The Best New Years Day Experience – Carnival in St. Kitts 2024 (details inside)

Thirty days ago, I welcomed 2024 in an unparalleled state of euphoria, surrounded by the pulsating rhythms and vibrant energy of St. Kitts Carnival. As I danced through the streets with the acclaimed band of the year, Ultra Carnival, I couldn’t help but be swept away by the infectious spirit of Sugarmas.

St. Kitts Carnival, affectionately known as Sugarmas is an annual celebration deeply ingrained in the island’s culture and heritage. Spanning from mid December to early January, it’s a time when the entire island comes alive with music, dance, and revelry. Since its inception in the 1950s, Sugarmas has been St. Kitts’ preferred way of ringing in the new year, with costumed masqueraders, steel pan drum bands, and pageant queens taking to the streets in a dazzling display of creativity and tradition.

WHERE I STAYED

I arrived in St. Kitts on Boxing Day, a holiday both in the UK and the Caribbean. Despite missing the vibrant jouvert celebration, I couldn’t wait to immerse myself in the island’s charm. My journey began with a smooth welcome and immigration process courtesy of Kayan Jet, setting the tone for a delightful stay ahead.

My accommodation for the trip was the serene Koi Resort, [about $175 per night] an Asian-inspired oasis, that would be my home for the next nine days. Nestled amidst lush greenery, the resort offered a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of St. Kitts. While the property boasted only two restaurants, I found myself pleasantly surprised by the culinary delights they offered, with an average cost of around $50 USD per meal (excluding alcohol), dining here was not only a treat for the taste buds but also for the senses.

WHERE I PARTIED

Immersing myself in the vibrant spirit of St. Kitts, my journey took me from one exhilarating carnival event to another, each leaving an indelible mark on my memory.

The excitement kicked off with Panorama [$15usd], a traditional carnival extravaganza where pannists showcased their skills in a spirited competition. The pulsating rhythms and mesmerizing melodies filled the air as each pan group brought their A-game, leaving the crowd in awe of their talent and energy.

Next on the itinerary was Bacchanal Sundown [$45usd], an all-inclusive fete nearby the picturesque waterfront. The cozy atmosphere and lively ambiance made it the perfect setting to unwind and revel in the carnival spirit.

Top Off Brunch offered a unique fusion of culinary delights, artistic expression, and infectious music that kept us dancing well into the night. What I enjoyed most was the interactive painting sessions while sipping boozy cocktails and belting out 2000s lyrics with my friends. As the day progressed and the drinks continued to flow, the atmosphere became increasingly euphoric. By early evening, it was clear that the crowd was feeling the effects of the libations.

Inception Fete [$94usd], held from 12AM to 12PM was a delightful all inclusive fete with Asa Bantan providing us with the most memorable performance around 8AM that morning. From endless drinks to sumptuous food, every aspect of the event was curated to ensure maximum enjoyment. Dancing the night away under the starlit sky, surrounded by fellow revelers, was an experience like no other.

The highlight of my carnival journey was undoubtedly DJ Tero’s Sunset, Wild Safari [$140usd]. From the moment I stepped into the venue, I was swept away by the infectious energy and pulsating beats. The security staff ensured a safe and seamless experience, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the festivities. With an abundance of food and drinks, including flowing prosecco well into the early hours of the morning, the party showed no signs of slowing down.

PLAYING MAS WITH ULTRA CARNIVAL

My Ultra Carnival experience at St. Kitts Carnival was nothing short of extraordinary, from the virtual band launch to the seamless registration process and attentive staff, every detail was meticulously handled, ensuring a memorable experience from start to finish.

The anticipation built as we picked up our carnival costumes the day before mas, and I was thrilled with my beautifully designed Great Serengeti section. The only regret I had was not purchasing a day two outfit to fully immerse myself in the Ultra-ness of the celebration.

Day one of the carnival festivities kicked off around 11AM, with drinks flowing freely and delectable mini snacks being passed around to masqueraders. The band lines up by section, maintaining order and cohesion throughout the procession, with multiple judging points along the route. Once we crossed the stage, we were free to mix and mingle within our sections, adding to the exhilarating atmosphere of the day.

Day two started with a BBQ exclusively for Ultra Masqueraders, a delightful treat for a foodie like myself. The Ultra DJs set the mood with a mix of international soca hits while paying homage to St. Kitts, seamlessly blending the island’s culture with the carnival celebration. It was evident that Ultra remained true to the spirit of St. Kitts throughout the festivities.

What truly impressed me was the affordability of the Ultra Carnival experience, starting at just $450 USD. Many also chose the option to participate in only day two as the crowd was even more vibrant and lively, making for an unforgettable celebration.

As the day drew to a close and I reluctantly prepared to leave, I couldn’t help but reflect on why Ultra Carnival rightfully earned its title as band of the year. From the impeccable organization to the vibrant energy and sense of community, it was a carnival experience unlike any other. My time with Ultra Carnival will be cherished for years to come, a testament to the joy and camaraderie that defines St. Kitts Carnival.