Minister of Tourism Marsha T. Henderson has reaffirmed the vital role of the St. Kitts Music Festival in boosting the island’s tourism and economy, particularly during traditionally slow periods in the travel calendar.

Describing the festival as “an integral part of our broad vision to drive travel to destination St. Kitts,” Minister Henderson highlighted its far-reaching impact beyond entertainment. “As a key highlight of the summer, the festival offers economic benefits—providing a boost to local vendors, our taxi drivers, accommodations, and of course, the entertainment industry,” she stated.

Emphasizing that the event is not just a concert, Henderson noted, “We don’t do a stage show—we sell a festival with a destination.” She explained that the festival was strategically designed to generate economic activity during the “shoulder period” of the tourism season, a time when visitor numbers typically decline.

“We are working to make tourism a year-round activity,” she added. “What we’ve seen is that there are no slow periods now, and so the St. Kitts Music Festival is accomplishing what it was intended to do.”

Now in its 26th year, the festival continues to grow in international stature, solidifying its place as a cornerstone of the island’s tourism product.

She made those statements at the Festivals press conference at the Marriott Hotel this morning.