The Time To Plan For Carnival Is Now!

It’s time to plan your ultimate summer vacation during St. John’s Carnival season! Celebrated for 68 years, Carnival, also known as St. John Festival, is a robust gathering celebrating local culture and traditions with colorful costumes, parades, soca music, moko jumbies (stilt walkers), food and drink.

This year’s season begins on June 25th and culminates on July 4th, the day after Emancipation Day commemorating the abolition of slavery. The annual event includes a steel pan competition, food fair featuring 20 local vendors, cultural programs, fireworks over Cruz Bay, nightly performances and pageants. Don’t forget to set your alarm clock for J’ouvert, a raucous sunrise street dance signaling the start of Carnival!

Thousands of people line the streets of the Carnival Village filled with local arts and crafts, and Caribbean delicacies like tamarind stew, salt fish pates, kallaloo, johnny cakes and electric lemonade. A nearby Children’s Village is filled with games, rides and prizes. Enjoy our themed dance troupes that participate in the parade on the 4th of July along with Carnival royalty and locals. There is truly something for everyone!

The first St. John Carnival dates back to 1945 and was a one-day affair. Since then, the celebration has grown larger and has increased every year. The complete schedule will be available here shortly.

Between events, take some time to explore the island on one of our 25+ self-guided hikes, sailing and snorkeling in our waters, playing on our beaches and shopping in our boutiques. To escape the crowd, head on over to the sleepy side of the island, Coral Bay.

Whatever you do, just don’t wait to reserve your villa. Carnival is a popular destination for an unforgettable nine-day party!