From cuisine to art shows to Compas Fest: How to celebrate Haitian Heritage Month
May marks the start of Haitian Heritage Cultural month, where the community in South Florida and beyond celebrates the culture of Haiti and the founding of its flag on May 18, 1803.
Today Arcahaie, the city where Haiti’s first flag was sewn after leaders Jean-Jacques Dessalines and Alexandre Pétion decided to stop fighting alongside the French and join forces, is under gang control and inaccessible. A symbol of the country’s endurance, the first flag was sewn by Catherine Flon with red and blue stripes side-by-side after Dessalines ordered the phrase, “Freedom or Death” to be inscribed in French.
READ MORE: He was the first and only king of Haiti. What the life of Christophe says about its history
Over time, the flag would undergo various configurations (they are displayed at Miami’s Little Haiti Cultural Center Complex) and even a color change. Under the nearly 30-year Duvalier dictatorship, the blue was replaced by black, which some forces in Haiti’s present ongoing instability have started to use once more.
Though the news from their homeland continues to be one of deaths and tragedy as armed gangs escalate attacks against neighborhoods and Haitians from all background lose their homes and businesses, the country’s culture and history should not be forgotten, the community says. This year’s theme: “Reclaiming Tomorrow: Sowing Seeds of Change.”
“I stand before you not in despair but in hope because our history, the Haitian history has never been one of defeat,” Miami-Dade County Commissioner Marleine Bastien said on Wednesday as she and Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava kicked off this year’s commemoration at North Miami Beach’s Ancient Spanish Monastery. “It has always been one of determination and resistance, from the revolution in 1804 to the vibrant culture that we see here in this room tonight. We have always fought to reclaim our destiny.”
It is important, she said, to recognize Haiti’s historic role in global moments and freedom. After successfully abolishing slavery and becoming the first Black republic, Haiti supported other revolutionaries including South America’s liberators, Francisco de Miranda and Simón Bolívar.
“Haiti’s example,” Bastien said, “has inspired leaders from all around the world...We helped countries, like Venezuela, Colombia, Ecuador, countries as far as Greece and our own United States of America would have been a completely different place had it not been for our revolution. As a result of that revolution, the U.S. doubled its size and resources. And it was because of this revolution and because of our position and fight for freedom for all people around the world, we were able to secure the vote to help Israel become a nation.”
The evening featured not only Haitian cuisine, but designs by Phelicia Dell showing the country’s fashion influences as well as performances by Haitian roots musician Eddy Francois and konpa band, T-Vice. It was also a Who’s Who of the Haitian-American community, highlighting how one of the largest Haitian diasporas outside of Haiti has grown economically and professionally since the arrival of the first documented refugees onboard a boat in 1972. Today, the community includes not only recent arrivals fleeing Haiti’s political and gang-induced turmoil, but legal permanent residents and U.S. citizens, who are doctors, educators, community organizers and elected officials.
“We are shaping this country’s future and we are shaping the future of Haiti too,” Bastien said.
This year, the commemoration arrives at a moment when Haiti’s capital, Artibonite region and parts of its Central Plateau are being overrun by armed gangs, and tens of thousands of Haitians in the U.S. live in fear as the Trump administration moves to carry out its mass deportation plans.
Earlier this year, President Donald Trump rolled back temporary immigration protections for a half-million Haitians that had been extended by the Biden administration. The group also includes more than 200,000 who arrived under a two-year Biden-era humanitarian parole program that required them to have a financial sponsor and to fly into an airport. That program was revoked by Trump on his first day back in office, and now he’s seeking to terminate their status along with Cubans, Venezuelans and Nicaraguans who also took part in the program known as CHNV, the first initials of the four countries.
Cava, a longtime supporter of the Haitian community even before seeking political office, said said while May is about celebrations, dancing, food and family, “We cannot forget that the struggle, the struggle is with us.”
READ MORE: France forced Haiti to pay for independence. 200 years later, should there be restitution?
This year, Haitian Flag Day falls on a Sunday and there are no shortage of events leading up to the day, and throughout the month of May, which will end with a concert hosted by the city of Miramar and its mayor, Wayne Messam, featuring the legendary Haitian band Tabou Combo.
From art exhibits, to brunches to the biggest outdoor konpa party, Miami Compas Festival, one can indulge in all things Haitian.
