Host Communities Announced for Mwa Éwitaj Kwéyòl and Jounen Kwéyòl 2026

Saint Lucia’s biggest cultural festival, Jounen Kwéyòl, is set for Sunday, October 25th, 2026. Organized by the Monsignor Patrick Anthony Folk Research Centre (FRC) in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture, this year’s celebrations promise a rich showcase of heritage, tradition, and community spirit.

The FRC is pleased to announce the three host communities for Mwa Éwitaj Kwéyòl / Jounen Kwéyòl 2026:

• Vieux Fort South (Recreational Park)
• Dennery South, La Caye (Level Grounds)
• La Clery, Castries (La Clery Playing Field)

The month-long observance begins with a launch on September 27th at the Laborie Market (subject to change), and will feature signature events such as the La Wenn Kwéyòl pageant on October 10, Woulélaba on October 18 and the Celebration of International Creole Day.

A special highlight will be the participation of a 14 member cultural contingent from French Guiana, from the Saamaka Tribe, originally from Suriname, showcasing music, dance, and folk traditions.

First introduced by the FRC, Jounen Kwéyòl is celebrated island-wide in recognition of Jounen Kwéyòl Entennasyonal (International Creole Day), observed annually on October 28th. It continues to promote the Kwéyòl language while preserving and celebrating Saint Lucia’s vibrant cultural heritage.