Jump Up in Christiansted
A widely used term throughout the Caribbean ‚”jump up” means “to dance.” Jump Up on St. Croix is a party in the streets of Christiansted. Originally started as a way to boost the economy and spread cheer for the people on the island, it has become one of St. Croix’s favorite social events among locals and visitors alike. Music, dancing, food, drinks, street vendors, cultural dancers, shopping, steel pans, fire dancers, as well as the iconic Mocko Jumbies all come together and Christiansted comes alive.
On the night of Jump Up the streets, the boardwalk, and the restaurants of Christiansted are filled with people enjoying the sights and sounds, sipping local beverages and savoring the delicious food of St. Croix. Many of the retail stores stay open late, and street vendors sell local art and wares. Another favorite of many are the Mocko Jumbies. An old cultural tradition brought over from Africa, these stilt dancers mock the evil spirits, also known as ‘jumbies’, to scare them away. The Mocko Jumbies are NOT to be missed, they dance up and down the streets to the music on six foot stilts. Jump Up takes place 4 times per year on a Friday night, and each has a special theme. Enjoy the street festival atmosphere of Jump Up. This is Christiansted the way it should be enjoyed!
EVENT DETAILS
Dates and Times
- February – on the Friday before to Valentine’s Day
- May – on the first Friday of May
- July – on the Friday closest to Alexander Hamilton Day
- November – on the Friday after Thanksgiving (Black Friday)
Jump Ups are held from 6pm – 10pm. For specific dates for this year’s Jump Ups, please visit our Calendar of Events.
Location
Downtown Christiansted, St. Croix
Cost
Entry to Jumps Up is FREE. Food, drinks, and retail merchandise are available for purchase.
