
Soul Beach Music Festival Will Return to St. Maarten Next Week After 30 Years
SIMPSON BAY, St. Maarten--(BUSINESS WIRE)--The St. Maarten Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport & Telecommunications (TEATT), Port St. Maarten Group and Princess Juliana International Airport are proud to welcome Soul Beach Music Festival back to St. Maarten next week, decades after its inception on the island. The iconic Soul Beach Music Festival is returning to its roots May 21-26, to celebrate its 23rd anniversary with performances by award-winning artists including Charlie Wilson, Muni Long, Cedric the Entertainer and more.
Soul Beach Music Festival originated in St. Maarten as Sinbad Soul Music Festival in 1995 - as an HBO special - before relocating to Miami and then Aruba. Since then, the festival has evolved into a multi-day experience, bringing together residents and visitors for a vibrant celebration of culture and entertainment with iconic artists performances throughout the years, including Mariah Carey, Mary J. Blige, Usher and Earth, Wind & Fire.
By returning to its native soil in this full-circle moment, Soul Beach Music Festival's goal is to support the island's local economy by encouraging visitors to explore the wonders of St. Maarten. With venues spread across the island, festival goers will get a taste of St. Maarten's vibrant soul, from its pristine beaches, world-class cuisine, and blend of immersive experiences. Mark Adkins, CEO and executive producer of Soul Beach Festival, said, 'This year is both a nostalgic tribute to our past and an inspiring glimpse into the future for our many newbies, fueled by the energy that is St. Maarten.'
'The return of the Soul Beach Music Festival is a significant milestone for St. Maarten, reinforcing our island's status as a premier destination. What began with about 60% room capacity has now grown to 85–100% occupancy island-wide — a clear sign that we've not only revived the festival, but elevated it. This event boosts economic growth, supports local businesses, and brings together visitors and residents for a safe, vibrant celebration of culture and entertainment. Hosting Soul Beach so many years after its inception right here in St. Maarten is both nostalgic and meaningful — and I am proud to say: mission accomplished,' said Grisha Heyliger-Marten, Minister of Tourism, Economic Affairs, Transport and Telecommunication.
Additional sponsors for the festival include Divi Little Bay Beach Resort, Oceans at Divi Little Bay, JW Marriott St. Maarten Beach Resort & Spa, Sonesta Maho Beach Resort Casino & Spa, Sonesta Ocean Point Resort, Simpson Bay Resort Marina & Spa, The Morgan Resort & Spa, Oyster Bay Beach Resort, Jennifer's Vacation Rentals and Hertz.
For more information, please visit http://www.soulbeach.net and follow @SoulBeachMusic.
About St. Maarten
The charismatic, intercultural Caribbean island nation of St. Maarten welcomes curious visitors inspired to renew their passion for life via nature-immersive, wellness, and experiential travel opportunities. Occupying the southern part of the island it shares with French overseas territory Saint Martin, the beloved, Dutch-owned Caribbean destination offers inspirited travelers one of the region's most diverse menus of intercultural experiences -- a coveted hub where quintessential island vibes meet incomparable Caribbean cosmopolitan flair -- inclusive of the color-laden capital of Philipsburg, serene lagoons, 37 sundry beaches, fascinating salt pans, and beyond. From the snorkeler to the shopper, from the surfer to the foodie, from the thrill seeker to the history enthusiast, in St. Maarten, all lifestyles find their place under the sun. For more information, please visit www.vacationstmaarten.com.
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