Festival 2017 is officially in full swing, time to enjoy the celebrations!
Emancipation Day, the day that slavery was abolished is celebrated either on August 1st or the first Monday in August (based on the Calendar year, dates vary in some countries). All Caribbean countries observe Emancipation day as a bank Holiday, but some will add festivities to commemorate the occasion.
Now, living in the fortunate country of the British Virgin Islands, these festivities last for 2 weeks. For every day of those 2 weeks, there is an event EVERY NIGHT. No days off days, which means no sleep for some. The majority of the Festivities happens on August Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. This year these days fall on the 7th, 8th, and 9th which means THREE BANK HOLIDAYS! (City is closed so ensure you have things done by then).
While I’m no longer a reveler I can still tell you what are the MUST GO events at the BVI Festival based on experiences.
Here’s the rundown:
The Village or Concert nights
Day or Night at the village there is drink, food galore, entertainment and even rides for children dubbed Coney Island. Besides Christmas time, you get THE BEST food around festival time, anything you can think of is being sold. Restaurants often close their main location to set up at the village to take advantage of the festival traffic.
Then there is entertainment from various artists, local and international. You’ll have to pay an entry fee of $10-$30 dollars depending on the night, but it’s all worth it. As I said, the action lasts for 2 weeks at various locations throughout the island, so you can pick what day’s you’d like to attend based on your preference of performers.
J’ouvert: August Monday, August Wednesday
Normally, there are three days of J’ouvert (Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday), but Tuesday’s have always been iffy. Regardless, if you miss one day you could always catch up :). Depending on who you meet they would say either Monday or Wednesday was the best anyways.
Young and old look forward to the J’ouvert. It’s French, say it with me JOOU-VAY :). It’s basically a street party, all traffic stops just like when the Emancipation Proclamation was read. J’ouvert normally begins before dawn around 4 or 5 am and doesn’t end until day break. It’s come as you are. Don’t wear anything too fancy because there will be water, paint, powder, flour being thrown during the celebration. It’s the only time women are allowed to wear plastic bags or shower caps on their head to avoid hairstyles being messed up for the Parade or Horse Race.
Parade day: August Monday
A colorful jubilee is held on August Monday. Attendees see troupes dance down the road performing routines being judged for a grand prize. It’s open anyone even cars can register. Depending on what time J’ouvert ends, the parade may start later that schedule. Nevertheless, it’s a wonderful experience just be prepared for the HEAT. The sun always seems to shine it’s brightest on Parade day so wear sunscreen.
Horse Racing: August Tuesday
Horse racing is a tradition around the Virgin Islands both British and US. August Tuesday Races is like our Kentucky Derby, hats and all. There are also Cash Prizes for every race won, the final and big race being the Premier’s cup. It’s an event that all ages enjoy. There’s also live entertainment and food. I’m telling you, the food is good!
There will be other events going on throughout, you have to keep your ears and eyes open so you don’t miss out.
I no longer attend most of these events due to my life path, but I may go to a village night to see a performer or two.
Festivities are fun for both local and visitors, it’s a time to come together and celebrate our freedom.
Hope to see you at the next Festival!
Share this:
