January 12

Haiti Remembrance Day

Join us in honoring the resilience and strength of Haiti on Remembrance Day - let's come together to remember, reflect, and rebuild.

Yearly Date
January 12
Observed in
Haiti
Holiday Calendar
Last updated February 7, 2026 by the Holiday Calendar Team
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Introduction

On January 12, we remember and honor the resilience and strength of the Haitian people on Haiti Remembrance Day. This day marks the anniversary of the devastating earthquake that struck Haiti in 2010, but it is also a celebration of hope and perseverance in the face of tragedy. Despite facing many challenges, the Haitian community has shown incredible resilience and continues to rebuild their country with determination and unity. Let's take this day to recognize their courage and celebrate their rich culture and history.

Haiti Remembrance Day Timeline

1804
Haiti's Independence
Haiti gained independence from France on January 1, making it the first independent black-led nation in the Western Hemisphere and the only nation established as a result of a successful slave revolt.
2010
The 2010 Earthquake
On January 12, a devastating 7.0 magnitude earthquake struck Haiti, killing an estimated 230,000 people, injuring 300,000, and displacing over 1.5 million people.
2010
Global Response
The earthquake triggered a widespread humanitarian response, with countries, organizations, and individuals pledging aid and support to the affected nation.
2011
First Haiti Remembrance Day
In 2011, January 12 was marked as Haiti Remembrance Day, to honor the lives lost in the earthquake and the resilience of the Haitian people.
Present
Continued Commemoration
Every year on January 12, communities around the world remember the victims of the earthquake and honor the strength and resilience of the Haitian people through various commemorative events and activities.

How to Celebrate Haiti Remembrance Day

1

Attend a memorial service

Many communities hold memorial services on Haiti Remembrance Day to honor those who lost their lives during the devastating earthquake. Attend one to pay your respects and show support for the Haitian community.

2

Create a Haitian-inspired meal

Haitian cuisine is rich and flavorful. Spend the day cooking and enjoying traditional Haitian dishes with friends and family. It’s a delicious way to celebrate and honor Haitian culture.

3

Donate to a Haitian charity

Use this day as an opportunity to give back to the Haitian community. Research and donate to a reputable charity that supports Haiti and its people.

4

Watch a documentary about Haiti

Learn more about Haiti’s history and culture by watching a documentary. It’s a great way to educate yourself and gain a deeper understanding of why this day is important.

5

Organize a fundraiser

Gather friends and family to organize a fundraiser for a Haitian cause. This could be a charity walk, a bake sale or any other creative way to raise money and awareness for Haiti Remembrance Day.

Why Haiti Remembrance Day is Important

A

It honors the history and culture of Haiti

Haiti Remembrance Day is an important day because it commemorates the beginning of Haiti's fight for independence from French colonial rule. It recognizes the strength, bravery, and resilience of Haitian people in their struggle for freedom.

B

It serves as a reminder of Haiti's struggles and triumphs

On this day, we remember not just the beginning of Haiti's journey towards independence, but also the many challenges and triumphs that have shaped the country into what it is today. It allows us to reflect on Haiti's past and appreciate its present.

C

It promotes unity and solidarity

Haiti Remembrance Day brings Haitians together to remember their shared history and cultural identity. It serves as a source of national pride and promotes unity among Haitians around the world. It's a day to stand together and celebrate the rich heritage of Haiti.

Holiday Dates

Year
Date
Day
2023
Jan 12
Thursday
2024
Jan 12
Friday
2025
Jan 12
Sunday
2026
Jan 12
Monday
2027
Jan 12
Tuesday