Dr. Ernest Hilaire, Minister responsible for Tourism, Investment, Creative Industries, and Culture, expressed his satisfaction with the success of Jounen Kwéyòl celebrations on October 27. The event, held on October 26, showcased Saint Lucia’s rich cultural heritage through food, music, dance, and traditional attire, centered around the Kwéyòl language. While the main activities were concentrated in Belle Vue, Vieux Fort, and Babonneau, the festivities extended island-wide, beginning on October 24 with schools and workplaces participating. Dr. Hilaire emphasized the need for a decentralized approach to the celebrations, encouraging more communities to host authentic Kwéyòl experiences. He highlighted the organic growth of the event, with communities like Monchy and Anse Gere drawing large crowds. The weekend-long celebration featured Church services in Kwéyòl, breakfast events, bamboo bursting competitions, and live performances of traditional music and dance. The culinary offerings, including avocado and farine, cashew tea, bakes, cocoa tea, smoked herring, pig tail, and dumplings, were a major attraction. Dr. Hilaire’s vision is to transform Jounen Kwéyòl into a national celebration, moving beyond the focus on designated communities.