The best parties Saint Barthélemy

What a contrast to celebrate Christmas under the twinkling lights of tropical evenings! For almost a month, the capital dresses up in its most beautiful festive attire and makes the locals dance. The wealthy tourists place their yachts near the stands held by associations of the island. A festive frenzy where everyone mixes in a good mood. We dance the zouk, we nibble homemade accras, we drink arranged rum. We dance in the middle of the street under the lively energy of the musical float of "Chanté Noël". It is a unique moment to live!

Every year, some of the northern hemisphere's jet set flee the winter to Saint-Barthélemy for the festive season. At this time of year, the port of Gustavia is invaded by yachts and the stars gather for private parties. For ordinary people, clubs and restaurants offer special menus. The port of Gustavia, with its musical entertainment, is THE place to celebrate New Year's Eve to the sound of foghorns from anchored ships and to admire the fireworks in the bay.

Cultural festival commemorating the twinning between St. Barths and the Swedish city of Pitea. Ti Moun (3 km race open to children and amateurs) and Gustavialopper (12 km race open to local adults or visitors) are organised. Craft village and great festive moments with traditional dances, tasting of recipes from the Swedish period (1784-1878). Numerous activities related to the sea and the beach enrich this twinning festival (fishing competition, beach volleyball, regatta...).

Carnival remains the biggest popular festival of the year. The king of the festival is called Vaval, a character who incarnates evil and who is burned at the end of the event. Several days of festivities with the participation of school children. Then comes the Vidé de Mardi-Gras, which is the day when a huge parade is organised in the island's capital, Gustavia. A great procession of colours and costumed groups: a musical and frenzied parade along the quays.

The firefighters are celebrating and it's more than just a tradition. They organize a magnificent parade in Gustavia. On board their engines, they parade slowly and cheerfully for the pleasure of the whole population. The day's program is full of activities: medal ceremony followed by a wine reception, belote contest, etc. And of course, the traditional firemen's ball is one of the most awaited events of the year!