The City of North Miami, for example, will have a panel discussion on Haitians’ contributions to the U.S. The panel at MOCA museum will feature Santra Denis, executive director of Miami Workers Center and president & founder of Avanse Ansanm; filmmaker Dudley Alexis and Paul Christian Namphy, lead organizer of the Family Action Network Movement, FANM.
The city of North Miami is also the venue for this year’s 27th annual Haitian Compast Festival after a venue change from Bayfront Park. This year, annual party event is Saturday, May 17 at NOMI Village in North Miami, 12351 NW 7th Ave. Bands include Zafem, Kai, T-Vice, Roody Roodboy, Rutshelle, Fatima, Ram, Ekip, WID, Team Lobey and more. Plus DJ Nicky Mixx, DJ Bullet, DJ
Many other events can be found on eventbrite. But here are some of the ways you can commemorate Haitian Heritage Month this year:
Ayiti Nan Ke’m & Alive!: From 2:30 p.m.- 8:30 p.m., Thursday, May 1, AHOF Museum Cultural Preservation, 5825 NE Second Ave., Miami.
A Reflection of Me, Inc., and Juicing With Art Haiti Rhythm of Our Heartbeat: KWÈ Art Exhibition: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Thursday, May 1, 212 NE 59th Terr., Miami.
Nou La! Haitian Footprints in America: The City of North Miami invites individuals to its kick-off celebration with a visit to MOCA’s feature exhibit, “The Maiden is The Warrior” by Vickie Pierre followed by a conversation highlighting Haitians’ contributions to the U.S. 6 p.m. -8 p.m. Friday, May 2, MOCA, 770 NE 12th St., North Miami. NorthMiamiFl.gov/celebrate; 305-895-9840.
Running Edge 305 2nd Annual Little Haiti Heritage 5K: 7 a.m.-10 a.m. Saturday, May 3, Lakou Miami, 201 NE 59th St., Miami.
Art Beat Miami kick-off event for Haitian Heritage Month: Guests will enjoy lively music and entertainment by Ambience Creole, Sheila B, NSL Dance Ensemble and DJ Mack co-hosted by Carel Pedre of Chokarella and model/personality Tico Armand. Also, attendees will have the chance to experience an interactive 8x8 art wall, live painting by Mr. V The Artist, and indulge in Haitian light bites and beverages from Chefs of the Caribbean as well as receive the commemorative poster and bookmark. 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Saturday, May 3, Little Haiti Cultural Complex, 212 Northeast 59th Terr., Miami. The event is free but space limited; RSVP on Eventbrite.
2025 Little Haiti Book Festival: Annual celebration of Haitian literature, culture and community. This year experience the LAKOU – a new communal courtyard featuring authentic Haitian cuisine, full bar, family friendly entertainment and community gathering space. 11:00 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sunday, May 4, at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex, 212 NE 59th Terr., Miami. Admission is free.
Lakou PAMM: An evening of Haitian culture, music and storytelling featuring DJ Gardy, DJ Bugz, and Rara Lakay. Also, experience the powerful oral storytelling of Maurice Sixto, a legendary Haitian poet and historian, brought to life through artistic interpretations. 6 p.m. -11 p.m., Thursday, May 8 at Perez Art Museum Miami, 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami. Free and open to the public. Register Here.
PAMM’s Free Second Saturdays: Get creative with self-exploratory art inspired by Miami-based, Haitian-born artist Morel Doucet. Use texture and color to express identity through vibrant silhouette designs. Enjoy performances by Haitian dance group Tradisyon Lakou Lakay, Inc., showcasing folkloric dance. 11 a.m. -3 p.m., Saturday May 10, at Perez Art Museum Miami, 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami.
Rooted in Soul, Bound by Love: An Ode to Mrs. Emma: An art exhibit honoring the life and legacy of Mrs. Emma Norelin, an Overtown resident whose home served as a space where Haitian families found guidance, comfort, and community in the 1970s and 1980s. This event highlights how Southern hospitality and Haitian resilience merged into a powerful story of unity, told through art, storytelling and cultural expression. Even presented by Dine for Design, Inc. in partnership with MUCE 5 p.m., Saturday, May 10 at the Little Haiti Cultural Complex’s Art Gallery, 212 NE 59th Terr., Miami. Tickets available at www.DineForDesign.org.
