Carnival on St. Maarten, is the pinnacle of the island's calendar, and features colorful parades, pageants, regional and international artists and "jump-ups." A jump-up is a parade where local and international bands on big flatbed trucks play and entertain thousands of merrymakers as they slowly make their way through the streets to the Carnival Village.

Carnival revelers are treated to great music, incredible island cuisine, a festive nightlife, and of course, great shopping. And everyone who is anyone is present at the Last Lap, the grand finale of the Carnival, when the straw figure of King Momo goes up in smoke, with the hopes that the island will have good luck in the future.

The sweet life at The Summit Hotel

And where do smart Carnival revelers stay? At the inimitable Summit Hotel, of course! The Summit Hotel is ranked #1 of the 3 hotels in Cupecoy Bay on TripAdvisor.com, and for the last 38 years, it's been a favorite destination because of its friendly and welcoming staff, immaculate and comfortable rooms and incredible views over Simpson Bay Lagoon. Let the Summit spoil you with "Old world Caribbean charm" in a beautiful and peaceful private setting. It's a place for romance, memory-making with families, and frolicking with friends.

If you haven't yet tasted the unique flavor of St. Maarten, or experienced the Carnival, we're offering a special rate of $85 a night* which includes round trip van transportation to Phillipsburg each day, where the Carnival takes place.

*Rates are subject to a 10% service charge, 5.75% government tax and 5% utility surcharge.