Christmas in the City Opens Tonight
The 27th edition of Christmas in the City begins tonight, running Friday, December 5, and Saturday, December 6, 2025, with an opening ceremony at 6:00 PM. City Manager Janice E.L. Brathwaite-Edwards announced Santa will distribute age-specific gifts across both nights and students from local primary schools will take part in the programme.
The 27th edition of Christmas in the City opens tonight and continues through Saturday, December 6, 2025. The two-night festival aims to bring families together for music, community spirit and holiday activities. An official opening ceremony is scheduled to begin at 6:00 PM. The programme will include brief remarks from the representative of the 4th District, the singing of the Territorial Song, and a blessing from a pastor.
Students from Francis Lettsome Primary School as well as the Girl Guides and Recorder Group from Alexandrina Maduro Primary School are expected to perform and participate in the ceremony. Brathwaite-Edwards told JTV Channel 55 that, for the first time, Santa will be on site on Friday night to hand out gifts to children aged 0 to 10 years.
She added that on Saturday night there will be a second opportunity for children aged 11 to 14 to receive gifts from Santa’s elves and helpers. "So, we are looking forward to two nights of fun with Santa and full energy," Brathwaite-Edwards said. Event hours are 6:00 PM to 11:30 PM on Friday, December 5, and 6:00 PM to midnight on Saturday, December 6, giving residents two full evenings of family-friendly activities.
As a long-running seasonal event, Christmas in the City is a key fixture on the territory’s holiday calendar and provides a chance for communities across the British Virgin Islands to gather and celebrate. Residents attending the event should plan for crowds and family activities over both evenings.
Organisers encourage parents to note the age-specific gift distribution times and to supervise young children, particularly in busy areas. The event also presents an opportunity for local performers and youth groups to showcase their talents. Information in this report was provided by City Manager Janice E.L.
Brathwaite-Edwards and reported on JTV Channel 55 and Virgin Islands News Online. Attendees are reminded to follow any guidance from event staff and local authorities to ensure a safe and enjoyable celebration for all.
Primary source: VINO