Known for being a family-friendly Christiansted Block Party, the “Jump Up” was the place to be on Friday evening on St. Croix. Moko jumbies danced down the streets while Rising Stars and other youth organizations entertained the crowd with the energizing sounds of steel pans and local rhythms.
Vendors lined the streets and other local businesses welcomed the hundreds of attendees of this year’s Jump Up since its hiatus over two years ago, due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Thelma Cruc (front) was all smiles with her team as they prepared chicken and other local favorites for the many attendees at the Jump Up event. (Shanell Petersen photo)Donkey rides were a plus for the younger ones in attendance at Jump Up in downtown Christiansted. (Shanell Petersen photo)Moko jumbies came in all ages and sizes, dancing down the streets as local celebrities taking photos with tourists and locals alike. (Shanell Petersen photo)Jason of JG Management (left) purchasing locally-made products from Cultured Naturals Body Care stated, “I love it! I’m glad it’s back. This is a great way to kick off the festival season and I look forward to many more events seeing everyone enjoying themselves.” Rhayne (middle) echoed similarly, “It’s been a long time coming. To see everyone coming out to socialize without restrictions— it is freedom.” (Shanell Petersen photo)“Being the first Jump Up in three years is a first for many of the students who have been playing in the band,” noted Uniqua Malone, chief instructor, Rising Stars Youth Steel Orchestra. “They are enjoying themselves and the crowd is enjoying them,” added Malone. (Shanell Petersen photo)Kayla, aka Clown Cherry, paints a butterfly on a patient customer, Leah, 7, at the Jump Up as others wait in line for their face paint and balloons. (Shanell Petersen photo)
For first-timers and annual patrons, this year’s Jump Up was a successful, family-friendly event.
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