Rockin’ Good Times
July has arrived on our sunny shores, and it’s rolling in with a bold and beautiful theme: Independence! It’s time to plan for a festive long weekend, to schedule in some time to soak in some fun in the sin because there’s no better time to get Out ‘N About and celebrate freedom in all its fabulous forms.
We already kicked off the month with a day of deep cultural pride, St. Maarten’s Emancipation Day, celebrated this past Tuesday, July 1st. It’s a powerful moment to honor freedom from slavery and reflect on our island’s vibrant history, culture, and community spirit. Many took the opportunity to join in ceremonies, community events, and other took a mid-week break to simply relax and enjoy a day of well-earned rest. Coincidentally, July 1st was also Canada Day! Here’s a ‘Shout-out’ to our Canadian readers and visitors, we hope you celebrated the occasion with some fun in the sun or a night our on the town!
But don’t hang up your “red, white and blue” party shoes just yet, this Friday is July 4th, American Independence Day, and things are spicing up across the island! While we can’t confirm fireworks just yet, there may be a sparkling show near some of the larger resorts. Want to catch it? Be sure to call ahead to check with your favorite resort to confirm times, viewing spots and then make a reservation to dine or stay over there.
And let’s talk nightlife and eats! For those hungry for freedom and flavor, head over to Replay Bar at Simpson Bay Resort where they’re serving up a delicious deal: All-you-can-eat burgers, beers, and bourbon for just $45 USD (for two whole hours!). It’s the perfect pre-party feast or laid-back evening out with friends. Saturday, July 5th is a Summer BBQ with live music event at SXM Beer, also $45 USD, with portion of the proceeds going to local charities such as Animal Defenders, Animal Welfare Foundation, The Nature Foundation, Island Cat Rescue, SXM Paws and Three Little Birds Project.
Craving some rock with your rum? Swing by the American Sports Bar, Kraken Raw Bar in Simpson Bay for a special live performance by "False Idiols", the brand-new band curated by beloved, rockstar Lee Hardesty. It’s their debut, and the buzz is already electric, so don’t miss it! Another great American style Rock N Roll performance on July 4th is at Hole in the Wall in Maho Village, by Bobby Jagger and Gianfranco, sure to showcase those Bruce Springsteen and Rolling Stones rocking vibes. July 5th, the We Lounge hosting a Chutney Soca Rave with a live band from Trinidad and Guyana, plus local DJs. This event marks the re-opener for We Lounge, who has moved locations from Maho to Simpson Bay becoming neighbors with Pineapple Pete’s Restaurant.
Looking further ahead, Bastille Day is coming up mid-July and will be celebrated with French flair on the French side of the island. Expect festive food, music, and island joie de vivre to fill the streets in honor of France’s historic day of revolution. Events will be held in Marigot waterfront and Orient Bay Beach, so stayed tuned into to Out ‘N About for further detail.
July is the Month to embrace your independence, which may be professional, such as a summer break from school, maybe patriotic for a country such as St. Maarten, St. Martin, France, USA, or Canada, or a personal break to take the weekend escape from routine. We recommend you dance to your own rhythm, toast to freedom, and explore all those “free spirited” vibes that St. Maarten-St. Martin has to offer. Flip to page 4 for our full event listings, and start planning your independent, island style, Out ‘N About party weekend!
