The island’s beloved summer tradition returns as the 14th Annual King of the Wing Competition is set to take over Magens Bay Saturday, June 14.
From 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., locals and visitors alike will gather to sample the best wings in the territory — served up by local restaurants, businesses, and community groups — all competing for the coveted title of “King of the Wing,” according to the press release.
The beachside event will feature a live performance by Grammy Award-winning hip-hop artist Lupe Fiasco, best known for hits like “Superstar” and “Daydreamin’.” Fiasco’s set will mark one of the biggest musical performances in recent event history, bringing national star power to the shores of Magens Bay, the press release stated.
Rounding out the entertainment lineup are returning DJs JSmoke, Dhundee, and DJ LadyMixx, who will keep the energy high throughout the day. Additional cultural entertainment includes appearances by mocko jumbies and a steel pan band, the release stated.
This year’s judging panel will feature Melissa Cottingham, a Memphis-raised, Los Angeles-based chef and the culinary mind behind Melnificent Wingz. Known from appearances on Food Network and ABC’s “Supermarket Sweep,” Cottingham brings a blend of traditional Southern flavor and gourmet flair. She joins the panel to help crown this year’s wing champion, it said.
While the event is a highlight on the summer calendar, it also carries a deeper mission. Proceeds from King of the Wing 2025 will support Coral Reef Academy, an educational institution dedicated to children with autism, ADHD, and developmental challenges. The academy, which expanded to St. Thomas in 2024, provides critical services and scholarships to local families in need, it said.
King of the Wing continues to grow thanks to the support of sponsors, including Cruzan Rum, Corona, Coca-Cola, Alpine, Rapier Med, White Bay Group, and the Virgin Islands Tourism Department.
For more information, visit www.kowvi.com or contact event coordinator Vernon Araujo at 340-714-2020 or kingofthewingvi@gmail.com.
