In 1981, Saint Lucia celebrated Creole Day for the first time. It quickly developed into Saint Lucia Creole Heritage Month; a celebration of it French Creole Heritage featuring music, dance, cuisine, art and other cultural expression. Every October, Saint Lucians celebrate Jounen Creole (Kwéyòl), the last Sunday of the month – a day that pays homage to its rich Creole roots with a celebration of kwéyòl language, traditional garb, and sensational Creole fare.
An island known for its mountainous beauty and impeccable sailing, St. Lucia’s culture is a mix of British, French, Caribbean, and West African influences. This rich history has created a language, traditions, and cuisine that are unique in the Caribbean region. During the month, the island hums with pride as exhibitions of folk dances, music, and cultural shows are put on to celebrate St. Lucia’s traditional way of life. On Jounen Creole, islanders don Wobe Dwiyet, the formal national dress, or traditional madras wear that features a colorful tartan skirt and cap and a white cotton and lace blouse perfect for the tropical weather.
Creole fare shines, however, as restaurants and hotels typically create special menus and packages in October that feature the rich and flavorful traditional cuisine of St. Lucia. Aside from the much-celebrated national dish of green bananas (locally called “figs”) and salt fish, tuck into savory servings of crab and pigtail callaloo or meaty pepperpot. Both are rich and hearty stews that pack a mouthwatering combination of herbs and spices, tongue-tingling heat, and melt-in-your-mouth meat. Lambi is another must-have dish made of fresh Caribbean conch pounded, grilled, or flavored with coriander, curry powder, scallions, garlic, and thyme.
Whether you come for its natural allure or to experience its unique Creole culture, St. Lucia promises an unforgettable Caribbean getaway this fall that will satisfy all your senses and fill your belly.
Click here for more information about Saint Lucia Creole Heritage
Photo Credits: @Troubetzkoy | thevoiceslu.com
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