Saint Barth Vibes: Jazz, Books, and Soul Under the Caribbean Sky

From March 24 to April 12, 2025, the island comes alive with the Saint-B’Art Book & Jazz Festival

Picture this: a warm ocean breeze, the soulful notes of a saxophone drifting from a stage overlooking the sea, and the words of authors echoing in intimate venues. From March 24 to April 12, 2025, Saint Barthélemy transforms into a cultural hub with its Saint-B’Art Book & Jazz Festival, an event that blends mesmerizing music, thought-provoking literature, and captivating visual art.

Organized by the Saint-B’Art association, this festival is more than just a series of concerts—it’s a celebration of life, creativity, and human connection.

Stars and notes: the headliners

The musical lineup promises unforgettable evenings. Kicking things off, the powerful and sultry voice of China Moses will fill L’Esprit on March 29, supported by the legendary label Richard Mille. This jazz diva, often compared to the greats of Motown, promises a performance where emotion and groove become one.

Then, get ready for the electric energy of JP Bimeni, a Burundian singer with an extraordinary story. A survivor of tragedy and exile, he embodies resilience through his vibrant soul music, blending Stax Records influences with African rhythms. His concerts at Guanahani (April 4) and Le Select (April 7) will be highlights, driven by poignant lyrics and a high-energy funk band.

Closing the festival, Thomas Kahn and his eight musicians will take over the Yacht Club (April 11) and Arawak (April 12) for a journey into the deep American South. Between rootsy blues and psychedelic soul, his album This is Real pays homage to legends like Otis Redding and James Brown while injecting a bold modern twist.

Words, dreams, and seaweed saviors

The festival isn’t just about music. Literary workshops will light up the island’s schools, featuring talents like illustrator Benjamin Chaud (winner of the Pépite Prize at Montreuil) and word-juggler Desta Haile, who blends languages and melodies. “Art is a bridge between generations and cultures,” emphasizes Christian Hardelay, president of Saint-B’Art.

One of the highlights will be the talk by Vincent Doumeizel (March 26), an ocean advisor for the UN. He’ll present his graphic novel How Seaweed Can Save the World, a poetic and scientific plea for these “underwater forests” and their untapped potential.

On the visual arts front, the Bunkers exhibition by Véronique Larrue (March 24) will reveal another side of the island: remnants of World War II transformed into colorful artworks, symbolizing life persisting despite the scars of history.

Meanwhile, visual artist Flora GUETON will host her WALL HOUSE exhibition (March 24 – April 6), creating daily from 4 PM to 7 PM. Her interactive pieces, made in collaboration with the public, will evolve throughout the festival, turning collective expression into living art.

Practical info: where, when, how?

Dates: March 24 – April 12, 2025Venues: Iconic stages (L’Esprit, Guanahani, Le Select) and unique spots (schools, galleries, Gustavia market).Tickets: Book online at saintbartlivrejazzfestival.com or on-site.Eco-friendly commitment: The program is printed on recycled paper, and workshops will educate children about environmental issues.

Why go?

Because this festival is a breath of fresh air. Between concerts, you can wander the streets of Gustavia, chat with an author over a ti-punch, or watch the sunset from Shell Beach, serenaded by a distant saxophone. Here, culture isn’t a luxury—it’s a shared celebration, generous, inclusive, and vibrant.

“Those who strive to improve the world know they may fail, but those who fail to act have already lost,” reminds Christian Hardefay. So, in 2025, let’s choose hope, music, and words. See you under the stars of Saint Barth!

Full program and info: saintbartlivrejazzfestival.com