CHARLOTTE AMALIE, St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands – December 19, 2025 – The Virgin Islands Economic Development Authority’s (VIEDA) Enterprise Zone Commission, in partnership with the Virgin Islands Council on the Arts (VICA) within the VI Department of Natural Resources, will host a Cultural Extravaganza at the Made in the USVI Pop-Up Shop this Saturday on December 20, 2025.
The family-friendly event, which kicks off at 10AM, is designed to celebrate U.S. Virgin Islands culture and its rich heritage through hands-on culinary demonstrations, traditional craftsmanship, and literacy through children’s storytelling featuring books by USVI-based authors.
“This collaboration for this event highlights the incredible talent within our community,” said Nadine Marchena Kean, managing director, VIEDA’s Enterprise Zone Commission. “By bringing together local artisans, authors, and tradition-bearers, we are creating a space where the public can engage directly with the culture that makes the USVI unique,” added Mrs. Marchena Kean.
Event Schedule:
The day features a curated lineup of interactive sessions for all ages:
- 10AM – Local Tart Making Demonstration ($5): Learn the secrets behind crafting signature holiday treats from local experts.
- 1PM – Storytelling Hour for Children (FREE): A celebration of literacy featuring books by USVI-based authors. Special guest readers include USVI Carnival Queen Arliesha Paul and other community members.
- 2:30 PM – Caning Demonstration (FREE): A live look at the intricate and traditional art of furniture caning.
Attendees are encouraged to also visit the Made in the USVI Pop-Up Shop, which features a wide variety of locally produced goods, perfect for holiday gifting.
For more information, send an email to info@usvieda.org.
