The Territory will host celebrations to mark the 42^nd anniversary of BVI-USVI Friendship Day on Saturday, October 24.

This year’s activities will be held under the theme, “The Greater Virgin Islands: The Identity and Ingenuity of Our People.”

Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr. the Honourable D. Orlando Smith, in anticipation of the celebration said, “The people of these islands have a long history of using their natural environment to build and create the means for their survival and industry. From a present day perspective our people now use their creativity to enrich our lives through musical entertainment, design, personal adornment as well as furnishing and beautifying our homes.”

“We are equally proud of the creative spirit which resides within our people and are happy to take this opportunity to celebrate the creative spirit of all Virgin Islanders, Premier Smith added.

 According to the Premier, while the people of the United States and British Virgin Islands have shared a very special relationship bonded together for centuries, it was in 1972 that Governor Melvin Evans of the U.S. Virgin Islands and the British Government of Tortola proclaimed Virgin Islands Friendship Day, with the BVI hosting the very first celebration.

Upon arrival into the Territory, the U.S. Virgin Islands’ delegation will be treated to a breakfast at the Governor’s House, after which a cultural programme will ensue. The festivities will highlight the creativity and resourcefulness of our people, both historically and from a modern day perspective.

The observance was designed to strengthen the traditional ties between the islands that were built upon the bond of friendship, as well as the shared history and culture of Virgin Islanders. 

Over the years, the activities to mark the day have evolved into a more relaxed cultural celebration reflective of true friendship. The two Territories alternate hosting the annual celebration.

The venue for the 42^nd BVI-USVI Friendship Day celebrations has changed to the Central Administration Complex instead of Queen Elizabeth II Park as was previously announced.