The Best Time to Visit Martinique

When is the Best Time to Visit Martinique?

The months of April and May provide favorable visiting conditions for Martinique by avoiding both the wet season starting in June and the peak December through March period. Mild temperatures and less rainfall during this timeframe allow exploring the island comfortably while also finding better deals on accommodations, flights, and activities.

• Optimum Period to Visit Martinique: Both wetness from rainfall and crowds tend to be lesser, plus values are superior, rendering the months of April to May as the most suited time to visit Martinique. Spring sees tourism at its lowest ebb, yielding it an advantageous time for those searching for deals and fewer visitors. April and May permit travel in spite of increasing humidity owing to the temporary inexpensive rates and conclusion of the peak season swarms, and additional accommodations accept guests for business than in the stormy summer, frequently at reduced costs. Visiting in these months likewise guarantees avoidance of the worst storms that typically initiate in June, as well as the considerably raised prices of the most active season.

In a reworked structure:

• Best Timeframe to Reserve Hotels in Martinique: For the best deals, commence evaluating a holiday package 3-4 months just before the anticipated travel dates. To experience a Martinique Carnival, initiate looking for a hotel up to 4-5 months ahead of time.
• Most Advantageous Phase to Pay a Visit for Satisfactory Climate: Martinique is situated in the focal point of the Caribbean’s Eastern group of islands and has an intensely hot and damp, tropical climate all year. There are 2 unique seasons in Martinique, dry and wet. The months that offer the finest conditions are somewhere between February and May when the slightest measure of precipitation is normal and the normal low temperature extends from 22-23°C, while the normal high ranges from 27.5-30°C.
• Optimal Time Period for Financial Conservation: The months of May through November present a very cost-effective timeframe for travelling as it constitutes low season. Crowds will be virtually non-existent and some lodging facilities will be closed. Throughout this phase, certain hotel rates are decreased by 60%. Airfares are also more affordable and some truly outstanding traveling packages can be discovered. In addition to the substantial deals, since the island rarely encounters extremely unfavorable weather, there remains an opportunity to enjoy some outdoor activities.
• Best time to engage in festivities: February presents an ideal opportunity to experience Martinique`s culture and traditions, especially around Vaval. Martinique`s Carnival celebration is a highly anticipated annual event that typically takes place in early February, spanning four days filled with music, costuming, and parades. In 2011, National Geographic designated this as one of the top 10 carnival festivities globally.

Martinique Travel Seasons

• Peak Season (December to mid-April): From December to April is the dry period in Martinique, making it the busiest time of the year with the largest crowds of visitors and highest hotel rates. Additionally, many of the most popular festivals on the island take place during the peak season, notably Vaval or Carnival, which happens in February. Hotels and restaurants are generally operating at their maximum efficiency and are fully staffed to offer the best service. Extra amenities such as classes, tours and activities, events, and attractions may only be available to travelers during the busy peak season when hotels are certain of high demand. It is important to note that nearly all of the island’s services aimed toward tourists will be booked far in advance. Hotels, especially the more luxurious all-inclusive ones, should have reservations made at least 4-5 months ahead. Making reservations for recreational activities and dinner to ensure availability is also highly advised.
• Shoulder Season (May to June, late-November): June marks the beginning of the rainy period and November represents the end part, designating both months as intermediate seasons for travel. May is additionally part of the intermediate season as smaller groups are seen once Spring Break concludes, better offers can be discovered, and the climate remains pleasant, with just a slight increase in humidity and heat compared to earlier spring months. Accommodations that stay open in these months don’t notably decrease their room rates, but good prices can still be found booking 3-4 months ahead.
• Low Season (July to mid-November): The months from July to mid-November represent the peak of the rainy and hot weather in Martinique where tropical cyclones can impact the island. Generally, rainfall is more intense in the northern region of Martinique while it is significantly less in the more popular southern portion of the island. Despite a slightly smaller amount of rainfall in the south where most tourist attractions, resorts, and hotels are situated, the whole island sees reduced operating hours and services of eateries and lodgings. Airline fares and lodging rates during this period can be discounted by up to 50% owing to the heightened rainfall and tropical systems in the Atlantic. Reservations, for any services that remain open, may be easier to secure with less advance notice. Numerous hotels, dining establishments, and facilities will scale back operations and hours during these off-peak months. Some hotels and restaurants may even close for weeks or months at a time because of the lessened demand. For the hotels that stay open, the low season is a popular time to carry out renovations and construction of hotel amenities, so be sure to check with hotel representatives before booking. When traveling to Martinique during this time, stay updated on the weather before and during the trip.

