Children's glitzy costumes, energetic performance bedazzle during parade

ST. CROIX — The streets of Frederiksted, normally void of activity, came alive with vibrant colors, lively music, and energetic performances during Friday’s Children’s Parade.

Parents and supporters, some still bleary-eyed from a commandeering performance just hours earlier during Reggae Night by Jamaican artists Luciano, Konshens and Sizzla, came together to celebrate and support the island’s youth and cultural heritage. The parade was a feast for the senses, blending dazzling costumes, rhythmic dancing, baton twirling, stilt-walking and lively steelpan music for an unforgettable experience to those lining the sidewalk — and others watching from home. Local vendors also lined the streets to share their specialties and treats with the crowd.

At the start of the parade, many spectators overwhelmingly told The Daily News they were there to support the young revelers and that they were hopeful that more schools — and parents — would show up and represent. “We need to emphasize the kids’ parade as much as the adults. In the past, many schools participated, and we need to bring that back to make it more interesting and draw larger crowds,” Sharon Armstrong, a retired Human Services employee, said. The well-known DJ Poppy Pops from Ilse 95 radio station was among those awaiting the parade’s start, and who shared Armstrong’s sentiment.