The 2005 Virgin Gorda Easter Festival attracted a sizable and happy crowd. Pictured here are the moko jumbies at the Grace Flax Waters’ Festiville on parade day. [photography by  Hezikiah Maddox]

Virgin Gorda Festival Parade Captivates Spectators

Persons who attended the Virgin Gorda J'ouvert will vouch that they partied until morning, and as a result the annual parade commenced later than usual, but no-one seemed to mind it. The late start of the parade gave everyone a chance to sample the bar-b-qued chicken, ribs, fried shellfish and all the side dishes one can eat. It was truly a festive occasion, and almost every food van and stand provided their own music, so no matter where one was standing the merriment was audible and palpable.

 The parade finally started with Mr. Roy O'Neal colourfully dressed and riding his bicycle with bright tinsels and a big red teddy bear swinging from the basket. First in the line-up was the Glofete floupe whose festive mood became contagious as some onlookers waving flags and dancing to the popular soca songs. joined them. The member of the Glofete floupe were mainly Trinidadians who have distinguished themselves with a number of praiseworthy activities. They were followed by two Little Dix Bay Hotel troupes  that honoured Keith Gardener.

Miss Virgin Gorda Easter Festival 2005 Kerrell Wilson, Princess Neese Valdez, and Prince Andre Rhymer all looked beautiful as they waved to the crowd. Many complimented Queen Kerrel's pink dress, which they said was a very smart choice. Princess Neese also looked pretty in  pink. The St. Mary Primary School troupe was adorable and onlookers hushed as the students sat looking very precious wearing sailor outfits and sitting in a small sailboat. The children who were watching the parade agreed that that float in particular was the best because they were very generous when  throwing candies to the crowd.

Majorette and moko jumbies delighted a cosmopolitan public of locals and visitors from all over the globe. Picturesque bands also participated in the parade. The "Grenadian Spice Troupe" concluded the show by dancing around sprinkling powder as they enjoyed themselves.