Kanaval
Haiti's Carnival — the biggest party of the year
Kanaval is Haiti's Carnival — the country's biggest annual celebration, filling streets with music, costumes, and dancing. It is especially famous in the city of Jacmel, known for its handmade papier-mâché masks and parade floats.
About the festival
Kanaval is Haiti's national Carnival season, when cities and towns across the country fill with music trucks, costumed bands, and dancing crowds. It is the biggest party of the year, drawing Haitians and visitors alike into the streets.
The city of Jacmel holds one of Haiti's most famous Kanaval celebrations, known for elaborate handmade papier-mâché masks and floats that turn its streets into a moving art show. Konpa and other Haitian music styles provide the soundtrack for the parades.
Where & when it happens
Kanaval is celebrated in Haiti — In the weeks leading up to Lent (typically January–February), with Jacmel's Carnival held the Sunday before national Kanaval..
Explore Haiti →Questions & Answers
What is Kanaval?+
Kanaval is Haiti's Carnival — the country's biggest annual celebration, with music, costumes, and street parades held in the weeks before Lent.
Where is Kanaval most famous in Haiti?+
Jacmel holds one of Haiti's most celebrated Kanaval events, known for its handmade papier-mâché masks and parade floats.
When does Kanaval happen?+
Kanaval takes place in the weeks leading up to Lent, typically in January and February.
What music is played during Kanaval?+
Konpa and other Haitian music styles fill the streets during Kanaval, played from music trucks and by marching bands.