In Saint Lucia, the month of October is designated as Arts and Heritage month. This year, the Jounen Kwéyòl festival will be celebrated on Sunday, Oct. 28.

Leading up to that day, the Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with the Cultural Development Foundation (CDF), the Folk Research Centre (FRC), and the Office of the Mayor, hosted a Gwan Seyans Magwit celebration, on Sunday, Oct. 13, in the City of Castries.

CDF Events and Production Director, Drenia Frederick, spoke on the event.

“The Gwan Seyans Magwit is essentially a celebration. We have the chantwelles performing, the Eastern Folk Band played, and there will be a series of calypsonians singing in creole. This is in celebration of heritage month leading up to Oct. 28, when will have a big celebration in Vieux Fort, and of course the second community in Soufriere.”

CCC Press and Communications Manager, Jason Hollingseed, emphasized the need for continued collaboration between the CDF and the Castries City Council (CCC).

“When we conceptualized what we wanted, in terms of revitalizing and bringing life back into the city, we thought that the CDF would be a critical partner. We knew what a great partnership it would create.”

Arts and Heritage Month is a time when Saint Lucians celebrate, learn about and show appreciation for their culture. The celebration transcends age, sex, race, and religion.