The British Virgin Islands is known for its peaceful solitude and relaxed atmosphere, but once per year on the first Monday in August the island of Tortola come alive in one big celebration to commemorate emancipation day.

August 1, 1834, was the day when slavery was abolished in the BVI and most of the other Caribbean islands.

That day was the beginning of unity in diversification.

It was the beginning of an era when according to Martin Luther King Junior, blacks would not be judged by the color of their skin.

It was the beginning of freedom for the black nation.

The black race is free to participate in education, economy, politics, religion and socially. However, many people have not disentangled themselves from the shackles of mental slavery.

Above all many people regardless of their skin color are not free from the bondage of sin.

True freedom can only be realized in the Lord Jesus Christ.

In the meantime once per year, the islanders celebrate emancipation day in a style that is unique to their culture and African heritage.

Hundreds of people lined the streets of Tortola to watch the parade of dazzling troupes as they danced to the lively beat of soca monarch, calypso, fungi, and reggae.

The air was pungent with excitement which spread to everyone who was present.

It was a day where skimpy attire was accepted whether you were part of the parade or not.

The march commenced with the Grand Marshall of the parade followed by the young and old prince, princesses and queens.

This year there were a variety of beauty pageants from the tiny tots to the grandmother. Every age group was represented.

The highlights of the day were the different troupes in their colorful costumes (from children to adults) gyrating to the heavy beat of the soca music.

Each group of dancers was preceded by their bands on the back of trucks decorated in colorful accessories.

It was a slow procession of happy and exciting dancers. Most people enjoyed the day while other persons went above the limit. Overall the day was a success.

The above pictures and videos were taken with my cell phone.

After the parade, hundreds of people rushed into the village to enjoy the food, trinkets games, and carousel rides.

If you want to see more highlights of the day’s activities, visit the BVI Platinum News Online.

Thank you for reading and I hope you enjoyed seeing some of our Caribbean cultures.