A Guide to the 5 Virgin Island Carnivals
Virgin Island carnivals offer visitors a chance to learn more about local traditions, history, and cuisine while attending one of the best parties in the Caribbean. The best part? There are 5 different carnivals to choose from.
No matter what time of year you’re planning a Virgin Islands vacation, there may be a carnival happening when you visit. This guide explains everything you need to know about the 5 carnivals in the Virgin Islands.
US Virgin Islands Carnivals
The US Virgin Islands host 3 different carnivals at different times of the year. If you book a sailing course through the USVI, you may visit during one of the carnival celebrations on your sailing trip.
St. John Festival
Since the mid-19th century, St. John Festival has been an important celebration of Virgin Island culture. The festival recognizes the abolishment of slavery in a week full of street parties, parades, and fun events for the whole family.
When you visit Cruz Bay on a Go Sail VI sailing course, you’ll be in the St. John Carnival Village, where there are concerts and vendors selling delicious local food. The official 2025 celebration takes place from June 29–July 4.
St. Thomas Festival
The St. Thomas Festival is nearly a month of events in the US Virgin Islands. This year, the festival kicks off on April 12, and the party doesn’t stop until May 3.
The first event is the Princess Show, where children take the stage to represent St. Thomas through performances and interviews. The final weekend is when festivities really ramp up, with the street party J’ouvert highlighting the fashion, traditional dancing, and cuisine of the Virgin Islands locals.
Crucian Christmas Festival
While most carnivals take place in the spring and summer, the Crucian Christmas Festival is a winter celebration on the largest US Virgin Island. The history of the event dates back to slavery under Danish rule. The Christmas celebration takes place in downtown Frederiksted and features beauty pageants, concerts, and a food fair.
British Virgin Islands Carnivals
If you take our sailing courses through the British Virgin Islands, look for the elaborate parades and delicious island cuisine at one of the two BVI carnivals.
BVI Emancipation Festival
The BVI Emancipation Festival on Tortula is the largest carnival in the British Virgin Islands. The August event lasts for around 2 weeks, with the first 3 days hosting many of the most popular events. Locals are typically off work on these days, so expect crowds of tourists and BVI residents celebrating in Carrot Bay.
If you want to attend the main event, it’s typically on the first Monday in August. The Grand Parade highlights elaborate costumes, floats, and festive music.
Virgin Gorda Easter Festival
Every Easter weekend, the Virgin Gorda Easter Festival takes place on Virgin Gorda Island in the village and parade grounds. There are fun events for the whole family, with fishing tournaments, dancing, and Easter egg hunts for the kids.
Plan Your Visit During a Virgin Islands Carnival
Travel with Go Sail VI during any of the 5 Virgin Islands Carnivals for a memorable week celebrating local culture and traditions. Book a sailing course and enjoy the Virgin Islands’ 5 Carnivals while learning how to sail!