Haitian Heritage Month has been celebrated throughout the United States since May 1998. It’s a month to highlight the Haitian community’s rich culture, art, cuisine, history, and contribution to the United States. In New York, the state assembly formally designated May as Haitian Heritage Month in 2022.
New York is the second destination for Haitian immigrants in the United States, with a population of over 163,000. This year, various events across the City will celebrate the First Black Republic of the world and the second independent country in the Western Hemisphere.
Documented has curated a list of events and places worth visiting to explore the rich contributions of Haitian immigrants to New York City’s cultural tapestry.
Experience Haitian art, music and dance
The Braata Singers: Still Standing
The Braata Singers mark their 15th anniversary in a jubilant Off-Broadway celebration of Caribbean music and Folklore. “Still Standing” will take audiences on a journey through the heart and soul of parts of the Caribbean. Through stirring harmonies and powerful vocals, the Braata Singers will bring to life the spirit of resilience, pride, and joy that characterizes these island nations.
- Who: Braata Productions
- When: Ongoing until – Sunday, May 19. Read more and purchase tickets here.
- Where: 154 Christopher St, New York, NY 10014, USA
Haitian Multimedia Art Exhibition
If you want to explore more Haitian art, the Caribbean Cultural Center African Diaspora Institute (CCCADI) is hosting “BIENVINI,” a multimedia exhibition of contemporary Haitian Diasporic art, until Nov. 14. This exhibit highlights the works of 11 artists centered around the concept of “Lakay” (meaning home in Haitian-Kreyòl), delving into Haiti as a treasured internal refuge that preserves cultural and religious customs. Additionally, it examines Haiti as an external sanctuary — a place of refuge, familial and communal growth, boundless joy, and the foundation of sovereignty.
- When: Tuesdays and Thursdays 3 to 7 pm, Wednesdays 11 am to 7 pm; and every 3rd Saturday from 12 to 4 pm from May to November
- Where: 120 East 125th Street, New York, NY, 10035
- Admission is free
- You can schedule a tour here
Artist-In-Residence Emeline Michel With Y1
Haitian singer Emeline Michel will collaborate with first-year students in an artist-in-residence program. The program will explore music and dance, culminating in a final performance at the end of the week.
- When: May 10, 4:30 pm to 5:00 pm
- Where: Cultural Center, Lycée Français de New York; 505 East 75th St., New York, NY
- Admission is free
- RSVP here
“From Haiti, With Love”
An art exhibition curated by Stephane Desir will showcase the works of Jacky Cangé, Rachel Dumond, Mario L. Barbier, Max Désir, Anderson St-Pierre, Pierre Jean-Baptiste, Watson Mere, Julie Jean-Mary, and Myrtis Gladys. The event marks the third installment of this exclusive Haitian art showcase featuring talented artists and musicians from Haiti. Attendees can immerse themselves in Haiti’s vibrant colors and rich history as they celebrate the country’s beauty and resilience.
- When: Saturday, May 11 from 5 to 9 pm
- Where: APAC S2 gallery at The Box Factory; 1519 Decatur St., Suite 105, Brooklyn, NY 11385
- RSVP here
12th Annual Haitian Gospel Music Festival
A night of Haitian gospel music featuring renowned artists such as Youdène Delphin, Valery Cadet, Claude Aurelien, Evens Gregoire, King Fenel St Jean, and more.
- When: Saturday, May 11
- Where: New Jerusalem Church of the Nazarene; 2431 Church Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11226
- RSVP here
Kompa Tuesdays
Every Tuesday, Freddie Boom Boom and Saurel Celestin will host a Haitian menu paired with delightful Haitian drinks. Guests can relax to authentic Haitian tunes while enjoying a menu paired with delightful Haitian drinks.
- When: Tuesday May 7, 14, 21, 28
- Where: Katra Lounge & Event Space; 217 Bowery, New York, NY 10002
- RSVP here
Haitian Dance
You will have a chance to experience the art of traditional folkloric Haitian dance with professional and internationally trained instructor Peniel Guerrier every Monday in an engaging and welcoming class.
- When: Tuesday, May 13 and Tuesday, May 21
- Where: Keiko Studios; 212-26 Jamaica Ave., Queens, NY 11428
- RSVP here
Ayiti Nou La Toujou 2024 – Haitian Culture Day
Life of Hope will organize its traditional Haitian Culture Day parade, followed by a musical performance by Tabou Combo, the internationally renowned Haitian Konpa band. The event, scheduled for Saturday, May 11, will begin with the spectacular parade from 10 am to 1 pm, featuring vibrant colors, music, and a festive atmosphere. After the parade, the festivities will continue from 1 pm to 6 pm at Flatbush Junction at Hillel Plaza, featuring live performances, a fashion show, DJ music, delicious food, and vendors.
- When: Saturday, May 11
- Time: 10 am – 6 pm
- Where: Nostrand Ave/Church Avenue, Brooklyn, NY 11226
- Vendors can register here
Haiti Uncovered: 10th Anniversary Exclusive Book Launch
Author and culinary curator Nadège Fleurimont will release her book “Haiti Uncovered,” exploring Haiti’s culinary richness through stories and visuals. The event will feature live music, Haitian cuisine, and discussions with the author and panelists.
- When: Saturday, May 25
- Time: 6 pm to 9 pm
- Where: The Times Center, 242 West 41st St., New York, 10036
- RSVP here
BANBÒCH: A Karabella Fête
Explore the Caribbean pop-up market, enjoy a fashion show, delicious food from Bunan and Soul Bites, and a Karabella outfit contest for adults and children.