The Haitian Heritage Museum: Opening exhibition Nostalgia Primitive D’Haiti Deux, 6:30 p.m.-9:30 p.m., Saturday, May 10 at the museum, 4141 NE Second Ave #105c., Miami; To RSVP click here.
City of North Miami Children’s Story time featuring comedian Success Jr.: 4 p.m.-5 p.m. Wednesday, May 14, North Miami Public Library, 835 NE 132nd St., North Miami.
Haitian Compas Festival Welcome to Miami party featuring Kreyol la, Dena Babe and Ekip. Midnight Thursday, May 15, Hollywood Live, 2333 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. Cost is $50. Purchase tickets at www.Haitiancompasfestiva.com.
Sounds of Little Haiti, 10 Year Anniversary. Hosted by Mecca AKA Grimo featuring live performing by L’Orchestre Tropicana d’Haiti, 6 p.m. -11 p.m. Friday, May 16 at Little Haiti Cultural Complex, 212 NE 59th Terr., Miami; early bird tickets are $25 and VIP $85 plus fees. Tickets can be purchased at eventbrite.
Haitian Compas Festival All Black Affair with Kai Kenny Ayiti, Rutsthelle and T-vice. 11 p.m. Friday, May 16, Miami Beach’s M2 Nightclub, 1235 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Cost is $60. Purchase tickets at www.Haitiancompasfestival.com.
Miami Haitian Compas Festival. This year’s 27th annual event features Zafem, Kai, T-Vice, Roody Roodboy, Rutshelle, Fatima, Ram, Ekip, WID, Team Lobey and more. Plus DJ Nicky Mixx, DJ Bullet, DJ Heavy and others. Prices range from $80 for general admission to $180; VIP Packages for the weekend also included for upwards of $4,000 and include 12 VIP Passes and 4 Bottles of choice. Saturday, May 17 at NOMI Village, 12351 NW Seventh Ave., North Miami. For tickets go to www.Haitancompasfestival.com; 954-708-6849; Haitiancompasfestival@gmail.com.
Haitian Compas Festival After Party: Kai, Mood, Tony Mixx, DJ Lens, DJ Super Duke are among the performers. Midnight, Saturday, May 17, Hollywood Live Night Club, 2333 Hollywood Blvd., Hollywood. Ticket $50. To purchase tickets go to wwwHaitiancompasfestival.com.
Marlins Haitian Heritage Game: Haitian-born DJ Michael Brun, a Grammy winning Platinum selling producer, will throw out the game’s first pitch at the Miami Marlins game on Haitian Flag Day. 1:40 p.m.-4 p.m. Sunday, May 18, LoanDepot Park, 501 Marlins Way, Miami.
Fete Sur Yacht-Haitian Flag Weekend: Five luxury yachts will set sail in celebration of Haiti’s flag. Attendees will enjoy champagne toasts, music and appetizers. Boarding starts at 11 a.m. and ships return at 5 p.m., Sunday, May 18. Cost is $300 and tickets can be purchased on eventbrite; 786-970-7403 or MajesticGroupEvents@gmail.com.
“Onè ...Respè”: Art Exhibition honoring the late Haitian icon and artist, FrankEtienne. Live Performance by T-Vice. Hors d’oeuvres will be served, and a cash bar will be available. 6 p.m. cocktail, 7 p.m art exhibit Sunday, May 18 at Boca Raton Marriott at Boca Center, 5150 Town Center Circle, Boca Raton. Tickets $100 to $300 on eventbriite.
Haitian Compas Festival All White Party and official Haitian Compas Festival Close Out party; Mizik Mizik’s 38th anniversary, 10 p.m. Sunday, May 19. M2 NightClub, 1235 Washington Ave., Miami Beach. Cost is $50.
PAMM Art Storytime: Fanmi Pap Janm Pedi, A Celebration of Haitian Heritage: Visitors will enjoy folklore storytelling of an original story by a local author/illustrator. The event also features performances and vendors. 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Saturday, May 24. Perez Art Museum Miami, 1103 Biscayne Blvd., Miami.
Miramar Mayor Wayne Messam celebrates Haitian Heritage Month: Legendary band Tabou Combo and Naika, 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Saturday, May 31 at Miramar Cultural Center, 2400 Civic Center Place, Miramar. Tickets $55 to $75.
