Transfer Day
Transfer Day marks the moment when the U.S. Virgin Islands officially became part of the United States. Each year, the day brings people together to remember a major shift in the islands’ story.
Public events, flag ceremonies, and school programs help highlight the importance of this change. While the tone is respectful, the atmosphere stays warm and welcoming.
Local leaders speak, students participate, and families gather to take part in the day’s activities.
This day holds real meaning for many in the Virgin Islands. It reflects not just a transfer of power, but also questions about identity, equality, and future opportunities.
Some see it as a chance to celebrate progress, while others view it as a reminder that there’s still more to work toward.
Whether focusing on cultural pride or political hopes, Transfer Day sparks honest conversations. It continues to be a time for the islands to stand together and reflect on where they’ve been—and where they’re going.
How to Celebrate Transfer Day
Here are some engaging suggestions to mark Transfer Day with respect and community spirit:
Attend a Flag Ceremony
Join a public flag exchange at a historic site or town hall. You’ll witness leaders and locals raising the American flag. That act connects past shifts with today’s identity.
Listen to Local Folk Music
Seek out performances of Quelbe or fungi bands at concerts or street events. These sounds carry heritage and island resilience.
Sample Traditional Treats
Try a Danish‑inspired pudding or a local rum cocktail at a festival or cafe. That flavor mix reflects the islands’ layered history.
Visit Historic Locations
Head to museums or restored forts such as Fort Christian or sites on St. Croix. Exhibits, lectures, or walking tours help share stories from the past.
Enjoy Parades and Reenactments
Watch colorful parades, dramatic performances, or reenactments that bring that pivotal moment alive. Communities on each island help keep it vivid.
History of Transfer Day
Transfer Day marks the moment when the United States officially took control of the Virgin Islands from Denmark. The idea of the transfer began during World War I. The U.S. saw the islands as a useful naval base.
Denmark, still recovering from war losses and economic troubles, agreed to sell. Both governments signed a treaty in early 1917. Danish citizens later approved it through a public vote in December 1916.
The U.S. paid Denmark $25 million in gold. On March 31, 1917, the transfer became final. That day, Danish and American military leaders held ceremonies on the islands. At exactly 4:00 p.m., they lowered the Danish flag and raised the American one.
St. Thomas and St. Croix both took part in the events. People gathered in large crowds to watch the flags change and listen to speeches.
U.S. Secretary of State Robert Lansing helped carry out the treaty. Danish Minister Constantin Brun and U.S. Navy Commander Edwin Pollock also played major roles. Danish Governor Henri Konow led the formal handover.
His act ended over 250 years of Danish control. Since then, Transfer Day has become a yearly event that many residents still honor.
Also on ...
View all holidays
National Crayon Day
Brighten up your world with a rainbow of colors in a box! Create your own masterpiece and let your imagination run wild with these artistic tools.
National Tater Day
With so many reasons to love potatoes, it’s no surprise that these little vegetables have their own day to celebrate them.
World Backup Day
Ensuring your digital stuff is safe and sound, so no digital mishaps can ruin your day or leave you in a tight spot.
We think you may also like...
Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month
Get familiar with the history of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in the US, or join an event to celebrate your heritage during Asian/Pacific Heritage Month.
