Record Number of Visitors Flock to St. Kitts and Nevis for Christmas and Carnival Seasons

Minister Welcomes Record-Breaking Numbers

Tourism Minister Marsha Henderson has welcomed the record number of people visiting St. Kitts and Nevis for the Christmas and carnival seasons.

Resilience and Allure of the Country

She said the growth reflects the resilience and allure of the country as a leading Caribbean destination.

Unique Combination of Cultural Celebrations, Natural Beauty, and Warm Hospitality

“Visitors and returning nationals are drawn to our unique combination of cultural celebrations, natural beauty, and warm hospitality. We are excited to share this special time with so many travelers during the Christmas and carnival season,” she added.

Record-Breaking Numbers

Official figures released here show that for the period December 14 to 25, the twin-island Federation welcomed a total of 8,335 airline passengers aboard 265 flights, making it the highest number of passengers recorded for this period in recent years.

Growth Compared to Previous Years

The 2024 figures show significant growth compared to the same period in previous years, highlighting a steady recovery and surge in interest in St. Kitts and Nevis as a top-tier holiday destination.

Superior to Pre-Pandemic Numbers

This year’s air arrivals surpassed the 7,492 recorded in 2023 and the 6,334 arrivals in 2022 and also reflect significant progress from the 2,937 passengers recorded in 2021. The 2024 total exceeds pre-pandemic numbers recorded in 2017, which saw 7,813 passengers, and 2018 and 2019, which recorded 7,773 and 8,069 passengers respectively.

Sugar Mas Carnival Attraction

“This growth signals a resurgence of interest and confidence in St. Kitts and Nevis as a premier travel destination during the holiday season,” Henderson said, noting that the Christmas season, coupled with the highly anticipated Sugar Mas Carnival, has been a major attraction for visitors, featuring vibrant street parades, calypso and pageant competitions, and traditional folklore performances.

Islands Ready to Welcome More Visitors

Henderson said that the islands remain ready to welcome even more visitors and provide unforgettable experiences, noting that last Thursday, six cruise ships docked here, bringing a total of 11,334 passengers.

Growing Appeal of St. Kitts as a Leading Caribbean Destination

She said the “remarkable visitor numbers are a testament to the growing appeal of St. Kitts as a leading Caribbean destination. The combined excitement of the Christmas and carnival celebrations provides a unique opportunity to showcase our culture, hospitality, and breathtaking landscapes.”

Economic Benefits

The Ministry of Tourism said the influx of visitors also presents significant economic opportunities for the island with vendors, taxi operators, and tour guides benefitting as a result.

## Conclusion

The record-breaking numbers of visitors to St. Kitts and Nevis during the Christmas and carnival seasons is a testament to the country’s growing appeal as a leading Caribbean destination. The unique combination of cultural celebrations, natural beauty, and warm hospitality has drawn in a large number of visitors, providing a significant boost to the local economy.

## FAQs

* What is the record number of visitors to St. Kitts and Nevis for the Christmas and carnival seasons?
The record number of visitors is 8,335 airline passengers aboard 265 flights.
* What is the significance of the record-breaking numbers?
The record-breaking numbers are a testament to the growing appeal of St. Kitts and Nevis as a leading Caribbean destination and a significant boost to the local economy.
* What are the key attractions of St. Kitts and Nevis?
The key attractions include cultural celebrations, natural beauty, and warm hospitality, with the Sugar Mas Carnival being a major attraction.