FÊTE DE SAINT-BARTHÉLEMY

This is the island's main festival, celebrating its patron saint. The day begins with a mass for sailors at Notre-Dame de l'Assomption church in Gustavia. You are invited to join the procession and lay wreaths at the war memorial. The official part, with the vin d'honneur offered to the public, takes place at the Hôtel de la Collectivité. The most festive part alternates between regattas, games, dances, fireworks and a public ball. It's also an opportunity to feast on Caribbean dishes and barbecues prepared by local associations.