Great Performances, Pleased Audience And A Proud Governor Mark Friday’s Children’s Parade

Pictures and videos inside.

ST. THOMAS — Governor Kenneth Mapp on Friday said he was pleased to see a strong turnout — at least in the carnival square where all main performances traditionally take place (there were complaints of low turnouts throughout the carnival route) — for the Children’s Parade, which has struggled with attendance in recent years. The territory’s leader, his second year enjoying St. Thomas Carnival as governor, said carnival highlights the culture of the Virgin Islands, and is part of the fabric that knits its people. He also reminded that this year is the 64th year that carnival is being celebrated in the territory.

Lieutenant Governor Osbert Potter, echoing the governor on the importance of carnival, also credited the season for providing some of the most lucrative weeks for vendors. Mr. Potter, a stronger reveler himself, has been all smiles during the season, being spotted in j’ouvert and blending seamlessly with the people he was elected to serve.

Former Governor Charles Turnbull, his wife, Mr. Mapp and Mr. Potter sitting in the same area, told The Consortium that carnival is a longstanding tradition for him, and stated that his first foray in the festivities came at age 17.

The event saw 35 entries this year, most bringing performances fit for carnival. Below, some pictures and videos. Adults Parade starts at 10:00 a.m. today.