St Martin, French Caribbean

January

Tuesday night in Grand Case (from January to April) : every Tuesday during three months are the Harmony nights, full of local music, art and crafts exhibitions, from 6.30PM to 10PM. If you are going, don’t miss the Craftworks Market, the Dancer’s Show and the gourmet restaurants. The Harmony Nights are one of the most important nightlife events in St. Maarten.

February

Black History Month : each year during this month the island celebrates the local pioneers who marked Saint Martin’s history. Brush up on what is planned for the year you are traveling.

Saint-Martin Carnival : festivities take place from the beginning of February to beginning of March. Watch what event you want to attend  on the program.

March

SXM Music Festival : (mid-march) this festival, set on in a heavenly environment, features some of the best international DJs and electronic music talent. This festival is known because of its respectful dancefloor aficionados gathering to enjoy music in beautiful surroundings. For the line up and more information, you can go to www.sxmusicfestival.com .

The Heineken Regatta : the Heineken Regatta carries the reputation of « Serious Fun », because its fans gather in an extraodinary place where good beer never runs out for an entire week. The biggest names in sailing are always present to this race, and more than three hundreds boats are competing in a pleasant atmosphere. During the week end, you may see dozens of boats every time you’ll be watching the sea. For more information, you can go to www.heinekenregatta.com

April

Dutch Side Carnival : (from mid-april to beginning of May) The Dutch side is also hosting a carnival, so prepare yourself for colored parades and concerts.

Fish Day : (May 7th) This day celebrates the way of life of the fishermen and fish. Many stands will offer their ways of preparing traditional dishes with fish. Don’t miss the Pit stand, the fishermen’s stand, the Kiddies’ corner and the Bridge.

Saint Martin International Sports Meeting : (May 13th) this competition is the point of focus for the Caribbean’s athletic organizations. Thus, this sport meeting is one of major importance, with the participation of sports honored guests.

Saint Louis and Rambaud Celebration Day : traditional cuisine, cultural and traditional events are the focus of the day.

June

The Saint-Martin Book Fair : writers, mediators and poets from the Caribbean are welcomed to St. Martin, promoting their talents, but also debating on current problematics and history.

The Sea Festival : A two-days event showcasing marine professionals with activities on land and on the sea.

National Music Celebration Day (June 21st) : During the French National Music Celebration Day, concerts take place everywhere in the streets and particularly in the fellows areas : the French Quarter, Orient Bay, Grand Case, Agrément, Sandy Ground, Concordia and Marigot.

July

July 14th : French national holiday and Marigot celebration day : Marigot Water’s Front becomes for a day a celebration village with entertainment provided by St. Martin cultural groups, ending with fireworks at night

Victor Schoelcher Day and Grand Case Village Day : this tradition perpetuates for over a century now and commemorates the abolitionist Victor Schoelcher. This old-fashioned celebration day caters around sports, traditional games, cultural events, musical entertainments and a small boat race.

August

SXM Best Weekend : during a weekend, renowned DJs perform showcases with international artists. This event features Anguilla’s biggest beach party.

Sandy Ground Village Celebration Day : during this familial day, Sandy Ground becomes the place for entertainment, with cultural events, traditional games, local dishes,…

September

Patrimony day : each year, the island celebrates culture on the third weekend of September. Thus, many historical monuments normally not open to the public are.

November

Concordia Cup – Golf Course in Mullet Bay : an annual golf competition takes place between golfers from the Dutch and French side.

St. Maarten’s day on November 11th : to celebrate the discovery of the island by Christopher Colombus, festivities are hosted. In addition, official ceremonies and traditional entertainment such as music, cultural heritage and gastronomy take place.

December

Christmas House : During whole December the Christmas House in Cripple Gate is open. Also, home-made cakes and punches are served on a background of festive season decorations and music.

Running Night : every year, the Watt de 9 association organizes a nocturnal race. To participate, you must from a team of five people, each of one running 1.9 km.

New Year’s Eve : Marigot Water Front is celebrating the New Year’s Eve every year with major fireworks at 10PM.