Jounen Kwéyòl

Jounen Kwéyòl was first observed in 1983 as a regional radio link‑up among French‑Creole speaking islands. In 1984, Saint Lucia transformed it into a community‑based celebration, giving villages and towns the chance to showcase their heritage and pride. The festival is held each year on the Sunday closest to October 28, aligning with International Creole Day. Across the island, communities come alive with food, music, dance, and storytelling.

Every year, selected host communities organize major events, while other towns and villages—including Laborie—hold vibrant local activities. Together, they create a nationwide celebration of Kwéyòl identity. Jounen Kwéyòl is more than a festival—it is a living expression of Saint Lucian culture. It celebrates:

Language: Kwéyòl spoken proudly in homes, schools, and on stage.

Cuisine: Bouyon, green fig and saltfish, cocoa tea, and traditional sweets.

Music & Dance: Drumming, folk songs, quadrille, and Creole jazz.

Dress: Madras, satin, and lace in vivid colors.

Storytelling & Heritage: Oral traditions, exhibitions, and community ceremonies.

Laborie has hosted Jounen Kwéyòl five times, the most recent being in 2015, and is recognized for its strong cultural identity and community participation. The 2015 program featured:

• Mawonn Bòd Lanmè at Rudy John Beach Park with Creole food and drumming.
• Kilté Édyen at Augier Combined School highlighting Indian dishes and cultural presentations.
• Grand Kwéyòl Fair following Mass at the Laborie RC Church, with a ceremony honoring Laborians.
• Community Exhibition & Papèl Tèt‑a‑Tèt dialogues on society, culture, and development.
• Creole Jazz at the Parish Hall, supported by Alliance Française, featuring artists from Saint Lucia and Guadeloupe.

These events reflected Laborie’s deep commitment to cultural preservation and innovation, blending traditional Kwéyòl heritage with contemporary artistic expression. Through its celebrations, Laborie reinforces its reputation as a guardian of Saint Lucian heritage and a hub for authentic community‑based cultural expression. Each hosting year has been a chance for the village to showcase its warmth, creativity, and pride—ensuring that Jounen Kwéyòl remains rooted in the hearts of its people.