National Carnival 2026: Government Opts for Decentralized Formula Without Designated City or Prohibited Zone

Port-au-Prince, February 13, 2026.- Reports of a carnival ban in the metropolitan area are "unfounded," according to authorities. Contacted by phone, the Secretary of State for Communication, Bendjy Tilias, formally denied these rumors and assured that the carnival festivities will take place this year across the entire national territory.

According to the government official, no decision has been made to restrict the organization of Fat Days activities in the metropolitan region. On the contrary, the government intends to maintain the carnival tradition while allowing local communities organizational leeway.

Also according to the Secretary of State, no municipality has been officially designated to host the National Carnival. This centralized formula will therefore not be applied this year. Instead, authorities have opted for a decentralized approach: each municipality will be encouraged to organize its own carnival.

To support this initiative, a subsidy will be granted to the various municipalities to help them organize their festivities. This measure aims to encourage broader participation from territorial communities and to distribute carnival activities across the country.

The Secretary of State for Communication also called on the population not to rely on unverified information circulating on social media and to prioritize official communications. He emphasized that any necessary supervisory or security arrangements will be specified by the competent authorities.

Meanwhile, the government confirms that the carnival remains scheduled and that preparations can continue in the country's various municipalities.

Gesly Sinvilier / Le Relief