St. John Celebration 2025: June 28–July 4 in the USVI
The 2025 St. John Celebration takes place June 28-July 4 this year in St. John USVI.
Photo credit: USVI Department of Tourism/Trini Jungle Juice
What Kind Of Festival Is St. John Celebration?
The St. John Celebration 2025 is an annual event that has been called a festival and a carnival, but ultimately this week-long gathering is all about celebrating the culture of the Virgin Islands. Guests will experience the deep-rooted traditions and community spirit of the USVI with a lively mix of cultural performances, steel pan music, moko jumbie dancers, local cuisine, artisan crafts, pageantry, parades, and village nights filled with music and food.
Steel drum players at St. John Carnival - Photo credit: USVI Department of Tourism / Trini Jungle Juice
Marks The End Of Slavery In The Virgin Islands
This special cultural festival also marks the end of slavery in the Virgin Islands on July 3, 1848.
The Vibe Of Carnival
The island feels very festive and alive during Carnival (which is how locals refer to it). The streets are all decorated with flags. The main parking lot in town is closed down and Carnival Village pops up which consists of a center stage for nightly music surrounded by a bunch of stands selling food and drink. There's usually vendors in the park and around town. Locals, residents and visitors are all out and about gathering and enjoying the energy that Carnival brings. J'ouvert is the traditional street celebration that happens at dawn.
Schedule of Events By Date
Date: June 21, 2025
Princess & Queen Pageant In St. John USVI - Photo credit: USVI Department of Tourism/Trini Jungle Juice
Times: 5pm-10pm
Location: St. John Celebration Village
Date: June 28, 2025
Food Fair & Boat Race Event
Times: 12pm-5pm
Location: Frank Powell Park
Pan-O-Rama Event
Times: 5:30pm - Until
Location: St. John Celebration Village
Date: June 29, 2025
Village Nights Event
Times: 7pm-1am
Location: St. John Celebration Village
Date: July 3, 2025
J’ouvert Event
Times: Sunrise-10am
Location: National Park
Emancipation Day Program Event
Times: 1pm-4pm
Location: Slim Man’s Parking Lot
Date: July 4, 2025
St. John Parade Event
Times: 11am - Until
Location: National Park
Fireworks Event
Time: 9pm
Location: Cruz Bay Harbor
Where To Check For Updates
The final lineup for the Village will be announced in about two weeks. It will feature leading musical acts from the Virgin Islands and across the Caribbean, with performances spanning Soca, Dancehall, Bouyon, and other popular genres.
For updates check the Visit USVI St. John Celebration Page here and their Facebook here.