Virgin Islands–Puerto Rico Friendship Day is observed in the U.S. Virgin Islands every second Monday of October, coinciding with Columbus Day. This public holiday honors the contributions of Puerto Ricans residing in the U.S. Virgin Islands, where nearly 11,000 Puerto Ricans live, primarily on the island of Saint Croix, making up about 10% of the territory's population. Established in 1964 by Governor Ralph Paiewonsky, the holiday recognizes the historical migration of Puerto Ricans to the Virgin Islands, particularly during the colonial period and the early 20th century. Celebrations include concerts, family-friendly activities, workshops, cultural events, sports tournaments, parades, and festivals, aimed at strengthening the relationship between the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Notable figures of Puerto Rican origin in the U.S. Virgin Islands include Juan Francisco Luis, the first elected governor, and Arturo Alfonso Schomburg, a prominent historian and activist.