Christmas Traditions in St. Lucia
As Christmas nears, red flaming poinsettias plants bloom in profusion all over our picturesque island, Christmas lights sparkle, soft melodious sounds of Christmas carols, parang (Christmas music from Trinidad), steel band music and the never ending Christmas parties are everywhere. As this festive and joyous season approaches the Barefoot Holidays St. Lucia Team would like to share with you the island’s top 3 Christmas traditions.
St. Lucian Black Cake
Nothing speaks of Christmas to St. Lucia like a slice of St. Lucian black cake. It is made up of a mixture of nuts, ginger, raisins, prunes, cherries and a variety of either dried or fresh fruits soaked in wine and rum for many months. There is an annual competition to select the most scrumptious St. Lucian Black Cake. Beware of the alcohol content!!
Sorrel Drink
Do you have any sorrel? This is the first question one asks as they do “House to House” at Christmas time. This is the tradition of visiting the homes of family and friends throughout the festive season. With or without alcohol this drink is a must. It is made from the blooms of the sorrel plant and spiced up with cloves, nutmeg and sugar to taste.
Bamboo Bursting
From late November, on evenings the exceptional sounds of “bamboo bursting” heralds the Christmas season. A hollowed-out bamboo stalk, some kerosene and a zealous individual blowing through a hole in the bamboo create a loud cannon sound throughout the community. This is a cultural tradition handed down by our fore fathers.