Throughout the Caribbean, the end of July to the beginning of August has historical significance. Most of the islands commemorate this time as signalling the abolition of slavery. Locals and visitors pay homage to the emancipation of the enslaved that occurred centuries earlier with festivities of some sort.

The activities may occur on one day officially earmarked, Emancipation Day or the celebrations may be extended over several days. Here in the BVI, we eagerly await our two weeks of merrymaking. Since 1954, our two-week celebrations have been a dual celebratory affair. Along with acknowledging the end of British colonial rule, we honour our rich cultural heritage with a carnival. Thus, the BVI Emancipation Day Festival is a prominent event on our BVI annual events calendar.

In its 69^th year, the festival will run from 28 July to 11 August 2023 with a lineup of electrifying events. There’ll be something for everyone. International and regional performing artists will descend on our shores, joining forces with our talented local acts. Of course, along with sweet kaiso, soca and traditional drumming, lots of tasty local dishes will be showcased. So, come celebrate!

Here’s a rundown of the schedule of events for our highly anticipated BVI Emancipation Festival 2023.

28 July 2023

• Festival Warm-up Tramp

29 July 2023

• Kiddies Fiesta – Prince and Princess Pageant

30 July 2023

• Miss BVI Pageant

31 July 2023

• Village Opening
• Praise and Worship Gospel Explosion

1 August 2023

• Village Entertainment

2 August 2023

• Festival Youth Night

3 August 2023

• Torch Light Procession
• Big People Party

4 August 2023

• Food Fair
• International Reggae Night

5 August 2023

• International Soca Night

6 August 2023

• Emancipation Service at Sunday Morning Well
• Musical Mix Night

7 August 2023

• Rise and Shine Tramp
• Sunrise Service
• August Monday Parade

8 August 2023

• Festival Boat Ride
• Festival Flag Fete

9 August 2023

• East End Jouvert
• RT Cultural Night
• Steelband/Fungi

10 August 2023

• Carrot Bay Fisherman’s Day

11 August 2023

• Carrot Bay Cultural Fiesta

If you’re looking for things to do in the BVI, then look no further. This annual festival tops all other Caribbean carnivals. For more information on how you can be a part of it all, visit the Virgin Islands Festival on Facebook or their IG page.