Saint-Barthélemy, an island synonymous with luxury and elegance, is also a lively destination for some of the Caribbean’s most exclusive events. Every season brings its own festivities, from spectacular regattas to music and food festivals, as well as traditional local celebrations. Whether you’re a sailing enthusiast, a lover of art and culture, or in search of refined culinary experiences, Saint Barts offers a unique year-round program. Here’s a guide to the not-to-be-missed events you won’t want to miss if you want to experience the island’s elegant, festive atmosphere to the full.
1. Saint Barts Cata Cup – The Sailing Event
📅 November
📍 Baie de Saint-Jean
Every year, the Saint Barts Cata Cup attracts the world’s best sailors for an exceptional regatta of sport catamarans. This nautical spectacle is a unique opportunity to admire the competitors evolve in a spectacular setting.
💡 Why attend?
- An intense competition with top-class sailors.
- A festive atmosphere with parties and entertainment on the beach.
- The opportunity to discover sailing in a heavenly setting.
2. Gustavia Lights – The Magic of Christmas
📅 December
📍 Gustavia
During the festive season, Gustavia is transformed into a bright and magical village, with sumptuous decorations, Christmas markets and concerts.
💡 Why attend?
- A warm, festive atmosphere.
- Free shows and concerts on the port.
- An ideal time for luxury pre-Christmas shopping.
3. Saint Barts New Year’s Eve – Le Réveillon des Stars
📅 December 31st
📍 Gustavia & private beaches
Saint Barts is a favorite New Year’s Eve destination for celebrities. From private parties in sumptuous villas to spectacular fireworks displays visible from Gustavia harbor, the island vibrates to the rhythm of the festivities.
💡 Why attend?
- The chance to meet stars and influential personalities.
- Exclusive evenings at beach clubs and luxury hotels.
- A spectacular fireworks display illuminating the Caribbean Sea.
4. Bucket Regatta – The Elegance of Sailing
📅 March
📍 Gustavia Bay
The Saint Barts Bucket Regatta is an iconic event that brings together some of the world’s finest yachts for an elegant and prestigious race.
💡 Why attend?
- A breathtaking spectacle of majestic sailing ships.
- A sophisticated and exclusive atmosphere.
- Festivities around Gustavia harbour with entertainment and concerts.
5. Saint Barts Music Festival
📅 January
📍 Various locations on the island
This festival celebrates classical and contemporary music with concerts by international artists in exceptional venues.
💡 Why attend?
- Unique performances in sumptuous settings.
- A varied program of classical, jazz and world music.
- A refined, intimate atmosphere.
6. Saint-Barthélemy Carnival
📅 February
📍 Gustavia & main streets
The Carnaval de Saint Barts is a colorful, festive event that brings together locals and visitors alike for costume parades, dancing and concerts.
💡 Why attend?
- A colorful show with traditional floats and costumes.
- An authentic, friendly Caribbean atmosphere.
- Activities and festivities all over the island.
7. Les Voiles de Saint Barts Richard Mille
📅 April
📍 Around the island
This renowned regatta attracts world-class sailors for an intense competition where performance and elegance meet.
💡 Why attend?
- A week of spectacular racing with the best crews.
- A festive atmosphere with exclusive concerts and evenings.
- An exceptional setting between turquoise sea and green hills.
8. Caribbean Film Festival – The Art of Cinema in the Caribbean
📅 June
📍 Gustavia
This festival highlights Caribbean and international cinema, with screenings of independent films, debates and meetings with directors.
💡 Why attend?
- An immersion in Caribbean film culture.
- Discover never-before-seen films and committed documentaries.
- Open-air screenings in an enchanting setting.
9. Saint Barts Gourmet Festival – A Culinary Rendez-Vous not to be missed
📅 November
📍 Island restaurants
This gastronomic festival brings together Michelin-starred chefs from around the world to create exceptional menus in the island’s finest establishments.
💡 Why attend?
- A unique culinary experience with exclusive dishes.
- Collaborations between international chefs and local talent.
- The chance to enjoy fine food in an idyllic setting.
10. Calendar of events St Barts
January
Saint Barts Music Festival – Classical and contemporary music concerts in exceptional venues.
February
Carnaval de Saint-Barthélemy – Colorful parades and festive entertainment in Gustavia.
March
Bucket Regatta – Prestigious yacht race in Gustavia Bay.
April
Les Voiles de Saint Barts Richard Mille – International regatta with spectacular races and exclusive festivities.
June
Caribbean Film Festival – Screenings and meetings on Caribbean and international cinema.
November
Saint Barts Cata Cup – Catamaran competition featuring sailors from around the world.
Saint Barts Gourmet Festival – Gastronomic experience with Michelin-starred chefs in the island’s restaurants.
December
Gustavia Lights – Christmas market and enchanting illuminations.
Saint Barts New Year’s Eve – Exclusive New Year’s Eve with spectacular parties and fireworks.
Exclusive experience with Prestige Villa Rental
To make the most of these events in a luxurious and exclusive setting, Prestige Villa Rental offers :
- Stays in private villas, with breathtaking views of the festivities.
- VIP access and personalized reservations for the most popular events.
- Complete organization of tailor-made experiences, including private dinners, excursions and yacht trips.
Conclusion
Whether you’re a fan of sailing, gastronomy or music, or simply looking for a stay punctuated by prestigious events, Saint Barts offers a varied and upscale program all year round. With Prestige Villa Rental, experience these exceptional moments in a luxurious and refined setting.
