Excitement and holiday cheer was felt on Thursday evening as Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. held his annual Governor’s Children’s Christmas Party. Crowds of hundreds of families lined up to get a chance to enter Government House on St. Croix.
Upon entering, visitors were greeted by volunteers who stamped children’s hands to authorize their access to receive a gift. As families walked in, they encountered a festive courtyard filled with music and holiday cheer. They were then guided toward tents that distributed gifts according to age group, providing gifts for newborns up to children aged 12.
After collecting their gifts, children had the option to take a free photo with Santa Claus or head outside for additional giveaways and goodies from various government agencies. They also enjoyed free ice cream from Sorbetiere, a homemade sorbet and ice cream shop, courtesy of the governor.
Several agencies participated in the Christmas party, including the V.I. Fire Services, the V.I. Water and Power Authority, and the V.I. Human Services Department. Representatives from Roe FM were also present, broadcasting live from inside Government House.
The festivities will continue Saturday at Havensight Mall on St. Thomas from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. and at Franklin Powell Sr. Park on St. John on Monday from 6 p.m. – 9 p.m.
