In French Guiana, a hot and humid tropical rainforest climate persists throughout the year, with various events held according to the changes between the rainy and dry seasons. Below is a summary of the climatic characteristics and major seasonal events classified by seasons (for convenience).
Spring (March to May)
Climate Characteristics
- Continuing hot and humid conditions in the latter part of the rainy season
- Monthly precipitation increases, peaking in May
- Daily temperature variation is small, with average temperatures around 26 to 30°C
Major Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Climate Relationship |
| March |
Carnival |
A large-scale costume parade held even in the latter part of the rainy season. Nighttime rain measures are important. |
| April |
Easter |
Church events take place in various locations. Due to the rainy season, indoor services and family gatherings are common. |
| May |
Slavery Abolition Day (5/10) |
Ceremonies and parades celebrating the abolition of slavery in 1830. It is common to participate with rain gear. |
Summer (June to August)
Climate Characteristics
- June experiences the highest rainfall, with frequent heavy rains and thunderstorms
- Rainfall gradually decreases from July onward
- Transition period to the dry season, with high humidity but increasing sunshine
Major Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Climate Relationship |
| June |
Saint John's Festival (6/24) |
A traditional event featuring bonfires and folk dancing held outdoors at night, despite the rainy season. |
| July |
Bastille Day (7/14) |
Fireworks and music events. Street parades are conducted, aiming for clear weather. |
| August |
Start of Dry Season |
Trekking and wildlife observation tours become more popular. It is suitable for outdoor activities due to relatively low rainfall. |
Autumn (September to November)
Climate Characteristics
- September to October marks the peak of the dry season with low precipitation
- Rainfall begins to increase gradually from November, leading back to the rainy season
- Average temperatures are around 26 to 29°C, relatively comfortable
Major Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Climate Relationship |
| September |
Kourou Marathon |
Held in the cool mornings and evenings of the dry season, ideal climate conditions for runners. |
| October |
Film Festival |
Indoor documentary screenings. Established as a cultural exchange event at the end of the dry season. |
| November |
Moëj Festival |
Traditional dancing and music festival. Outdoor stages are set up during the relatively dry period before the rainy season. |
Winter (December to February)
Climate Characteristics
- The beginning of the rainy season, with increased rainfall in December and January
- February is the peak of the rainy season, with frequent heavy rains and thunderstorms
- High temperatures continue, ranging from 27 to 31°C
Major Events and Culture
| Month |
Event |
Description and Climate Relationship |
| December |
Christmas |
Celebratory events both indoors and outdoors. Amid hot and humid conditions, light decorations and music events take place. |
| January |
New Year |
Despite heavy rains, celebrated extravagantly with fireworks and parades. |
| February |
Peak of Carnival |
A full-scale costume parade. Thousands participate while taking waterproof measures due to the rainy season. |
Summary of Seasonal Events and Climate Relationships
| Season |
Climate Characteristics |
Examples of Major Events |
| Spring |
Hot and humid in the latter part of the rainy season |
Carnival, Easter, Slavery Abolition Day |
| Summer |
Transition to dry season after peak rainfall |
Saint John's Festival, Bastille Day |
| Autumn |
Peak of dry season → transition before rainy season |
Kourou Marathon, Film Festival |
| Winter |
Beginning of rainy season → peak |
Christmas, New Year, Peak of Carnival |
Additional Information
- Hot and humid throughout the year due to the tropical rainforest climate
- Distinct changes between the rainy season (December to July) and dry season (August to November)
- Cultural events are tightly connected to the rich natural environment
In French Guiana, a range of events reflecting climatic changes are held throughout the year, providing residents and tourists with unique experiences.
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