Holidays and Celebrations in Haiti

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.

Pap Jazz 2025, a Celebration of Haiti’s Great Musical Richness

On Sunday, April 6, 2025, the Karibe Convention Center in Juvenat transformed into a true cultural temple to close the 18th edition of the Port-au-Prince International Jazz Festival (PAPJAZZ). This year, the festival took place under the evocative theme "PAP JAZZ it UP", and it was held in three sites primarily located in the Pétion-Ville commune. The festival took place entirely at these wonderful musical venues: a reference was made to the Latin Quarter, the Haiti-Brazil Cultural Center, and the Karibe Hotel. Due to the deteriorating situation in downtown Port-au-Prince in recent times, the French Institute site had to be abandoned by the festival organizers. Nevertheless, we can absolutely call this 18th edition of Pap Jazz a success. Indeed, this festival, now a major event of the Haitian year, was especially marked this year by the great resilience and determination of the organizers who were able to adapt to the country’s rhythm in order to satisfy their loyal festival-goers. Despite the difficult context, these festival-goers did not miss the opportunity to escape their harsh daily lives through music. It’s also important to note that this 18th edition of Pap Jazz took place after two postponements, at the very beginning of this year, with the last one occurring in March due to insecurity. In this regard, it is appropriate to call the monumental achievement of the Haïti Jazz Foundation and their partners an exceptional feat, as they were not discouraged and showed remarkable tenacity, while adapting to offer Port-au-Prince and its surroundings this moment of growth, beyond the city’s great sorrow, through music.

Plan your trip to Haïti

Haïti, the pearl of the Caribbean nestled west of the island of Hispaniola, offers a captivating combination of natural beauty and rich history. For an unforgettable trip, follow these wise tips to plan your stay. b~Prior Research~b Before you begin your trip, immerse yourself in Haïti’s rich culture, fascinating history, delicious cuisine and top attractions. This prior immersion will allow you to make the most of your stay and connect more easily with locals. b~Ideal time to travel~b Haïti’s mild climate throughout the year makes it an attractive tourist destination at any time. Your choice of period will depend on your preferences. If you’re passionate about cultural festivities, don’t miss the Haïtian Carnival in February, a vibrant celebration leading up to Lent. For lovers of paradise beaches like Labadee, La Côte des Arcadins, and others, summer offers a perfect mix of sun and fun times in crystal clear waters. If spirituality appeals to you, August 15 marks the Feast of the Assumption, a religious celebration marking the Virgin Mary’s ascension into heaven. And also November 1st and 2nd are dedicated to the Day of the Dead. Families go to the cemetery to honor and decorate the graves of their deceased loved ones, creating an atmosphere steeped in memory and tradition. History buffs may choose to visit on national holidays such as National Independence Day on January 1, Flag Day on May 18, and other significant events. b~Choice of Accommodation~b Haïti offers a range of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to family-friendly B&Bs. Adapt your choice according to your budget and preferences, favoring local accommodation for a more authentic experience. b~Unmissable Tourist Sites~b Among the gems to explore, discover the majestic Citadelle Laferrière, listed as a UNESCO world heritage site, the Sans Souci Palace, the La Visite National Park, the Milot Cathedral, Fort Jacques, the Heroes of Vertières, the Bassin Bleu , the Saut-Mathurine Waterfall, the Marie-Jeanne Cave, Kenscoff and Furcy, as well as the Saut d’Eau Waterfall. Also explore the artistic wealth of Haïti through its artisan markets. b~Taste Local Cuisine~b Haïtian cuisine is a symphony of exotic flavors. Be sure to sample local dishes such as griot and pea-sticky rice at local markets for an authentic culinary experience. b~Local Culture~b Haïtian culture, influenced by a rich history, is diverse and vibrant. Respect local customs, be open-minded and willing to learn. The warmth and hospitality of the Haïtians add a unique dimension to your experience. b~Means of Transport~b Opt for modern means of land transport such as Capital Coach Line, Transport Chic, Sans-Souci Tours, Le Transporteur, Grand Nord. For aerial explorers, easily book your flight with Sunrise Airways. Car rental is also an option for those looking for a more private experience. b~Language and Communication~b Although Haïtian Creole is the main language, French is also widely used. Learn a few basic phrases in Creole to facilitate exchanges and enrich your experience. By meticulously planning your trip to Haïti, you open yourself up to discovering the natural beauty, cultural richness, and warm hospitality of this Caribbean gem. Get ready to experience a unique and memorable adventure in Haïti.

