Gov. Charles W. Turnbull has granted all non-essential government employees a full day off on Friday, Dec. 24 and a half day on Friday, Dec. 31.
In granting the leave, the governor said time off on Christmas Eve would give employees a chance to finish last-minute holiday shopping.
In the same release the governor said that in keeping with tradition he would host children's Christmas parties on all three islands.
The Governor's children's party on St. Croix will be from 5:30 p.m. until 8 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 22, at the agriculture food fair grounds in Estate Upper Love.
The St. Thomas party is to be held from 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Tuesday, Dec. 21, at Emancipation Garden.
The party on St. John is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 20, at Cruz Bay Park.