St. Maarten Heineken Regatta Expands Food Court for 2026
The St. Maarten Heineken Regatta is inviting local and regional food vendors to apply for a place in its expanded Food Court for the 2026 event, hosted March 5-8, 2026 at Port de Plaisance. Following a highly successful year in 2025, which featured eight food vendors and a vibrant, well-loved food court atmosphere, the Regatta organisation is looking to grow the offering even further.
With the Regatta’s free, open-access format continuing to attract larger and more diverse crowds, organisers see significant potential to expand both the size of the food court and the range of cuisine available. For 2026, there will be 10 vendor slots available, creating new opportunities for businesses to showcase their food to thousands of locals and visitors over the four-day event.
The goal is to celebrate St. Maarten’s rich and diverse food culture. Vendors from all culinary backgrounds are encouraged to apply, from local and regional favourites to innovative concepts that thrive in a lively, festival-style environment. The focus will be on curating a high-quality, diverse, and balanced food offering that enhances the overall Regatta experience for sailors, spectators, and the wider community alike.
Both Dutch-side and French-side vendors are welcome to apply. All food vendors must be registered businesses, hold the required permits to sell food, and ensure that all staff have valid food handling certificates. Sustainability remains a core pillar of the St. Maarten Heineken Regatta. For 2026, the event will once again implement a Sustainable Supplier Code for all food vendors, with non-sustainable packaging materials restricted. To support vendors, the Regatta team will also assist in sourcing approved sustainable packaging options at a discount, helping reduce environmental impact while keeping operations efficient.
Food vendors will be selected through a curated application process, with final decisions made by the event organisation. Applications are reviewed based on several factors, including:
- Concept and originality of the offering
- Product quality and preparation
- Ability to operate efficiently during peak periods
- Experience, professionalism, and food safety standards
- Contribution to menu balance, cuisine diversity, and price range
- Practical considerations such as space, power, and logistics
Applications will be accepted via an online sign-up form, where vendors can submit their details and formally acknowledge all terms and conditions, including operational rules and sustainability requirements. Food vendors looking to be part of one of St. Maarten’s most iconic events are encouraged to apply early and join in delivering an unforgettable Regatta experience on shore.
The application deadline is January 30. Interested vendors can apply via: www.heinekenregatta.com/party/