Martinique Weather by Month

The climate of Martinique, situated in the Lesser Antilles, experiences consistently warm and humid conditions typical of tropical locales. Year-round temperatures vary only mildly due to moderating trade winds blowing from the northeast. Even on warmer days, the prevailing Alizés breezes provide a refreshing effect preventing excessive heat. The island terrain consists predominantly of rugged volcanic highlands, most notably reaching 1,397 meters at Mount Pelée in the north. A steady decline in average temperature by 5.5 degrees Celsius accompanies each additional 305 meters of elevation gain. Accordingly, precipitation amounts differ geographically, averaging 1,000 mm annually along the southern coastline versus approximately 5,000 mm in wetter northern regions. Regarding weather patterns for this article, consideration focuses on conditions prevalent in Fort-de-France, the capital city located in southern Martinique lowlands.
• Weather Conditions in Martinique During January: The average maximum temperature in the month of January is 27°C, yet evening maritime breezes called Alizés lower the average minimum to around 22°C. Rain occurs on approximately seventeen days in January, though it remains one of the drier periods of the year with short-lived tropical downpours. Around eight hours of sunshine provide ample opportunity for beach activities and tours yet very strong ultraviolet radiation necessitates sunscreen use. Sea surface temperatures remain pleasantly warm at 27°C, so swimwear should be packed. Additionally, bring summer clothing, some breathable layers, and a sweatshirt for cooler nights. Carrying a water-resistant bag to protect electronics and valuables is also wise given potential brief tropical showers or mountain hiking. (Average Maximum Temperature: 28°C. Average Precipitation: 105mm.)
• Martinique Weather in February: February is the coldest month of the year in Martinique with an average daytime high of 26°C and a nighttime low of 21°C, but the dry season continues, making it one of the driest months of the year as well. Rainfall levels stay low in February in comparison to the rest of the year, with 12 days with rain which appear as quick downpours, leaving plenty of time to enjoy the 8 hours of sunshine, low humidity, and Vaval and all of its associated events. The sea is warm at 26oC, making it perfect for swimming and water sports. Pack similar to January, remembering those light layers for the cool evenings and sunscreen for strong UV rays during the day. (Average Max Temperature: 27°C. Average Precipitation: 89mm.)
• Martinique Weather Conditions in March: Temperatures start increasing in March with average daily highs of 27°C and lows of 22°C. March is the sunniest month of the year with around 8.6 hours of sunshine daily. The ocean remains warm at 26°C. March is also the driest month with expected rainfall of only 65mm over 13 days, providing perfect conditions for long beach days, swimming, and other outdoor activities. Pack lightweight tropical clothing, swimwear, and sun protection including SPF 35 or more sunscreen as UV rays are strong. Remember also to pack some light layers and a sweatshirt for evenings as the northeast breeze keeps things rather cool after dark. (Average Maximum Temperature: 29°C. Average Precipitation: 65mm.)
• Conditions in Martinique in April: April is a moderately warm spring month with temperatures rising slightly, averaging around 29°C during the day. Nightly lows remain around 22°C, so layers are not needed. However, northeasterly winds continue to blow in April, warranting some light layers in the evenings. April is still relatively dry with precipitation on 13 days. Sea temperatures increase to 27°C as well, allowing for swimming along with light summer attire, open footwear, and sun protection. (Average Daytime High: 30°C. Typical Monthly Rainfall: 90mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Martinique in May: May marks the beginning of the period between high and low seasons on the island of Martinique, so beaches will have much smaller crowds, and since it is the last month before the rainy season begins, weather remains favorable. Average daily temperatures reach 29°C during the day, but the cooling northeast breeze moderates heat and humidity, keeping conditions comfortable, while overnight lows average 23°C to relieve heat. May sees more rain with around 15 days expected to see precipitation on average, but there is still about 8 hours of sunshine per day allowing for sightsseeing, beach time, and swimming in the pleasant 28°C sea. Similar items should be packed as in April: light summer attire, multiple swimsuits, hats, sunglasses, and high SPF sunscreen. (Average Maximum Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation: 130mm.)
