St. Maarten, March 25, 2024 – The 2nd annual SXM Lagoon Festival 2024 concluded this past weekend, marking a resounding success in celebrating the vibrant culture, culinary arts, and maritime heritage of St. Maarten. From March 21st to March 24th, locals and visitors immersed themselves in a weekend of festivities set against the picturesque backdrop of the island’s lagoon.
The festival kicked off with the Best of the Best Chef Competition on Thursday, March 21, hosted at The Yacht Club at Port de Plaisance. Attendees witnessed culinary excellence as talented chefs showcased their skills, with Antoine Malet from Motor Yacht TC emerging victorious as the winner of the 2nd Annual SXM Lagoon Fest, Best of the Best Chef Competition. The evening continued with the Kickoff Party, featuring a fire show and robot dancer, definitely generating excitement for the days to come.
Friday, March 22, saw mixologists showcase their craft at the Cocktail Competition held at Palapa Marina. Kevin Jeremie clinched the title of the mixologist competition winner, dazzling judges and attendees with his expertly crafted cocktails. He took home a round trip to St. Maarten, including accommodation. 2nd place saw Julio Bofill as the winner, who won a gift certificate from La Palapa and third place winner Erion Peterson received a beautiful gift basket from sponsor CC1. The night culminated in the Jungle Party, featuring electrifying beats by DJs Jayson Miro and Cal Um.
Saturday, March 23, delighted food enthusiasts with the Food Truck Festival at Skyport Marina. Attendees savored a diverse array of mouthwatering dishes served up by local food trucks, experiencing the island’s rich culinary heritage in one vibrant location.
The festival reached its climax on Sunday, March 24, with the Carnival by the Bay & Closing Party at Yacht Club Isle del Sol, where attendees danced to the rhythm of Caribbean beats, with the steelpan band, carnival and stilt dancers bringing cultural carnival influences. A raffle saw three lucky winners: Stacy De Leon, who won a ticket to Miami, Nadika Carti, winner of a Cost U Less Beach Cabana and Kathy Tromp took home a Cost U Less Beach Table, making this a grand finale to an already unforgettable weekend of celebration.
“We are thrilled with the overwhelming success of the SXM Lagoon Festival 2024,” said organizers. “The festival showcased the best of St. Maarten’s culinary scene, mixology talents, and maritime traditions, creating cherished memories for all who attended.”
The SXM Lagoon Festival wouldn’t be possible without the support of its sponsors: Ezshop powered by Prime, CC1, PDG Supplies, Cost U Less, Molongo and St. Maarten Tourist Bureau.
Prepare to bask in the Caribbean sun, tantalize your taste buds with exquisite flavors, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of St. Maarten at the SXM Lagoon Festival 2025. Stay tuned for updates by contacting info@smmta.com or following us on social media.
About SXM Lagoon Festival:
The SXM Lagoon Festival celebrates the rich cultural heritage, culinary delights, and maritime traditions of St. Maarten. Held annually, the festival brings together locals and visitors for a week of festivities, including culinary competitions, mixology showcases, and sailing events, against the backdrop of the island’s stunning lagoon.
