The 2026 St. Thomas Carnival is scheduled to take place from April 26 to May 2. The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism, in collaboration with the festival sector, recently announced dates for the 74th event.
St. Thomas Carnival is the island’s premier cultural festival celebrating the music, food and people of the Virgin Islands. This year’s Carnival will feature exciting events including the Queen and Princess Pageants, Calypso Monarch, J’ouvert and the Carnival Parade.
event schedule
Below is a schedule of St. Thomas Carnival events and the weeks leading up to the event.
April 5, 2026: Easter Children’s Fun Day – Emile Griffith Park
April 11, 2026: Princess Show – University of the Virgin Islands
April 18, 2026: Queen Shaw – University of the Virgin Islands
April 20, 2026: Hospital Show – Hospital Parking Lot
April 24, 2026: Junior Calypso/Cultural Event-Carnival Village
April 25, 2026: Calypso Monarch – Carnival Village
April 26, 2026: Boat Race – Waterside Apron
April 26, 2026: Panorama – Carnival Village
April 27 – May 2, 2026: Village Night – Carnival Village
April 29, 2026: Food Fair – Crown Bay
April 30, 2026: J’ouvert – Waterfront Apron
May 1, 2026: Children’s Parade – Main Street
May 2, 2026: Adult Parade – Main Street
May 2, 2026: Fireworks – Waterside Apron
Tips to make the most of your visit
To make the most of your visit, here are a few tips to keep in mind.
- Arrive early to watch the parade or use J’ouvert to get a good viewing platform and avoid the last minute crowds.
- Sample street food at a food fair where you can experience authentic local cuisine without a formal dining reservation.
- Follow local event pages and official tourism channels for schedule updates, artist announcements, and last-minute changes.
- Please wear comfortable clothes and shoes suitable for dancing and walking. Please bring sunscreen and water for daytime events.
For more information about St. Thomas Carnival, visit: Carnival event page.
source: U.S. Virgin Islands announces 2026 St. Thomas Carnival dates (U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism)
video: Visit USVI
