Folklore is defined as “traditional customs, tales, sayings, dances, or art forms preserved among a [group of] people.” Culture and traditions within a culture tend to evolve. However, some practices stay the same and Garifuna, or Garinagu culture is no exception. Garifuna folklore entails many elements including language, clothing, food, dance, and music.
GARIFUNA LANGUAGE
Language is one of the pillars on which the culture is based, and it is a particular vehicle for the acquisition and transmission of the indigenous worldview, of its knowledge and cultural values. The language has French, English, and Spanish influences, which reflects its long interaction and history with various cultures people.
GARIFUNA FASHION
You can find us in modern Western-style clothing (jeans and t-shirts, etc.) or in our traditional garments. What does traditional Garifuna attire look like? Dresses that honor ancestral spirits, colorful costumes for dancing that incorporate the use of shells, necklaces, headbands, skirts, and masks.
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GARIFUNA MUSIC & DANCE
Music and dance are also very important elements of our culture. The music is characterized by the sounds of musical instruments such as drums made of wood logs and cow skins, plus maracas and turtle shells. Our most popular traditional dances include Punta, Yancunu, Samba, and Zumba.
GARIFUNA FOOD
Food traditions have been one of the elements that have remained alive in our Garifuna culture, typical dishes containing coconut, cassava, banana, and seafood. One particular must-have dish is Machuca, also known as Hudutu or Hudut. It is a seafood soup served with a ball of mashed plantain, accompanied by fish and other kinds of seafood. A good Machuca takes time and dedication. A few quicker to make foods that are apart of our cuisine include cassava bread, coconut bread, rice and beans and more.
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