The British Virgin Islands is preparing to host the 72nd Virgin Islands Emancipation Festival from July 25 through August 11, 2026. Commemorating the emancipation of enslaved Africans in the British Virgin Islands, the annual event brings together residents and visitors for more than two weeks of music, heritage, pageantry, food, and community festivities.

This year’s festival boasts a strong lineup of Caribbean talent, with confirmed performances from reggae, dancehall, and soca stars Beres Hammond, Popcaan, Sizzla, 450, Rock City (R. City), Problem Child, Patrice Roberts and Nadia Batson, in addition to numerous local and regional artists who will appear throughout the celebration.

Beyond the nightly concerts at Festival Village, attendees can look forward to a full slate of signature events, including the Miss BVI Pageant, Gospel Fest, Calypso Monarch, Soca Monarch, Fungi Fest, the Rise and Shine Tramp, cultural showcases, food fairs, and the colorful parades.