CHARLOTTE AMALIE — Governor Kenneth Mapp and Lt. Governor Osbert Potter are encouraging residents and visitors to take part in the upcoming Virgin Islands Carnival celebrations and to enjoy the festivities responsibly.
Governor 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 on Wednesday, April 25, 2018 (Food, Arts and Craft Fair Day) from noon to 5 p.m.; and on Thursday, April 26, 2018, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. for J’ouvert.
Friday, April 27, 2018 is a legal holiday in the U.S. Virgin Islands so non-essential employees across the territory 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,” Mapp 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, opens tonight at 6 p.m.