Île-de-France’s “Chanté Nwèl” Lights Up Saint-Ouen with Caribbean Warmth

On December 12, 2025, Creole voices echoed through the halls of the Île-de-France Regional Council’s headquarters in Saint-Ouen. The traditional Chanté Nwèl, now an unmissable event on the region’s cultural calendar, brought together music, rhythm, and joy in a vibrant celebration of island spirit. Between drums, percussions, and choirs singing beloved Christmas classics infused with Caribbean flavor, the evening offered a feast of togetherness and good cheer.

A cherished tradition

Born in 2008 at the Ministry of Culture under the initiative of Patrick Karam, Chanté Nwèl has gained momentum over the years to become a strong symbol of French overseas culture in the Paris region. Since 2016, under the leadership of Valérie Pécresse, the Île-de-France Region has carried on this celebration, honoring the diversity and energy of Creole heritage.

With more than 600,000 residents of Caribbean and Guianese origin living in Île-de-France, enthusiasm for the event remains steadfast. Each edition draws a diverse crowd—families, culture lovers, and the simply curious—united by a shared desire to sing, dance, and celebrate the warmth of the season.

Regional support behind the success

For the eighth consecutive year, the Region has backed numerous local versions of Chanté Nwèl across the Paris area. Cultural associations receive €300 in funding to organize free or low-cost gatherings that respect and promote Creole musical traditions.
To qualify, events must feature traditional songs performed with live bands or percussion and include five mandatory titles sung in Creole and/or French. This initiative aims both to protect the authenticity of the Chanté Nwèl and to inspire creative interpretations.

Honoring creativity and talent

This year once again, the Region has reinforced its commitment by launching a competition to celebrate the most remarkable Chanté Nwèl events. A total of 14 winners will receive awards recognizing excellence and emotion in performance:

• 1st prize: €3,000 (1 winner)

• 2nd prize: €2,000 (2 winners)

• 3rd prize: €1,000 (3 winners)

• 4th prize: €500 (8 winners)

This contest encourages local groups to keep the spirit of the Chanté Nwèl alive and ensures greater visibility for the culture of France’s overseas communities.

A celebration full of color

Filled with song, laughter, and Creole rhythms, the 2025 Chanté Nwèl warmed hearts across the Paris region. More than a tradition, it’s a moment of connection—a joyful tribute to shared roots and cultural unity. Once again, Saint-Ouen proved that Caribbean warmth can light up even the coldest of Parisian nights.

©2025 – IMPACT EUROPEAN

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Gabriel MIHAI

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