10 MUST ATTEND FESTIVALS OF ST MAARTEN / ST MARTIN!
Research has shown that one of St. Maartens key strengths making visitors come back every year is that it is a lively island with many activities and events planned for every week of the year. Some St. Maarten / St. Martin events have risen to international fame. See our events calendar and events blog for updates on what’s on on a weekly basis, and see below a list of the island’s largest events for your agenda!
1. Dutch Side Carnival
Regionally known as one of the most complete carnivals around, Dutch side carnival is the most important cultural event of the year. Parades and events at the Carnival Village mark the Dutch side St. Maarten event agenda of April.
2. St. Maarten Heineken Regatta
The largest regional sailing regatta of the Caribbean is the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta. Next to a week of racing in different classes, concerts of international music stars and a specially created village make this a must-visit event in the first week of March.
3. The SXM Music Festival
This world famous electronic music festival is held right after the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta, using scenic St. Maarten / St. Martin beaches as a backdrop to concerts of internationally renowned DJs.
4. Caribbean Multihull Challenge
This sister regatta of the St Maarten Heineken Regatta has grown big. Many catamarans will set sail in February event to earn this trophy. Come out and see, or register at the St. Maarten Yacht Club.
5. French Side Carnaval
A good thing about being a binational Caribbean island, is having twice the carnivals! Like the Dutch side, the French side holds its carnival in February with parades and events.
6. St Maarten Flavors
In the month of November, many St. Maarten restaurants offer a discounted “Signature Dish” for visitors and residents. Go sample them all at St. Maarten Flavors.
7. Emancipation Day
This important July 1st event serves to celebrate the abolition of slavery on Dutch side St. Maarten in 1863, fifteen years after the French side had already abolished slavery. A parade with amongst others traditional dresses takes place and a ceremony is held at the Emancipation Statue.
8. St. Martin Day
St. Martin day, the day of St. Maarten / St. Martins patron St. Martin of Tours is an important binational day of festivities on the 11th of November. Races around the island, concerts and parties celebrate a day of island unity.
9. Les Mardis De Grand Case
This weekly Grand Case braderie in the first months of the year is a great opportunity to combine a dinner in the towns’ outstanding restaurants with shopping at the many booths.
10. Elev8
Elev8 is a monthly event at the top of Rainforest Adventures. Amazing views of St. Maarten / St. Martin and the surrounding islands will unfold as soon as you leave the Soualiga Sky Explorer elevator. And let’s not forget the amazing music by professional DJs!