Governor Kenneth E. Mapp and Lt. Gov. Osbert Potter have encouraged residents and visitors to take part in the upcoming Virgin Islands Carnival celebrations and to enjoy the festivities responsibly.
Gov. Mapp, by proclamation, has granted administrative leave for government employees. The public is reminded that most government offices will be closed during these periods.
For employees in the St. Thomas-St. John District, leave is granted from noon to 5 p.m., Wednesday, April 25, for Food, Arts and Craft Fair Day; it is granted from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday, April 26, for J’ouvert.
Administrative leave is also granted from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday, April 27. It is a legal holiday in the U.S. Virgin Islands, so non-essential employees across the territory so they may support the Carnival Children’s Parade.
“During this historical and festive season hundreds of families, friends, visitors and supporters will be in the territory to enjoy and partake of our cultural activities, and the sights and sounds of Carnival,” the governor wrote in his proclamation. “This annual celebration provides a tremendous financial boost to our economy and helps to promote a greater understanding and appreciation of Carnival and our culture.”
The Carnival Village, officially named Judy’s Gypsyville, will open Friday evening at 6 pm.