The Haitian tradition to celebrate the season is January 1 with soup jamou (pumpkin soup) with loads of vegetables and meat.

On January 2, we celebrated with a luscious meal. Families save to buy the needed foods so that the family can share and feast. Rice made with mushrooms (dire Jon Jon), fried okra, fish, potato au gratin, macaroni and cheese, salad and pikles (something like cole slaw) make up the feast. This is what Annette and Jean Philip prepared for our celebration as we gathered to share our blessings and to thank God for a new year.