St. Kitts Carnival (Sugar Mas)
December 23rd, 2024 to January 03rd, 2025.
St. Vincent Carnival is an enormous celebration of music, dance, and artistic expression. Spanning a period of two months, the people of St. Vincent, affectionately known as Vincies, shed their inhibitions and revel in a unique escape from the everyday stresses of life. Referred to as “Vincy Mas,” this carnival extravaganza encompasses a diverse range of events, including the “Miss SVG” Competition, the Parade of the Bands, the Calypso Monarch competition, the King and Queen of Carnival Competition, and a multitude of private fetes. It’s a sensory delight that captivates the eyes, ears, heart, and soul. This annual summer festival reaches its zenith in the final weeks of June through early July.
Before 1977, Vincy Mas was, in fact, a pre-Lenten carnival. The term “carnival” finds its origins in the Latin words ‘carne vale,’ which signify the removal of meat. The historical roots of this festival can be traced back to the Roman Catholic tradition of abstaining from meat, alcohol, and other worldly pleasures for 40 days leading up to Easter. Carnival, therefore, provided the last opportunity to indulge in these desires before the solemn period of Lent commenced.
In its early days, Vincy Mas was primarily observed by European settlers and comprised mostly of private parties and exclusive balls held within people’s homes. However, as the eighteenth century unfolded, the customs and traditions associated with the festival began to evolve, incorporating elements from African customs rooted in African religions, which had been introduced to the island by freed slaves.
What’s included in your St. Kitts Carnival experience?
Accommodation
Your choice of single or double occupancy at Beachcombers Hotel or a Private One Bedroom Apartment.
Airport Transfers and Ground Transportation
Pick-up from and drop-off is available to and from both airports on the island. We arrange daily transportation (private or group) from your accommodation to the events on your itinerary in comfortable, air-conditioned vehicles. Additional transportation services are available on request at an additional cost.
Remember, you need to book your flights separately.
Carnival Costume
Female backline or male costume from Mirage Mas. You can upgrade to a frontline costume subject to availability. Costume pickup and delivery are included. You’ll be parading through the streets in your stunning costume, grooving to the delightful tunes played by live bands and talented DJs. Plus, there will be a variety of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, as well as food, available all day long to ensure you stay energized and refreshed.
J’ouvert Morning Experience
J’ouvert promises to be an unforgettable experience! We’ll start our day by joining Paintopia in the early morning for the J’ouvert fete, where we’ll revel in paint, powder, and water. Afterward, we’ll hit the road behind the colossal trucks, where we’ll groove and dance our way through the morning and into the early afternoon. It’s guaranteed to be an exhilarating blend of sheer enjoyment and infectious energy. St. Vincent J’ouvert is truly one-of-a-kind and an event you simply cannot afford to miss.
Bequia Cool Down
Following the non-stop revelry and carnival festivities, our next destination is the serene island of Bequia, nestled among the Grenadines. Bequia is renowned for its tranquility, boasting lush green landscapes against the backdrop of clear blue skies, pristine air, and expansive, stunning beaches. This island holds a unique charm and is distinguished by the warm, down-to-earth nature of its inhabitants. There’s simply no better place to unwind. Our plan is to visit the delightful Liming Bequia Resort, where we’ll enjoy a leisurely lunch, refreshing drinks, and a day of relaxation on the beach. To reach Bequia, we’ll embark on a 45-minute ferry ride in the morning and return later in the afternoon.
Meet and Greet
Get to know your fellow Soca Islanders who will be jumping alongside you for the week.
Fete Tickets
Tickets to some of the most popular events:
- Dip Pool Party
- Pumpin
- Boozy Boat Ride
- Color Fete HAPPYMESS
- Brunch & Soca
- Soca Monarch
- Wett Republic
- Night Jump
Photography
Professional photos by our group photographer who will be with us for all the events and the street parade.
St. Kitts Carnival payment plan.
