The three week Sint Maarten Carnival festivities wrapped up on May 3rd with the with a symbolic burning of straw effigy of King Momo in Carnival Village after revelers enjoyed one last jump up. Carnival Village is the epicenter of all the excitement surrounding this event. It is an open air stadium that consists of 79 booths with cuisine from a myriad of nationalities along with carnival merchandise and even a police substation. Something for everyone and not to be missed. Center stage is the main attraction bringing in both international and major local artists. This year celebrated the 5th anniversary of the flagship show and dance experience Night of the Hit makers featuring Impakt Band, Kai formerly known as Carimi, Jean Marc Ferdinand, Claudius Philips, Farmer Nappy and the queen of bacchanal Destra. This is always a sold out show so make sure to organize your tickets early!
Between Jump Up’s, Flag Fest, pageants, concerts and many parades the crown jewel of carnival is the Grande Carnival Parade dedicated to the Queen of the Netherlands. Starting in Carnival Village and ending in front street floats, sometimes years in the making, entertaining with festive dance music, followed by troupes of masqueraders in colorful and traditional costumes is a sensory treat. It is no wonder that #comeexperiencelife is the motto for carnival.
Carnival in Sint Maarten is not to be missed. The 2018 event is scheduled for April 12th- May 3rd. Save the dates!
