Celebrate St. Lucia: Events and Festivals
St. Lucia is alive with cultural events and festivals. While Soufriere has its local celebrations, the entire island partakes in some grand festivities. These events and festivals offer a rich blend of St. Lucia's cultural, musical, and historical heritage, making them a must-visit for travelers looking to immerse themselves in the island's vibrant atmosphere.
Saint Lucia Independence Day
A national holiday where all come together to celebrate the pride of their nation. Commemorating Saint Lucia’s independence from British rule in 1979, this national holiday is marked by parades, cultural performances, and patriotic events. It’s a day of unity and celebration for Saint Lucians.
- In Creole: “Jou Lendépandans Sent Lisi”
- When: February
- Location: Island-wide
Saint Lucia Carnival
The island’s most celebrated event, the annual Saint Lucia Carnival, is a vibrant display of color, culture, and creativity. Revelers parade through the streets in elaborate costumes, dancing to the rhythms of soca and calypso music.
- In Creole: “Kanaval Sent Lisi”
- When: July
- Location: Primarily in Castries, but events occur island-wide.
Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival
Celebrated as the premier jazz festival in the Caribbean, the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival showcases both international jazz talent and local artists. The festival spans multiple venues across the island, offering a mix of free and ticketed performances.
- When: May
- Location: Island-wide
Gros Islet Friday Night ‘Jump Up’
A weekly event that captures the essence of Saint Lucian nightlife. Locals and tourists come together to enjoy street food, dance to Caribbean music, and experience the lively atmosphere of Gros Islet.
- In Creole: “Vandrèdi Swa Jump Up Gros Islet”
- When: Fridays
- Location: Gros Islet
Creole Day
Jounen Kwéyòl, or Creole Day, is one of the most anticipated events in St. Lucia. Celebrated on the last Sunday of October, it honors the island’s rich Creole heritage. Communities across the island host events showcasing traditional food, music, dance, and crafts. It’s a day when St. Lucians proudly wear their national wear and speak the Creole language. The festivities provide a deep dive into the island’s history, traditions, and vibrant culture.
- Creole Name: Jounen Kwéyòl
- When: Last Sunday of October
- Location: Island-wide, with major celebrations in various communities
Saint Lucia Food & Rum Festival
Celebrate the island’s culinary heritage with a fusion of flavors, rum tasting, and live entertainment.
- When: February
- Location: Island-wide
Roots & Soul Fest
A festival dedicated to musicians who are setting new trends in reggae, conscious hip-hop, Afro-punk, and R&B.
- When: August
- Location: Island-wide
Nobel Laureate Week
St. Lucia has two Nobel Laureates, more per capita than any other country in the world. This week honors their achievements with a series of events.
- When: Varies annually
- Location: Island-wide
La Rose Festival
The La Rose festival, or Fèt La Woz, is one of two flower festivals celebrated in St. Lucia (the other being La Marguerite). Members of the La Rose society pay homage to the rose flower through song, dance, and colorful processions. It’s a cultural event that showcases the island’s French heritage and the importance of community and tradition.
- Creole Name: Fèt La Woz
- When: August
- Location: Island-wide
La Marguerite Festival
The La Marguerite festival, or Fèt La Magawit, is the counterpart to the La Rose festival. Members of the La Marguerite society honor the daisy flower in a similar fashion with songs, dances, and processions. Both flower festivals are deeply rooted in St. Lucia’s history and showcase the island’s blend of African and French cultures.
- Creole Name: Fèt La Magawit
- When: October
- Location: Island-wide
ARC January
The Atlantic Rally for Cruisers (ARC) is an annual transatlantic sailing event that starts in Las Palmas de Gran Canaria and ends in St. Lucia. It attracts participants from all over the world.
- When: January
- Location: Island-wide, with significant events in Rodney Bay.