Initial Deposit: 15%
Final Payment due on or before October 15, 2024
Soca Islands provides you with the most flexible payment plan making it super easy and affordable to book your St. Kitts Carnival (Sugar Mas) experience by asking for payments in three installments. Your 15% deposit is due upon booking, followed by 35% of the total cost due 30 days after booking. The remaining 50% is due 60 days before your trip.
For bookings made between 90 and 60 days before the start date of the experience, 50% of the total cost of the experience must be paid upon booking.
Bookings made between 60 days and 30 days before the start date of the experience, 100% of the total cost of the experience must be paid upon booking.
St. Kitts and Nevis travel information.
Capital: Basseterre
Time Zone: GMT -04:00
Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar, 1.00 USD = 2.60 XCD
Driving: On the left
Electricity: 110V and 220V
St. Vincent is a paradise that appeals to nature enthusiasts, scuba diving aficionados, and avid hikers alike. Whether you prefer the ease of a scenic bus tour or the thrill of conquering the La Soufriere volcano summit, this world-class island destination offers an array of fantastic activities for everyone. Explore lush tropical gardens, embark on bird-watching adventures, catch an exciting cricket match, and, for some added fun, channel your inner pirate straight out of Pirates of The Caribbean. The possibilities for enjoyment are boundless!
St. Vincent and the Grenadines, a land blessed with pristine white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, dense rainforests, and towering mountains, offers some of the most breathtaking scenery in the Caribbean. Coupled with its rich cultural heritage, vibrant festivals, and an abundance of outdoor activities, it stands as an ideal holiday destination.
When it comes to navigating St. Kitts and Nevis for Carnival
- Taxi: The most convenient mode of transportation is by taxi, readily available on St. Vincent and the larger islands like Bequia, Mustique, and Union Islands. While the government sets taxi rates, taxis typically don’t have meters, so it’s advisable to agree on the fare with the driver before embarking on your journey.
- Car Rental: Rental cars are an option on St. Vincent, but it’s important to note that the roads can be quite challenging to navigate due to their narrowness and occasional potholes. Additionally, driving is on the left side of the road.
- Public Transport: Public transport primarily consists of minibusses and vans. Hailing a bus is similar to flagging down a taxi, and drivers will let you know if their route aligns with your destination. Bus rides are cost-effective, but keep in mind that they can be crowded and slow, as they serve as the primary mode of transportation for locals.
- Ferry: Several ferry companies provide daily services connecting the islands of St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Ferry schedules and routes can vary depending on the season, so it’s essential to check with the ferry company for the most up-to-date information before planning your island-hopping adventures.
What to Do and See in St. Kitts and Nevis during Sugar Mas
Saint Vincent is often described as the quintessential Caribbean destination. This archipelago boasts a total of 32 islands and stands as the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the outside world. Its landscape is a vibrant tapestry of lush mountains and pristine, crystal-clear beaches.
The options for aquatic adventure are abundant, including activities such as snorkeling, scuba diving, and the chance to explore untouched coral reefs. If you’re so inclined, you can also set sail on the turquoise waters or embark on a challenging hike up a 4,000-foot volcano. While many visitors come simply to bask in the sun and soak in the sea, those who time their visit with the carnival season are in for a wild and exhilarating experience.
Where to Stay in St. Kitts and Nevis for Carnival
St. Vincent boasts a selection of incredibly opulent resorts, with many of them situated on private islands adjacent to the main island. These exquisite retreats include destinations like Petit St. Vincent, Palm Island, and Young Island. Among them, the most exclusive is the Mandarin Oriental, Canouan, a favored destination even for royals like Kate and William, attesting to its unparalleled luxury.
For those seeking more budget-friendly yet delightful lodgings, numerous options are available. If you wish to be closer to the carnival action, consider choosing village-style accommodations in the capital of Port Elizabeth. This location provides convenient access to beautiful beaches, charming restaurants, and vibrant bars, all while allowing you to immerse yourself in the local culture and lifestyle.