Haiti Carnival 2025: Fort-Liberté is getting ready to party

FORT-LIBERTÉ — Carnival fans, get ready! After a four-year hiatus, Haiti’s beloved National Carnival is returning, and this year, Fort-Liberté—the historic and charming coastal town in the Northeast Department—will host the festivities. From March 2 to 4, the city will transform into a hub of culture, colors, music and national pride, bringing joy to residents and visitors while boosting the region’s economy.

“The 2025 National Carnival will unfold its splendor in Fort-Liberté from March 2 to 4, transforming the historic city into a setting of colors, rhythms, and celebrations,” Bendgy Tilias, Haiti’s Secretary of State for Communication, said in an official Jan. 18 statement on Facebook.

This year’s theme, “Haiti Debou” (Haiti Standing), reflects the resilience of the Haitian people in the face of ongoing crises. Officials said the carnival offers an opportunity to celebrate Haiti’s cultural heritage while uniting the nation.

A historic tradition revived

Haiti’s National Carnival has long been a barometer of the country’s culture and sociopolitical environment. Traditionally celebrated annually between February and March, the event serves as both a platform for celebration and a tool for political leaders to appease or lose public favor.

“Good time or bad time, it does not matter to most Haitians when it comes to carnival festivities,” said Jackson Maréus, a musician from Fort-Liberté. “Give people their carnival no matter what; they will leave you alone. Otherwise, your power is in trouble,” Maréus said, referring to past instances when the government used carnival to address popular discontent.

The event, known as “Trois Jours-Gras” (Three Fat Days), traditionally spans Sunday, Monday, and Tuesday. It was once exclusively held in Port-au-Prince until 2012, when then-President Michel Martelly introduced a rotation system to highlight Haiti’s regional diversity.

Les Cayes was the first city outside Port-au-Prince to host in 2012, followed by Cap-Haïtien in 2013 and Gonaïves in 2014. The last National Carnival, in 2021, was held in Port-de-Paix under President Jovenel Moïse.

Why Fort-Liberté?

Fort-Liberté’s selection as the host city underscores its historic role in Haiti’s fight for independence. Known as the “Capital of Freedom,” the city was central to the Haitian Revolution.

“It’s a good choice,” said entrepreneur, singer and former Senator Jacques Sauveur “Jackito” Jean, a native of the region. “We don’t call a city Fort-Liberté without its ties to freedom. The theme of this carnival should revive the Haitian soul, starting from this symbolic city,” Jean added.

The city’s cultural and historical landmarks, including its iconic forts, make it an ideal setting for the 2025 National Carnival. Local officials have outlined plans to showcase the Northeast Department’s unique culture and talent through parades, competitions, and other events.

Carnival as an economic boost

Beyond cultural significance, the carnival is expected to provide a much-needed economic boost for Fort-Liberté and the surrounding areas. Hotels, restaurants, and small businesses are already preparing for an influx of visitors.

“The Fort-Liberté carnival is a golden opportunity to continue promoting tourism in Haiti, especially considering the city’s rich cultural and historical heritage,” said Chenot Roceny, a journalist advocating for cultural preservation.

Carl Pierre, an employee at Le Marien Hotel, said preparations are well underway. “We will strengthen our reception team and hire additional servers for the restaurant. We also plan to significantly increase our beverage and food stocks,” Pierre said.

Local artisans and entrepreneurs are equally optimistic. Judemine Alcée, a craftswoman from Ouanaminthe, said the event will provide much-needed income. “The carnival will bring a deluge of cash flow to the artisans of the Northeast,” Alcée said.

Challenges ahead

Despite the excitement, concerns remain about the city’s readiness to host such a large event. Infrastructure improvements, security measures, and logistical coordination are among the top priorities for local officials.

“Although we face personnel shortages, a comprehensive security plan is being developed to ensure the safety of residents and visitors during the festivities,” said Jacques Antoine Etienne, director of police for the Northeast Department.

Mayor Louis Jacques Junior Etienne said efforts are underway to address road conditions and improve electricity and communication services in time for the event.

“We need to show everyone that Fort-Liberté is ready for sustainable development,” said Pélimène Emmanuel, CEO of La Creole Bleu Restaurant. “This is a team effort, and we will take good care of our visitors and partygoers.”

As excitement builds, Fort-Liberté looks forward to showcasing its rich history and culture while uniting Haitians in a celebration of resilience and pride.

Editor’s Note: Fritznel D. Octave, Haiti Editor of The Haitian Times, contributed additional reporting.

The post Haiti Carnival 2025: Fort-Liberté is getting ready to party appeared first on The Haitian Times.

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Haiti Carnival 2025: Fort-Liberté is getting ready to party was first posted on January 27, 2025 at 9:00 am.