Haiti, a jewel in the Caribbean, boasts a rich and diverse cultural history that is often overlooked. The country's traditions are deeply rooted in the African, Taino, and French influences that have shaped its history. 

From vibrant festivals to unique art forms and traditional clothing, Haitian culture is a fascinating melange of various influences. Let's explore more of that today.

Rara Music and Dance

Haitian culture is not solely focused on darker aspects such as death; there are many uplifting traditions as well, such as Rara. Rara is a famous Haitian cultural practice involving groups of people marching and playing music in the streets during pre-Carnaval weekends and the Easter period. 

These lively groups play various instruments, including bamboo, vaccine, cymbals, and sometimes even trumpets and other brass instruments. Their music ranges from parodies of popular songs to original compositions created for special occasions. 

Each group is led by a flag bearer, a woman dressed in the group's colors, and young girls who begin the procession. They are followed by musicians and the rest of the cheerful group who dance to the music. 

Rara is not exclusive to Haiti, as it has also been adopted by other Caribbean countries like Cuba and the Dominican Republic, where it is known as Gaga.

Soup Joumou

Every New Year's Day, you will be delightfully greeted by a long-standing culinary tradition: the making of the customary Soup Joumou. Put aside any cravings for other dishes and allow this delectable soup to tantalize your taste buds. 

Soup joumou is a delicious, savory soup with an orange hue that typically features calabaza squash, a pumpkin-like squash native to the Caribbean, as its main ingredient. The squash is cooked and blended to form the soup's base, which is then flavored with beef, carrots, cabbage, potatoes, noodles, and other fresh vegetables, as well as herbs and spices. It's not uncommon to find Soup Joumou accompanying every meal throughout the celebration - it's just that delicious. 

Soup joumou was once considered a delicacy reserved exclusively for the French enslavers who colonized Haiti. However, when Haiti won its independence on January 1st, 1804, the newly freed Haitians celebrated their freedom by openly drinking the soup that had been kept from them for so long. This act became a symbol of their liberation and a tradition that still endures today.

Haitian Clothing and Fashion

Haitian fashion is a vibrant blend of traditional and modern influences. One of the most recognizable elements of Haitian fashion is the "karabela" dress, worn by women for special occasions. Karabela dresses are for Haitians what the rice are for the Asians or the pasta for the Italians. 

The karabela is a brightly colored, full-length dress with ruffles and a wide neckline, often showcasing beautiful floral prints. Also, the dress is adorned with intricate red and blue interlaced ornaments that elevate its beauty.In addition to traditional garments, you can find contemporary Haitian design shirts and other clothing items, like unisex shirts online, in a Haitian clothes store. 

Haitian fashion uniquely expresses the country's rich cultural heritage and creativity.

Are you in search of a distinctive and fashionable approach to embracing Haitian style? Look no further than Notre Designs. 

We are a Haitian clothes store that offers a variety of t-shirts showcasing vivid hues and striking patterns that embody Haiti's deep-rooted cultural legacy. Browse our website today to discover the ideal shirt for you.