Cap-Haïtien honors Battle of Vertières with music, prayer and calls for justice

CAP-HAITIEN — Residents of Cap-Haïtien marked the 222nd anniversary of the Bataille de Vertières on Nov. 18 with a mix of celebration, reflection and calls for justice. High schoolers danced through the streets in a carnival-like atmosphere as fanfare bands filled downtown with music, while a priest used the occasion to demand justice for slain public figures—including former President Jovenel Moïse

The day began around 8 a.m. at the Vertières monument, where Deputy Mayor Patrick Almonor placed a wreath in honor of the historic battle that helped secure Haiti’s independence.

By 9 a.m., officials, students and residents gathered inside the Cap-Haïtien Cathedral for a commemorative mass. During the service, the priest urged authorities to deliver justice for victims such as Father André Sylvestre, killed in 2021, and President Moïse, whose assassination remains unsolved.

Once mass ended, the celebration returned to the streets. Fanfare bands marched through downtown with upbeat music while students danced behind them, turning the morning into a lively parade.

Relive the highlights of Vertières Day in Cap-Haïtien through photos and videos below.

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