Shabba Ranks, Kes To Headline St. Thomas Carnival Village

Global dancehall icon Shabba Ranks and international soca sensation Kes will headline the 73rd Annual St. Thomas Carnival Village, the V.I. Tourism Department and Division of Festivals announced. The highly anticipated six-night event, featuring free performances, begins Monday, April 28.

“This year’s St. Thomas Carnival is going to be at another level,” said Joseph Boschulte, commissioner of Tourism. “We’re excited to continue bringing global talent to our islands and showcasing local talent too. The Village Night performers reflect the continued influence and growth of our territory’s three carnivals.”

In addition to Shabba Ranks and Kes, the lineup includes a mix of local and international artists. Representing the USVI are Pressure Busspipe, Adam O, Th3rd, Star Martin, Mic Love, Temisha, Shaw HP, and Spectrum Band. The festival will also feature Dominican bouyon band Triple Kay, merengue artist El Blachy, and Trinidadian soca performer Voice, offering a diverse showcase of Caribbean sounds, according to the press release.

“These annual celebrations are so special because they showcase the best of Caribbean culture and honor the shared heritage and rich traditions that unite us all,” said Ian Turnbull, director of the USVI Division of Festivals. “Our goal every year is to authentically highlight Caribbean artistry and talent for everyone experiencing the festival.”