Vendors vow stronger oversight to protect the Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party
GROS ISLET, St Lucia — The managing body of the Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party has condemned the unexpected playing of political music during the November 14 event, calling the breach inappropriate and out of line with the long-standing commitment to keep the weekly celebration free of partisan influence.
The Gros Islet Vendors Association, which oversees operations for the island’s most iconic street party, confirmed that an internal investigation is now underway. According to the organization, the music suppliers involved have already been cautioned, and additional safeguards are being implemented to prevent any recurrence. The association said its priority remains preserving the Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party as a safe, inclusive, and politically neutral space for both locals and visitors.
Officials emphasized that the street party has always been a cultural institution belonging to the people of St Lucia and must remain free from political intrusion. The association moved quickly to reassure the public that corrective measures are being applied and that neutrality remains central to the event’s identity.
Below is the full release provided by the Gros Islet Vendors Association:
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
15th November 2025
Official Statement from the Gros Islet Vendors Association
Managing Body for the Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party
The Gros Islet Vendors Association wishes to categorically denounce the playing of political music over the Friday Night Street Party sound system on the evening of Friday, 14th November 2025. This occurrence was inappropriate, unacceptable, and does not reflect the values or practices of our organization.
An immediate investigation into the incident is currently underway. The music suppliers responsible have been formally cautioned, and measures are being taken to ensure such an incident does not happen again.
We extend our sincere apologies to the public, our patrons, and our stakeholders for any discomfort or concern this may have caused. The Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party is a cultural event that belongs to the people of Saint Lucia and our visitors. It must remain a safe, welcoming, and politically neutral space for all.
The Gros Islet Vendors Association hereby reaffirms that it is a non-partisan, non-governmental organization, committed solely to the development of the Gros Islet community, the support of our vendors, and the continued success of the Friday Night Street Party.
We thank the public for their understanding and continued support.
END.
The incident comes at a time when the iconic street party continues to attract thousands of patrons weekly, serving as one of St Lucia’s leading cultural and tourism attractions. The Vendors Association said it remains committed to upholding operational standards that protect the integrity of the event while ensuring it continues to thrive as a cornerstone of the Gros Islet community.
Further updates are expected upon completion of the ongoing investigation. Unitedpac St Lucia News will continue monitoring developments.
