In her biweekly column, “State of the Territory,” former Sen. Janelle K. Sarauw delves deeper into issues of concern for V.I. residents.
The Crucian Christmas Festival isn’t just an event—it’s an experience, a celebration of heritage, and a living testament to the resilience and creativity of the people of St. Croix. From the rhythmic echoes of drums to the vibrant colors of costumes, this annual tradition weaves together centuries of history, culture, and community spirit. It’s a time to revel in our shared humanity, honor the traditions of our ancestors, and dance in the streets of Frederiksted, aptly named “Freedom City” — the town to which we owe our liberation.
This year, I invite all Virgin Islanders — and anyone seeking a celebration of life and culture— to make their way to St. Croix. Let’s support our sister island and immerse ourselves in the festivities that make the Crucian Christmas Festival a treasure unlike any other.
A Story Rooted in Resilience
The history of St. Croix’s Carnival, or Crucian Christmas Festival, stretches back to the early 1800s when enslaved Africans were granted brief reprieves during Christmas and New Year’s to celebrate. These celebrations fused African traditions of drumming, dancing, and masquerading with European customs introduced by missionaries and plantation owners. Out of this cultural interplay, something distinctly Virgin Islands emerged — a vibrant, enduring expression of joy and resilience in the face of adversity.
By 1952, these traditions were revived and transformed into what we now know as the Crucian Christmas Festival, an organized event showcasing the best of our culture. Today, it lasts nearly a month, beginning in December and culminating with the grand parades in January. It’s a celebration not just of the holidays but of who we are as a people.
The Heartbeat of Freedom City
Frederiksted, the historic town known as “Freedom City,” comes alive during the festival. The streets hum with energy as food fairs, arts and crafts booths, and the Carnival Village welcomes visitors and locals alike. Roads close for parades where music, dancing, and dazzling costumes take center stage. This is more than just entertainment — it’s a tribute to the indomitable spirit of St. Croix.
It’s here, in the heart of Frederiksted, where we also honor the roots of our freedom. The town, a symbol of resistance and triumph, serves as the perfect backdrop for the festival. It reminds us of the strength and determination of those who fought for liberation, whose legacy we celebrate with every drumbeat and dance step.
A Symphony of Sounds and Flavors
No festival would be complete without music, and the Crucian Christmas Festival delivers in spades. From the soulful notes of Stanley and the Ten Sleepless Knights, who have cemented Quelbe as the national music of the Virgin Islands, to the pulsating rhythms of bands, music is the lifeblood of the celebration. Tramp through the streets alongside friends and strangers, moving to the hypnotic beat of the drums, and let the music carry you away.
When it comes to the Crucian Christmas Festival, the sights and sounds are only half the story. The other half is the flavors of St. Croix, where the holiday season is a feast for the senses. At the heart of these traditions is sweet bread, a spiced and tender treat that graces every holiday table, baked with love and shared among family and friends. Guavaberry, a smooth, sweet, and spicy rum-based drink, is another hallmark of the season, often made from recipes passed down through generations. Red grout, a warm, creamy tapioca pudding infused with guava or gooseberry syrup, brings a bold, festive flair to any celebration, while sorrel—a vibrant red drink brewed with ginger and spices—adds a refreshing splash of holiday cheer. Holiday tarts filled with guava, guavaberry, pineapple, or coconut round out the must-try delicacies of the season. These beloved treats are more than just food—they’re a reflection of St. Croix’s rich cultural heritage, blending African and European influences into flavors that celebrate the island’s creativity, resilience, and community spirit.
Why You Should Go
The Crucian Christmas Festival is more than just a party — it’s a celebration of identity, history, and unity. Supporting St. Croix during this time is an act of solidarity, a way to uplift our sister island and honor its role as the cultural torchbearer of the Virgin Islands. This December and January, let’s make our way to St. Croix to tramp through Freedom City, revel in the parades, savor the food, and feel the deep connection we share as Virgin Islanders. The Crucian Christmas Festival isn’t just a celebration; it’s a homecoming — a chance to remember where we came from and who we are.
Pack your bags, grab your friends, and head to Frederiksted. Let’s make this year’s festival one for the history books. After all, the spirit of Carnival is the spirit of us all — a celebration of life, freedom, and the unbreakable bonds of community. See you in Freedom City!
Editor’s Note: Opinion articles do not represent the views of the Virgin Islands Source newsroom and are the sole expressed opinion of the writer. Submissions can be made to visource@gmail.com.
