The US Virgin Islands has pioneered the return of in-person carnival events with the first-ever “Vaccine Fete.”

The event, which was held last week on the seaside in St Thomas, was held to promote a “Vaccinate to Party Safe” initiative to help reach USVI Governor Albert Bryan Jr’s goal of vaccinating 50,000 Virgin Islanders by July 1. 

The fete was open only to fully vaccinated individuals, with proceeds going toward relief efforts for St Vincent and the Grenadines. 

“We are excited that culture, music and carnival are alive and kicking in the USVI. This is a testament to all Virgin Islanders for taking public health safety seriously during the pandemic,” said Joseph Boschulte, USVI Commissioner of Tourism.

The event was envisioned by the USVI Department of Tourism, in consultation with the Office of the Governor and the Department of Health. 

Performers included U.S. Virgin Islands musical groups Cool Session Brass, Legacy Band and Spectrum Band and 2021 International Soca Monarch “Farmer Nappy” of Trinidad and Tobago. 

“I just want allyu to know, St. Thomas, you know, it have leaders and it have followers … the whole world going and follow this party, vaccinate party,” said Farmer Nappy during his 40-minute set. 

It was a major achievement for the region, led by ta that has been one of the best-performing tourism markets in the Caribbean since the pandemic began. 

“We have been on top of Caribbean tourism, we are on the cutting edge of hosting virtual and now in-person social gatherings, and our team will continue to leverage our creative talent to move our destination forward,” Boschulte said. 

— CJ