St. John Celebration Insider Tips
St. John may be the smallest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, but its residents sure know how to throw a big party! The 71st-annual St. John Celebration, held from June 28 – July 4, 2025, honors both the end of slavery on the islands and the founding of the United States. Follow our insider tips and celebrate like a local, swaying to the rhythm of steel pan music, eating island foods, sipping tropical drinks and cheering on dazzling parade performers.
- Celebration Village
- Pan-O-Rama
- J’ouvert
- Food Fair
- Fourth of July Parade
- Fireworks Over Cruz Bay Harbor
Soak Up the Spirit
St. John is small, so accommodations fill up quickly during St. John Celebration season. Book your lodging and flights to the USVI well in advance. If you’re staying on St. Thomas, you can easily get to the fest by hopping on a ferry for a scenic ride direct to St. John.
Wear light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes to best enjoy the outdoor festivities in tropical weather. Apply mineral sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat for extra protection from the sun. If you really want to get into the spirit of the St. John Celebration, pack a brightly colored costume with sequins, feathers and an elaborate headdress. But between dancing, cocktails and hot weather, it’s easy to overdo it. Pace yourself and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
Remember to respect the USVI’s culture and traditions as you’re having fun surrounded by the street party atmosphere. The St. John Celebration is deeply rooted in local history and pride, so be open and ready to learn about the island’s heritage while attending the festival.
Celebration Village
Make the Celebration Village your hub for the entire week. Sample authentic local fare like fish and fungi or jerk chicken, sided with a fruity rum punch. Admire the handiwork of artisans while searching for the perfect memento to take back home. Play family-friendly carnival games and attend rousing concerts that continue well past midnight every evening.
Pan-O-Rama
Kick things off on opening night with a celebration of the Caribbean’s iconic instrument, the steel pan. Watch performances featuring the best musicians of all ages vying for top honors and entertaining the crowd with intricate rhythms and melodies.
J’ouvert
Wake up before sunrise to join the energetic revelers smeared in paint, mud and powder as they celebrate freedom by dancing in the streets to blaring soca and calypso music. Pro tip: Wear clothes and shoes you don’t mind getting dirty.
Food Fair
Bring your appetite and watch area chefs compete for Best Dish honors. Stroll through the Fair, trying traditional island foods like callaloo stew, Johnny cakes, conch fritters, curried goat, mango tarts, rotis and pates. Sip bush tea or drinks made with local fruits like guavaberry or passion fruit.
Fourth of July Parade
Snag a shady spot early on July 4th and settle in for an electrifying parade showcasing community spirit. Cheer on colorful floats, whirling dance troupes, steel pan bands and vibrant performers wearing sparkling costumes. Be sure to bring a chair and plenty of water.
Fireworks Over Cruz Bay Harbor
Cap off the week by oohing and aahing over the dazzling fireworks display that lights up the sky above Cruz Bay Harbor. It’s a glorious grand finale to the beloved St. John Celebration.
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