The Cultural Development Foundation (CDF) is once again spearheading Saint Lucia’s annual Festival of Lights, a cherished tradition that brings families together ahead of National Day and the official start of the Christmas season.
December 13, Saint Lucia’s National Day, also honours St Lucy, the patron saint of light. It is widely believed that the island, originally named Sainte Lucie, was christened by French sailors who were shipwrecked here on her feast day.
Although Communications Director Kendal John notes that this year’s December Festivals have been scaled down, the lantern competition and Festival of Lights remain prominent.
“We have retained some elements for Derek Walcott Square, such as carol singing, but we are hoping to bring carolling back as a full festival next year,” John told St. Lucia Times.
The lantern competition, a pillar of the festival, continues to showcase the artistry and creativity of Saint Lucians young and old, eager to transform their hobbies into dazzling festive pieces. To prepare, the CDF hosted a series of lantern-building workshops across communities, schools, and even corporate groups.
Officials say these workshops are part of the effort to preserve the age-old tradition of lantern making, rooted in both Christian and pre-Christian customs honouring Saint Lucia and the patron saint of light.
“We feel the importance of encouraging all sectors within our society to be part of our traditions and to learn the various skills that contribute to those elements which are our cultural practices,” explained Anthony Wilkie Jr, Senior Officer for Training, Promotion and Development at the CDF.
For some, the workshops offered a first-time experience. Cassie Emmanuel, marketing officer at IBS Inc., said she had never made a lantern before. “It’s a fun experience, and it aligns perfectly with our corporate social responsibility, where we are looking forward to collaborating with the creative arts,” she said.
Judging of the lanterns will take place on Saturday, December 6, at the National Cultural Centre from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and is open to the public.
The grand lantern parade follows on Friday, December 12, beginning at 7 p.m. at the Vigie Playing Field and winding into the city centre.
The parade will feature the Royal Saint Lucia Police Band, masqueraders, drummers, steelpan players, folk dancers, stilt walkers and Papa Jab with his entourage. The procession concludes at William Peter Boulevard, leading into the Festival of Lights celebration at Derek Walcott Square.
The finale at DWS will include a solo band, bamboo bursting and carol singing, culminating in the traditional lighting ceremony and fireworks. Together, these mark the arrival of National Day on December 13 and usher in the 12 Days of Christmas in Saint Lucia.
