Speaking during an appearance on Virgin Islands Voice on Wednesday, 14 May, the Premier said that recommendations for board membership are currently under review and are expected to be submitted for Cabinet approval in the coming days.

“We anticipate that by next week, the Cabinet will approve the board appointments,” Dr Wheatley said. “Some of those who have been serving voluntarily have applied, and we look forward to having an officially ratified board in place.”

For years, the Festival and Fairs Committee has been driven by dedicated volunteers, many of whom have contributed tirelessly to the Territory’s cultural calendar. One such individual is Honourable Hart Smith, a former Director of Culture and a past Festival Queen, whose longstanding involvement was commended by the Premier.

“She has been part of the festival from way back,” he said. “We’re grateful to have someone with her knowledge and experience continuing to serve.”

While committee work has traditionally been unpaid, the Premier noted that legislation permits the Minister to provide stipends to appointed board members. Volunteers may also receive small benefits, such as complimentary access to events.

“It is a tremendous amount of work,” Dr Wheatley acknowledged. “If we can get the structure working efficiently and the finances allow, we will also look at what can be done to support sub-committee chairs, who put in a great deal of effort as well.”

The Premier was clear, however, that the government’s role in the festival is not commercial. “Our goal is not to make a profit,” he said. “We want businesses and vendors to thrive, but any revenue collected at the gate is intended solely to cover expenses and ensure everyone is paid. Vendors should not be left owed.”

In 2024, the festival generated over one million US dollars in revenue, though total expenditures exceeded that figure. Funding for the event is drawn from government allocations, private sponsorships and proceeds from festival-related activities.

As final plans are made for the upcoming festival season, Dr Wheatley reaffirmed the government’s commitment to cultural preservation, responsible stewardship and community engagement.

“We do this out of love for our culture and our people,” he said. “We’re working to ensure this festival is not only a success, but sustainable for the future.”

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The 70th Anniversary of the Territory’s Emancipation Festival, commemorating 190 years of emancipation activities, will begin with a torchlight procession from the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park on July 29.

The procession, organised by the Department of Culture in collaboration with the BVI Tourist Board and Film Commission, will start at 7:30 p.m. and make its way to the Festival Grounds. Deputy Director of the Department of Culture, Ms. Anne Lennard, expressed her enthusiasm for this year’s event, emphasizing the importance of celebrating the Virgin Islands’ rich history.

“We are committed to showcasing and sharing our rich history with visitors and residents alike,” said Ms. Lennard. “We encourage everyone to come out and celebrate the reason for the season—Emancipation.”

The procession will feature the flickering lights of torches and colorful lanterns, accompanied by the lively rhythms of traditional Virgin Islands folklore music from Zion Sounds Fungi Band, featuring cultural icon Mr. Elmore Stoutt. Ms. Lennard highlighted that the event will blend traditional and contemporary tunes to create an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

Participants are encouraged to bring their own torches and wear all-white attire to enhance the evening’s festive atmosphere.

The traditional torchlight procession has been a cherished part of the VI Festival since its inception in 1935. More than 100 years later, it continues to unite the community in celebration. This year’s event promises to be especially memorable as the Territory pays tribute to its ancestors.

All are encouraged to participate in this festive tradition, enjoy the community spirit, and celebrate the resilience and history of the Virgin Islands.

For more information on the Torchlight Procession, contact the Department of Culture at 468-9907.

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The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) in the Virgin Islands has announced the winning design for the commemorative license plate celebrating the 70th anniversary of the Emancipation Festival.

Minister for Communications and Works, Honourable Kye M. Rymer, congratulated Mr. Shaquille Bell for his winning graphic design. “Mr. Bell’s contribution to our 70th Festival Celebrations captures the spirit of freedom and marks this historical milestone through this limited-edition commemorative license plate,” said Honourable Rymer.

Acting DMV Commissioner, Mr. Gregory Skelton, stated that the plates are currently on order and the public will be notified once they are available for purchase. “We received 32 submissions for this historic event and enlisted Industry Experts to select the winning design,” said Skelton. The judging panel included representatives from the Tourist Board, senior graphic artists, a local youth graphic artist, and officials from the Ministry of Communications and Works.

The commemorative plate features a unique design that honors the Virgin Islands’ rich history and culture. It includes the inscription “Virgin Islands” at the top and “Nature’s Little Secret” at the bottom, adhering to the design competition guidelines.

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The festivities which kicks off at the Road Town Market Square at 5 pm will feature a wide array of activities and entertainment from live music by acclaimed bands like The Razor Blades, The Shooting Stars, and the Steel Orchestra, to electrifying performances by the Purse Drive Squad and BVi Optimum Skydancers – something for everyone to enjoy.

But that’s not all! Food lovers will be delighted by the selection of local delicacies on offer, including local fried fish and the official festival cocktail. And for those craving something sweet, there will be plenty of treats to indulge in including offerings from Ethan Farm and a local wine tasting experience.

One of the highlights of the evening will be the unveiling of the Festival Slogan, setting the tone for the celebrations to come. Attendees will also have the opportunity to meet the members of all the festival committees, who have been working tirelessly to ensure that this year’s event is one to remember.

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