Cool Session Band making their way down the J’ourvert route.

Having a great time at J’ouvert.

Poison Band performing during J’ouvert.

Thousands of people participate in J’ouvert.

Thousands of people lined waterfront in Downtown Charlotte Amalie in St. Thomas, United States Virgin Islands Fore-day morning, anticipating the beginning of J’ouvert. This is an annual street party in which event goers’ danced behind their favorite calypso or soca bands as part of the Carnival Celebration. It starts at the beginning of town and ends at Carnival Village.

Prior to the start of J’ouvert, there were mini parties throughout the road. Family and friends
gathered together to dance, drink, eat or just simply enjoy each other’s company until the festivities began. Some people were dressed up in costumes, while others wore casual attire. New to J’ouvert this year, was the colorful chalk spray that adorned some people from head to toe and it was also used to decorate the street as well.

Vendors were stationed throughout both sidewalks on the route. Some of them sold hot meals, liquor, soft drinks, water and ice cream. While others sold carnival t-shirts and the U.S. Virgin Islands flag.

It was 8:00am and J’ouvert had officially began! Cool Session Band was performing live on a truck that was surrounded by thousands of people who were dancing to their favorite tunes. The next band to perform was Volume XL, Kylie and Stylee, Poison and Shaw & HD. To finish it off, DJ Avalanche played popular hit songs that are played in the night club.

Afterwards, event goers went to Carnival Village to buy breakfast and to continue hanging out. Of course the booths were opened and accommodated each hungry customer.

Overall, J’ouvert was loads of fun! Happy Carnival everyone!

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Participants are dressed in fun costumes.

Just simply having some fun