Whether you sat patiently in bumper-to-bumper traffic, opted to get in a few extra steps and walk to the venue, braved the midday heat, or stood in line for your favorite local delicacies, the 2026 St. Thomas Food Fair delivered an experience that made it all worthwhile.
Held at the Crown Bay Shopping Center in and around the Austin “Babe” Monsanto Marine Terminal on Wednesday, the annual event brought together more than 150 vendors, offering something for every palate and interest. From traditional Virgin Islands dishes and seasonal must-haves to cakes, sweets, hearty stews, and fresh local produce, the fair was a vibrant showcase of the territory’s culinary richness. Beyond the food, patrons browsed an array of handcrafted goods, including jewelry, plants, candles, sandals, and an assortment of locally made products that reflected the creativity and entrepreneurial spirit of the community.
This year’s celebration also paid tribute to longtime vendor Junior Cecil Huggins, who was recognized as the 2026 Food Fair honoree. Huggins, who has been a consistent presence at the event since 2007, represents the dedication, resilience, and cultural pride that have helped sustain the Food Fair as a cornerstone of the Carnival experience, according to organizers. Speaking after the official ribbon cutting, Huggins reminisced about this 19 years as an Armstrong Homemade Ice Cream distributor on St. Thomas, saying that he was on a trip overseas when he told his wife this was what he was going to do – and since then, he hasn’t looked back.
“I’m not necessarily a sweets guy myself, but people love Armstrong Ice Cream,” he said, sharing that his favorite flavor – contrary to those who flock to the gooseberry – is actually banana.
“Once you find something you just love to do, there’s nothing else better,” Huggins said. “It’s really the most important thing.”
Behind the scenes, the success of the event was driven by a committed organizing team. Co-Chair Kyza Callwood shared that he was pleased with both the turnout and the overall execution of the day’s event, noting that the committee of six, led by Chair Lu’Anne Roberts, remains keen on preserving and promoting the cultural traditions that define the Food Fair. He also lauded the contributions of students from Charlotte Amalie High School, along with Shamang Straun, a teacher, who played a key role in developing the vendor layout schematics — an effort that helped ensure a smooth and engaging experience for both vendors and patrons.
The committee also expressed its gratitude to Banco Popular de Puerto Rico for serving as a sponsor of this year’s event, underscoring the importance of private-sector support in sustaining large-scale cultural celebrations.
And for many visitors Wednesday, experiencing the territory at its best was certainly worth every penny of their trip down.
“I came with a friend whose wife is from St. Thomas – he made me,” joked Julius Harris, who came down just a few days ago from Valrico, Florida. Harris said that his favorite Carnival, up to now, has been Toronto’s Caribana, but his time in the territory might just have been enough to change his mind.
“In Canada, it’s large-scale – days filled with parades and activities,” he said. “Events like that, it’s about going with someone that you know, and hoping you can get into the action. Here, you feel welcomed every where. We’re really having a blast.”
Around the center, the aroma of sizzling meats, spices, and sweet confections filled the air, blending seamlessly with the sounds of laughter, conversation, and music. Thousands gathered to celebrate the splendor of the Carnival season, creating a space where locals and visitors alike could reconnect with family and friends, meet new people, and simply enjoy an afternoon rooted in culture and community.
Despite the day’s heat, the energy remained high. Attendees moved from vendor to vendor, supporting local businesses, while others paused to take in live performances from bands such as Spectrum Band, Razor Blades, Quelbe Resurrection, and Par T Band. The rhythmic sounds of steel pan music, delivered by the Rising Stars Steel Orchestra, added another layer of cultural authenticity.
In true Carnival fashion, the Food Fair was not only a feast for the palate but also a showcase of style and cultural expression. Many attendees were adorned in vibrant madras prints, colorful ensembles, and festive pieces that reflected the spirit of the season. From coordinated outfits to bold, statement accessories, the crowd embodied a visual celebration of heritage and creativity. Flowing dresses, headwraps, and handcrafted adornments added to the tapestry of color, transforming the grounds into a living display of Virgin Islands culture. In many ways, the fashion was as much a part of the experience as the food itself.
Among the most heartwarming sights were those who chose to slow down and simply take it all in — families seated on the lawn, friends gathered under shaded areas, and elders congregating in cool spots, sharing meals, stories, and laughter. These moments spoke to the true essence of the Food Fair: connection, continuity, and community.
As an election year adds another dimension to the social landscape, political candidates were also present, engaging with attendees and connecting with supporters throughout the day. Their presence, while notable, blended into the larger atmosphere of fellowship and celebration that defined the event.
All good things must come to an end, and the 2026 St. Thomas Food Fair once again affirmed its place as a cornerstone of Carnival — where culture is not only preserved, but proudly lived, shared, and celebrated.
