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loud drum and calypso beats, glittering and feathered costumes,
mouthwatering food, lots of drinks and thousands of happy
people, blend them all together and enjoy the most cultural
festivity on St Martin/St Maarten: the Caribbean Carnival...
The island's wildest celebration, held on both sides
but on different dates. The French carnival fever takes hold
during Lent where 'jump-ups' and huge parades color the streets
of Marigot and Grand-Case. Zouk and reggae fills every corner
with performances from popular local and international bands.
A larger celebration is held in April on the Dutch side where
the island comes to a standstill for over 17 days and nights.
For months locals put their souls into sewing Carnival costumes
and writing songs ready for the big celebrations. Some of
the most beautiful creations of previous carnival seasons
are at display inside the Jump Up Casino in Philipsburg. Go
there to get a true taste of Sint Maarten Carnival, even if
you missed the original celebration.
 Each
Carnival inspires a fresh and marvelous batch of calypso,
often satirical and politically charged. The Calypsonians
will compete for the title of Calypso King or Queen, a contest
that draws hundreds of musicians and dancers from all the
neighboring islands. If the partygoers are not hitting the
street they are most likely to be jammin' in Carnival Village
which sits on the edge of Philipsburg and is constructed just
for the carnival.
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