St. Maarten Carnival 2026 extended by one week for 55th Anniversary edition

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) has officially announced that Carnival 2026, marking the 55th edition of the island's premier cultural festival, will be extended by an entire week to accommodate a more extensive schedule of events and high public demand.

The originally announced dates have been revised to reflect the extended celebration from April 10, 2026, to May 5, 2026. Including the pre-Carnival events in March, Carnival enthusiasts can anticipate more than a month of festivities, "offering revelers more music, more mas, more culture, and more Sweet SXM energy." This decision responds to unprecedented interest from cultural participants, stakeholders, and the public, alongside SCDF's commitment to delivering a Carnival that honors both tradition and evolution.

"The people want more, and we're ready to give it to them," SCDF stated. "The bands, the troupes, the DJs, the chefs, the promoters, everyone is energized and ready to turn it up. So we asked ourselves, why limit greatness?" the SCDF said.

The extension was also motivated by SCDF's need for more space to host a broader range of cultural events, including the reintroduction of traditional shows and competitions that have not been featured in recent years. "Carnival 55 promises to reflect the full spectrum of St. Maarten's vibrant heritage."

SCDF emphasized that Carnival 2026 will be a milestone year, not only in duration but also in scale and visibility. With increased marketing, public engagement campaigns, renewed private sector partnerships, and an expanded relationship with the Government of St. Maarten, the foundation aims to make the 55th anniversary of Carnival a truly unforgettable experience.

"If you were planning to come, come earlier. If you were planning to play mas, get ready to play harder. And if you're from here, get ready to show the world how we celebrate life on Sweet Soualiga."

The official dates for St. Maarten Carnival 2026 have been announced on SCDF’s social media channels. The foundation urges both locals and tourists to mark their calendars, book in advance, and get ready for an extraordinary celebration. "Come. Experience Life."