Each year, Lucian Carnival welcomes visiting groups from Martinique and Guadeloupe as part of a vibrant French cultural exchange. In 2025, this tradition grew bigger than ever before, with over 500 visitors joining the celebration, giving Saint Lucian audiences an extraordinary glimpse into the unique sounds, styles, and traditions of French Caribbean carnivals.

This year’s delegation included seven bands from Martinique and Guadeloupe, whose participation added a new dimension of artistry and energy to the Lucian Carnival experience. Visitors were formally welcomed during a special opening ceremony, marking the beginning of events that fostered connection and cultural sharing.

Among the highlights was the involvement of Voukoum from Guadeloupe, whose members partnered with the Soufriere Regional Development Foundation to host an immersive workshop on the use of traditional items in Carnival including whip-making, drumming, and costume craft techniques. Voukoum also staged a ceremonial “Tewe Vaval,” a signature tradition of French Caribbean Carnivals hosted in February that historically marked the close of Carnival and the beginning of Lent, offering Saint Lucians a powerful reminder into this cultural practice.

“Every year, our Carnival is enriched by the traditions of our French neighbours, and 2025 has shown just how deep these connections run.” said Tamara Gibson, Chairperson of the Carnival Planning and Management Committee (CPMC). “The Cultural exchange goes both ways. This year we also had a contingent from Saint Lucia in Martinique and Guadeloupe during their carnivals. These moments remind us that our Carnivals share the same roots.”

The Carnival Planning and Management Committee (CPMC) has expressed its commitment to continue expanding this exchange in the coming years, with plans to continue to explore joint workshops, reciprocal participation, and collaborative programming that further strengthen the cultural bonds between Saint Lucia, Martinique, and Guadeloupe.