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Christmas in St Lucia

Swap snow for sunshine – discover what Christmas looks like in St Lucia.
As far as we’re concerned, there’s only one way to guarantee a white-blanketed Christmas. How? Jet off to a beachy destination like St Lucia, where snow-white sand and toasty temperatures are part of the Christmas package. We reckon it’s a better bet than hanging around at home hoping for snow in the drizzly weather. So, what can you expect once you’re there, and what do Christmas holidays in St Lucia involve? We’ve done some digging – read on to find out more about your Caribbean Island Christmas…

WHAT'S FOR CHRISTMAS DINNER

Just like here in the UK you can expect a slap-up roast Christmas dinner on the 25th December – with a St Lucian twist, of course. Your Christmas dinner might feature lamb as its centrepiece, instead of the traditional turkey. Plus, it’ll all be served with a side of sweet potato, a local speciality. Instead of mulled wine, you’ll sip ginger beer or sorrel – a bright red, lightly spiced drink. And, for dessert, a variation on the classic Christmas pudding is dished up. Just like our version at home, the main ingredients are currents and raisins but the fruits are soaked in red wine, instead of brandy. Rich St Lucian black cake is another option, which is made of rum-soaked ginger, nuts, cherries, and prunes.

ISLAND TRADITIONS TO LOOK OUT FOR

In the lead-up to Christmas, locals take part in bursting the bamboo to spark some festive spirit. The hollow end of bamboo canes are stuffed with kerosene-soaked rags and lit, causing the canes to burst and pop like a firecracker.

FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS AND RENEWAL – 13TH DECEMBER

St Lucia is known for its party-hard ethos throughout the year, thanks to its weekly jump up street parties. On Friday nights in Gros Islet, the streets are lined with food stalls and huge coolers full of piton beer, and music plays into the early hours. The Christmas season keeps the party going. Mark your calendars for the annual Festival of Lights and Renewal, which takes place on the 13th December. This celebration is one of the biggest in St Lucia’s calendar, lining up fireworks, rum, and plenty of tasty food. The highlight is the competition, where locals and tourists alike make and light colourful lanterns before the island’s Christmas lights are switched on. The whole event is finished off with an impressive fireworks display to celebrate the patron saint of light, St Lucia, the island’s namesake.

JOUVERT – CHRISTMAS DAY

These celebrations normally take place after Catholic midnight mass, and carry on through the night until around 6am. There’s no single venue for this party – streets all over St Lucia have their own festivities. Some are themed, while others are just come-as-you-are affairs. Either way, Jouvert is designed to welcome in Christmas morning.
Ready to book your Christmas escape? Take a look at our Christmas holidays to St Lucia.

Plus, check out our top tips for long-haul flights, and find out how to maximise your suitcase space for all those Christmas presents.

Pssst. Head to the Discover homepage for our latest articles.

Author: Hannah Stratton

Last updated: 31.08.2018

Holiday Type

Destination

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