ST. CROIX — The Virgin Islands Palestinian Friendship Association held its Friendship Festival on Sunday, November 23, at the Rudolph Shulterbrandt Agricultural Complex on St. Croix, bringing together families, cultural groups, and community partners for an afternoon of food, music, and shared traditions.
The day began with an oral history workshop led by Shatha Naji of the Arab American National Museum. The session, “How to Document Your Family’s Oral History,” guided attendees on documenting and preserving family stories.
Following the workshop, the Festival featured cultural performances blending Virgin Islands and Palestinian traditions, including Palestinian Dabka, Virgin Islands Quadrille, and music from Classic Touch and Fyah Train. Food and craft vendors, artisans, and cultural displays highlighted both heritages.
Children’s activities included exhibits from the Children’s Museum, the Jungle James Petting Zoo, community art, games, and storytelling. Local organizations also hosted information booths throughout the grounds.
“Our goal with the Friendship Festival is to create a warm, welcoming space where people can enjoy good food, music, and culture — while also learning about each other’s histories,” said Ahmad Hussein, President of VIPFA. “At a time when connection and understanding are so important, we hope this event will bring the community together. It is all about friendship.”
The festival was open to the public and welcomed residents from across the Virgin Islands.
The Virgin Islands Palestinian Friendship Association is a community-based nonprofit focused on building understanding and solidarity between Virgin Islanders and Palestinians through cultural programs, educational events, and community partnerships.
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