• Martinique Weather in June: June marks the beginning of hurricane season and rainy weather in Martinique, with an average of 18 days experiencing rain – although July to November hold the peak stormy months. The rains in Martinique occur as downpours or thunderstorms, which can be intense but generally do not persist for long. It is significant to note that occasionally there may be a more severe wave of poor weather, so staying up to date with the weather forecast before and during the trip is strongly recommended. The typical daytime high is 28°C and the nighttime low is 24°C. The ocean temperature remains at 28°C and there are around 7 hours of sunshine each day. Pack a selection of swimwear along with light summer layers and some rain gear like a waterproof bag to protect valuables during those brief tropical downpours. Sun hat and sunscreen are also important as UV levels are extreme in June (Average Max Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation: 180mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Martinique for the Month of July: July sees the highest levels of rainfall throughout the year with approximately 22 days seeing showers. Average daily high temperatures are 29°C, reducing to 24°C at night. Expect around 8 hours of sunshine each day. Ocean temperatures remain warm at 28°C, so be sure to bring swimsuits and sun protection alongside lightweight clothing suitable for tropical climates. Also, since July falls within hurricane season, check forecasts before travel to plan for potential rain. Bring rain gear, a water resistant bag, and a lightweight rain jacket. Purchasing travel insurance to cover disruptions caused by weather would be advisable. (Average Maximum Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation: 255mm.)
• Weather Conditions in Martinique During August: On average, August is the hottest month in Martinique with daily high temperatures reaching around 30°C and humidity levels of around 81%. Nightly lows average approximately 24°C. August is also one of the months where Martinique faces the greatest risk of being impacted by tropical storms or cyclones, with around 21 days expected to see rain. As with July, taking precautions for potentially stormy weather is highly advised for visitors to Martinique during the hurricane season. Be sure to check hurricane forecasts before traveling and pack suitable rain gear, a waterproof bag, and a lightweight rain jacket. It`s also a good idea to purchase travel insurance as an extra precaution to cover any travel disruptions. Despite the likelihood of rain, around 8 hours of sunshine can be anticipated along with pleasantly warm sea temperatures averaging 28°C. Therefore, in addition to rain gear, definitely pack swimwear, sun protection, and lightweight summer clothing. (Average Max Temperature: 31°C. Average Precipitation: 230mm.)
• Conditions in Martinique during September: September is another period when Martinique faces the possibility of being impacted by tropical storms or cyclones, also referred to as hurricanes. September lies in the center of hurricane season and experiences some of the greatest yearly rainfall totals averaging 19 days with precipitation. The rain usually appears in brief but heavy bursts, meaning there’s ample long, clear days with a typical high of 30°C and low of 23°C. The sea is at its warmest at 29°C and with 7 hours of sunlight, there exists plenty of time to enjoy the water and sunny beach days. Pack similarly to August – light tropical-friendly clothing as well as rain gear like waterproof shoes and a waterproof bag, sandals, and sun protection. Purchasing travel insurance is a wise additional precaution for September too. (Average Max Temperature: 31°C. Average Precipitation: 255mm.)
• Martinique Weather in October: During October, storms are common but the risk decreases towards November. Check forecasts and buy travel insurance before visiting. Despite around 18 rainy days on average and storm chances, clear days usually provide around 7 hours of sunshine. Daytime highs average 28°C but drop to 23°C at night. Pack plenty of sun protection, rain gear, waterproof bags and shoes, quick-drying clothing, and light summer outfits as UV levels remain very high. The sea sits warmly at 29°C, so don`t forget swimsuits. (Average Max Temperature: 31°C. Average Precipitation: 225mm.)
• Martinique Weather in November: November signifies the tail end of hurricane season as the wet period starts to diminish. Rainfall remains substantial – around 18 days on average – but major storms are less probable. With around 7 hours of sunshine, average highs of 28°C, and ocean temperatures staying warm at 28°C, warm sunny beach days remain possible. Evenings dip to lows near 23°C though the Alizés breeze can make nights seem cooler, so a light shawl or sweater proves useful given the persistent humidity. Pack clothing suited for both swimming and wicking away dampness, as well as protection from sun and sudden downpours with a waterproof bag for electronics. (Normal Maximum Temperature: 30°C. Average Precipitation: 205mm.)
• Weather in Martinique in December: December represents the beginning of the dry season and humidity starts to decrease. There are still 17 days with rainfall but downpours are brief, and with an average high of 27°C and 8 hours of sunshine, things dry fairly quickly. Evenings begin to cool down with an average low of 22°C, so pack some light layers since nights can feel cooler with the Alizés breeze tempering the heat and humidity. The sea stays warm and perfect for swimming at 27°C, so be sure to also pack swimsuits. Bring clothing suited for tropical summers, open-toed shoes and sandals, as well as sun protection as UV levels remain elevated. (Average Max Temperature: 29°C. Average Precipitation: 135mm.)

