The rich Caribbean culture of St. John is celebrated throughout the month! Carnival is celebrated with great music, beautiful costumes, delicious food, joyful vibes and wonderful energy. The highlight of carnival is, of course, the awesome mask parade.
Other highlights of the St. John Carnival include the Pan-o-Rama an epic Steel Pan show. As well as the carnival royalty pageants which select a carnival Queen and Prince and Princess. The St. John Food Fair is another highlight, a full day of delicious local food and drinks. The Festival or Carnival Village is a local favorite with a huge stage that puts on epic concerts.
4th of July is Parade Day and is an epic spectacle of dancing troupes, great music, colorful costumes, steel pan bands, stilt walkers, acrobatics and more. Preceding the parade is J’ouvert, a sunrise celebration that is lots of fun. The carnival ends at night with a spectacular fireworks display over the harbor which is a magical sight.
What is the history of St. John Carnival?
St. John Carnival dates back to the early 20th century when the islands were still part of Denmark and the residents celebrated masquerade type events. The first official carnival dates back to 1945 when residents came together in Cruz Bay to share food and parade through the streets. The early celebrations only took place on one day, but grew larger as the celebrations increased every year.
SOURCE: CARNIVALAND.NET