Premier Wheatley gives thumbs up to Village Cay, Rhythm+Sands, Food & Rum Festival
This statement was made by Virgin Islands Premier and Minister of Finance, Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley (R7), during a press conference on Wednesday, August 27, 2025, to launch the inaugural Village Cay, Rhythm+Sands, Food & Rum Festival.
The 3-day event will be held from Friday, October 17, 2025, to Sunday, October 19, 2025, and will see world-class chefs, local culinary masters, wine experts and rum artisans showcasing the very best of the Virgin Islands, along with live musical entertainment from local and international artistes.
Ensuring 'tourism properties remain open'
Premier Wheatley expressed his satisfaction that this festival will take place in October, as the months of August, September, and October have traditionally been slow for the Virgin Islands' tourism sector.
He stated, “If we want to eliminate the slow season, which is an ambition here in the Virgin Islands, we need to ensure that all our tourism properties remain open and that the hardworking individuals from these properties are employed throughout the entire year, rather than just six or seven months out of the year.”
Honourable Wheatley noted that it will take collaborations between establishments like Rhythm+Sands and Village Cay, as well as other partners and sponsors, such as Caribbean Cellars, to achieve this goal.
He acknowledged Mr Steve E. Parillon, who typically organises a fish fete, expressing his endorsement and support for this initiative.
He further encouraged Virgin Islanders to come forward with ideas to enhance tourism products during the slow season and share their suggestions.
The Premier added that the government is interested and willing to partner in any way possible to ensure the success of these events.
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