Rutshelle Guillaume and Blondedy Ferdinand Team Up to Launch RGGlow

Elephant Haitian music and film icons Rutshelle Guillaume and Blondedy Ferdinand are adding another string to their bow with the launch of "RGGlow," a premium skincare brand. This unprecedented collaboration reflects their shared commitment to female empowerment and the celebration of beauty in all its diversity. Set to launch on December 12, 2024, the "RGGlow" line promises products designed to nourish, rejuvenate, and brighten the skin. Made with quality ingredients, "RGGlow" products aim to meet the specific needs of women looking for effective and elegant solutions for their beauty routine. The official launch will take place during an exclusive event at Blondedy Ferdinand Studio, starting at 5 p.m. The event will bring together celebrities, beauty professionals, and fans to celebrate this unique initiative. This is an anticipated moment that will mark the beginning of an ambitious and inspiring project. Beforehand, an exclusive live will be broadcast on December 11 at 7 p.m. on all platforms, allowing the general public to discover the behind the scenes of this entrepreneurial adventure. Rutshelle Guillaume and Blondedy Ferdinand will share the inspirations behind RGGlow, while revealing some secrets about the products that make up this range. This project represents much more than a simple cosmetics brand. RGGlow positions itself as a symbol of unity and determination, carried by two powerful and influential figures. Through this collaboration, Rutshelle and Blondedy wish not only to offer quality products, but also to convey a strong message: every woman deserves to feel beautiful, radiant and confident.

Haitiwonderland, the best way to see Haiti.

Haitiwonderland is a media that specializes in promoting Haïti across the web. Made up of young patriots passionate about writing, this media advocates the hidden side of Haiti, adding a completely different story coming from the country alongside the one told repeatedly and on purpose by the numerous international media.

Haiti: seaside resorts

Haiti, often recognized for its rich history, vibrant culture and mountainous landscape, is also blessed with a stunning coastline lined with picturesque beaches. Haitian beach resorts offer a unique experience where white sand meets the crystal clear waters of the Caribbean Sea. These beach destinations are emerging as hidden gems, ready to be discovered by travelers hungry for sun and adventure. A Rich and Cultural History Haiti’s resorts don’t just offer breathtaking scenery; they are also steeped in rich history and culture. Visitors can explore historic sites such as the Citadelle Laferrière, a majestic fortress built in the early 19th century, or the Palais Sans-Souci, a former royal residence dating back to the colonial era. Additionally, Haitian music, dance and cuisine bring a lively and colorful touch to the seaside experience, giving visitors an authentic insight into local culture. Heavenly Beaches Haiti’s beaches are some of the most beautiful in the Caribbean, offering miles of pristine white sand bordered by sparkling turquoise waters. Destinations such as Jacmel, Labadee and Île-à-Vache offer tranquil retreats where visitors can relax in the tropical sun or indulge in a host of water activities, such as snorkeling, sailing and boating. kayak. Whether you’re looking for excitement or tranquility, Haiti’s beaches offer something for everyone. An Emerging Ecotourism Haïti is also becoming a popular destination for ecotourism enthusiasts. With its unique biodiversity and unspoilt landscapes, the country offers unique opportunities for bird watching, jungle hiking and discovering spectacular natural sites such as the Saut-d’Eau waterfalls and caves. Environmentally conscious travelers will find in Haïti a perfect balance between adventure and nature conservation. Haiti’s resorts offer much more than spectacular beaches. They offer immersion in a vibrant culture, fascinating history and preserved nature. By choosing to visit Haiti, travelers have the opportunity to discover a jewel of the Caribbean, while contributing to the economic development and well-being of this extraordinary country.