Gov. Charles W. Turnbull has granted all non-essential government employees a full day off on Friday, Dec. 24 and a half-day on Friday, Dec. 31.
In granting the leave, the governor said time off on Christmas Eve would give employees a chance to finish last-minute holiday shopping.
And in keeping with tradition, he said he would host children's Christmas parties on all three islands.
The St. Thomas party will be held from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 21, at Emancipation Garden.
The party on St. John is scheduled for 5:30 to 8 p.m. Monday, Dec. 20, at Cruz Bay Park.
The children's party on St. Croix will be from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 22, at the agriculture food fair grounds in Estate Upper Love.