Tombstone Feast - Rich example of our African heritage

spiceisledigiconte
Aug 29, 2022
2 min read

Updated: Aug 17

The tri-island state of Grenada, Carriacou, and Petite Martinique is home to a rich tapestry of traditions passed down through generations. These cultural practices, rooted in African heritage, continue to thrive in communities that keep their customs alive.

One of the most profound and culturally significant of these traditions is the Tombstone Feast—a ritual honoring the dead that blends spirituality, music, dance, and communal gathering.

What is the Tombstone Feast?

The Tombstone Feast is a traditional ritual most commonly practiced in Carriacou, Petite Martinique, and northern and eastern Grenada. It represents the final observance of the dead and is deeply tied to West African burial customs, where honoring ancestors plays a central role.

This feast is the last stage in a series of rituals associated with death, following the Wake, Funeral, and 40th Day Church Service.

Wake: Usually held within three days of death, bringing family and community together.
Funeral: Typically takes place within 2–4 weeks, though it may be delayed to allow relatives abroad to return home.
40th Day Service: A religious observance symbolizing prayers for the departed soul.

At the heart of the Tombstone Feast is the installation of the tombstone—a symbolic act that honors the deceased and marks their final resting place.

What Happens During the Tombstone Feast?

1. The Procession

The ritual begins with a solemn procession to the graveside. The coffin is carried on poles by four to six men, as family, friends, and community members walk together in respect.

2. Saraka (Food Sacrifice)

At the graveside, the tradition of Saraka (or “Salaka”) takes place. This practice involves preparing food and offering it to the ancestral spirits.

The Parents Plate is served first to honor the ancestors.
After this ritual offering, the remaining food is shared and eaten by those present, symbolizing unity and remembrance.

3. Big Drum Dance

One of the most vibrant aspects of the Tombstone Feast is the Big Drum Dance, particularly in Carriacou.

The drumming sets a powerful rhythm, while women dance with wide open skirts, moving gracefully to the beat.
The Big Drum Dance is not just entertainment—it is a sacred performance that connects the community with African ancestral traditions.