The top festivals in Saint Kitts and Nevis will allow you to experience the rich culture, music, and heritage of the islands. If you plan to visit, timing your trip around one or more of these events will be a memorable experience.
Although the islands of Saint Kitts and Nevis are well known for their natural resources and breathtaking attractions, partaking in a local festival will be a learning experience. Mix and mingle with residents in the island and get to know some of their most cherished traditions.
1. St. Kitts Music Festival
Date: Usually in June
Description: The Saint Kitts Music Festival is one of the Caribbean’s premier music festivals. It is a “diversified musical show” which blends exciting music with thrilling performances. It features international and local artists across genres like reggae, soca, calypso, jazz, and R&B. The festival, which has been described as the “most diversified musical show in the Caribbean” attracts music lovers from around the world.
More Information: St. Kitts Music Festival
2. Nevis Culturama
Date: Late July to early August (usually the last week of July)
Description: Nevis Culturama is the biggest cultural festival on Nevis. The festival, which is held during the Emancipation Day/ August Monday weekend, celebrates the island’s African heritage and traditions. Culturama was conceptualized in February 1974 during a meeting of the Nevis Dramatic and Cultural Society (NEDACS). The schedule includes parades, calypso competitions, steelpan music, street dances, beauty pageants, and traditional food fairs.
More Information: Nevis Culturama Festival
3. Sugar Mas Carnival
Date: December to early January, with main events around Christmas and New Year’s Eve
Description: Sugar Mas is one of St. Kitts’ most vibrant and exhilarating cultural festivals. With its roots planted in the 1950s, Sugar Mas is a celebration of life that features colorful parades, calypso and soca competitions, parties, and concerts. Although the festival is a mesh of Christmas traditions and African culture, its name is a nod to the island’s sugar cane industry which was once its main economic earner.
More Information: Sugar Mas
4. Nevis Mango Festival
Date: Usually held in July
Description: The Nevis Mango Festival is a tasty celebration of the island’s beloved fruit, the mango. It is a festival that showcases the talents of chefs, mixologists and their ability to utilize the flavors of over 40 varieties of mango. There are several events including mango tastings, live music and performances, chef masterclasses, and mango eating contests.
More Information: Nevis Mango Festival
5. Nevis Marathon and Running Festival
Date: Usually held in September
Description: The Nevis Marathon and Running Festival is an unforgettable running experience for runners of all skill levels. There are four races in the festival – full marathon (26.2 miles), half marathon (13.1 miles), 10K (6.1 miles) and a 5K (3.1 miles). The course takes in most of Nevis’s most scenic points and is one of the most breathtaking running courses in the world.
More Information: Nevis Marathon
6. Black San’ Bang-A-Lang
Date: Varies
Description: The Black San’ Bang-A-Lang Festival is a community festival organized by SPIRIT, a group of community change makers. The festival pays homage to the black sand beach at Belle Tete in the Sandy Point area. It is a family-oriented event that includes multiple events such as picnics and open-air performances.
More Information: Black San Bang a lang Festival
7. Green Valley Festival
Date: May or June
Description: The Green Valley Festival is a colourful community festival that aims to celebrate and keep the culture of Saint Kitts and Nevis alive. Green Valley Festival is held in Cayon, Saint Kitts and features several community events. Examples include gospel concerts, a car and bike show, a beauty pageant, parades and a j’ouvert.
To learn more about the festivals in Saint Kitts and Nevis, visit the following links:
St. Kitts and Nevis Government: Festivals and Traditions
Nevis Naturally: Festivals and Celebrations
St Kitts Nevis Flag: Festivals – A Celebration of Culture
St. Kitts & Nevis: Festivals of Saint Kitts – Cultural Significance and Celebrations
Image: Daniel Dan via Unsplash