- Where: Flatbush Central Caribbean Marketplace; 2123 Caton Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11226
- Time: 12 to 9 pm
- When: Saturday, May 25
Banbòch Kreyòl
A series of musical performances featuring AndyBeatz, Tafa Mi Soleil, Vyab, the legendary Haitian band RAM, and the 2023 TRACE Award Winner for “Best Artist in the Caribbean,” Rutshelle Guillaume.
The Haitian Times organizes this festival as a fundraiser to sustain and expand its journalism work in the U.S. and Haiti.
- When: Sunday, May 26
- Where: Coney Island Amphitheatre, Boardwalk 3052 West 21 Street Brooklyn, NY 11224
- Time: 2:00 pm (doors)
- RSVP here:
Embrace wellness with Haitian traditions
Healing the Lakou: Community Wellness Through Haitian Traditions
A day-long event centered around fostering restoration and wellness. This event will feature day-long workshops centered on Lakou-based healing approaches, including vendor displays, discussions, and a keynote address by Dr. Nathalie Guillaume. 7000 Coils will provide music throughout the event. Lakou, a Haitian Kreyòl term, refers to traditional communal living arrangements in which families and neighbors reside closely, share resources, and provide mutual support.
- When: Saturday, May 11
- Time: 12 to 6 pm
- Where: Gaia NoMaya, 510 Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn, NY, 11225
- Admission is free
- You can register here
Experience Haitian Flag Day celebration
African American Museum of Nassau County, Long Island
The African American Museum of Nassau County will host a day featuring live music, food, poetry, Haitian artisan crafts, and discussions led by Haitian panelists.
- When: Saturday, May 11
- Time: 4 to 8 pm
- Where: African American Museum of Nassau County; 110 North Franklin St., Hempstead, NY 11550
- RSVP here
Prospect Park Boathouse, Brooklyn
In partnership with Prospect Park Alliance, Haiti Cultural Exchange presents a live music performance by acclaimed singer-songwriter BélO, artisanal vendors, and additional festivities.
- When: May 15, 2024
- Time: 5 to 8 pm (performance starts at 6:30 pm)
- Where: Prospect Park Boathouse & Audubon Center; 101 East Dr., Brooklyn, NY 11225
- Admission is free
Brooklyn Children’s Museum
Commemorate the Haitian Flag Day alongside local City Council members of Haitian descent, including Chi Ossé (District 36), Rita Joseph (District 40), Farah Louis (District 45), and Mercedes Narcisse (District 46). Enjoy live music, DJ entertainment, delicious food, refreshing drinks, and a fantastic celebration.
- When: Thursday, May 16
- Where: Brooklyn Children’s Museum; 145 Brooklyn Ave., Brooklyn, NY 11213
- Time: 6:30 to 9 pm
- RSVP here
Enjoy some of the best Haitian cuisine in NYC
In celebration of the month, Documented asked Haitian author and culinary curator Nadège Fleurimond what her top five Haitian restaurant recommendations are in NYC. Fleurimond is well known for her book “Haiti Uncovered: A Regional Adventure Into the Art of Haitian Cuisine.” She leads the Haiti Uncovered Culinary Tour every January in Haiti and co-owns the event rental space Fêtes de Fleur and the restaurant BunNan. Featured on Food Network’s “Chopped” and HBO’s “The Big Brunch,” she has also been profiled in Epicurious, Food & Wine Magazine and Condé Nast Traveler.
In her words, here are her picks for the best Haitian food in the city.
Why we like it: While Chloe’s offers many fusion options, the traditional Haitian dishes here are consistently delicious and authentic, packed with flavor. For me, it’s always the seafood legume with white rice and sos pwa (bean sauce). And did we mention the drinks? Chef’s kiss!
Why we like it: This is a great place to dine with friends in the heart of Prospect Lefferts Gardens. You can often catch a live band or local talent performing. The menu is constantly evolving, with both traditional fare and weekly creative additions. The Chiktay Aransò with plantains is my go-to.
Why we like it: This place is for you if you are a fan of traditional flavors meeting modern creativity. From succulent Griot (Pork) to Tassot Kabrit (fried goat) to Flavorful Pwason Rose (Red snapper) and more, they’ve packaged yummy Epis-seasoned eats into a Plantain haven. All items are served either on a plantain sandwich, a sweet plantain boat, plantain chips, nachos, or plantain fries. Definitely try the Griot sandwich.
Why we like it: Good Taste boasts Brooklyn and Queens locations. They offer the taste of home you didn’t know you needed. From traditional dishes like ble (bulgur wheat) to rice and pate kode, you can count on Good Taste to bring you the yummy Haitian goodness you need. Definitely try their Mac and cheese. It’s so soft and flavorful and just melts in your mouth.
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Why we like it: Getting Haitian food in Manhattan is not an easy feat, but Rebèl in the Lower East Side offers its patrons a taste of Haiti with the funkiness and great vibes of the LES. The food, music, and drinks match to create a perfect backdrop for your dining experience. Try one of their seafood dishes and a Barbancourt cocktail.
Discover Haitian history and literature
If you want to read Haitian literature and history, we have curated the following list for you:
- The New York Times Haiti ‘Ransom’ Project highlights the story of the debt of independence that France imposed on Haiti in 1825.
- The University of Florida has a selection of books from its Latin American and Caribbean collections. You will find it here.
- Boston Public Library has a catalog of 28 books (fiction and non-fiction) for Haitian Heritage Month.
- Boston Public Library has also curated a list of stories and poetry about Haiti for Children.
- New York Public Library has a catalog of books by Haitian and Haitian American authors.
- Find the Brooklyn Public Library catalog here.
