Information reaching our newsroom indicates that the Premier and the BVI Tourist Board, the Statutory Body that is now charged with the planning of Festival, are at odds with where the 2024 Emancipation Festival Village will be located. 

We are understanding that the BVI Tourist Board is adamant that the annual Village should remain at its original location as that would be more financially feasible and fiscally responsible; while the Premier is adamant on proving the usefulness of the grounds that were prepared for the failed million dollar Government Music Festival at the end of May 2024. 

One caller calling into the Tola Radio’s International Morning Braff Show while the premier was a Guest on Monday June 24, asked the Premier if he could update the public on the location of the Festival Village. To which his response was that the BVI Tourist Board would make an announcement that day. 

“I will leave that announcement to the BVI Tourist Board.” the Premier said. 

However, no announcement was forthcoming. 

On Wednesday evening, another caller called into the Tola Radio’s Zulu show while the Premier was once again a Guest, to ask the very same question, to which the Premier once again replied that an announcement would come the next day, Thursday June 27th by the BVI Tourist Board. 

Again, however, the public has come up wanting. No announcement has been made to date with approximately just over three weeks to the opening of the annual Emancipation Festival Village. 

Our newsroom is understanding however, that an announcement cannot be made due to the disagreement between the Premier and the BVI Tourist Board. 

The Recommendations of the COI are adamant that Statutory Boards are to function independently of any Government Minister interference. 

Vendors & Chairman Frustrated

Vendors have been calling into our newsroom to express their frustration on the matter. Most are frustrated that they are unable to begin set up, and have expressed their desire to see the Festival Village remain in its original location on Wickham’s Cay  

Others have noted that they have signed contracts that confirmed the location to be that of the original Festival Grounds. They have also indicated that their fees have been paid in full, and expect the contracts to be honoured, including location listed on contracts.

Information reaching our newsroom also suggests that the new Chairman of the Road Town Festival Committee, has also reached his limit in working with the 2024 Emancipation Festival.

The 2024 Emancipation Festival Village is named in honour of Larina ‘Rina’ Lamothe. The Festival Village is scheduled to open on Monday 29 July.