The Carnaval de St. Martin will occur from January 30, 2027 to February 10, 2027.
Carnaval de St. Martin is celebrated in Marigot, the capital of the French side of St. Martin.
The Carnaval de Saint-Martin on the French side of the island is a vibrant celebration that mirrors the rich cultural mosaic of the French Caribbean. Commonly held from late January to Ash Wednesday, this festival is characterized by its colorful parades, elaborate costumes, and a festive atmosphere that envelops the island. Revelers, adorned in feathers, sequins, and beads, take to the streets to the rhythm of zouk, soca, and calypso, showcasing the island’s dynamic culture and artistic flair.
During the carnival, the streets of Saint-Martin burst with life as locals and visitors alike participate in various events, including dance performances and music shows that capture the spirit of the community. The Grand Parade is particularly noteworthy, featuring groups that perform detailed dance routines which often reflect the island’s history and traditions. Alongside the parades, food vendors offer a mix of French and Caribbean delicacies, enriching the carnival experience with flavors that are as diverse as the attendees. This festivity not only provides entertainment but also strengthens the bonds within the community, celebrating their heritage and collective spirit.
When attending the Carnaval de St. Martin on the French side, prepare for a dynamic and immersive experience. This vibrant festival kicks off with colorful street parades, where masqueraders in feathered and jeweled costumes dance to the rhythmic beats of local music, including zouk and soca. The atmosphere is festive and inclusive, encouraging all to join in the dance and revelry. Along the parade routes, expect a variety of food vendors serving up local and French-inspired cuisine, creating a delightful gastronomic experience. Each day brings different events, so it’s wise to check the schedule in advance to catch key performances and contests that highlight the creativity and culture of St. Martin.
Held on Fat Tuesday, this parade is the culmination of the carnival festivities, featuring the most elaborate costumes and the most spirited celebrations, marked by a high energy level as the community enjoys the final moments of the carnival season.
A central highlight, this parade features participants in intricate, eye-catching costumes, displaying a rich blend of cultural expressions through dance and music that engage spectators from across the globe.
Throughout the carnival, attendees can also savor a wide array of culinary delights at numerous food stalls that line the parade routes, offering both local and international flavors that provide a tasty complement to the visual and auditory feast.
A highlight for many, J’ouvert (pronounced "joo-vay") begins in the early morning hours with revelers dancing in the streets, covered in paint, powder, or mud. This event is fueled by high-energy soca and calypso music.
Date: January 30 - February 10, 2027
Location: Saint-Martin, French Caribbean
Time: Various times
Saint-Martin Carnival is the annual carnival celebration on the French side of the island, featuring colorful parades, music trucks, cultural performances, costumes, and Caribbean street festivities across Marigot and surrounding areas. The full 2027 daily event schedule has not yet been published — we'll update this page as soon as it's announced.
Note: Changes to the schedule are beyond our control, so please check for updates before finalizing travel plans.
St. Martin is easy to reach whether you’re coming from elsewhere in the Caribbean, North America, or internationally.
Ready to lock in your flights? Use the search tool above to compare fares and find the best deal for your Carnival trip.
The best area to stay for Saint-Martin Carnival is Marigot, the capital of the French side — the Grand Parade and most Carnival events run directly through its streets, putting you at the heart of the action.
Use the above map to find and book stays near the Carnival parade route!
Getting around St Martin during Carnival is easy thanks to the island’s small size and short travel times between Marigot and the main event areas.
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