Castries buzzed with activity as the eve of the National Day holiday unfolded. Saint Lucians were out in large numbers, drawn both by the annual Festival of Lights and the swearing‑in of a new Cabinet of ministers.
By mid‑afternoon on December 12, commuters were inching through bumper‑to‑bumper traffic on what many regard as the unofficial start of the Christmas countdown in Saint Lucia.
The Cultural Development Foundation led the parade of lanterns from the Vigie playing field into the city, setting the tone for the evening’s celebrations. Competitors showed off hand‑crafted lanterns alongside masqueraders, papa jab characters, the Royal Saint Lucia Police Band, drummers, steelpan players, folk dancers and stilt walkers. A convoy of beautifully decorated motorcycles and vehicles added an extra layer of Christmas sparkle.
Crowds lined the streets as the procession made its way to William Peter Boulevard, where the spectacle reached its first crescendo.
From there, attention shifted to Derek Walcott Square for the official opening of the Festival of Lights.
The programme featured a performance by the Barclays Choir of Barbados, with cultural group Woule’ Te’ Te’ joining the entertainment lineup alongside Diana Phillip, Gersham and TC Brown.
In Belle Vue, Saint Lucia’s culture capital, residents staged their own Festival of Lights, complete with a Christmas hat‑decorating competition and a performance by the Metaphorical Dancers, among others.
One of the organisers, Kendal Elva, said the celebration brought the community together in the true spirit of Christmas.
