Best Places to Visit in Martinique for Christmas Cheer

As the holiday season approaches, Martinique transforms into a festive paradise, offering expats and digital nomads a unique blend of French and Caribbean Christmas traditions. The island's warm climate may not bring snow, but the vibrant cultural celebrations, stunning decorations, and holiday markets more than make up for it. Here are some of the best places to visit in Martinique during December to get into the holiday spirit.

Fort-de-France

The capital city of Martinique, Fort-de-France, comes alive during the holiday season with its festive lights and decorations adorning the streets. The city hosts a variety of Christmas markets, but the Grand Marché de Noël is a must-visit. Here, you can find local crafts, holiday decorations, and traditional Martinican culinary delights. The market usually runs throughout December, offering a perfect opportunity to pick up unique gifts and sample local treats. Additionally, the city often features live music and cultural performances that showcase the island's rich heritage.

We Recommend: Don't miss the chance to try the local Christmas specialty, 'boudin créole,' a type of blood sausage that's particularly popular during the festive season. Pair it with a glass of 'shrubb,' a Martinican orange-peel infused rum, for a true taste of the holidays.

Sainte-Anne

Sainte-Anne is known for its beautiful beaches and laid-back atmosphere, but during December, it also becomes a hub for holiday festivities. The town square is typically decorated with lights and a Christmas tree, creating a picturesque setting for evening strolls. Local artisans sell handmade gifts and decorations, and you can often find choirs singing traditional Christmas carols. The ambiance is warm and welcoming, making it a great place to experience a tropical Christmas.

We Recommend: Look out for the 'Marché de Noël de Sainte-Anne,' where you can indulge in homemade 'pâtés en pot,' a type of meat-filled pastry that's a holiday favorite among the locals.

Le Marin

Le Marin, with its stunning marina and yachting culture, offers a unique Christmas experience. The town is known for its Nautical Christmas Parade, where boats are adorned with festive lights and decorations. This floating parade usually takes place in early December and is a sight to behold as the vessels illuminate the harbor. On land, the town center is festooned with holiday decor, and vendors sell traditional Christmas foods and crafts.

We Recommend: After enjoying the Nautical Christmas Parade, be sure to sample some 'pain d'épice,' a local gingerbread that's often enjoyed during the holiday season.

Les Trois-Îlets

Les Trois-Îlets is a charming town that offers a quaint Christmas atmosphere. The town's Christmas market is a highlight, featuring local artisans and producers selling everything from handmade jewelry to tropical fruit jams. The market is usually set up in the town center, where the festive spirit is enhanced by Christmas lights and decorations. In addition to the market, Les Trois-Îlets often hosts cultural events and activities that celebrate both French and Creole traditions.

We Recommend: Make sure to try the 'tourment d'amour,' a tart filled with coconut jam, which is a beloved treat in Les Trois-Îlets during the holiday season.

Saint-Pierre

Once known as the "Paris of the Caribbean," Saint-Pierre is steeped in history and culture. During December, the town embraces the holiday spirit with its Christmas festivities. The local market here is a great place to find traditional crafts and sample Creole Christmas dishes. The town also often hosts concerts and plays that bring the community together to celebrate the season.

We Recommend: Don't leave Saint-Pierre without tasting the 'accras de morue,' savory cod fritters that are a staple at any Martinican Christmas gathering.

Le Carbet

Le Carbet is a coastal town with a rich history and a relaxed vibe that makes for a perfect holiday escape. During the Christmas season, Le Carbet's beachfront comes to life with festive decorations and lights. The town's Christmas market is smaller than some others on the island but offers a cozy and intimate atmosphere where you can find unique gifts and enjoy local food and drinks.

We Recommend: While exploring Le Carbet's Christmas market, be sure to savor a glass of local 'punch de Noël,' a festive rum punch that's a holiday favorite.

Le François

Le François is a town that offers a mix of agricultural charm and seaside beauty. In December, the town center is adorned with Christmas lights, and the air is filled with the scent of holiday spices. The Christmas market here is a great place to experience local traditions, with vendors selling handcrafted items and traditional Martinican sweets.

We Recommend: Try the 'mont-blanc,' a dessert made from coconut puree and resembling a snow-capped mountain, which is particularly popular in Le François during the festive season.

These destinations in Martinique offer a unique holiday experience that combines the warmth of Caribbean hospitality with the joy of French Christmas traditions. Whether you're looking for festive markets, cultural events, or simply a beautiful place to enjoy the season, Martinique has something special for every expat and digital nomad.