America’s Paradise: A Cultural Explosion at St. Thomas Carnival 2025
- Shemariah Pradia
- May 6
- 3 min read
“Virgin Islands, land I love…”
This powerful line from the territory’s anthem echoed across the hills and harbors of St. Thomas as the island came alive for the 73rd Annual Carnival—a dazzling week-long celebration of culture, heritage, and resilience.
A Week of Island Majesty
Nestled in the heart of the Caribbean, the island of St. Thomas radiated energy and pride as residents and visitors gathered to honor traditions rooted in African, Caribbean, and Danish history. From the elegant Queen and Princess Shows to the electric rhythm of Village Nights, Carnival 2025 was a living, breathing display of Virgin Islands excellence.
With an endless lineup of events—Toddler’s Derby, Calypso Monarch, Panorama, Boat Races, J’ouvert, and the highly anticipated Parades—there was no shortage of vibrant pageantry or community spirit.
The Heart of Flavor: St. Thomas Food Fair
On April 30th, Crown Bay transformed into a culinary marketplace for the annual Food Fair, where local chefs, artisans, and farmers brought out their best.
Menu highlights included:
• Stewed oxtail slow-cooked to perfection
• Saltfish and fungi, conch in butter sauce, and goat water
• Fried fish, chicken leg, and fluffy Johnny cakes
• Freshly fried pates
• Guavaberry rum and Rum cake and—of course—the famous Virgin Islands tart
Now let’s talk tarts. There’s always a delicious debate over which one reigns supreme—pineapple, guava, or coconut. Personally? Coconut all the way. Don’t fight me on this one!
Beyond the food, the fair also featured handwoven crafts, fresh produce, island fashion, and bold flavors of cultural entrepreneurship.
“The Food Fair wasn’t just a feast—it was a declaration of identity and pride.”
Carnival Village Nights: A Vibe Like No Other
Each evening, the Carnival Village came alive with local sounds, lights, and flavors. Vendors—known locally as booths—lined the village grounds, each numbered and stocked with signature dishes, drinks, and authentic island vibes. The booths offered everything from grilled seafood to tropical cocktails, making every night a culinary adventure and a true community experience.
St. Thomas Carnival 2025 Village Lineup
Monday, April 28 – Bring Back Deh Brass
Jam Band • Quelbe Resurrection • Nadia Batson • Mic Love • Shaw HP
Tuesday, April 29 – Neon Glow Fest
KliMaxx Band • Spectrum Band • Ridge • Trilla-G • Reo • Kollission Band • Triple Kay
Wednesday, April 30 – Greek Int’l Night
RVP Band • El Blachy • Kes the Band • Full Blown • Th3rd • Kai • Pumpa
Thursday, May 1 – Old Skool, New Skool Reggae
Reggae Dynasty • Masicka • Shabba Ranks • Pressure Busspipe • Beenie Man
Friday, May 2 – Tropical Paradise
Five Two • Lady Lava • Exodus • Micah Teja • Star Martin • Skinny Fabulous
Saturday, May 3 – Madras Mas
Black Empire • Temisha • Voice • Uncle Mehn • Adam O
The Parade, The Rain & The Resilience
The energy reached its peak on May 2nd with the Children’s Parade and Horse Race, followed by the Adult Parade on May 3rd. Revelers showcased bright madras prints, moko jumbies, steel pan bands, and larger-than-life costumes, creating a street festival full of culture, storytelling, and joy.
But Carnival 2025 was not without its challenges. Mother Nature definitely rained on our parade—it was truly a wet Fête. Still, the show pressed on with that signature VI perseverance.
On closing night, festivities ran smoothly until an emergent incident disrupted the final sets. Our beloved Adam O and the last performers were unable to showcase their talents due to the unexpected turn of events.
“Carnival 2025 was a revival of pride, a tribute to ancestry, and a testament to the unbreakable spirit of the Virgin Islands.”
Final Reflections
As the final fireworks lit up the Caribbean sky, despite rain and interruptions, one truth remained: St. Thomas Carnival is more than a party—it’s a movement of cultural preservation, unity, and joy.
Special Thanks & Editor's Note
Special thanks to the Division of Tourism for their hard work and dedication in making Carnival 2025 a remarkable experience for locals and visitors alike.
This article was written by Virgin Islands' own Shemariah Pradia—my personal gift to the island and its beautiful culture. For more Carnival features and festival recaps, check out the full coverage in Boss XL Magazine:
• Fort Fête 2025: The Electrifying Kickoff to Carnival Week
• Sunset Soca Wine Festival 2025: A Perfect Blend of Culture, Flavor, and Celebration
• VisitUSVI.com: Carnival & Festival Portal
Follow for more storytelling and cultural media:
IG @keptent.editorpr | Kept Entertainment / Consultants
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