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New Year St. Kitts & Nevis holidays
The New Year is another popular celebration for those in St Kitts and Nevis and the party does not stop after Christmas. Sugar Mas, one of the biggest events on the islands, continues through the new year with the grand parade that sees the entire cast of the sugar mas carnival hit the streets of Basseterre. With a pageantry of colour and music, there are huge floats that carry steel, brass and string bands who all compete to be the loudest. There are also people dancing everywhere you look, and the environment is welcoming and friendly, with many of the locals eager to talk and dance with you. Towards the end of the carnival, there are fireworks, and everyone gathers in the streets to celebrate the New Year.
New Year holidays to St. Kitts & Nevis
New Year traditions in St. Kitts & Nevis
People participating in the carnival usually make their own costumes, especially those competing for the various pageants. These costumes are colourful, vibrant, and stunning – attracting everyone’s gaze. As the carnival heads towards Basseterre, the streets will be filled with local people dancing and drinking, as such is tradition. It is up to you whether you want to be within the beating heart of it all – among the dancers and traditional figures, such as the Moko-Jumbies, or if you would prefer to be simply watching from the crowds.
The last event that usually takes place is the crowning of the Carnival Queen and is a popular celebration, and folklore music throughout New Year's Day and the 2nd of January – but the energy never dips over the 6-week period, and you do not want to miss this staple Caribbean carnival that blends holiday festivities with traditional St Kitts culture.
Best places to celebrate New Year in St. Kitts & Nevis
To be amongst the dancing, partying and fun, head to Basseterre where the carnival is at its busiest. Here you will be amidst partygoers, locals, and performers alike. Enjoy and dance to Calypso music, watching performers on incredibly high stilts dance dangerously, or watch as traditional characters such as clowns, pass by. The restaurants and bars along the Strip are also the perfect place to take in the atmosphere.
If you are looking for a quieter place to relax and enjoy the New Year, head to Frigate Bay, close to Basseterre. Not too far away from the action in Basseterre, you will enjoy walking along the soft sand and watching the gentle waves as it brings in the new year.
Best hotels to celebrate New Year in St. Kitts & Nevis
For those looking for a luxurious resort, The St Kitts Marriott Resort & The Royal Beach Casino is the perfect spot. Located on Frigate Bay, this expansive resort offers a luxury spa and a salon, with one- and two-bedroom suites. It boasts a relaxing and romantic atmosphere for an idyllic new years celebration with your partner.
If you are celebrating the new year with friends or family and would rather be away from all the partying and noise – the Montpelier Plantation Beach is a 4-star, family-friendly hotel with access to a private beach. Alternatively, be in the middle of the action when you stay at Belle Mont Farm, a stunning 4-star hotel, ideal for those with bigger families or friends.