Here’s a rich overview of the culture of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines:
Culture of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
The culture of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines is a vibrant fusion of African, Carib (Indigenous), European (especially British and French) influences, shaped over centuries through colonization, slavery, resistance, and independence.
Festivals & Celebrations
Vincy Mas (Carnival)
- The largest cultural event in the country.
- Held annually in June/July.
- Features:
- Masquerade parades (costumes, dancing, music)
- Calypso Monarch & Soca Monarch competitions
- Panorama (steel pan competitions)
- J’ouvert (street party at dawn)
Nine Mornings Festival
- Unique to Saint Vincent.
- Celebrated during the 9 mornings before Christmas.
- Early morning gatherings with carols, games, lights, parades, and music.
National Heroes Day (March 14)
- Honors Joseph Chatoyer, a Garifuna chief and national hero.
Music and Dance
Music is central to Vincentian life.
Popular Genres:
- Calypso
- Soca
- Reggae
- Dancehall
- Zouk
- Steelpan music (especially during Carnival)
Notable Musicians:
- Kevin Lyttle – international soca star (“Turn Me On”)
- Becket (Alston Cyrus) – calypso legend
- Skerrit Bwoy – soca/dancehall fusion artist
Traditional Dances:
- Quadrille (colonial-era dance)
- Big Drum Dance (African-Caribbean spiritual expression)
Art and Craft
- Reflects themes of island life, spirituality, resistance, and identity.
- Pottery, woven baskets, calabash crafts, and driftwood art are common.
- Local galleries and markets showcase paintings, textiles, and sculptures.
Language
- Official Language: English
- Spoken Language: Vincentian Creole (a form of Caribbean English Creole) used in everyday speech.
Food Culture
- Strongly influenced by African, Indigenous, and European cuisines.
National Dish:
- Roasted Breadfruit & Fried Jackfish
Other Common Foods:
- Callaloo soup
- Saltfish and dumplings
- Plantains, yam, cassava
- Arrowroot-based dishes
- Goat water (spiced stew)
- Pelau (rice, peas, and meat cooked in coconut milk)
Popular Beverages:
- Mauby (herbal drink)
- Sorrel
- Ginger beer
- Rum punch
Religion and Beliefs
- Christianity is dominant:
- Anglican, Methodist, Pentecostal, Catholic, and Evangelical denominations.
- Rastafarianism and Spiritual Baptists also present.
- Obeah (a traditional African-Caribbean spiritual practice) is practiced discreetly.
Traditional Dress
- Everyday dress is Western-style.
- Traditional attire often includes:
- Colorful dresses and head wraps for women
- White or patterned shirts with slacks for men during cultural events
- Costumes during Carnival are extravagant and symbolic.
Proverbs & Storytelling
- Storytelling is vital to preserving history.
- Proverbs, riddles, and folklore (e.g., La Diablesse, Soucouyant) are part of oral tradition.
Cultural Sports
- Cricket, football (soccer), netball, and athletics are important.
- Sporting events are often festive and community-centered.
Cultural Institutions
- National Cultural Foundation promotes arts, theater, music.
- Community centers and schools play a role in passing down traditions.
