News Summary
Pompano Beach will host A Great Kreyòl Weekend on May 9-10, 2025, at the Cultural Center. This cultural event will celebrate Haitian art, music, and cuisine, featuring a film series, workshops, and dance classes. Attendees can enjoy traditional dishes and participate in a vendor marketplace showcasing Haitian crafts. This celebration also emphasizes the significance of Haitian Heritage Month, honoring cultural pride and the contributions of the Haitian diaspora.
Pompano Beach to Host A Great Kreyòl Weekend for Haitian Heritage Month
Pompano Beach is set to celebrate Haitian Heritage Month with an exciting event, A Great Kreyòl Weekend, scheduled for May 9-10, 2025. This cultural celebration will take place at the Pompano Beach Cultural Center and will focus on uplifting Haitian art, music, and cuisine.
Event Details
The weekend’s activities begin with a Short Film Series presented by filmmaker Al’lkens Plancher, starting at 6 pm on May 9. The series showcases six powerful short films that highlight the rich storytelling tradition of Haiti. Following the film series, a Film and Storytelling Workshop will take place on May 10 from 11 am to 2 pm, offering hands-on techniques in visual storytelling and directing.
Also on May 10, from 5 pm to 10 pm, attendees can participate in a lively Konpa Dance Class led by DJ @Ti.Joe, a well-known Haitian DJ recognized for his energetic performances. Throughout the weekend, visitors can indulge in traditional Haitian cuisine, including popular dishes such as griot and pikliz, accompanied by recipe cards for those looking to recreate the flavors at home.
The event will also feature a Vendor Marketplace showcasing Haitian arts and herbs, providing an opportunity for local artisans and businesses to share their craftsmanship with attendees.
Significance of Haitian Heritage Month
May holds particular importance for Haitians, as it commemorates the founding of the Haitian flag on May 18, 1803. This month serves not only as a celebration of Haitian culture but also as a platform for raising awareness about ongoing challenges facing Haiti, such as political instability and gang violence. The theme for this year’s Heritage Month is “Reclaiming Tomorrow: Sowing Seeds of Change,” emphasizing resilience and the importance of community support.
Key historical figures will be highlighted during the celebration, including Toussaint Louverture, Jean-Jacques Dessalines, and Catherine Flon, each playing a significant role in Haiti’s fight for independence and the creation of the national flag.
The Haitian Diaspora’s Impact
The event will not only focus on Haiti’s heritage but also acknowledge the significant contributions of the Haitian diaspora in the U.S., particularly in cities like Miami, New York, and Boston. Community leaders, elected officials, and artists will be present to emphasize the importance of cultural pride and resilience among Haitians, especially in facing current challenges.
Other Related Events
In addition to A Great Kreyòl Weekend, several other events are taking place in collaboration with Haitian Heritage Month. These include the Orlando Sings Choral Festival on May 9-10, which celebrates the human spirit through choral performances, and the highly anticipated SpongeBob Musical at the Ocala Civic Theatre, running through May 18. Additionally, the New Play Festival at Montverde Academy will feature premieres of two new plays, while the Naughty Bits show at HudsonWerks Theater offers a unique look at Shakespeare through satire.
Upcoming Activities in May
As Haitian Heritage Month continues, various community activities are planned leading up to Haitian Flag Day on May 18. These include panel discussions, festivals, and performances designed to engage and unite the community in celebration of their heritage.
A Great Kreyòl Weekend promises to be a vibrant celebration of Haitian culture that will educate, entertain, and inspire attendees. With a rich program lined up, the Pompano Beach Cultural Center is preparing to welcome visitors from all backgrounds to partake in this cultural festivities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Additional Resources
- Haitian Times: Haitian Heritage Month Events Calendar
- Broadway World: A GREAT Kreyòl Weekend Event
- Miami Herald: News on Haiti
- Black Enterprise: Influential Haitians and Haitian Americans
- Bay State Banner: Toussaint Louverture Cultural Center Opening
- Wikipedia: Haitian Heritage Month
- Google Search: Haitian culture
- Google Scholar: Haitian history
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Haiti
- Google News: Haitian events