Martinique Holidays, Events, and Festivals

Martinique in January

• New Year’s Day (Jan 1) – January first, also known as New Year`s Day, is an official public holiday in Martinique where schools, businesses, banks, and most stores will be closed. Some tourist shops and markets remain open. On this day, families in Martinique traditionally share a meal together and it is also customary to eat an orange to bring good fortune in the new year.
• Feast of Epiphany(January 6th) – A Christian celebration, usually commemorated on the first Sunday after New Year`s Day or on January 6th. This is not a day off from work, but there are festivities amongst friends and family where a traditional baked treat called the French Kings` cake is enjoyed with a glass of cider. Epiphany also marks the beginning of the Carnival marching groups making their rounds in preparation for the festival, which starts with the election of Carnival Queens.

Martinique in February

• Vaval (February 23-26) – Martinique’s Carnival is the most popular annual event on the island and dates back to the middle of the 18th century. This 4-day festival in the capital is the island country’s biggest celebration with music, festivities, lavish traditional costumes and masquerades, large processions, and the presentation of King Vaval – the King of the Carnival. Other figures to watch out for during Carnival are the “Groups on Foot” – performers who walk the streets and perform to music between main festivities, the Neg Gwo Siwo who represent mythical characters from colonial days and paint their bodies with sugar cane molasses, the clay men who act like real human sculptures with their bodies covered with clay, and the red devils who appear on Mardi Gras to frighten spectators. Each day focuses on a theme with costumes that display the different days making up Carnival. The first day of Carnival is the Saturday before Fat Sunday and features costume parties in the evening.
• Fat Sunday (February 23) – Officially, Carnival in Martinique begins on Fat Sunday. On this day, the Queen of Carnival makes an appearance along with street musical groups on foot wearing costumes and performing choreographed dances. Fat Sunday is also the first appearance of bradjaks – old automobiles repainted in bright shades and decorated with slogans.
• Shrove Monday / Fat Monday (February 24) – Fat Monday commences Carnival in the early morning with performers donning costumes with a pajama theme and dancing in the streets to the music of musicians and orchestras. Another characteristic of Fat Monday is a role-reversed wedding with the bride as a man and the groom as a woman.
• Shrove Tuesday / Fat Tuesday (February 25) – Also called Mardi Gras, this day marks the third of Martinique`s Carnival celebrations. Participants in costumes for Fat Tuesday take on the theme of the Red Devil, dressed dramatically in bright red ensembles embellished with mirrors alongside horned masks and cow-like tails. These red devils engage festively with onlookers, rushing into crowds especially to startle children.
• Ash Wednesday (February 26) – Ash Wednesday denotes the culmination of Carnival festivities where performers as well as spectators bid adieu to King Vaval (The Monarch of Carnival). All musical bands perform on Ash Wednesdays while everyone dons black and white garments during parades through the streets singing the conventional farewell ditty in veneration of Vaval. Carnival concludes at nightfall on Ash Wednesday and it is tradition for everyone to wear mourning attire while dancing and heralding Vaval`s commendations.
• Schoelcher International Nautical Week (February 22-25) – In Schoelcher, an international sailing competition is held every February over 5 days with racers from all over the world. It is an international regatta for lighter sailing and one of the major maritime events of the French sailing federation. The occasion hosts sailors between the ages of 8 and 80, and as of 2019, the event has committed to sustainability best practices to protect the Caribbean waters.

Martinique in March

• Each year on the Saturday before Easter weekend, the town of Le Vauclin hosts a crab fair with entertainment, crabs for purchase, and food to-go.
• Dillon Expo (March/April) – A trade event for local artisans, merchants, creators, and producers to showcase their goods in a large exhibition welcoming over 40,000 visitors annually. Available for purchase are products of every type along with musical entertainment, games, and kids` activities.

Martinique in April

• The period surrounding Easter (April 2-5) – Visiting Martinique before Easter or during the holiday offers a unique opportunity to experience the island`s tradition surrounding land crabs, known locally asmatoutou. Events pay homage to these creatures, such as a crab curry cooking competition called La Crabe d’Or in Sainte-Marie. On Easter Monday, crab curry with rice and vegetables is enjoyed. Bear in mind beaches may be busy during Easter as residents attend mass, hike local Calvaire trails, or spend the long weekend at the shore. While Good Friday is a regular day, Easter Monday is an official public holiday when most businesses, banks, schools and stores close, though some tourist shops and markets stay open.
• Martinique Surf Pro (March 17-24) – This 8-day event is organized with support from the World Surf League and is part of the world qualifying circuit for surfing. In addition to surfing competitions, there are family-friendly surfing workshops, family and children’s day concerts, various workshops on drumming, kite building, Creole storytelling, dance demonstrations, circus introductions, eco-awareness, and other activities. The surfing festival wraps up on the final day with a Surf Pro Night Party running from 9:30pm until 3am. The last MSP was held in 2018, but the festival may return.

