The Haitian carnival is ranked among the major events of the country. It is a time of rejoicing, a social phenomenon and a crucial part of cultural heritage. During this period, tourists and Haitians from the diaspora come to the country to participate. Historically, the carnival has its origins in certain pagan practices in Europe, especially during the Lenten season from Epiphany until Ash Wednesday when the population engages in public demonstrations such as parades of floats, etc. The most probable hypothesis would be that the carnival was imported to America by the Spanish conquest in the 16th century. Quickly adopted by Haitians, this event is therefore an opportunity to help daily life while letting off steam.
The parades are led by musical formations accompanied by beautifully decorated floats and attract participants and spectators. Groups on foot (bann a pye) and groups on decorated trucks perform their meringue live. The impassive observer will probably not fail to note that these parades are in a way a fusion of pompous spectacle, music, dance and emotion. One of the importances of the carnival in Haiti is to promote our culture (clothing, our dishes etc…) and everything that is related to Haitian culture. In fact, the carnival reinforces the sense of belonging and our cultural heritage that underlines our beliefs and myth is transmitted from generation to generation.
From the economic point of view, Karnaval helps support areas of the local economy, such as entertainment, media, hospitality and retail. Socio-economically, how the carnival helps generate business opportunities for singers, songwriters, choreographers, stylists and costume designers, professional makeup artists and musicians, to name a few. More importantly, the Karnaval has led to the growth and development of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), many of which offer skills-based services. They range from entertainment services related to cultural art forms, such as dance, to the production of local crafts, cuisine, and folk art presentations.
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