The vibrant Carnival Village was inaugurated on Monday night on St. Thomas, marking a high point in the island’s festive season. This year, the village is named “Malvern’s Melodic Greathouse” in honor of esteemed music educator Malvern Gumbs. The grounds buzzed with energy as attendees explored various food and drink stalls.

During the opening ceremony, Senate President Novelle Francis emphasized the essential role of music in the village, applauding Mr. Gumbs for his invaluable contributions to local culture and music. With a 27-year tenure as a music teacher and numerous accolades, including leading the Spectrum band to nine consecutive road march titles, Mr. Gumbs’ impact on the arts was the focus of the evening. His sister, Merida Gumbs, who spoke at the event, credited their late mother with fostering a love of music in her children.

The festive atmosphere was enhanced by the presence of notable figures such as Lieutenant Governor Tregenza Roach, who praised Mr. Gumbs for his dual role as an educator and musician, noting his “tender age” and significant influence on the Carnival celebrations. Governor Albert Bryan also commented on Mr. Gumbs’s versatility in music, humorously questioning whether anyone else could create a song powerful enough to influence a gubernatorial election.

Expressing his appreciation, Malvern Gumbs warmly addressed the crowd, “I love all of you. Happy Carnival everybody!” following the ribbon-cutting that officially opened the village.

As the night progressed, the village drew large crowds eager to enjoy the local cuisine, purchase souvenirs, and experience a lineup of performances from numerous artists, including the internationally renowned soca artist Machel Montano. The evening’s festivities concluded with a series of electrifying performances that underscored the celebratory spirit of the event.

In a proactive move to enhance safety during the festive J’Ouvert 2024, the V.I. Taxicab Commission, in collaboration with the V.I. Police Department, is launching a “Safe Ride Shuttles” service. This service, unveiled on Sunday, is designed to deter drinking and driving by offering free rides to attendees of the annual celebration.

Starting on Thursday, May 2, 2024, just after the J’Ouvert festivities conclude, party-goers will have access to shuttle services in front of the Alexander Farrelly Justice Complex. The shuttles will head east, making multiple stops along the established Safari Bus route. Notable stops include Raphune Hill, Fort Mylner, Tutu Park Mall, Smith Bay, Red Hook, Nazareth, Frydenhoj, Nadir, Bovoni, Bolongo, Frenchman’s Bay, and Haven Sight.

This convenient, voucher-free initiative is part of a broader effort to ensure the well-being of community members during one of the liveliest times of the year. By emphasizing the message, “the life you save may be your own,” the campaign highlights its critical goal: to minimize drunk driving incidents and ensure everyone returns home safely.

The St. Thomas Carnival reached a crescendo with the crowning of this year’s queen, Majestik Freedom Estrada-Petersen, after a spirited contest featuring three exceptional candidates. The event unfolded on a vibrant Saturday night, encapsulating the culture and spirit of the island.

Majestik Freedom Estrada-Petersen, along with fellow contestants Iniyah Griffin, 17, and Caricia Caesar, 18, made their debut in stunning black and white dresses adorned with gemstones, each escorted by a dance troupe in a dazzling display. The competition intensified with the swimwear round, where Estrada-Petersen shone in a striking iridescent pink maillot complemented by a translucent cover-up. Griffin and Caesar followed suit, each adding their unique flair to the stage.

Transitioning to ambassadorial presentations, the contestants showcased Virgin Islands culture through business attire crafted from vibrant madras fabric. Estrada-Petersen delivered a compelling historical narrative of the islands, while Griffin emphasized the agricultural potential of the region, and Caesar celebrated the iconic music of the Virgin Islands, citing local musical legends.

The question segment provided further insight into the contestants’ visions for the future. Estrada-Petersen advocated for educational partnerships to preserve cultural heritage, Griffin called for enhanced community involvement in schools, and Caesar emphasized the unifying and educational power of music.

Cultural and historical attire brought the island’s heritage to life on stage. Estrada-Petersen paid homage to market vendor Sanderilla Thomas with a colonial-style dress, while Griffin’s tribute to Enid M. Baa featured a costume integrating elements of the renowned library. Caesar’s costume symbolically represented the U.S. purchase of the Virgin Islands, complete with historical flags and a transformable gown.

The talent display was equally enthralling, with Estrada-Petersen showcasing her singing and dancing skills, Griffin performing on a steel pan, and Caesar playing a medley on her tenor saxophone.

The evening culminated in the formal wear segment, where Estrada-Petersen dazzled in a gem-encrusted white satin gown, Griffin in a brocade-adorned emerald gown, and Caesar in a sequinned dress with navy accents.

After an evening filled with cultural displays and artistic performances, the judges crowned Majestik Estrada-Petersen as the 2024 Carnival Queen, with Griffin and Caesar as runners-up, respectively. The event not only celebrated the contestants’ talents and cultural appreciation but also marked another memorable chapter in the rich tapestry of St. Thomas Carnival traditions.