February 18, 2026
The government has confirmed that the 2026 National Carnival will take place without a single host city, adopting a decentralized format across the country’s municipalities. This approach extends the model adopted since 2021, the last centralized edition held in Port-de-Paix under President Jovenel Moïse.
According to Secretary of State for Communication Bendgy Tilias, the government favors a decentralized approach to directly support local authorities. Municipal governments will receive financial support to organize festivities within their own communities.
Departmental capitals and several cities have already received subsidies, with particular emphasis on Jacmel, Les Cayes, Cap-Haïtien, Fort-Liberté, Pétion-Ville, Delmas, and Port-au-Prince. An interministerial committee has been established to coordinate efforts with municipal authorities.
Under the theme “Haiti Forward,” the 2026 edition aims to highlight the country’s ability to create and progress despite crises. Authorities seek to celebrate Haitian achievements in culture, sports, music, literature, and creative entrepreneurship.
