- The Haiti en Folie Festival Celebrates Its 20th Anniversary in Montreal
- A unique immersion in Haitian culture featuring music, flavors, and traditions.
- Top artists will come together for a memorable anniversary edition.
- The public will enjoy family-friendly activities, new discoveries, and opportunities to connect with others.
- A grand cultural celebration where Montreal will come alive with the colors of Haiti.
From July 23 to 27, 2026, Montreal will come alive to the rhythm of Haitian culture with the 20th edition of the Haïti en Folie Festival, presented by TD Bank Group. Created by the Fabienne Colas Foundation, the event has established itself over the past two decades as a must-attend event in Canada for discovering the richness of Haiti through music, cuisine, film, literature, comedy, and traditions.
This anniversary edition holds special significance as it also celebrates the 222nd anniversary of Haiti’s independence and the historic return of the Grenadiers to the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a 52-year absence. It is an opportunity to highlight the resilience, creativity, and pride of a people who continue to showcase their identity around the world.
For five days, Montreal will host an inclusive program bringing together established artists, emerging talents, creators, and culture enthusiasts. The public will have the chance to enjoy performances by Boukman Eksperyans, BélO, Rebecca Jean, Barnev, Cinthia Michel, Sara Rénélik (Luna Taïna), Papi Jay, Ericka Julie, Jessie Simmons, Modeline Raymond, and many other guests.
Over the years, Haïti en Folie has become much more than a music festival. It is a space for discovery, sharing, and intercultural encounters where Haitian traditions connect with the Montreal public in a festive and welcoming atmosphere.
A lineup that will have Montreal dancing to the rhythm of Haiti
The highlights of this 20th edition promise to bring festivalgoers together for unique experiences. The traditional Rara Haïti en Folie parade will return for its 10th edition, transforming the streets of the Plateau-Mont-Royal into a grand, colorful celebration filled with percussion, singing, and dancing.
Music lovers can enjoy several free shows, notably at the Jardins Gamelin and La Fontaine Park. With a mix of traditional rhythms, modern sounds, reggae, Afrobeat, R&B, and world music, the artists will take the audience on a true cultural journey.
The festival will also showcase Haitian cuisine with its popular “Haïti en Folie” Culinary Fair, where visitors can sample local flavors, discover artisanal products, and participate in various culinary activities.
A Cultural Immersion for the Whole Family
Haïti en Folie also invites families and curious visitors to discover Haitian history and traditions through a multitude of activities accessible to all. The “Lakay se Lakay: Welcome to Haiti” space will offer cooking workshops, Creole language classes, storytelling, mask-making, braiding, games, and various creative activities for children.
The program will also feature discussions on the role of Haitian artists in the music industry and on gastronomy in the digital age, as well as film screenings highlighting new voices in Haitian and Black Canadian cinema.
Through its performances, gatherings, and new discoveries, the Haïti en Folie Festival celebrates a vibrant culture that brings generations together and forges bonds between communities.
Highlights of the program you won’t want to miss
- July 23: Official launch, interview with Fabienne Colas, and a selection of Haitian films available online.
- July 24: Panel on Haitian artists, musical evening at Jardins Gamelin featuring DJ Cliff, Ensemble Afrovibes, DJ Nalee, and KAYOS KF.
- July 25: Food fair, “Lakay se Lakay” family activities, the grand Rara Haïti en Folie parade, and performances by Rebecca Jean, Barnev, Ericka Julie, Papi Jay, and Boukman Eksperyans.
- July 26: Cultural activities, performances by Modeline Raymond and the Montreal Community Choir, and a grand closing show featuring BélO and his guests.
For five days, Montreal will become a meeting place where tradition, creativity, and celebration converge. Whether you’re of Haitian descent, a music lover, passionate about cultural discovery, or simply curious to try something new, the Haïti en Folie Festival welcomes you with open arms. Come dance, taste, learn, and share a unique moment where Haitian culture reveals itself in all its richness and energy. An invitation to celebrate together 20 years of pride, passion, and influence.
