The Biggest Party in the U.S. Virgin Islands Is Going Digital — Here’s How to Celebrate Carnival Virtually (Video)

The U.S. Virgin Islands has a plan to bring us all together once again.

In an effort to reduce the impact of social isolation, the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism's Division of Festivals has launched “Home Wuk,” an online social event meant to foster a “sense of community, camaraderie and a ‘virtual’ Carnival experience.”

"We know everyone was looking forward to Carnival, but postponing it was the right thing to do to make sure we help stop the virus from spreading," Ian Turnbull, Director of the Division of Festivals, shared in a statement. "With the 'Home Wuk' series, we can lift people's spirits and bring the VI Carnival vibe to everyone in the safety of their homes.”

The series of digital events picks off just in time for when Carnival would have taken place on April 3 to May 4, 2020.

The first 'Home Wuk' party, which kicked off on Saturday, March 28, included a collaboration with Insomniacs J'ouvert Troupe as well as DJ Avalanche, "The Caribbean's Hottest DJ.”

As the tourism board explained, the virtual event went on for almost two and a half hours, with DJ Avalanche serving up “energizing, feel-good music from the Virgin Islands and the region” for the entire digital audience to dance to at home. And truly, it was a global affair, with more than 63,000 views and nearly 1,500 shares.

"Nice concept, I love the virtual jam!" one viewer stated. "We jamming from far, social distance,” another added.

And, even DJ Avalanche pushed home the importance of staying a safe distance away from others, adding in the livestream, "You gotta be careful on the street. Make sure you have your mask, make sure you wash your hands, make sure you stay safe."

And sure, it’s not quite the same as the in-person, real-deal event, but fear not. The tourism division said they will soon share plans for rescheduling Carnival, St. John Celebration, along with rescheduling other cultural events, once the crisis has subsided and it is deemed safe to party in person once again.

Want to party with the islands during their next digital event? The next “Home Wuk” events take place on Saturday, April 4 at 8 p.m., in partnership with Ubersoca Cruise. Follow the party on Facebook and wear your best Carnival outfit right in your own living room.