Christmas Martinique holidays

Christmas traditions in Martinique

Martinicans go big on Christmas and won't just do one day of partying - from 1st December until Christmas day, people celebrate by taking part in Chanté Nwel! This is a dream come true for anyone that loves Christmas carols as Chanté Nwel is where friends and family get together to sing hymns, eat, drink and be merry. These Chante Nwel celebrations can be private or public events but what remains the same is the creole style of hymn accompanied by the sounds of traditional drums.

Just like Europe has traditional Christmas drinks like mulled wine, Martinique has a classic Christmas tipple called Shrubb. This drink brings all the familiar flavours of Christmas but has a Caribbean twist of spiced Rum Agricole infused with orange peel, spices and sugarcane syrup. In the past, this drink was made by people in their homes but now you can just pop into a shop and buy it. When it comes to Christmas grub in Martinique pork is the king of the feast. Traditional Christmas feasts include a caramelized Christmas ham, boudin creole (a heavily spiced blood sausage) and cod fritters.

Best places to celebrate Christmas in Martinique

The best place to celebrate Christmas in Martinique is at a resort as most will throw a special party and gala dinners for Christmas and New Year. There are resorts are scattered around the island but staying in the capital, Fort-de-France is a brilliant experience. There’re many large Christmas trees dotted around public areas of the town, heavily decorated with lights and ornaments. The annual Christmas market sells all kinds of local produce and artisanal goods. But the cherry on top is the Chante Nwel celebrations every evening, featuring a live band and carol singers to really get into the Christmas spirit.

When it comes to Christmas shopping in Martinique you’ve really hit the jackpot as Martinique arguably has the best shopping in the Caribbean. The best two places to shop are Lamentin and Ducos as they both have large shopping centres full of luxury French goods and brands.

Best hotels to celebrate Christmas in Martinique

One of the best hotels on the island is Club Med Les Boucaniers. There is a beachfront view and a world of activities for families, including tennis, kayaking, paddleboarding and I've evening shows - there's never a dull moment here! As an all inclusive resort, it's perfect for a family trip. Upgrade to a suite for a luxury touch to your holiday.

Another hotel we love is Pierre & Vacances Village Sainte Luce. This large resort has over 300 rooms and excellent facilities for kids between 3-17. The resort hosts a Christmas dinner and New Year party annually which feature performances as well as all the food you can eat. Chill at the waterpark or get your blood pumping with a high energy watersport.

Choose La Pagerie Hotel for an intimate stay this Christmas. While it’s small (under 100 rooms) the hotel has fantastic activities and restaurants available as well as located in a prime spot for excursions. This is a hotel that will get booked up quickly for peak dates so make sure you book early for this gem.