All Saints' Day 2025

Description

All Saints' Day in Guadeloupe is a day to remember all the saints and holy people. It is also a time to think about those who have died and to honor their memory in a respectful way.

The holiday takes place on November 1 every year. In Guadeloupe this date is a public holiday because the island is part of France and shares many of the same religious holidays.

The day is important because many people in Guadeloupe are Catholic. For them it is a religious moment to reflect on faith, hope, and the idea of life after death. It helps people feel connected to their beliefs.

All Saints' Day is also significant socially and culturally. It brings communities and families together in shared remembrance. The holiday links local history, religion, and respect for ancestors in a way that shapes island identity.

Traditions

Families clean and decorate graves with fresh flowers, candles, and woven palm. They repaint headstones and tidy paths, turning the cemetery into a bright, cared for space where everyone can gather and remember.

People bring food to share and eat together at the graveside. Common dishes include accras de morue, grilled chicken, colombo, rice and fried plantains. Sweet cakes and rum punches are passed around for family and friends.

There are prayers, hymns and sometimes gospel singing. Musicians may play traditional gwo ka drums and guitars. The day mixes quiet moments of reflection with lively family visits, music and shared meals.

Travel Tips

Many shops, banks, and some attractions close or open late on All Saints Day. Plan ahead for fewer services, bring cash, and check opening hours. Public transport may run on a holiday schedule and taxis can be busy in the morning and evening.

Expect crowded cemeteries and town centers near ceremonies. Visit quieter beaches or parks earlier or later in the day. Be respectful, stay with your group at busy sites, keep valuables secure, and join community events to experience local life safely.