From left to right, Busta Rhymes and R. City.
The 74th Annual St. Thomas Carnival Village is set to bring a wide-ranging mix of Virgin Islands, Caribbean, and international talent to the stage, with organizers unveiling a lineup led by hip-hop star Busta Rhymes and St. Thomas-born duo R. City.
Announced by the V.I. Department of Tourism in partnership with the Division of Festivals, this year’s Village concerts are being presented as a celebration of the musical range, cultural energy, and regional identity that define Carnival in the territory.
The lineup spans six nights of free Village performances and includes both internationally known names and a strong slate of local artists. Alongside Busta Rhymes and R. City, the announced lineup also includes Steel Pulse, Destra, Alison Hinds, Voice, and Full Blown.
The schedule will also feature a Bouyon Fest, bringing Trilla G, Shelly, Reo, and Trev Li to the Village stage.
Virgin Islands artists are expected to hold a major place throughout the weeklong celebration. Among the territory’s performers announced for the Village are Th3rd, Goyo, Star Martin, Mic Love, Nikki Brooks, Temisha, Shaw HP, Rudy Live, Adam O, and Pumpa.
Tourism Commissioner Jennifer Matarangas-King said the 2026 lineup reflects both the event’s broad reach and its continued commitment to elevating homegrown performers.
“This year, I am especially excited by the range of artistry that will take the stage at the St. Thomas Carnival Village,” said USVI Department of Tourism Commissioner Jennifer Matarangas-King. “The Division of Festivals continues to attract globally recognized talent while honoring our longstanding commitment to elevating local artists at every stage of their careers.”
Division of Festivals Director Ian Turnbull said the celebration remains rooted in the traditions and cultural identity that have long shaped Carnival in the Virgin Islands and the wider Caribbean.
“The Virgin Islands Carnival celebrations capture the spirit and vibrancy of the Caribbean, reflecting the traditions and cultural pride that unite us,” said USVI Division of Festivals Director Ian Turnbull. “Our focus is to elevate authentic talent and create an unforgettable experience that resonates with everyone who attends.”
With major regional and international performers sharing the stage with Virgin Islands artists, the Village lineup positions this year’s celebration as both a showcase of star power and a reflection of the territory’s own musical depth.
The announcement comes as anticipation continues to build for the 74th Annual St. Thomas Carnival, with the Village once again set to serve as one of the season’s major draws.
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