Mardi Gras charm Cap-Haïtien, bringing smiles to residents during pre-carnival and carnival festivities | PHOTOS

CAP-HAÏTIEN — Cap-Haïtien revelers were treated to a chilling Vodouesque carnival spectacle for the ages at the Boulevard between Feb. 21 and March 4. Oungan (Vodou priests) whipped “zombies” with martinets, performers caught lwa—Vodou spirits—and trembled on the ground, while manbo (Vodou priestesses) fed popcorn to the undead, all part of a bizarre and electrifying display of Vodou rituals.

Masqueraders embodied zombies of recently deceased public figures, including President Jovenel Moïse and rapper Black Alex.

About 100 attendees followed the spectacle, walking from Street 24 to Street 29. Children laughed and screamed in disbelief, while a few backed away in fear. It was one of the pre-carnival shows held every Sunday at The Boulevard.

Later, on March 4—the final day of carnival—Mardi Gras performers roamed The Boulevard in frightening costumes, playfully interacting with children who couldn’t help but smile and chase after a pickup truck for a ride.

Here are some images and videos from the Vodou show and Mardi Gras in Cap-Haïtien.

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