Our traditions

…nting Music in Martiniquee** Music plays a vital role in Martinique's culture. The most well-known and popular musical style is undoubtedly zouk, thanks in large part to the group Kassav. It's a rhythmic musical form that gained popularity in the 1980s and originates from the French Antilles. Dancehall also has its enthusiasts, with artists like Kalash, Blicassty, and Saik. Another musical genre native to Martinique is "biguine," influenced by European and African music.

2. Savory Cuisine

Martinique's cuisine is a fusion of French, African, and Creole flavors. Seafood dishes like lambi, octopus, fish, shrimp, and crab are very popular, as are chicken, mutton, and pork prepared with local spices and herbs. "Colombo" is an iconic dish, similar to a curry, which can be prepared with chicken, pork, or seafood. Let's not forget dishes like banana gratins, boudin, accras, smoked chicken, "migan," "ti-nain morue," and "féroce d’avocat." Martiniquais are also proud of their rums, including Clément and Madkaud, which are among the best in the world.

3. Engaged Literature

Literature in Martinique is strongly influenced by writers like Aimé Césaire, known for his many impactful works, including "Cahier d'un retour au pays natal." He was one of the founders of the negritude movement (along with the Nardal sisters, Gontran-Damas, and Sédar Senghor), a literary movement that has influenced many authors worldwide. Patrick Chamoiseau, author of "Texaco" and a winner of the Goncourt Prize, often explores themes related to black identity, its place in society, its history, traumas, colonization, and Creole culture.

4. Dance

Dance in Martinique is another expression of its cultural diversity, featuring dances and rhythms influenced by Europe and Africa. This includes the "mazurka," "biguine," and "bèlè," which are traditional dances practiced during festivals and celebrations.

5. Crafts

Local craftsmanship in Martinique is diverse, including pottery, basketry, and the creation of jewelry from seashells, madras fabric, and corals.

6. Carnival

The famous Carnival of Martinique is a major event, usually celebrated in February or March, according to the liturgical calendar. It features musical parades, colorful costumes (such as red devils, widows, "nèg gwo siwo," and others), music, and dance.

7. The Yole Boat Race

This sport is very popular in Martinique! So popular that during the period from late July to early August, it's not uncommon to see crowds gather in the starting and finishing towns for these "gommiers" (yole boats).

8. Various Festivals and Celebrations

Apart from Carnival, other festivals such as patron saint festivals, All Saints' Day, Christmas, Easter, and the Music Festival are celebrated with great enthusiasm. Martinique is an island that has much to offer, both in terms of natural beauty and a rich and diverse culture. The best way to understand this culture is to experience it firsthand by tasting local cuisine, listening to the music, and participating in the various annual festivities and traditions, much to the delight of the population.