Among several religious festivals held each year in Seychelles, the Feast of Assumption has to be the most celebrated one. In the weeks leading up to the Roman Catholic religious celebration, which is particularly well-celebrated on La Digue, homes are tidied up, church altars are decorated, and religious statues are re-painted before being carried as part of the procession to respective island churches.
\n\nEvery year, on the 15th of August, this is an event that Seychellois look very much forward to so that they can come together to celebrate the 'Feast of Assumption', also locally known as 'Lafet La Digue'. Festivities of open-air masses, processions, street parties, live music shows and food stalls are a true typical display of Seychelles’ traditional lifestyle. It is a day that attracts many visitors, tourists and locals alike to La Digue from other islands.
\n\nBy tradition, the Feast of Assumption is dedicated to St Mary, La Digue’s patron saint.
\n\nThe event usually begins with the open-air mass at ‘La Grotto’ and is followed by a procession, customarily carrying a statue of the Virgin Mary. A ceremonial mass is then given by the Bishop of Seychelles at St Mary’s Church, welcoming foreign visitors in English and preaching in Creole to local parishioners.
\n\nThe religious affairs are then followed by cultural activities, which are taken to the streets that are more alive than ever with food stalls offering a variety of culinary delights of traditional Creole dishes along to live music shows often featuring local artists. The program is so packed that more often than not it has to be spread over several days. Activities time and again typically involve climbing a greased tree-trunk, several sporting events, duck races, pageants, beach parties, bike tours, dance competitions and even a ferry race!
\n\nWhile the emphasis of the feast is mostly on the religious ceremonies, the feast is also an occasion for family get-togethers, especially for the people of La Digue who are working or living on other islands.
\n\nIt is the busiest time for La Digue, so keep an ear open for details of this special day.
\n\nIf you wish to be a part of the spectacle, it is advisable to plan your trip well in advance, as accommodations are booked out quickly! You can make the one-and-a-half-hour trip from Mahe by boat. Cat Cocos and Inter-Island Ferry Cat Rose usually have additional ferry crossings between Praslin and La Digue on the 14th & 15th of August! Check their websites for timings and availability or to make a booking!
\n\nThe Feast of Assumption brings visitors and locals together to experience and enjoy the culture and friendly atmosphere of La Digue Island.
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