Martinique has a spirited Mardi Gras Carnival during the five days leading up to Ash Wednesday every February or March. The streets fill with revellers and there are costume parades, music and dancing. The last day witnesses the burning of Vaval, a papier-mâché figure symbolizing Carnival.

The town of Saint-Pierre commemorates the 8 May eruption of Mont Pelée with live jazz and a candlelight procession from the cathedral during the festival of Le Maide Saint-Pierre.

Martinique has several major sporting events, including the Tour de la Martinique, a bicycle race held in mid-July, and the Tour des Yoles Rondes, a race of traditional sailboats held in early August.

Two of the biggest musical events are Jazz à la Martinique and Carrefour Mondial de Guitare, held in December on even-numbered years.