A Virgin Islands delegation took the territory’s famous full moon parties abroad on April 12 by hosting an event at Vivo Beach Club in Carolina, Puerto Rico.
Organised by the BVI Tourist Board and Film Commission, the party drew more than 800 guests and featured moko jumbies, fire dancers, a summer fashion show, and live music by The Lashing Dogs.
Inspired by the monthly parties held in Trellis Bay and Jost Van Dyke, the event marked the “official launch of the BVI tourism season” in the Puerto Rican market, according to the BVITB.
Among the attendees was Premier Natalio “Sowande” Wheatley, who is also the tourism minister.
“The BVI Full Moon Party is already a tradition that showcases our hospitality, music, culture and our pride in our islands,” Mr. Wheatley said. “This activity allows us to introduce ourselves to the Puerto Rican public and gives us the opportunity to invite them to come to our territory and enjoy all of the maritime and land attractions that we have to offer.”
Besides the entertainment, the event offered a VI-inspired menu that included conch fritters with lemon chili aioli, mini lamb empanadas with chipotle sauce, johnnycakes and coconut curry stewed chicken, organisers said. Guests also sampled the VI’s signature drink, the Painkiller.
A raffle gave them the opportunity to win stays at VI resorts, several of which were represented at the event.
BVITBFC personnel were also on hand to meet potential visitors and explain special offers available for the summer travel season.
Christmas in July
Mr. Wheatley made a point to invite attendees to the annual Christmas in July event in Pond Bay, Virgin Gorda, on July 26, according to the agency.
Last year, the event drew some 500 boats and almost 5,000 people, most of whom came from Puerto Rico.
