Baky Popilè Launches His Tour, Carnival Ignites Fort-Liberté and More

Haïti

In Jacmel, the second pre-carnival day confirmed the strong popular momentum that precedes the annual celebrations. Traditional masks, street bands and rope-throwing groups filled Baranquilla Avenue in a vibrant and festive atmosphere. Thousands of revelers turned the city into a collective stage where heritage, creativity and shared joy came together.

In Fort-Liberté, the first pre-carnival Sunday marked the official launch of the second edition of the regional carnival, scheduled for February 15, 16 and 17, 2026. In front of the organizing committee’s stand, set up opposite City Hall, the Mackandal troupe performed choreographies inspired by a piece from the group RAM, highlighting the symbolic and artistic strength of carnival traditions. Further along the route, the contagious energy of Zion Rara from Ouanaminthe carried the crowd. Musicians, organizers and hosts energized the streets, offering a lively and unifying popular celebration.

Culture also grows through books and language. With The Unchanging Order of Things, published on January 2, 2026 by Éditions du Seuil, writer Néhémy Pierre-Dahomey presents a coming-of-age novel set in Port-au-Prince. Through the physical and intellectual awakening of a teenager, the novel explores literature, philosophy and social divisions, connecting personal experience to broader reflections on contemporary Haitian society.

In the same spirit of knowledge and transmission, GRESKA — Gwoup Rechèch sou Sans nan Kreyòl Ayisyen — launched its official website on January 19, 2026. The platform aims to promote scientific research in Haitian Creole and strengthen the language as a tool for knowledge, critical thinking and intellectual production.

The music scene also came alive in Port-au-Prince during the Coppa Live Salsa Night held on Sunday, January 25, 2026, at Coppa Bar. Leintz Louis and his orchestra, visiting from Spain, delivered a performance blending several musical styles. Dancers Charlot Étienne and Jennie-Flore Monpremier added a highly praised dance show, leaving a strong impression on the audience.

Diaspora

This cultural energy continues in contemporary music. Four months after the release of his album Kaia in September 2025, Baky Popilè announced a tour titled “286 Tour, City by City.” Although no dates or cities have been confirmed yet, the project aims to bring his music to multiple local and international stages.

Haitian creativity is also shining abroad. In New York, fashion creator Jovana Louis is launching a 100% Haitian casting call for women, scheduled for February 6.
The initiative seeks to celebrate Haitian identity and increase visibility in international creative industries.

In sports, Haiti will be represented at the Milan–Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic Games, scheduled from February 6 to 22. Two athletes will carry the national colors: Richardson Viano in alpine skiing, aiming for a top-30 finish, and Stevenson Savart in cross-country skiing, targeting a top-50 result. This participation is symbolic for a country rarely associated with winter sports, especially for the Haitian diaspora.

Haitian gastronomy is also expanding internationally. In 2026, Haiti will be represented at SIAL Paris, one of the world’s leading food trade shows, through the brand Se Lakay, offering major exposure to Haitian flavors among thousands of professionals.

International

Global cultural news was marked by the death of Italian fashion designer Valentino Garavani at the age of 93. His funeral, held in Rome at the Basilica of Saint Mary of the Angels and the Martyrs, gathered major figures from fashion and culture, including Anna Wintour, Elizabeth Hurley, Anne Hathaway, Donatella Versace and Tom Ford. Creator of the iconic “Valentino red,” he dressed legendary figures such as Jackie Kennedy, Elizabeth Taylor and Princess Diana.

In France, Pharrell Williams was awarded the Legion of Honor by President Emmanuel Macron at the Élysée Palace, in recognition of his major contributions to music, culture and contemporary creativity.

Cultural exchange was also highlighted in the United Kingdom, where Quebec was featured at Showcase Scotland 2026, held during the Celtic Connections festival, one of the leading events for folk and traditional music. Several Quebec artists were showcased.

Soraya Ades.

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