D-2 before Christmas Eve. Many Reunion Islanders turn to markets to find gifts from artisans. The one in Saint-Paul offers stands of pei instruments, handmade bags and even locally made children's clothing. Know-how to which visitors are particularly sensitive.
Annaëlle Dorressamy / Nina Santi / Ophélie Maraval
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Published on December 22, 2024 at 9:01 a.m.,
updated December 22, 2024 at 9:14 a.m.
In Saint-Paul, the Christmas market warmly welcomes the public until December 24. In the heart of the city center, around forty Pei artisans are present, notably with an associative and solidarity market. Reunion craftsmanship is highlighted.
Three days before Christmas, some Reunion Islanders are opting for unique presents. Pei craftsmanship is in the spotlight. Many people opt to choose a “pei and lontan gift”which recalls the flavors and sounds of the childhood of a Kréol Dakour marmay.
Musical instruments made of tamarind wood and mango wood are lovingly made by the careful little hands of the Tribu Nénibé association, located at Grande Fontaine, in Saint-Paul.
We born have all the instruments of maloya. We born na djembe, roll, kayamb… All that there is homemade with the flowers of cane ke nou sa roder. The conflore we are breaking in. The skin of the drum is worked by us minm.
Nathanaëlle Nassibou from the Tribu Nénibé association
Customers are attracted by the flow of conflora seeds from the kayambs.
On the other side of downtown, an artisan Christmas market is held in the heart of Saint-Paul. Around forty exhibitors, recognized for the quality of their products, were selected by the city.
An eco-responsible mixed brand, styled in Reunion and manufactured on its sister island, Mauritius, attracts buyers who love “Made in Réunion”.
I really like local products. It's important to support people who work with local materials. I really like second hand too. I picked up a pretty 100% cotton t-shirt for my little boy.
Stéphanie Labrousse, customer
While strolling through the market, customers have their eyes glued to bags bearing the image of Reunion Island. Pineapple, pitaya, sea turtle, sleeping, Creole hut or even traveler's tree… There is something for everyone.
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©Réunion La 1ère
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©Réunion La 1ère
We recycle plastic bottles to make bags. There are no dyes of animal origin. We only use water-based dyes, which allows the bags to be machine washed at 30°C. All the patterns on the bags are designs inspired by Reunion Island.
Jérémy Saint-Bertin, designer, bag creator
The Saint-Paul Christmas market continues at night until 10 p.m., before the big Christmas parade which will parade through the streets of the city center on December 23 from 7 p.m.
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©Nina Santi
