilee by Yaadie (2nd Place), Saviors Journey (3rd Place).
- Vegetarian: Cruzian Bayou Bistro (1st Place), Carambola Beach Resort (2nd Place).
Until the 2025 competition is unveiled, you can immerse yourself in St. Croix’s vibrant culinary scene. For example, you can focus on local cuisine and chefs by enjoying iconic dishes like conch fritters, kallaloo, and Johnny cakes at local eateries or food trucks, where many chefs put their signature spin on these favorites.
Additionally, keep an eye out for creative fusions of traditional Caribbean flavors with modern techniques, including desserts featuring guava, passion fruit, or tamarind.
Taste of Two Islands
This event celebrates the rich culinary traditions of St. Thomas and St. John. It’s an evening that features the best cuisine from local chefs and restaurants. Expect to taste delicious Caribbean dishes, including seafood, tropical fruits, and stews–all flavored with bold spices. Along with the food, the event also offers live music performances from local and international artists, as well as cultural demonstrations and exhibits.
- Dates: TBA
- Location: Yacht Haven Grande, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
Rum and Beer Festivals
Virgin Islands craft beer offers a unique Caribbean twist, using locally sourced ingredients and island-inspired flavors and time-honored processes. Similarly, rum has long been a cornerstone of the Virgin Islands’ heritage, its production and flavors deeply tied to the islands’ history.
Whether it’s enjoying tropical cocktails on the beach or sampling craft beers brewed with a sustainable approach, these festivals are perfect for celebrating the Virgin Islands’ distinctive spirit.
Virgin Islands Jamfest
This 3-day music festival in St. John is a big draw, and it features hot concerts to go with plenty of beer, hard cider, wine, and specialty cocktails. Among the popular artists scheduled to perform in 2025 are Blac Rabbit, Shwayze, Tand the Band, and John the Body. Attendees can enjoy beautiful sea views and a cozy atmosphere, as well as a grass-roots, super casual vibe with around 250 attendees.
- Dates: March 6-8, 2025
- Location: St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
- Admission: Free
- Activities:
- Live music performances from various artists
- Scenic hikes to nearby beaches
- Craft beer and food vendors
- Interactive art installations
- Sunset yoga sessions
- Beach volleyball tournaments
- Vendor market with local crafts and souvenirs
Island Oktoberfest Beer Fest
Grab your dirndls and lederhosen for an island-style Oktoberfest celebration at Leatherback Brewing Company in St. Croix! This annual event brings a unique Caribbean twist to the traditional German festival, featuring live music, craft beer, delicious food, and exciting games. The highlight of the event is their limited-release Oktoberfest Lager—a German-style beer with a tropical flair that beer drinkers won’t want to miss.
If you miss this opportunity, you can still take tours of the brewery that showcases their craft beers that are available all year long.
- Oktoberfest Dates: TBA
- Location: St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands
- Year-Round Activities:
- Tours of the brewery showcasing their craft beers
- Tastings of refreshing ales, flavorful IPAs, and specialty brews
- Happy hour, crab races, and football and movie nights
- Solar-powered brewing process and rainwater as the main ingredient
Music and Dance Festivals
The Virgin Islands have a lively music scene, and its connection to jazz and blues dates back to the early 20th century. During that period, American military presence and migration brought these genres to the Caribbean. Over time, local musicians blended these sounds with traditional island rhythms, creating a unique fusion that reflects the islands’ cultural diversity.
In 2025, a variety of festivals will celebrate this heritage along with the dynamic dance traditions that define Caribbean culture. Here’s a closer look at some of the standout music and dance festivals coming up.
Virgin Islands Music Fest
The Virgin Islands Music Festival is a three-day event held in Road Town, Tortola, British Virgin Islands. Taking place over the U.S. Memorial Day Weekend last year, this world-class event features artists from diverse genres, including Afrobeat, Jazz, Dancehall, Hip Hop, Latin, R&B, Reggae, Soca, and Soul.
Last year’s lineup included R&B legend Freddie Jackson, Nigerian-American actor and singer Rotimi, Soca artist Voice, reggae/dancehall star Alkaline, and the BVI’s own VIBE, with many more electrifying performances.
For more information and updates on the Virgin Islands Music Festival, visit here.
Blues & Roots Festival
This two-day family friendly extravaganza on St. John is hosted at the Main Stage of The Windmill Bar and celebrates the rich heritage of blues and roots music. The
festival is also perfect for connecting with the community, soaking in the stunning views, and celebrating the vibrant music that defines St. John.
Produced by Mac McAleavy, owner of VI Stone and a talented musician/composer, the event offers unforgettable performances in a breathtaking setting. Held at 17A Cruz Bay, this free event invites music lovers of all ages to groove to great tunes while enjoying the warm, welcoming atmosphere of The Windmill Bar.
