From 12 to 22 December 2024, Mauritius will come alive with the island’s first International Kreol Festival, a vibrant celebration of Creole culture under the theme Kreolite boté nou mauricianisme (“Creolity and beauty of our Mauritianism”).
Unveiled this week at the historically significant Musée Intercontinental de l’Esclavage, the festival’s programme highlights the rich tapestry of Mauritian Creole identity. Tourism Minister Richard Duval, alongside Junior Minister Sydney Pierre, presented the event as a cultural landmark.
“This national festival is intended to bear witness to the richness of our Creole culture, without which Mauritius would not be what it is. We wanted it to be very diverse and we designed it as a showcase for our Creole culture.” said Richard Duval.
Taking Creole Culture Across the Island
The festival includes a travelling caravan of comedy performances, Spektak l’humour, set to visit underprivileged areas from 16 to 20 December. It’s part of an inclusive approach to bring the festivities to communities across the island, with stops planned in Sainte Croix, Mahébourg, Rivière Noire, Curepipe, Sainte Catherine, and Saint Pierre.
Junior Minister Pierre framed the event as more than a celebration—it’s a statement.
“Creolité is a vast worldwide movement and Mauritius undeniably has its place in it. We want this Festival, over the years, to become one of the reasons why tourists come to visit us. In any case, all our representative offices around the world have been asked to promote it”.
Beyond Beaches: Showcasing Mauritius’ Culture
Tourism Minister Duval stressed that the festival represents a pivot for the ministry, moving beyond Mauritius’ famed beaches and luxury resorts to focus on the island’s cultural heritage. “This is just the beginning of our commitment to showcasing the many faces of Mauritius,” Duval said.
The International Kreol Festival 2024 Programme
The festival boasts an eclectic mix of events spanning 11 days:
- Thursday 12 December: Opening ceremony and an evening of traditional Creole festivities at Le Morne
- Friday 13 December: A fusion of Sega Jazz and Sirandann at Le Four à Chaux, Trou d’Eau Douce
- Saturday 14 December: The Gran Conser, featuring a grand concert at the Cruise Terminal in Les Salines
- Sunday 15 December: A Culinary Festival and Discovery Platters in Grand Baie
- 16th–20 December: The travelling comedy caravan, Spektak l’humour, reaches communities across the island
- Friday 20 December: A tribute to Sega legends, Bann Lezand Sega, in Curepipe
- Saturday 21 December: The cultural extravaganza Viv Nou Lar in Rose Hill
- Sunday 22 December: A fitting finale with a Regatta, Culinary and Artisan Festival and a Musical Concert in Mahébourg
Creole Culture Takes the Spotlight
This year’s festival places Mauritius firmly on the cultural tourism map, shining a light on the island’s Creole heritage through music, food, art, and community. Whether it’s Sega rhythms under the stars, the scent of local delicacies wafting through Grand Baie, or the vivid energy of a regatta in Mahébourg, the International Kreol Festival promises a sensory feast that goes far beyond the postcard-perfect beaches.
For more information, visit Mauritius’ tourism website and plan your December escape to experience the beauty of Mauritianism firsthand.
