Equal parts beauty and mystique, Saint Lucia captivates anyone who sets foot on her coastline. With her sandy white beaches and volcanic mud baths, Saint Lucia has a lot to offer to any Carnivalist. Like many other years, 2024 will be a two day carnival experience with a lot of Lucian flair.

The parades will take place on July 15-16, 2024. 

GETTING THERE

St. Lucia has two airports, UVF in the south of the island which is about a 1.5 hour drive from Gros Islet and SLU which is in Castries. SLU tends to be more expensive to fly into [for international flights] but it is the more convenient airport. Flight prices can be vary, so purchase early or really late and utilize one way tickets to get into the island. There is a 90 minute ferry ride from Martinique if you are looking for ideas to break up your trip.

Regarding transportation, make connections with your taxi drivers, I usually hire one of them to become my driver while there. Most hotels have taxi services on their grounds or they are able to contact them for you at the concierge desk.

WHERE TO PARTY 

While some events are more coveted than others, you will have an amazing time at any you choose to attend. Remember you are the vibe. A fete list will be provided in April 2024.

St. Lucia Carnival 2024 events are on the following dates: July 8 – July 17, 2024

WHERE TO GET COSTUMES

There are several bands to choose from but no band is like the other. Costume prices are fairly consistent, you can get a frontline costume between the range of $950-$1200usd. Utilize Facebook (FB) & Instagram (IG) to find more information on the bands.

These are your band options:

• Xuvo Carnival
• Just 4 Fun Carnival
• Red Carnival
• Insommeil Carnival 
• Fuzion Mas
• Legends Carnival
• Island Tribe
• Taboo Carnival
• The Tribe of Twel
• Looshan Revelers
• Pheonix Carnival

Important to know: Saint Lucians wear their elaborate costumes on Carnival Monday (July 15) and gemmed bodywear or parts of their carnival costumes on Carnival Tuesday (July 16).

WHERE TO STAY

Known as one of the hottest vacation spots, St. Lucia has some of the best hotels in the Caribbean. If you plan to attend any fetes, shows or the carnival parades, I would recommend staying in the Rodney Bay or Gros Islet area. Some hotels to check out are:

• The Landings Resort & Spa 
• Harbor Club St. Lucia – On the main road to and from events
• Hideaway at Royalton
• Royalton Resort & Spa
• Bay Gardens Hotel – antiquated but ideally located
• Bay Gardens Resort & Spa – antiquated but delish food & great customer service
• Windjammer – A bit tucked away but if you have a car, or a personal driver, it’s do-able

TOURISTY THINGS TO CHECKOUT

From mas to jungle-clad waterfalls, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some touristy things to do before or after your Saint Lucian Carnival experience.

• Pitons Waterfall (Soufriere & the Pitons)
• Sulphur Springs (Soufriere & the Pitons)
• Project Chocolat Tour & Experiences 
• Naked Fisherman Beach Bar 
• Millet Bird Sanctuary

If this is your first carnival experience, make sure to checkout this newbie guide. 

Yours in Mas,