All Saints’ Day in Guadeloupe: Traditions and 2026 Holidays
In Guadeloupe, All Saints’ Day is an important time of year for families to come together. Every November 1st and 2nd, both public holidays in Guadeloupe, families gather to remember and honour loved ones who have passed away. Graves are cleaned and decorated with flowers, while at nightfall, cemeteries are illuminated by countless candles.
A time for remembrance, passing down traditions and family gatherings, All Saints’ Day offers an opportunity to discover a tradition deeply rooted in Guadeloupean culture.
What Are the Dates of the All Saints’ Day Holidays in Guadeloupe?
In Guadeloupe, the 2026 All Saints’ Day holidays run from Saturday, October 17, 2026 to Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
How Is All Saints’ Day Celebrated in Guadeloupe?
Preparations begin several days before November 1st. Families visit cemeteries to clean, repaint and decorate their loved ones’ graves with flowers.
On the evening of All Saints’ Day, cemeteries across Guadeloupe are illuminated by the glow of thousands of candles placed on graves. These gatherings in cemeteries are an opportunity to pay respects, spend time together and pass on the memory of the departed to younger generations. For many, it is also a pleasant opportunity to reconnect with friends and family.
During these moments of remembrance, younger generations also have their own tradition: “caca bougie.” They collect leftover candle wax, shape it into balls and have fun throwing them at each other. It’s a bit like a snowball fight, but All Saints’ Day style!
Iconic Cemeteries in Guadeloupe on All Saints’ Day
Morne-à-l’Eau Cemetery is instantly recognisable thanks to its tombs covered in distinctive black-and-white chequered tiles. On All Saints’ Day, as night falls, this cemetery set on the slopes of a hill becomes a remarkable sight, illuminated by the many candles placed on the graves.
Port-Louis Marine Cemetery, located by the ocean near Souffleur Beach, stands out for its sand-covered graves. Some are decorated with conch shells, a distinctive feature that contributes to the unique character of this Port-Louis heritage site.
November 1st: All Saints’ Day
On November 1st, All Saints’ Day celebrates all saints, known and unknown. In Guadeloupe, families attend church services and visit cemeteries to pay their respects to loved ones who have passed away.
November 2nd: Commemoration of the Faithful Departed
November 2nd is dedicated to the memory of the departed. Families gather once again in cemeteries to pay their respects to loved ones who have passed away.
💡 Good to know: don’t be surprised if some shops are closed on November 1 and 2. Both days are public holidays in Guadeloupe. Some businesses may therefore close earlier than usual or remain exceptionally closed during this period of remembrance.
Is All Saints’ Day a Good Time to Visit Guadeloupe?
Yes, All Saints’ Day can be a pleasant time to discover Guadeloupe. The island is still in its wet season, with temperatures generally ranging from 24 to 30°C. This period is ideal for enjoying a quieter stay before the peak tourist season.💡 Good to know: during All Saints’ Day, the many flower pots placed in cemeteries can collect rainwater and provide breeding grounds for mosquitoes. Prevention campaigns are carried out during this period to reduce stagnant water. Remember to bring mosquito repellent.
Visiting Guadeloupe During the All Saints’ Day Holidays
The All Saints’ Day holidays are also a great opportunity to discover Guadeloupe as a family. From November 1st traditions to beaches, markets, hiking trails and cultural visits, this period offers the chance to experience different sides of the archipelago.
From Grande-Terre to Basse-Terre, the landscapes and atmosphere change as you travel across the islands. A rental car makes it easy to reach the beaches of Sainte-Anne, the scenery of Pointe des Châteaux or the natural sites of Basse-Terre, while allowing you to plan each day at your own pace.
Make the most of your stay during the All Saints’ Day holidays to explore Guadeloupe and discover its heritage, landscapes and traditions.
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