Though July is in the heart of the summer season, the holiday spirit was alive and well in the Virgin Islands over the weekend.
The annual Christmas in July event attracted more than 500 boats and more than 2,500 Puerto Ricans to the territory’s waters, organisers said.
The main event took place on Saturday in Pond Bay, Virgin Gorda, but many members of the group affectionately known as the “Puerto Rican Navy” traversed throughout the territory for several days.
“Many of the boaters that come don’t just come for the event,” Tourism Director Clive McCoy told the Beacon. “They stay in the Virgin Islands for an entire week and patronise the various businesses, which is a boost to our economy.”
On Saturday, dozens of boats dropped anchor at Pond Bay, and people filled the white sand beach to enjoy local food and live musical entertainment.
It wasn’t just for Puerto Ricans: Many Virgin Islands residents also attended.
Quentin Warren was among them.
“I enjoyed the mixture of cultures and music and dancing, as well as the food,” Mr. Warren said.
Economic boost
The event has grown rapidly over the years and now brings a major economic boost during the annual summer slow season.
“It is a very big event for the Virgin Islands,” said Marcos Rivera, an event founder. “All the car rental companies, restaurants, gas stations, hotels were all completely full. From Village Cay to Scrub Island to Saba Rock, everywhere was full.”
Mr. McCoy spoke similarly.
“The Christmas in July celebration was quite a success,” he said. “Based on what we saw on the beach, we can say that the bookings were robust on Virgin Gorda as well as on Tortola.”
The annual gathering was also an opportunity to promote cultural exchange, according to Mr. Rivera.
“The activities really integrated the local culture with the Puerto Rican culture,” he said.
Attendees on Saturday also included Sir Richard Branson, American actor Bradley Cooper, Premier Dr. Natalio “Sowande” Wheatley, and Health and Social Development Minister Vincent Wheatley, who represents Virgin Gorda.
Eco-friendly
Organisers said they also worked to make the event environmentally friendly.
To reduce plastic waste on the beach, for instance, branded reusable cups were on sale for $20.
From every cup, $5 will go to a charitable organisation, Mr. Rivera said.