End-of-year festivities
The festive season is a time to gather with family, on the beaches and under the coconut palms. The spirit of Christmas in Guadeloupe is based on sharing and forgiveness. Everyone visits others and welcomes others into their home. People go from house to house to see those they have not seen for a long time, over Creole ham and black pudding, salt cod fritters, pork, pigeon peas and root vegetables, and chaudeau cakes. And if, by chance, the door is closed, a bottle of rum and a coconut are left in front of the house so that the visitor can stop and have a drink. You will also find the usual Christmas activities adapted to local ways, which gives them a unique character.
Christmas markets
Every village holds its traditional country market, where you will find everything needed for a sunny festive season. They usually end with concerts ("Chanté Nwel") and fireworks.
Chanté Nwel
From the first of December, people gather in public squares or in families to sing traditional Christmas songs adapted into Creole, to the sound of the "ka" (drums) and other local instruments, in a friendly festive atmosphere, until 25 December.
Year-end masses
Christmas is unthinkable without mass, and Guadeloupe is no exception. Once again, these events have their own particular colour, from classical to reggae and gospel and traditional Creole songs, with the participation of renowned artists.
House decorations
Fond of lights and colourful music, some villages hold a competition for the most beautiful Christmas decoration, which lets you discover sumptuous illuminations on Creole houses.