The 2026 Emancipation Festival theme, created by Shavia Potter, is: “Culture Rising, Hearts Align, VI Festival, One of a Kind.” Meanwhile, Rekeela Turnbull captured the winning slogan with: “Echoes of Heritage, Rhythm in the Mix, Celebrate Virgin Islands Festival 2026.”
Longtime champion of Virgin Islands culture Lavida Cottoy has been named the 2026 Emancipation Honouree, with the Road Town Festival Village set to bear her name in recognition of her years of service to preserving and promoting local culture.
The announcement was made by the Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee at the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park last evening, where winners of this year’s festival theme and slogan competitions were also revealed.
The 2026 Emancipation Festival theme, created by Shavia Potter, is: “Culture Rising, Hearts Aligned, VI Festival, One of a Kind.” Meanwhile, Rekeela Turnbull captured the winning slogan with: “Echoes of Heritage, Rhythm in the Mix, Celebrate Virgin Islands Festival 2026.”
Festival organisers also announced that Robert “Tico” Harrigan will serve as the 2026 Parade Grand Marshal.
The 72nd Virgin Islands Emancipation Festival will run from July 25 to August 11, featuring a lineup of local and international performers including Beres Hammond, Problem Child, Rock City, VIBE, and Popcaan.
The annual celebration remains one of the Territory’s biggest cultural events, blending music, heritage and community spirit.
The announcement was made by the Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee at the Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park last evening, where winners of this year’s festival theme and slogan competitions were also revealed.
The 2026 Emancipation Festival theme, created by Shavia Potter, is: “Culture Rising, Hearts Aligned, VI Festival, One of a Kind.” Meanwhile, Rekeela Turnbull captured the winning slogan with: “Echoes of Heritage, Rhythm in the Mix, Celebrate Virgin Islands Festival 2026.”
Festival organisers also announced that Robert “Tico” Harrigan will serve as the 2026 Parade Grand Marshal.
The 72nd Virgin Islands Emancipation Festival will run from July 25 to August 11, featuring a lineup of local and international performers including Beres Hammond, Problem Child, Rock City, VIBE, and Popcaan.
The annual celebration remains one of the Territory’s biggest cultural events, blending music, heritage and community spirit.
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