Haitian Cuisine: The Delights of Corn, Let’s Savor This Culinary Treasure!

The Jacmel Jazz Festival 2024, An Eclectic Celebration of Haitian Music and Culture

The Jacmel Jazz Festival, one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year in Haiti, returns in force with its 8th edition. Organized by the cultural association of the same name, under the direction of Richecard Cine, founding president, the festival will take place on April 30, 2024 in the picturesque town of Jacmel, known for its rich artistic and cultural heritage.

Guédés: When Haïti celebrates its ancestors with color and fervor

Every November 1st and 2nd, Haïti comes alive with the colors black and purple to celebrate the Guédés, spirits venerated in the voodoo religion, symbols of a powerful bond between the living and the dead. Fascinating, indomitable and provocative, the Guédés form a true family in the pantheon of Haitian voodoo, where they are respected for their role as spiritual guides of the deceased to the afterlife. Led by iconic figures such as the legendary Baron Samedi and his companion Grann Brigitte, the Guédés embody the paradoxes of life and death. Each Baron has a unique personality: Baron Cimetière, Baron Kriminel, and Baron La Croix are the guardians of the souls that wander on the borders of the world of the dead. Together, they form a powerful and somewhat frightening presence, but one that is deeply rooted in Haitian culture. The Guédés are not like other voodoo spirits; they demonstrate their fearlessness in a spectacular way. Accustomed to death, they are fearless and are provocative: they eat glass, raw peppers, and coat their sensitive parts with rum and pepper. These gestures mark their indifference to danger and remind us that they have already known earthly life. They are thus psychopomps – these beings who lead the souls of the dead – and act as bridges between the world of the living and that of the dead. Some Guédés, like Guédé Nibo, wear black, purple, and white clothing, each with unique characteristics. They are many and varied: Guédé Fouillé, Guédé Loraj, Papa Guédé, and many others. These are the spirits who, each year, remind Haitians of the importance of remembering and honoring the deceased. The cult of the Guédés is not only religious; it is also cultural and historical. According to tradition, their spiritual territory, or “Fètomè” – nicknamed the “Country without Hats” – is a place where the souls of ancestors reside. According to stories, the origins of this cult go back to the Abomey plateau, the ancient capital of the kingdom of Dahomey, in Africa, where death and life coexist in a form of symbiosis. This celebration in Haïti even finds echoes in ancient history. The Romans also honored their dead with the “Fête des Lémuria”, which took place in February, to ward off spirits and restore peace between the world of the living and that of the deceased. For Haitians, honoring the Guédés is about accepting death as a part of life and celebrating the invisible bonds that unite us with those who have left us. It is also a way of resisting, because life, despite its challenges, must be celebrated in all its complexity and depth.

10 Must-See Beaches to visit in Haiti

Haiti, pearl of the Caribbean, is full of natural and cultural treasures that deserve to be explored. Among these treasures, the breathtakingly beautiful beaches occupy pride of place. Here is our selection of the 10 must-see beaches to visit in Haiti, offering unique and memorable seaside experiences.

A Haitian Beach Surprises With Its Unexpected Beauty – Discover It!

Haiti, a land of hidden treasures, is full of breathtaking beaches, but among them, some stand out for an unexpected beauty that will not fail to surprise you. If you are looking for a place off the beaten track, offering an authentic and unforgettable experience, then Bassin Bleu beach deserves your full attention. This beach, nestled in a breathtaking natural setting, offers you moments of pure magic.

7 Magical Ways to Celebrate Valentine’s Day in Haiti

Valentine’s Day is a special occasion to celebrate love and create unforgettable memories with your significant other. What if this year, you celebrated it under the Caribbean sun, in an idyllic setting, between heavenly beaches, verdant mountains and vibrant culture? Haiti, with its authentic charm and warm hospitality, is a perfect destination for a romantic getaway. Whether you are looking for relaxation, adventure or cultural discoveries, here are five magical ways to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Haiti.

10 Unforgettable Haitian Christmas Songs That Marked the Spirits

The holiday season in Haïti is full of magic, and Christmas songs play an essential role in this warm and festive atmosphere. Between traditions, wild rhythms and nostalgic melodies, Christmas music in Haïti reflects the cultural richness of the country. Here is a selection of 10 unforgettable Haitian Christmas songs, which continue to make hearts vibrate and leave a mark on minds.