FAQ: All You Need To Know About the St. John Carnival

St. John Carnival is one of the liveliest celebrations in the Caribbean and it takes place every summer in June and July. The week-long event is a festive introduction to local fashion, food, and music. 

Planning ahead can help you make the most out of your visit to the Virgin Islands. Here is some helpful information for sailing the USVI during the St. John Carnival 2025.

What is the St. John Carnival?

St. John Carnival is a week-long celebration that highlights local customs, fashion, and food in the US Virgin Islands. You can expect colorful outfits, tropical vibrations, and a bouquet of aromas from the local vendors grilling up seafood, meat, and veggies. In short, it’s an event you won’t want to miss.

Where is the St. John Carnival?

St. John Carnival takes place at the Carnival Village in Cruz Bay. One of our favorite stops on a USVI itinerary, Cruz Bay, is the heart of the action for the St. John Carnival. You’ll have a chance to walk around the carnival and check it out yourself when you book a sailing course during St. John Carnival.

When Does the Carnival Start and End?

St. John Carnival takes place from late June to early July. St. John Carnival 2025 kicks off on June 29 until July 4th. Book sailing courses with Go Sail VI and sail to the St. John Carnival in style!

What Events Should I Attend?

There are many different events at St. John Carnival. Some of our favorites year in year out include:

• Pan-O-Rama: Island sounds surround you at Pan-O-Rama, a steel drum competition that is one of the main events of St. John Carnival.

• J’Ouvert: A dance party that kicks off before the sun comes up on 4th of July. It is one of the most important cultural events, as it celebrates freedom from slavery.

• Food Fair: Local chefs compete to see who makes the best Virgin Island cuisine at this popular event in the St. John Carnival.

• Fireworks: Grab a spot along Cruz Bay Harbor to see the 4th of July fireworks on the final day of St. John Carnival 2025.

What is St. John Carnival For?

St. John Carnival has been an important tradition for Virgin Island locals since 1848. On July 3rd of that year, the Virgin Islands were freed from Imperial rule by Danish colonizers. The traditional outfits, music, and cuisine offer a unique look at the culture and history of the Virgin Islands.

Where Should I Stay for St. John Carnival

When visiting the Virgin Islands for Carnival, you can stay at many different hotels around St. John. Since Carnival is a popular time to visit, you will want to book in advance.

Our recommendation? Stay on a sailboat! Taking our sailing courses sets you up with a hotel-style room as well as transportation aboard our luxury yachts. It’s more fun than staying in a hotel, and you can see the fireworks from your private deck.

Sail With Us

Book sailing courses with our captains and crew and celebrate St. John Carnival 2025 like a local. 

Have more questions? Don’t hesitate to email us at [email protected]!