OUANAMINTHE, Haiti — On November 1, 2026, Vodou practitioners gathered at the cemetery in Ouanaminthe, part of Haiti’s Northeast Department, to celebrate Fèt Gede, honoring the spirits of the deceased. The event featured offerings, songs, and dances, with notable performances from the local cultural group Grann Bataklan.
This annual celebration occurs across Haiti on November 1 and 2, focusing on remembering the dead. In many communities, Fèt Gede festivities extend throughout the month, incorporating daily tributes, traditional music, and spiritual rituals.
In Ouanaminthe, devotees of the Gédé, the spirits associated with the intersections of life and death, participated in rituals at the local cemetery. The celebration included songs, dance, and family gatherings, creating a vibrant atmosphere steeped in tradition.
Among the highlights were offerings presented by community members, including coffee shared by local resident Merisier Denia, who honored the spirits with her tribute. The event was enriched by the performances of Grann Bataklan, whose shows exemplified the cultural significance of Fèt Gede.
Photographs and videos from the celebration showcased various moments, including family visits, ceremonial offerings, and dynamic performances, reflecting the deep-rooted customs that mark this poignant time of remembrance. Children accompanied their parents to the cemetery, participating in the traditions that signify the connection between the living and the spirits of the departed.
As the month progresses, Ouanaminthe and other regions of Haiti will continue to observe Fèt Gede with further tributes and celebrations, maintaining a vital part of the country’s cultural heritage.
