Virgin Islands Paté Festival: A Celebration of Culture, Community, and Cuisine

The Virgin Islands Paté Festival, now in its second year, has quickly become a cherished event in St. Croix, celebrating the rich culinary traditions and vibrant culture of the region. Held at the Agricultural Fairgrounds, this year’s festival promises a day filled with family-friendly activities, live music, and, of course, a variety of delicious patés.

The festival, which runs from 1:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. on June 22, is organized by SMT Enterprise and Laced Legacy. It aims to provide a fun and safe environment for attendees of all ages. Admission fees are modest, with children aged 6-12 and seniors 65 and up paying $5, adults aged 13-64 paying $10, and children under 5 entering for free​​.

Patés, a beloved local delicacy, take center stage at this festival. These savory pastries are known for their crispy, crunchy dough filled with a variety of delicious fillings such as beef, chicken, saltfish, conch, or vegetables. The festival offers attendees the opportunity to sample different paté creations from various vendors, ensuring a unique culinary experience​.

In addition to food, the festival will feature live performances by local bands such as No Problemo, The TSK (Ten Sleepless Knights), and R&B artist Deri. Soca artist PUMPA and DJ Lips International will also be performing, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the day. The Guardians of Culture Moko Jumbies, known for their stilt-walking performances, will entertain the crowd with their skills​.

One of the festival highlights is the Best Paté Competition, where judges will sample and evaluate patés in categories like meat, seafood, and veggie. Winners will receive trophies, prizes, and bragging rights. There will also be a People’s Choice award for the best paté, in honor of the late Rosalia Ayala, a celebrated local chef known for her exceptional patés. This award allows festival-goers to vote for their favorite vendor, adding an interactive element to the event​.

Craft vendors will also be present, offering a range of local goods, and there will be numerous attractions for children. The festival aims to support the local community and businesses, with sponsors including Viya, Neighborhood Pharmacy, and the Department of Tourism, among others​​.

The Virgin Islands Paté Festival not only celebrates a beloved culinary tradition but also fosters community spirit and cultural pride. With its diverse offerings and inclusive environment, the festival is poised to become a staple event in the Virgin Islands, eagerly anticipated by locals and visitors alike.