Carnival in St Martin

Would you like to experience the favorite time of year for the residents of St Martin?

Discover the carnival in St Martin now, a blend of color and tradition.

The dates of the carnival in St Martin

There are two periods to enjoy the carnival in St Martin.
In the French part, the carnival lasts from February to the beginning of March. The dates vary each year depending on the weekends.
In the Dutch part, the parades are organized between mid April and early May. The dates also vary from year to year.

The traditions of the carnival in St Martin

The carnival of St Martin (French part) and Sint Maarten (Dutch part) offer different experiences.
On the St Martin side, the carnival is a time to celebrate the island's origins.
A theme is chosen, and from costumes to makeup, those who parade follow this theme. Music is written for the occasion, and each year the theme and music change.
These musicians animate the opening evening of the carnival in St Martin.

On the Dutch side, the celebration is equally vibrant. The music blends traditional sounds with soca, and DJs add an electro and mixed atmosphere.
It’s a more commercial celebration compared to the French side.

St Martin parade

Practical tips to enjoy the carnival in St Martin

Best time to attend the festivities

The carnival runs from February to early May between the French and Dutch parts of St Martin.
If you stay in St Martin during this period, you’ll have the opportunity to experience the festivities.

Places to stay near the events

If you want to be in the heart of the carnival, Marigot in the French part is where most of the parades take place. In the Dutch part, you should stay in Philipsburg.
Discover all our villa rentals in St Martin.

Transportation and accessibility during the carnival in St Martin

During carnival days, it’s not recommended to use a vehicle for getting around.
The roads will be closed, and the parades will block traffic. If you need to move, opt for short trips that you can walk.

Carnival St Martin

Why participate in the carnival of St Martin?

If you've planned your vacation during the carnival period, you can't miss these unique and lively moments.
Carnival in the Caribbean is always full of color and is unique from one island to another.
You won’t experience this anywhere else.
In St Martin, from Marigot to Philipsburg, the carnival takes over the streets and public places, making them vibrate to the sound of the parades. Between feathers and costumes, the good mood is always present.
It’s also a time to showcase originality and creativity, as you'll witness the election of the year!
Who will have the most beautiful costume?
Who will have the best makeup?
And who will be crowned miss carnival?
Let yourself be swept up in the movement and witness this election.
You’ll enter the world of the locals and share this precious moment with them.
A colorful and festive time that will animate your vacation in St Martin.