Every October, the island of Saint Lucia bursts into a sea of purple as locals gather to celebrate the La Marguerite Flower Festival, one of the country’s most cherished cultural traditions. Rooted in music, pageantry and faith, this annual festival honours the Marguerite flower and St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, the society’s patron saint.
La Marguerite, or La Magwit in Creole, is one of two traditional flower societies in Saint Lucia — the other being La Rose. For generations, these societies have embodied friendly rivalry, artistic expression and a shared devotion to the island’s folk heritage.
The Rivalry of Roses and Marguerites
The story of the flower festivals stretches back to the colonial era, when enslaved and later freed communities expressed their social aspirations and solidarity through song and performance. Each group — the Roses and the Marguerites — honours its chosen flower with distinct colours, music and celebrations.
While La Rose members dress in vibrant red and sing the praises of the rose, La Marguerite devotees wear regal purple, symbolising dignity and strength. Members sing and dance in praise of the Marguerite flower, their voices rising in harmony led by the chantwèl, or lead singer, who guides call-and-response songs known as Belairs.
The Rhythm of the La Marguerite Flower Festival
Preparations begin months before the main day, with weekend séances — lively gatherings filled with singing, dancing and laughter. These community events raise funds, build camaraderie and keep the society’s musical traditions alive.
When October 17 arrives, the celebrations begin with a special church service in honour of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque. Afterwards, streets across Saint Lucia, particularly in Vieux Fort, come alive with parades of colour and sound. Members in elaborate costumes adorned with flowers and lace march through town accompanied by traditional musicians playing violins, banjos, drums, and shak-shaks.
The procession leads to a central square where the Grande Fête takes place — a joyous display of song, dance, and theatrical performance. Quadrilles, Lancers and other Creole dances fill the afternoon, while laughter and music spill into the evening.
A Window into Saint Lucian Identity
To an outsider, La Marguerite might appear as a simple folk celebration. But to Saint Lucians, it represents something far deeper — a proud assertion of cultural identity and resilience. The festival’s roots lie in the blending of African and European influences, shaped by centuries of colonial history and local adaptation.
For many, joining a flower society is a way of honouring ancestors, preserving the Kwéyòl language, and passing down traditional music and storytelling to new generations.
How to Join the La Marguerite Flower Festival
Visitors are warmly welcomed to witness or participate in the La Marguerite Flower Festival. The main events are free and take place in different communities each year, though Vieux Fort often hosts the central celebration. Morning mass typically starts around 10 am, followed by a parade and cultural performances throughout the day.
If you’re travelling from abroad, Saint Lucia’s Hewanorra International Airport is located in Vieux Fort — just a short distance from the festivities. It’s easy to join the crowds, enjoy local food stalls and immerse yourself in the island’s music and joy.
Why You Should Go
Attending the La Marguerite Flower Festival in St Lucia offers travellers more than a photo opportunity — it’s a chance to experience the island’s living heritage first-hand. It’s where faith meets creativity, where history dances through the streets, and where community spirit blooms as brightly as the flowers themselves.
Whether you’re a culture lover, photographer, or simply curious about Caribbean traditions, La Marguerite is an unforgettable way to connect with the heart of Saint Lucia.
Things To Do in Saint Lucia
For more inspiration on what to do on your Saint Lucia holidays go to www.stlucia.org, or you can discover what Mark Bibby Jackson got up to when he visited Saint Lucia: a Community United in Music.
All images provided by Saint Lucia Tourism Authority, credit Ronald Raoul.
