
Festivals of cultural splendour and musical excellence
abound in St.Kitts. With each of the nine major
villages having festivals at a specific time of
year, there is always some form of cultural activity
to bear witness to on the island.
ST. KITTS CARNIVAL
The celebration of carnival in St. Kitts is unique
in many ways. It's the only one in the Caribbean
that blends the spirit of Christmas with the
colorful display of the nation's culture and
African heritage. For the past thirty-three
(33) years thousands of nationals and visitors
alike, have been flocking to the 68 square
mile paradise, to party and soak up al the
fun and engage in the frolic association with
carnival.
ST. KITTS MUSIC FESTIVAL
Throughout its early months of existence, the
St. Kitts Music Festival was referred to as "The
Shak Shak Festival", named for the shak
shaks that blossom on the Poinciana (Cock and
Hen Tree), during summer months. But that name
was only sparingly used in the first year,
as it was felt that it might soon become tiresome.
A simpler alternative, the "St. Kitts
Music Festival" was suggested and adopted.
Overnight, the St. Kitts
Music Festival went from a position of obscurity
to the Caribbean
Festival to "keep an eye on". The organizing
committee was also commended for keeping the
premises safe for festival patrons and for creating
an event of great value for money. That year,
tickets sold for EC$60.00 with Season passes
going for a mere EC$240.00.
NATIONAL ARTS FESTIVAL
The National Arts Festival was first introduced
in the 1960’s and was spearheaded by
former Premier Paul Southwell. It was designed
to unearth and develop the creative talents
of our people. This was successful in that
a number of cultural groups and individuals
in the many different disciplines emerged.
|