Martinique in May

• May Day (May 1) – An official public holiday in Martinique celebrates victories for workers demanding an 8-hour workday in early 1900s. Unions on the island hold parades. Schools, businesses, banks and most stores close though some tourism shops and markets remain open.
• Victory Day (May 8) – A public holiday commemorating the end of World War II. A military parade is conducted in Martinique to mark the armistice together with special church services and patriotic concerts. Only some tourist shops and markets remain open.
• Remembrance of Saint-Pierre (May 8th) – On the 8th of May, the city of Saint-Pierre pays tribute to the 1902 eruption of Mt. Pelée which destroyed the town and took the lives of virtually all its inhabitants. The anniversary of the eruption is honored through a series of lectures, presentations, guided tours, live jazz performances, and a candlelit procession through the town from the cathedral along the seaside.
• Ascension Day (May 13) – This holy day denotes the 40th day of Easter commemorating Jesus` ascension into heaven 39 days after his Resurrection. Besides customary masses and occasional processions through churches, the public holiday is generally spent relaxing at home or at beaches. Only tourist shops and a few markets tend to stay open.
• Slavery Abolition Day (May 22) commemorates a 1848 rebellion by enslaved people in Martinique that forced the Governor to declare emancipation. Being a public holiday, schools, businesses, banks, and most stores close though some tourist shops and markets remain open.
• Whit Monday / Pentecost (May 24) – Pentecost is a major Christian observance in Martinique that falls on the fifteenth day of Easter, forty-nine days after Easter Sunday. It is also known as Whit Sunday and is celebrated with a public holiday each year on Whit Monday. Only some tourist shops and markets remain opened.

Martinique in June

• La Fête de la Musique (June 21) – A 39-year tradition celebrating Martinique`s rich musical heritage through free street concerts showcasing genres like calypso, reggae, and the rhythmic Caribbean style known as zouk. The annual festival is held each June 21st.

Martinique in July

• Chicago Architecture Biennial – This exhibition showcases Chicago as the home of modern design and a center for creativity and innovation in architecture. The event includes several art installations, design competitions, and discussions on the intersection of construction, urban planning, and the contemporary world. The Chicago Cultural Center hosts the main activities, while smaller events take place at the Stony Island Arts Bank, Lakefront Kiosks, and elsewhere.
• Le Tour de Martinique International Bicycle Race (July 18) – Comparable to the famous Tour de France cycling event, Martinique hosts an annual cycling race each July that brings professional cyclists internationally to traverse most areas of the island over the course, though traffic disruptions may occur so preparation is advised.
• French National Day / Bastille Day (July 14) – A countrywide festivity commemorating the formation of the French Republic in 1789, when revolutionaries stormed the Bastille prison facility. Considered marking the beginning of the French Revolution. Most businesses close barring dining venues and lodgings. There are processions and cultural occasions across the island.
• Schoelcher Day (July 21) – This day signifies the birthday of dedicated abolitionist Victor Schoelcher, remembering his positive contribution and work for abolishing slavery. As a public holiday, schools, businesses, banks, and most stores will be closed. Some tourist shops and markets remain open.
• Tour des Yoles Rondes (July 25 – August 4) – One of the largest sailing competitions in the Caribbean is a festival held in Le Francois, involving races around the island in different towns. Sailors are mandated to use a traditional fishing vessel known as a “Yole Ronde” to compete in various stages encircling the island over 5 days. The boat is a rectangle-sailed “Yole Ronde”, a watercraft fashioned by a carpenter from Martinique in the 1940s. Hundreds of sailboats, catamarans, and other private watercraft trail the racers and party simultaneously. The occasion concludes with a large, carnival-style celebration at the end of the 5th day. The festival incorporates beach parties, live music, Martinique’s famous rhum, and other excellent activities.

