Christmas in July: A BVI Tradition You Need to Know About

April 21, 2023 3 min

What Is Christmas in July?

Christmas in July is an annual event that takes place in the British Virgin Islands (BVI) where boaters from Puerto Rico and other nearby areas unite in the islands for a week of festivities. It is a tradition that started in 2007 and has grown each year, attracting thousands of visitors, and all are welcome. During the event, up to 2,000 people and 500 boats come together for a day of heart-pumping, hip-shaking, rum-swilling fun in Savannah Bay, Virgin Gorda. The event is an opportunity for people to enjoy great music, food, and rum, and to celebrate the strong relationship between the people of Puerto Rico and the British Virgin Islands.

The BVI is a popular tourist destination, with its beautiful beaches, crystal-clear waters, and warm weather. While July marks the beginning of the summer “low season” in the BVI, it is still a great time to visit. The threat of hurricanes is relatively low, although it is technically hurricane season, so visitors should be mindful of this. The islands are less crowded, and the weather is still pleasant, making it an ideal time for families to visit.

How did the event begin?

The event is a reflection of the relationship between the Puerto Rican people and the BVI. Puerto Ricans have a genuine love and affinity for the BVI, and they show it by helping the islands during difficult times. In the aftermath of Hurricane Irma, which devastated the BVI, the Puerto Rican people played a significant role in bringing aid and supplies to the islands. They filled their boats with supplies and brought them over, they evacuated friends and family members, and once on their soil, they treated everyone from the BVI with such kindness and respect that it will never be forgotten.

In gratitude for the help they received, the people of the BVI celebrate the amicably named “Puerto Rican Navy” every July during the Christmas in July event. The Puerto Rican Navy is the name given to Puerto Ricans who visit the BVI in their power boats en masse, blast their music, drink their rum and bring their own special brand of fun. During the event, hundreds of boats make the trip to Virgin Gorda, one of the British Virgin Islands, for beach parties and to visit bars and restaurants. It is a fun-filled week of music, dancing, and delectable food.

What’s Christmas in July like today?

The Christmas in July event has grown over the years, and now has sponsors which include banks and beer and rum companies in Puerto Rico. While it is an almost week-long event, a massive party takes place on July 25, the actual day of Christmas in July and has something there for all ages.

The Christmas in July event is a unique and special tradition that highlights the strong bond between the people of the British Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Visitors to the BVI during the event have the opportunity to be part of one of the biggest events in the BVI and meet some truly incredible people who have made a huge and everlasting impact on the hearts of all those who live in the islands.

Attending the Christmas in July event in the BVI promises to be a unique and exciting experience, filled with great music, good food, and unforgettable memories. We look forward to seeing you there!

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