Festival celebrates Haitian culture on Ottawa's Petrie Island

Ottawa Travel Guide

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Tuesday, 19 June 2012 00:20

The city of Ottawa prides itself in embracing all types of cultures and traditions, which is evident though its array of festivals and seasonal events. For instance, in a suburb of the city called Orleans, there will be a lively and vibrant occasion happening this July 20-22 featuring many facets of Haitian culture. Travellers taking tours of Ottawa this summer should not miss a chance to head to Petrie Island for the annual Haiti en Fete, or Haiti Festival.

Celebrating the Francophone tradition of Ontario and its connection to the languages of Haiti, this event will feature performances, activities and various attractions in both English and French. Since 2007, the event has been hosted by the organization Kombite Outaouais, which strives to keep the local Haitian residents active and honoured as a vital part of the Canadian community as a whole.

The Haiti Festival lineup

The kick-off party on Friday will offer some of the best performing acts around Canada that hold true to their Caribbean culture and heritage. Saturday will bring a massive beach party to Petrie Island where guests are encouraged to dance the day away to Haitian beats. Soccer games will be played alongside the concerts on Sunday, taking advantage of the temperate summer weather enjoyed at this time of year. Matches and music will be concluded with a BBQ party while some of the younger aspiring names in music take the stage to show off their talents.

Some of the performers that will play as live bands and DJs throughout the Haiti Festival will include X-Vibe, Diplomate Boyz, Les Guitars, Unik and JetCity.

Spending more time on Petrie Island

Not only will the event be exciting, Petrie Island is a beautiful destination in itself, located in the scenic Ottawa River. Guests may pack a picnic lunch and enjoy the view from the beach, or try a hike along one of the countless trails surrounded by lush vegetation. While in the area for the festival, travellers can pursue various other active and outdoor pursuits to round out a memorable day on the island.