Friends and neighbors gathered Saturday night in Cruz Bay as the 2026 Light Up the Night Cancer Walk got underway. The annual fundraiser has become a highly anticipated community event, bringing together St. John residents and business owners during the busy tourist season to connect and support a shared cause.
A cordial atmosphere brought smiles from participants and spectators alike.
Food vendors and game tables filled the parking lot entrance to the ball field. The St. John Recovery Choir sang on stage for those enjoying the sunset; the Dynamic Dancers youth group entertained near the waterside of Cruz Bay Creek.
At the Pink Heart and Soul tent, sorority sisters sold refreshments so they could contribute the proceeds. “We are walking with our sorority sisters who have been in the fight or are still fighting the battle with cancer, said group president Lineek Williams.
At the popular dunk tank, a small boy sat dripping on the collapsible seat while classmates hurled softballs at the trigger target. Liz Lowe stood at a table nearby, filling trays with New England-style lobster rolls. “Boston Sword and Tuna, which is a wholesaler down here, donated all the lobster,” Lowe said.
They were among a host of local businesses showing their support for the St. John Cancer Fund, hosts of the walkathon.
As the evening continued, one business owner shared a personal story of life, love, and loss to cancer on social media. Elizabeth Miller of Miller Properties said her company will pledge $5 for each guest arriving at their vacation rentals throughout 2026.
“Thank you for listening to my journey and remember NEVER, NEVER GIVE UP!” Miller said.
Dance tunes pumped through speakers on stage set the pace for walkers, keeping teammates on the track from 4 p.m. to 11:45 p.m.
A live band set up to take over the music as evening skies set in.
Editor’s Note:
“We had an amazing response and turnout at our event. We had power from a generator donated by Love City Strong and were never tied in to a WAPA line, so the Luminary Service and entire event was unaffected by the power outage on St John.
“In fact, the WAPA outage actually made the Luminary Service more special during the luminary service period, as it was already dark.
“Thank you to our sponsors, teams, and all participants in Light Up The Night,“ Adonis Morton, member of the Cancer Fund committee, said.
