Gonaïves makes 3, 4 and 5 November paid holidays every year for Saint Charles

The Gonaïves municipal council has declared 3, 4 and 5 November "non-working and paid" days throughout the commune for the feast of Saint Charles Borromeo, the city's patron saint. The measure applies "every year, from the publication" of the order, according to the text shared by Monnelys TV Network, which says it was published on Thursday 29 October 2026.

The Gonaïves town hall order (reference DAJ-JKP: AC-MG-003) cites the Constitution; the decree of 1 February 2006 on local government, which gives town halls administrative policing powers and responsibility for "safeguarding local cultural and religious traditions"; and the "firmly established customs of the City of Independence". The council says the patronal feast is a major religious, cultural, social and economic event, and that residents and visitors should be able to take full part in it while public order and safety are maintained.

What closes, what stays open

During the three days, public administration offices, schools, banks and businesses will stay closed, according to Monnelys TV Network. Emergency services, hospitals, the National Police, sanitation services, public transport and petrol stations will keep operating.

A solemn high mass in honour of Saint Charles Borromeo will be celebrated on Wednesday 4 November at 9 a.m. at Gonaïves cathedral, the outlet said.

Eleven days of festivities

The town hall has announced a programme running from Saturday 24 October to Wednesday 4 November, according to Rezo Nòdwès. It opened with an inter-neighbourhood football championship, the Boromée Cup, and includes a cycling event with the women's group Fanm Pedale, traditional dances around All Saints' Day and the Day of the Dead, and a food fair on Tuesday 3 November. The municipality says it is working with the Haitian National Police in the department on security for the events, Mackenson Pierre, head of the town hall's cultural commission, told the outlet.