Today (Saturday), cultural enthusiasts and avid supporters are descending upon Laborie for the annual Lawòz Festival, a vibrant celebration of Saint Lucia’s rich cultural heritage.
The Cultural Development Foundation (CDF), in collaboration with the government and community partners, invites all Saint Lucians and visitors to join in the festivities in the dynamic southern community of Laborie.
Honoring Saint Rose of Lima, the festival proudly upholds a centuries-old tradition rooted in strong African influences, serving as a cornerstone of Saint Lucia’s cultural identity.
This year’s celebration unites Lawòz groups from across the island for an enriching day filled with worship, pageantry, music, and performances.
The day kicks off at 10:00 a.m. with a solemn church service at the Church of the Purification of the Blessed Virgin Mary, led by Father Ignatius Cetoute, featuring stirring musical and spiritual contributions from Lawòz groups representing Vieux Fort North, Monchy, Choiseul, Mon Repos, Aux Lyon, Grande Rivière, Lacourville, and Laborie. Their performances of traditional hymns, prayers, and meditations will set a profound spiritual tone for the day.
At 12:00 noon, the celebrations burst into the streets of Laborie with a grand street parade that highlights the vibrant pageantry, music, and symbolism defining the Lawòz tradition. Soldiers, queens, and members of Lawòz societies will electrify the village with their lively processions, chants, and rhythms.
The festivities peak at the Laborie Playing Field from 1:30 p.m., where the Gwan Fèt will feature dynamic performances by leading Lawòz groups such as Lacourville, the French Association, Aux Lyon, Monchy, Vieux Fort North, Laborie, Mon Repos, Desruisseaux, Grande Rivière, and Choiseul. These presentations will celebrate the diversity, creativity, and resilience of Saint Lucia’s cultural heritage.
Raymona Henry-Wynne, Executive Director of the CDF, asserts, “Lawòz is not merely a festival; it is a living tradition that unites generations, strengthens communities, and showcases the essence of Saint Lucia’s identity. This year’s celebrations in Laborie will embody that enduring spirit.”
The CDF wholeheartedly invites all Saint Lucians and visitors to join the people of Laborie in celebrating this year’s Lawòz Festival—a definitive day of faith, festivity, and cultural pride.
A CDF spokesperson noted that the entity is committed to aligning the aspirations of cultural and creative individuals, groups, communities, policymakers, and civil society towards a collective vision for growth.
Supporting indigenous festivals like Lawòz empowers the CDF to foster artistic excellence, safeguard cultural traditions, and ensure that Saint Lucia retains its status as a vibrant hub of creativity and innovation.