The US Virgin Islands is set to host a one-of-a-kind, in-person carnival event for vaccinated patrons next week.
And while it’s a major step forward for live events in the Caribbean, it has a pair of broader purposes: encouraging vaccinations locally and raising money for the people of St Vincent and the Grenadines.
The “1 Night, 1 Fete” event, which will only be open to vaccinated residents and visitors, will be held outdoors at the West Indian Company Limited Dock on St Thomas.
The April 30 event will only be open to 200 people, all of whom must be vaccinated in order to attend. Protocols like physical distancing, mask-wearing, proper hand hygiene and others will be strictly enforced.
The event will feature S. Virgin Islands musical groups Cool Session Brass, Legacy Band and Spectrum Band, along with Trinidadian soca star Farmer Nappy.
It will also be live streamed on the USVI Division of Festivals’ online platforms.
The primary aim of the event is to help promote the USVI’s “Vaccinated to Party Safe” initiative, to help the territory reach Governor Albert Bryan Jr’s goal of vaccinating at least 50,000 Virgin Islanders by July 1.
“We hope that people are encouraged to take the vaccine so that we can safely resume and enjoy in-person gatherings,” said Ian Turnbull, Director of the Division of Festivals.
“Carnivals throughout the region are still being impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic, however, the Division of Festivals has been proactive and innovative in bringing carnival and special events to our people,” Turnbull said.
The event costs $75, and that includes food and drinks; patrons need to be vaccinated to reeve a ticket.
Proceeds will also go towards relief efforts for the government and people of St Vincent and the Grenadines.
“We hope we can start to turn the corner from COVID-19 and have some type of safe engagement this year, before we resume our traditional celebrations,” said Joseph Boschulte, Commissioner of Tourism.
For more, visit 1 Night 1 Fete.
— CJ