Premier and Minister for Tourism, Culture and Sustainable Development Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley said that the upcoming Virgin Islands Day would be significant for promoting the Territory’s culture and history.

Premier Wheatley’s comments come ahead of the 3^rd July Virgin Islands Day celebrations. This year’s day-long activities will be observed under the theme, “Virgin Islands Day Celebration: A Cultural Experience”.

Honourable Wheatley said, “Virgin Islands Day presents an opportunity for us to fully embrace and appreciate how our history and cultural heritage have shaped our character as a people. Our cultural expression has implications for our ethical framework, our resilience, our spirt of togetherness and essentially what keeps us interconnected.”

Premier Wheatley is also encouraging all residents and visitors to participate in the activities at Long Bay Beach at Beef Island.

The activities will feature a praise party hosted by Brent Hoyte and Oneyke, a culture celebration service, and a Virgin Islands Day official ceremony that will provide insight and lessons on cultural and historical areas of significance.

Other activities will include traditional Virgin Islands games, cultural demonstrations, and a fishing competition organised in honour of Mr. Obell Penn.

The fishing competition will be aimed at promoting the revitalisation of fishing in the Virgin Islands. Fishing is a time-honoured activity that has provided employment opportunities for the people of the Virgin Islands and has contributed significantly to integrating socio-economic development with Virgin Islands culture.

Fisherman’s Day was historically observed in conjunction with Territory Day, which was re-designated as Virgin Islands Day by Cabinet on December 2, 2020. The objective of the re-designation was to promote national consciousness and celebrate the unique identity of the Virgin Islands. Virgin Islands Day is observed annually on the first Monday in July.

The Government of the Virgin Islands’ vision is a Virgin Islands where all Virgin Islanders feel a sense of belonging and pride, and actively participate in cultural activities that reflect their heritage and ultimately enrich their lives.