It begins with a favorite phrase: “I’m Going to the Village Tonight.” 

Every year, the island of St Croix hosts the undefeated champion of Christmas festivals in the Caribbean: Crucian Christmas, the island of St Croix’s treasured year-end event. 

It’s an unmissable annual event, equal parts carnival and Christmas fete, one that has locals and visitors gathering for an extended love affair with the wintertime holiday. 

This year’s Crucian Christmas, which begins Dec. 26, runs through Jan. 6, 2024

It is the 71st annual edition of the festival, which begins with a Prince, Princess, Duchess, Dukes and Junior Pageant. 

There are events every day, including the Miss St Croix pageant and a Latin night, among others. 

This year will see the event’s first-ever Children’s Night in the festival village on Dec. 27, with activities and entertainment tailor-made for kids. 

“We are excited to host this extraordinary night, celebrating the community’s youth, providing them with an opportunity to experience the village with aspects dedicated to their enjoyment,” added Shamari Haynes, Assistant Director of Festivals.

Dec. 29 is when the festival’s beloved Christmas Village opens, when vendors, performers, artisans and chefs gather in Frederiksted for a dynamic, delicious street-fair style celebration. 

Crucian Christmas concludes on Jan. 6 with the Adults Parade, Afrosoca night headlined by music star David. 

It’s a part of St Croix’s identity, as the USVI’s tourism board puts it: St Croix, a Vibe Like No Other. 

And if you’re in St Croix, or planning a trip, there’s one easy prescription when you arrive. You’re going to the village tonight. 

For more, visit St Croix Tourism.