Last year’s Blues & Roots Festival was held in the first week of March. For information about this year’s event, visit The Windmill Bar’s event website or call (340) 244-6002.
Sunset Soca and Reggae
Save the date for Sunday, May 4, 2025, and get ready for Sunset Soca and Reggae, a six-hour musical tribute to the legendary DJ Calabash. Held at Crown Bay, St. Thomas, this heartfelt event celebrates the life and legacy of a pioneering DJ who shaped the music scene in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
The evening features renowned DJs from across the U.S. and the Virgin Islands, delivering unforgettable sets inspired by DJ Calabash’s iconic performances at Coki Point Beach. This tribute honors his contributions to Caribbean music and invites attendees to celebrate with vibrant soca and reggae beats under the setting sun.
For tickets and more information, visit the event’s official Eventbrite page.
Jazz in the Park
On Saturday, March 8, 2025, join the community for Jazz in the Park, a four-hour celebration of smooth tunes and good vibes at the Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial Park in Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas.
This free, family-friendly event invites you to relax on the grass, enjoy live jazz performances, and soak up the warm Caribbean evening atmosphere. Whether you bring a picnic blanket to lounge under the stars or your dancing shoes to groove along, the night promises to be filled with music and joy.
Gather your friends and head to the park for a memorable evening of unwinding and connecting through music in a stunning outdoor setting. For more information, visit the event’s official page or contact the park directly.
Details:
- Date & Time: Saturday, March 8, 2025, 6–10 PM AST
- Location: Franklin D. Roosevelt Memorial Park, 43-46 Norre Gade, Charlotte Amalie, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands
For tickets and more information, visit the event’s official Eventbrite page.
A Night of Bomba, Bamboula, and African Dance
As part of the Folklife Festival 2025, this event is scheduled for February 14, 2025, at the Island Center for the Performing Arts in St. Croix (hint, hint, for those of you looking for the perfect Valentine’s Day gift this year). The venue celebrates traditional dance genres integral to the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico, offering performances that highlight the region’s African heritage.
Tips for Visitors Attending Festivals
Attending a festival in the Virgin Islands is an unforgettable experience, but a little preparation goes a long way to ensure you make the most of your trip. Check out the following tips.
Travel and Accommodation Tips
Plan your trip early to secure the best deals on flights and accommodations. Booking three to six months in advance is ideal, especially for popular festivals like St. Thomas Carnival and the Crucian Christmas Festival.
Choose accommodations close to major venues to minimize transportation needs and maximize your time at events.
You’ll also want to bring a passport if you plan on visiting the British Virgin Islands, as they are not part of U.S. territories like St. John, St. Croix, and St. Thomas are. In addition, if your preferred hotels are fully booked,
consider alternative options like villa rentals or guesthouses, which often offer unique and luxurious island experiences.
Cultural Etiquette
While attending festivals, it’s important to embrace the local customs and traditions. Greet people warmly with a smile or a simple “good morning” or “good evening,” as this is a valued gesture in the Virgin Islands. When taking photos, especially during cultural or religious events, ask for permission first.
Also, it’s not a bad idea to embrace the local culture by learning some Carnival lingo. Check out the glossary from Carnival Kicks below so you’re not mistaken for being “bougie.”
Dress respectfully for parades and ceremonies, but feel free to let loose with colorful, festive attire for parties and concerts. Lastly, remember to respect the environment by disposing of waste properly and following guidelines for eco-conscious practices.
Packing Essentials
Prepare for festival fun by packing lightweight, breathable clothing to stay comfortable in the tropical climate. Bring comfortable walking shoes for parades and casual sandals for beach events.
Don’t forget essentials like sunscreen, sunglasses, hand sanitizer, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated. A small backpack or crossbody bag is ideal for carrying your belongings while keeping your hands free for dancing or sampling local cuisine.
For nighttime events, pack a light jacket or shawl as the temperature can drop slightly. And, of course, bring your camera or smartphone to capture the unforgettable memories you’ll make at these vibrant festivals.
Book a Luxury Villa Near 2025’s Hottest Festivals and Events Today!
2025 is shaping up to be a spectacular year to visit the Virgin Islands, with its rich calendar of events showcasing the islands’ vibrant culture, music, dance, and culinary traditions. Whether you’re dancing in the streets at Carnival, savoring local cuisine at a food festival, or relaxing under the stars at a music event, the Virgin Islands offer unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
For the ultimate festival experience, Vacation VI offers luxurious villas across the U.S. and British Virgin Islands, including St. John, St. Croix, and St. Thomas in the USVI, as well as Scrub Island, Tortola, and Virgin Gorda in the BVI. These beautiful accommodations put you close to the action of festivals, regattas, and cultural celebrations while providing the comfort and privacy of a home away from home.
Don’t wait—embrace the island spirit and start planning your 2025 adventure in the Virgin Islands today!
