U.S. Virgin Islands: Folklife Festival 2023

U.S. Virgin Islands Folklife Festival participants. Photo courtesy Virgin Islands Council on the Arts

The U.S. Virgin Islands (USVI) are a melting pot of cultures, shaped by centuries of history, colonization and migration. The year 2023 marks a significant milestone in the islands’ history: the 175th anniversary of emancipation. This momentous occasion was celebrated with great pride and reverence at the USVI Folklife Festival, a cultural extravaganza that pays homage to the struggles and triumphs of the past while celebrating the enduring spirit of the USVI’s diverse and resilient community through food, dance, history and music. The event is coordinated by the Virgin Islands Council on the Arts (VICA),which has long been at the forefront of preserving and promoting the island’s cultural heritage, along with The Ten Sleepless Knights and Reichhold Center for the Arts.

The USVI Folklife Festival 2023 showcased various cultural and traditional art forms such as Caiso singing, storytelling, quadrille and masquerade dancing, quelbe music, Virgin Islands cooking, Moko-jumbies stilt walking and costume making. The event also included a series of workshops focused on culture, folklore, history and traditions.

Beyond its cultural significance, the USVI Folk Festival fosters a sense of community and unity among residents. It provides a platform for local artists, musicians and craftspeople to present their talents and connect with their fellow islanders. The festival is a reminder of the importance of preserving and celebrating the unique cultural identity of the USVI, strengthening the bonds within the community. To learn more, contact VICA Executive Director Tasida H. Kelch.