The Caribbean’s Greatest Christmas Celebration Is Back in St Croix

It’s the best Christmas celebration in the Caribbean, at least in our opinion.

And now the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism and the Division of Festivals have announced the official dates for the 2025–26 St. Croix Crucian Christmas Festival.

The festival will run from Dec. 26, 2025, through Jan. 3, 2026, bringing nine days of pageantry, parades, music, food and cultural traditions to the island.

This year’s theme, “Timeless Traditions in Every Mix,” highlights the enduring pride and diversity of Crucian culture.

Signature events include the Princess and Miss St. Croix Pageants, Calypso Monarch, Soca Monarch, Food Fair, and the high-energy J’ouvert celebration. The festivities culminate in Christiansted with two of the biggest highlights of the season: the Children’s Parade on Jan. 2 and the Adults Parade on Jan. 3. The festival will close with fireworks and the Last Lap Village Night celebration.

“I am thrilled to welcome everyone, from the Virgin Islands diaspora to first-time visitors, to experience the magic of the Crucian Christmas Festival,” said Jennifer Matarangas-King, U.S. Virgin Islands Commissioner of Tourism, in a statement. “St. Croix’s culture is one of vast pride and diverse distinction, and this year’s festival will again deliver unforgettable music, food, and entertainment while celebrating the traditions that make our island so unique.”

The Festival Village will once again serve as the hub for nightly entertainment, featuring free live performances from local, regional, and international artists between Dec. 29 and Jan. 3. Visitors can also enjoy the island’s culinary richness at the Food Fair, explore local arts and crafts, and participate in family-friendly events throughout the season.