In 2018 a new, internationally minded krewe made its debut when Krewe du Kanaval rolled through the streets of New Orleans. Now, the popular outfit has announced its plans for a megawatt 2019 celebration.

Founded by Preservation Hall’s creative director Ben Jaffe in partnership with Arcade Fire’s Win Butler and Régine Chassagne, Krewe du Kanaval functions as a Haiti-focused organization which raises funds for the Preservation Hall Foundation and KANPE Foundation – “two organizations serving important unmet social and cultural needs in New Orleans and Haiti,” according to a press release.

“Kanaval” itself is a Haitian Creole word meaning “carnival” and, speaking of, the Krewe has organized a carnival with an impressive lineup.

On Friday, February 22, Krewe du Kanaval will host its second annual Mardi Gras celebration, featuring GRAMMY-nominated Haitian roots music Boukman Eksperyans (sponsored by Positive Vibrations Foundation), DJ Michael Brun, Diplo and Jillionaire of Major Lazer, DJ Windows 98 and Preservation Hall Jazz Band. This year’s Kanaval Queen is legendary chef Leah Chase, with King DJ Jubilee, pioneer of New Orleans Bounce music.

Kanaval Ball will be held at the Civic Theatre. More information on this ticketed event can be found here.

Prior to the Ball, Krewe du Kanaval will host a free carnival and celebratory procession in Louis Armstrong Park. Running from 2 p.m. until sunset, this event will feature “local community members representing Afro-Caribbean cultures and visiting artists from Haiti” who will present a wholly original performative experience drawing from an array of dance and musical styles.”