Martinique in August

• Baccha Festival (August 7-8) – A music festival in Vauclin that brings together over 10,000 music lovers and revelers.
• The most important Catholic festival of the Assumption of Mary on August 15 is a public holiday in Martinique. This religious occasion is mainly celebrated with customary masses, processions displaying religious images, and ceremonies. Additionally, a colorful fireworks show lights up the beach. Only some tourist shops and markets remain open on this day.
• Biguine Jazz Festival (August 15) – Since 2003, the Biguine Jazz Festival has occurred every year over 5-6 days, representing the first global celebration of Afro-Caribbean Jazz. The occasion brings together a group of 8 musician-creators from Martinique, Guadeloupe, and Haiti. Chiefly, the festival aims to internationally promote Caribbean culture.
• Foyal Color Run (August 15) – Situated in the city center of Fort-de-France, the yearly Foyal Color Run is a 5 km-run where each kilometer is denoted with a cloud of 100% natural colored powder. The occasion brings together people of all ages, with nearly 4,000 participants in previous years participating in this non-competitive, colorful, and playful spirited run for charity.

Martinique in September

• Days Honoring European Heritage (Sept 19-20) – All 50 European states signed on to the European Cultural Convention actively promote everything composed of European heritage. Every September, all member states and parties host activities and events over 2 days adhering to an agreed upon theme. In Martinique, access is opened to about 140 happenings, free guided visits, and numerous landmarks and places, allowing citizens to enjoy complimentary admissions and learn regarding their shared cultural legacy.

Martinique in October

• Kreol Food and Rhum Festival (October 20-26) – Kreol Food & Rhum is a weekly culinary event held in Martinique which highlights creole cooking and local products. Visitors can participate in tastings and cooking demonstrations led by chefs from Martinique and other islands in the Caribbean, Canada, and mainland France.

Martinique in November

• All Saints’ Day (November 1) – On November 1st each year, Christians in Martinique commemorate All Saints` Day. They honor known and unknown saints from past centuries and pay respect at the burial sites of loved ones. Only some shops catering to visitors and market stalls remain open for business on this remembrance day.
• Armistice Day (November 11) – France commemorates Armistice Day as a national holiday. Observed on the 11th of November, the day marks the end of World War I on that date in 1918 and honors veterans of both World Wars. As a public holiday, schools, businesses, banks, and most stores are closed. Some tourist shops and markets remain open.
• Celebrations of the New Beaujolais Wine Season (November 19) – At midnight on the third Thursday of November, the arrival of the recent season of Beaujolais red wine is celebrated on the island with parties, fireworks performances, and music. Numerous restaurants and cafes remain open later to appreciate the new wine and host occasions to celebrate this.
• An amateur cycling race that has been running in Martinique for 18 years. Visitors and locals participate annually with nearly 450 riders in total choosing to ride 71km or 95km. ( La Belle Martinique (November 11))
• Semi Martinique (November 29) – The capital Fort-de-France hosts over 2,500 runners for a half marathon, with complementary races for high school and senior students.
• Martinique Music Festival / Jazz in Martinique (November 24 – December 8) – One of the year`s most popular music events welcomes some of the top jazz and blues artists from the Caribbean and France to perform in different venues over a 10-day period starting in late November and stretching into the first weekend of December every other year.

Martinique in December

• TransMartinique (December 5-6) – A notable race held in December where participants trek 134 km across Martinique from Grand Rivière to Sainte-Anne through tropical forest, plantations, and coastline, establishing itself as one of the Caribbean’s signature athletic competitions.
• Rum Festival (December 15) – Hosted annually at the St. James Distillerie in Saint-Marie, the event allows visitors to sample rums, enjoy live performances, take part in a parade and fashion show, and have kids` activities and rides. Local artisanal vendors also sell items like baskets and pottery.
• Christmas: Chanté Nowèl (December 1-25) – Throughout the month of December, special Christmas singing events known as Chanté Nowèl are organized all across Martinique. These gatherings consist of people meeting in public spaces or at friends` homes to sing together as well as eat and drink, often continuing into dawn. To participate in Chanté Nowel, check with a tourism office for more details and purchase a booklet called “An nou chanté noel” or cantique that includes all the lyrics (in French). Christmas Day is a national holiday in Martinique, so schools, businesses, banks, and most stores will be closed. Numerous restaurants also close on Christmas, but special menus are available at hotels, resorts, and in Fort-de-France.
• New Years Eve / Boucans de la Baie (December 31) – Enjoy a grand fireworks show over the Bay of Fort-de-France in Fort Saint-Louis to mark the year`s end. There are also chances to light and release paper lanterns along the pier and beach. Most hotels and restaurants offer prix-fixe menus on NYE, while locals tend to enjoy family and friend meals at house parties instead of large public gatherings and club events.