Haiti-Culture: Two Public Holidays for the National Carnival

PORT-AU-PRINCE.— Haitian authorities have officially declared Monday, February 16 and Tuesday, February 17, 2026, as 'public and non-working holidays' across the national territory for Carnival, one of the country's most emblematic cultural events.

In a note published on February 13, 2026, authorities specify that Monday, February 16, will be a public and non-working holiday starting at noon, while Tuesday, February 17, will see a complete cessation of activities. This decision is based on the Decree of December 11, 2024, particularly its articles 1 and 2, which govern officially declared public holidays in Haiti.

These provisions concern public administration, the commercial and industrial sectors, as well as educational institutions. Through this measure, the Executive aims to encourage broad popular participation in the Carnival festivities, marked by parades, artistic performances, and various cultural events across the country.

A major event in Haitian social and cultural life, Carnival mobilizes thousands of participants and spectators each year, solidifying its status as a showcase of national heritage and creativity.

The official note is signed by Marie Elisabeth Régine Joseph Haddad, Secretary General of the Presidency. It should be noted, however, that the official note did not mention the locations of the parades in Port-au-Prince, an emblematic site of the national carnival. The Champ de Mars, in particular, is a place that still does not inspire confidence.

Jean Mapou / Le Relief