Art shows, festivals, regattas and more set for 2007
BVI Press Office, September 15, 2006
A necklace of lush islands rising from the technicolour tides of the Caribbean Sea, the British Virgin Islands offers some of the most remarkable activities and events for 2007. Recognized as one of the most breathtaking destinations in the world and the undisputed Sailing Capital of the World, the BVI presents 60 islands for exploring its secrets.
Coming alive in 2007, the BVI offers both guests and BVlslanders a multitude of cultural events, spectacular music festivals and exhilarating sporting events.
“2007 is sure to be a year to remember for residents and guests of the British Virgin Islands,” said Janis Braithwaite-Edwards, acting Director of Tourism for the British Virgin Islands Tourist Board. “There are enough engaging events to keep everyone busy year round and to showcase the wealth of activities our beautiful islands have to offer.”
Following is a preview highlighting the BVI lineup of unforgettable 2007 events.
December
31 – New Year’s Eve on Jost Van Dyke
This annual celebration, including an abundance of food and lots of live entertainment, is known to attract thousands of revellers from celebrities to seasoned yachters.
January
8th Annual Karl Merklein Art Show
This event showcases the artist’s original art as well as canvas giclee prints and other decorative items.
February
9-11 – 29th Annual Sweethearts of the Caribbean and 25th Annual Classic Yacht Regatta
Hosted by the Jolly Roger Inn and Restaurant
March/April
9-12 – Dark and Stormy Regatta
Hosted by Neptune’s Treasure and the Jolly Roger Inn and Restaurant
26-April 1 – BVI Spring Regatta & Sailing Festival
Seven days of sailing excitement, including two big events wrapped into one
April
6-9 – Spanish Town Fisherman’s Jamboree and 11th Annual Wahoo Fishing Tournament
The fishing tournament includes food and live music as well.
7-9 – Virgin Gorda Easter Festival
This festival includes calypso music, fungi bands, vendors and food fairs, as well as numerous parades and nightly village entertainment.
May
Wreck Week
The second annual Wreck Week highlights extraordinary diving in the BVI and includes a treasure hunt, wreck diving certification course and a grand finale party on Cooper Island.
25-27 – 33rd Annual Foxy’s Wooden Boat Regatta
Beloved BVI character Foxy Callwood’s annual sailing regatta, sponsored by the West End Yacht Club, supports the Jost Van Dyke Preservation Society.
25-27 – 7th Annual BVI Music Festival
The festival presents reggae, calypso, fungi, R&B, rock and roll, dance hall and jazz from international, regional and local artists.
June/July
29-30 – 16th Annual Firecracker 500 Race & Chili Cook-off
Funds support KATS (Kids and the Sea Program)
29-July 8 – HiHo Windsurfing Competition
One of the most celebrated windsurfing competitions in the world, the HiHo Windsurfing Competition includes activities ranging from snorkelling and diving to the famous HiHo pirate party.
July/August
7-8 – Chief Minister’s Cup Youth Regatta
Hosted by Nanny Cay Marina and the Royal BVI Yacht Club
23-August 11 – BVI Emancipation Festival
This annual premier cultural showcase features the freedom march, emancipation service, Calypso monarch competition, boat races, rise and shine tramps and August Monday Parade among its activities and events.
November
BVI Tourism Month
This month-long event celebrates tourism with several exciting activities scheduled.
The British Virgin Islands remains an undeveloped haven for natural treasures. The BVI boasts no high-rise hotels, no casinos and no crowds, but rather the purity of the land – from pristine beaches with powdery sand and crystal-clear waters, home to an aquarium of the world’s most diverse sea life, to extensive coral reefs responsible for claiming renowned wrecks and vast outbacks sheltering endangered species.
The BVI is rich with the storied islands of Norman, Deadman’s Chest and Anegada, while the islands of Peter, Necker and Guana anchor luxury resorts. Sun worshippers find a haven on Jost Van Dyke, Cooper Island and Virgin Gorda. Whether it is discovering the natural phenomena of The Baths or diving the Indians, Sandy Spit or fabled Wreck of the Rhone, the BVI is bountiful with Nature’s Little Secrets.
Disclaimer: The information in this article/release was accurate at
press time; however, we suggest you confirm all details and prices
directly with vendors.