Amidst the holiday season celebrations, on Monday the governor and first lady announced the schedule of events for the 2011 Children’s Holiday Parties in both districts. 

“Cecile and I are delighted to once again host the Annual Children’s Holiday Parties. We look forward to celebrating the joy of the season with all residents of the Territory whether it's for Christmas, Hanukkah, Kwanzaa or other holidays,” Governor de Jongh said.

As part of the holiday festivities planned on St. Thomas, St. Croix and St. John, educational gifts, including the newly published book, The Lesson Box, by local author Tregenza Roach will be distributed to children in grades K-3. 

“Every year, we work with a local author to publish a children’s book to distribute at the end-of-year holiday season events. This year’s book is a wonderful story of family, friendship and community that is sure to delight children and families. The Governor and I look forward to sharing this enjoyable book with the children of the Virgin Islands,” First Lady de Jongh said.

The schedule for the 2011 Children’s Holiday Parties includes:

• St. Croix: December 10 at Government House, Christiansted from 1:30-4:00 PM
• St. Thomas: December 17 at Emancipation Garden, from 3:00-5:00 PM
• St. John: December 19 at the Battery, from 5:30-6:30 PM

Children and families throughout the Virgin Islands are invited to celebrate the holiday season with Governor and First Lady de Jongh, along with Santa Claus and his merry elves. Light refreshments will be served.

The governor and first lady will also host the 5th Annual Christmas Fair on St. Croix at Government House, Christiansted, at Queens Cross Street and Government House courtyard, on December 10 from 11:00-5:00 PM. Arts and crafts vendors, as well as various food stands, will be in place.