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Everything you need to know about Christmas in Martinique
Christmas in Martinique: Experience the magic of the holidays under the Caribbean sun
Spending Christmas in Martinique means discovering a unique celebration where Creole traditions, tropical warmth, and conviviality come together. Far from the winter cold and snow, the island of flowers offers you a sunny Christmas Eve at 86°F, with Creole Christmas carols, local flavors, and heavenly beaches.
Christmas in the sun: The ideal December climate
Unlike winter in mainland France, December in Martinique marks the start of the dry season. Temperatures range from 22°C in the morning to 30°C in the afternoon, with sea temperatures at 27°C. The sky remains blue, the sun shines, and the air is pleasantly dry. The result? You can celebrate Christmas in a T-shirt, enjoy the beaches on the morning of December 25, and explore the island in ideal conditions. Swap your winter coats for your swimsuits: here, Christmas means swimming and iced ti-punch.
Traditions and celebrations
Midnight Mass (which is not at midnight)
On December 24, churches fill up for Christmas Mass, which is usually celebrated around 6 p.m. rather than at midnight. Tropical flowers, Creole hymns, and a solemn atmosphere mark this spiritual moment before the family festivities begin.
La Ribote: The spirit of sharing
This convivial tradition involves going from house to house to sing, eat, and share a moment together. Doors remain open, and hosts welcome visitors with homemade dishes. The ribote symbolizes fraternity and closeness between neighbors.
Tropical Christmas decorations
The people of Martinique compete to see who can decorate their homes most creatively. Colorful garlands, handmade nativity scenes, and Christmas trees have replaced the filao trees that were once used. Some towns even organize lighting competitions.
Chanté Nwel or Chanté Noël: a tradition that lives on
From the end of November, Martinique vibrates to the rhythm of Chanté Nwel. This iconic tradition transforms every neighborhood into an open-air music stage.
How does it work?
Festive gatherings bring together families, friends, and neighbors to sing Christmas carols revisited in Creole. Accompanied by drums, ti-bwa, cha-cha, and improvised percussion, these songs combine spirituality and conviviality in a unique atmosphere. The famous light green-covered hymn book becomes an essential accessory during this period. The refrains of "Joseph mon cher fidèle," "Dans le calme de la nuit," and "Michaud veillait" echo in public squares, shopping malls, churches, and even businesses.
Where to participate?
Chanté Nwel celebrations are held across the island: Fort-de-France, Le Lamentin, Sainte-Anne, Le Robert... Town halls, restaurants, hotels, and associations open their doors to the public. Some events are free, while others require a small fee (around €20) which includes a meal.
Christmas Gastronomy: A Festival of Creole Flavors
New Year's Eve in Martinique is an exceptional gastronomic occasion where pork takes center stage.
The Festive Aperitif
The evening begins with red or white Creole blood sausages, spiced to perfection, accompanied by savory pork pâtés. As for drinks, coconut punch, peanut punch, and the famous Schrubb are a must.
Schrubb: The ultimate Christmas drink
This iconic liqueur is prepared starting in October. Citrus peels (oranges, lemons) are dried and then macerated in rum for several weeks. The subtle bitterness of the zest creates a unique nectar that symbolizes the holiday season.
Main dishes
Caramelized ham with pineapple reigns supreme on festive tables. This sweet and savory dish embodies Martinican culinary creativity. Pork stew, simmered with local spices, often accompanies this signature dish. Pigeon peas, a legume only found on plates at Christmas, are served with rice. Traditional gratins complete the feast: christophines, plantains, yams...
Christmas events in Martinique
Christmas markets
Several towns organize craft markets where you can discover local handicrafts, Christmas spices and jams, homemade punches and liqueurs, savory pâtés and blood sausages, and authentic gift ideas. The best-known markets are those in Fort-de-France (Place de la Savane), Le Lamentin, Sainte-Anne, and Les Anses-d'Arlet.
The Boucans of the Bay
On December 30 in Fort-de-France, this spectacular event closes the festivities with live concerts, shows, and fireworks on the waterfront. An unmissable family event to celebrate the end of the year.
Europcar Martinique wishes you Happy Holidays!
What is the weather like in Martinique at Christmas?
It is hot and dry, with temperatures between 72°F and 86°F. It is the dry season, ideal for enjoying the beaches and outdoor activities.
What is a Chanté Nwel?
It is a festive vigil where Christmas carols are sung in Creole, accompanied by drums and percussion instruments. These events are open to everyone.
What do people eat for Christmas in Martinique?
Creole blood sausage, savory pâtés, caramelized ham with pineapple, pork stew, pigeon peas, traditional gratins, and exotic Yule log.
What is a Chanté Nwel?
It is a festive vigil where Christmas carols are sung in Creole, accompanied by drums and percussion instruments. These events are open to everyone.
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@Europcar Martinique
