Sint Maarten Public Holidays 2025
Sint Maarten has 14 public holidays and 0 observances in 2025. Explore the full holiday calendar below.
All Holidays
| Date | Day | Name | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 Jan | Wed | New Year's Day | public |
| 18 Apr | Fri | Good Friday | public |
| 20 Apr | Sun | Easter Sunday | public |
| 21 Apr | Mon | Easter Monday | public |
| 27 Apr | Sun | King's Day | public |
| 30 Apr | Wed | Carnival | public |
| 1 May | Thu | Labour Day | public |
| 29 May | Thu | Ascension Day | public |
| 8 Jun | Sun | Pentecost | public |
| 1 Jul | Tue | Emancipation Day | public |
| 9 Oct | Thu | Constitution Day | public |
| 11 Nov | Tue | Sint Maarten Day | public |
| 25 Dec | Thu | Christmas Day | public |
| 26 Dec | Fri | Boxing Day | public |
About Sint Maarten's Holidays
Sint Maarten marks a mix of national, public, and cultural days that blend Dutch ties and Caribbean tradition. Christian holidays like Easter and Christmas are widely observed and treated as public holidays, with family gatherings and church services common.
Dutch national dates such as Kings Day and Labour Day are observed because Sint Maarten is part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. Local history and freedom are honored with Emancipation Day and the October constitutional anniversary, which remind people of the islands political changes.
Carnival is the islands biggest cultural festival. It is a colorful series of parades, music, dancing, and street parties that brings communities and visitors together for several days each year.
Holiday Traditions
People in Sint Maarten celebrate with bright music, dancing in the streets, and colorful costumes. Parades and live bands bring communities together. Local traditions mix Dutch, African, and Caribbean influences that shape the joyful mood.
Families gather for big meals and time together. Fish, goat, barbecue, rice dishes, and sweet breads are common. Sharing food and stories is important. Homes fill with laughter as generations pass down recipes and songs.
Public events often include fireworks, beach parties, and religious services. Markets sell local crafts, spices, and rum punches. Everyone joins in, creating a warm, friendly atmosphere that celebrates community, heritage, and island life.
Travel Tips
Sint Maarten (SX) gets busy during the holiday season. Many shops, banks, and government offices may close on key holiday dates, so plan errands and paperwork for other days if possible.
Airports, ferries, and roads are more crowded. Book flights, ferries, and car rentals early to secure times and prices. Allow extra time for check in and security at Princess Juliana International Airport.
Be ready for higher hotel and restaurant prices. Some restaurants may fully book for holiday nights, so reserve ahead. Public transport runs but can be slower because of traffic and events.
Pack light layers for warm days and cooler evenings. Keep copies of your documents and travel insurance. Know local emergency numbers and carry cash for small vendors.