The 71st Virgin Islands Emancipation Festival is set to officially begin this Friday, July 25, 2025, with the much-anticipated torchlight procession. Photo: JFB/Facebook

Speaking on the Virgin Islands Voice via Facebook on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, the Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture, Honourable Luce D. Hodge Smith (R4), expressed her enthusiasm for the Torchlight Procession. Photo: JFB/Facebook

Participants in the torchlight procession are invited to gather at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park by 7:00 PM, where the event will commence. Photo: JBF/Facebook

This year's procession will pay tribute to the late Mrs Elieene L. Parsons, OBE, a renowned cultural icon affectionately known as "Mrs P." Parsons made significant contributions to the preservation and promotion of Virgin Islands culture.

Participants in the torchlight procession are invited to gather at the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park by 7:00 PM, where the event will commence.

The procession will wind its way through the streets, illuminated by torches carried by participants and will culminate at the Charlie Neil Frett Festiville, which will be bustling with excitement and various activities that kick off the official emancipation celebrations.

Honouring legacy of late Eileene L. Parsons, OBE

Speaking on the Virgin Islands Voice via Facebook on Wednesday, July 23, 2025, the Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture, Honourable Luce D. Hodge Smith (R4), expressed her enthusiasm for the event.

She stated, “The torchlight procession on Friday evening marks the official opening of our festival activities. This year, we are especially honouring the legacy of the late Ms Elieene L. Parsons, OBE, as the torchlight procession is named in her honour. We warmly invite her friends, family members, and all community members to join us as we embark on this meaningful journey from the Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park at 7 PM to the festival village, where the opening ceremony will take place.”

To add to the festivities, participants are encouraged to bring their own torches and don all-white attire. This dress code will enhance the atmosphere of the evening, creating a sense of unity and celebration among all attendees.

The torchlight procession has been a cherished tradition since the festival's inception in 1935, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of the Virgin Islands.

Decades later, it continues to foster community spirit and celebrate the enduring legacy of emancipation, making it a night to remember for all involved.