Summertime and the Living's Easy in Saint Lucia
With Carnival, Roots & Soul Festival, and Arts & Heritage Month, summer is the time to visit St. Lucia for once-in-a-lifetime cultural experiences.
2018-05-22Set against the awe-inspiring backdrop of the majestic Pitons — twin volcanic spires that tower nearly 3,000 feet above sea level — Saint Lucia is one of the most spectacular destinations in the world. And as breathtaking as they are, the Pitons are just the beginning…Saint Lucia is home to the world’s only drive-in volcano, as well as the stunning Diamond Mineral Baths and Waterfalls, lush rainforests, and crystal clear blue-green water. Additionally, you’ll find some of the best beaches in the world on Saint Lucia, most notably Sugar Beach just south of Soufriére — widely regarded as the most picturesque on the island — as well as the plethora of smaller beaches that call renowned Marigot Bay home.
However, in addition to her breathtaking natural beauty, Saint Lucia is known for her unique, vibrant Caribbean culture. From food and music to art and dance, Saint Lucians take a great deal of pride in their heritage — heritage that’s on full display every summer as the island comes alive to host a series of cultural events that draw visitors from around the world.
Saint Lucia Carnival
June – July, 2018
On the heels of Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival comes Saint Lucia Carnival, a celebration of color, rhythm, and fun under the warm Caribbean sun. Carnival offers countless events to appeal to every, from first-timers to the most seasoned Carnival-goers, including the Calypso Tents, Calypso Monarch, Party Monarch, Carnival Parade, and all the delicious food you can eat. But before braving Saint Lucia Carnival, make sure you perfect your “wining” skills — a local term for a popular Caribbean style of dance, you can be sure someone will ask you to “take ah wine.”
Roots & Soul Festival
August 31 – September 2, 2018
A must-do for musicians and music enthusiasts alike, the Saint Lucia Roots & Souls Festival combines performances, master classes, and artist encounters to create a musical experience unlike any other. The weekend-long event brings together musicians, record labels, journalists, online music platforms, and trendsetters who are breaking new ground in reggae, hip hop, Afro-punk, R&B, and more — all in order to strengthen the already rich musical tradition in Saint Lucia, and to help spread Saint Lucian music around the globe.
Arts & Heritage Month
October 1 – October 31, 2018
Originally founded as a celebration of Creole Day — first observed in Saint Lucia in 1981 — Arts & Heritage Month honors all things Saint Lucia, with events organized to celebrate the island’s cultural, ethnic, and artistic heritage. The week-long festival features everything from musical/theatrical performances and seminars/lectures to culinary experiences/art exhibitions and street parties, all culminating with a celebration of International Creole Day on the final weekend in October.
Are you ready to experience one of Saint Lucia’s summertime festivals for yourself? Browse our selection of Saint Lucia villas, and start planning your escape today.