SXM Festival
1. What sets SXM Festival 2026 apart from previous years?
Even though we’ve been operating for 11 years, 2026 is our ninth edition, and we’ve lifted the standard to prepare for a major 10th anniversary next year. The logistics, artistic direction, and flow across the island are more refined than ever. This edition really sets the foundation for a historic 2027.
2. Line-up and highlights: What should people be excited about?
The highlight is definitely Carl Cox. His parents are Barbadian, he grew up in the UK, and he hasn’t performed in the Caribbean in more than a decade, so this return is meaningful for him and for the region. Having someone with Caribbean roots, who became one of the world’s greatest DJs perform here, is a big moment for St. Martin. Deep Dish, Elderbrook, and many rising artists also bring strong energy, and we always leave room for surprise sets unique to SXM.
3. Sustainability and local impact: What concrete steps are planned?
Since we live here, respecting the island is essential. We’ve expanded eco-programs, improved waste systems and reduced single-use materials. Thousands of visitors support taxis, hotels, restaurants, rentals, shops, and local workers, and the festival has become a second Christmas week for both sides of the island.
4. “Island as dance floor” – how does it play out this year?
We use venues on both the Dutch and French sides, so visitors experience the entire island. Ninety-five percent lands on the Dutch side, but surveys show they stay, eat, and explore equally on both. It’s a small island, so people naturally move everywhere, and the festival guides them to discover its most beautiful settings throughout all five days and nights. Attendees stay eight days on average.
5. Community and inclusivity: Will you continue without VIP?
Yes. Our venues now feel like one big open lounge where people move freely from the main stage to the beach, ocean, bars, and food area. We kept only a small number of platforms for those who want a calmer, dedicated space, but removing VIP keeps the spirit of unity that electronic music is built on. It’s about people sharing a moment together, without barriers.
6. What’s your advice for first-timers, especially locals who have never attended?
SXM Festival isn’t a concert in the traditional sense. House music isn’t pop or hip-hop, it’s not about singing along or waiting for songs you know. It’s mostly rhythms and textures that create a soundtrack for the environment. The real experience is the vibe – the décor, the art, the lights, the jungle and beach settings, and the immersive world we create. Even if music isn’t your thing, take a look at the line-up and check out the Spotify and I’m sure you will discover a very different sound that you anticipated. You come to the festival to enjoy the atmosphere, the visuals, and you will come back for the positive energy.
7. What are the biggest challenges in organizing a festival like this?
The logistics are the hardest part. We work across beaches, villas, hills, and two jurisdictions, and with one main road, moving equipment and people requires careful planning. Weather and global flight disruptions can also affect travel of artistes and attendees, and communication networks aren’t always reliable. But every year, we adapt and improve, and these challenges are part of what make the festival unique.
8. What’s your vision for the next five to 10 years?
SXM Festival was created to be a marketing engine for the island, promoting St. Martin all year long. The goal is to help attract more international events of all kinds, because every event brings visitors and strong economic impact. If St. Martin hosts more sports, cultural, or music gatherings, the benefits spread across the entire island. SXM Festival shows what’s possible, and we hope it inspires more global events to choose our phenomenal island as their home too!
Visit sxmfestival.com for more info on the event.
