TL 2012/2013

The Christmas tradition... In the West Indies !

By Cédric

Hello everybody !
As you know, Christmas is coming soon with all its trees - decorated with their bright lights and garlands - , its chocolates, delicious meals, its snowflakes, and of course, the famous gifts you have been waiting for ! (only if you have been nice during all the year ;)).
Today, we are going to tell you about a different Xmas tradition... in the West Indies and more precisely in Martinique !

The "Chanté Nwel"

In Martinique (and also in Guadeloupe), from November 1st - which is All Saint's Day-, people organize festivities, where one sings various hymns, and shares traditional meals.

1- Origins

The origin of "Chanté Nwel" dates from the slavery between the 17th Century and and the 19th Century in the West Indies.
The slaves, who had a Catholic education and had to play music for religious services, began to play various instruments as drum, and sing hymns, which were a mix of African culture, and European Catholic Texts. This mix of cultures is the result of the Triangular Trade.

2- Tradition

During the festivities, people get together to sing famous hymns well-known in the island such as "Dans Le Calme De La Nuit", "Il est né le Divin Enfant", and "Michaud Veillait", and some music groups play instruments to accompany the hymns.
What makes "Chanté Nwel" a famous and well-appreciated event in Martinique is that no matter who you are, whether you belong to a music group or not, you can take part in the events, and have fun.

But "Chanté Nwel" is not only about singing, is the chance to discover the culinary tradition : You can taste the famous "punch", the traditional hot chocolate with toloman. At Christmas Eve, you will be able to taste various recipes made with pork such as Creole puddings, pâtés and the "Xmas ham".
But be careful : Once you will tast it, you will be addicted to it !