This year’s national celebrations will be hosted in three communities: La Clery in Castries North, La Caye in Dennery South and Vieux Fort South. The designated venues are La Clery Playing Field, Level Grounds in La Caye and Vieux Fort Recreational Park.

The celebrations are being coordinated by the Monsignor Patrick Anthony Folk Research Centre in collaboration with the Ministry responsible for Culture and other partners.

Jounen Kwéyòl represents the culmination of Kwéyòl Heritage Month, an annual observance dedicated to preserving and promoting Saint Lucia’s cultural identity.

Throughout October, communities, schools and cultural organisations have participated in activities highlighting traditional music, dance, storytelling, language and cuisine.

The celebrations provide an opportunity for Saint Lucians of all generations to reconnect with traditions that have helped shape the country’s national identity.

Traditional dishes, including green fig and saltfish, bouyon and other local favourites, are expected to feature prominently as vendors and community groups prepare to welcome visitors.

The festivities also create economic opportunities for small businesses, including food vendors, artisans, musicians, entertainers and service providers.

This year’s observance carries the theme “Kwéyòl-la Sé Sa Nou Tout,” meaning Kwéyòl Belongs to All of Us.

An international dimension will also be added to this year’s activities through the participation of a 14-member cultural contingent from French Guiana, representing Saamaka cultural traditions originating in Suriname.

Their participation is expected to highlight the cultural connections shared among Caribbean and neighbouring communities.

Jounen Kwéyòl has grown into one of Saint Lucia’s most widely recognised cultural celebrations, bringing together residents from different communities and attracting interest from visitors and Saint Lucians living overseas.

As the three host communities make their final preparations, Saint Lucians are being encouraged to participate in the celebrations and support the preservation of the traditions that distinguish the island’s cultural identity.

Jounen Kwéyòl will be observed on Sunday, October 25, ahead of International Creole Day on October 28.