MIAMI — The theme was family Friday night as Sounds of Little Haiti celebrated its 10th anniversary with music, dancing and a sense of community in Miami’s Little Haiti neighborhood.
For many, the free monthly outdoor concert series is more than entertainment — it’s a cultural connection.
“I love the people. I love the vibe and in all honesty I come to drop stress, shake it off to be able to go on for the next week or so,” said attendee Renette Pierre-Louis.
This month’s show featured Haitian konpa band Tabou Combo, whose songs have been part of the Haitian soundtrack for generations.
“They are considered the legendary band,” said Terry Louis, executive producer of Sound of Little Haiti.
“It’s been really hard keeping it going for 10 years. Emotionally, financially, community wise we’ve come a long way,” executive producer Sandy Dorsanvil said.
One of the biggest challenges now, organizers say, is rebuilding crowds. Attendance has dipped in recent years, and Dorsanvil said immigration changes have left many wary of public gatherings.
“We’ve seen our numbers dwindle and decline. People are just not comfortable being in the public as much as they used to be,” she said.
To adapt, the festival has become not just a celebration of Haitian culture, but also a resource for the community. Vendors and partners offer immigration services and legal guidance from Haitian lawyers.
“We have trusted vendors, trusted community partners that come in,” Dorsanvil said. “They give immigration information. We have the Haitian lawyers who give information.”
For Pierre-Louis, the event remains a welcoming space for all.
“To all the people out there, no matter your nationality, you want to come and have a good time, this is the place to come every third Friday of the month. Little Haiti is the place to be,” she said.
Haitian-American MMA fighter Thad Jean was also at the event for a meet-and-greet, which began at 6 p.m.
Jean recently spoke with Local 10 about his journey to becoming a PFL world champion.
The celebration will run until 11 p.m. and include vendors, food, and family-friendly activities.
Organizers say the event has grown over the past decade to become one of Miami’s largest cultural celebrations of Haitian music and heritage.
The next Sounds of Little Haiti is set for Oct. 17, featuring Haitian pop artist Alan Cavé, known for his love songs and romantic performances.
Copyright 2025 by WPLG Local10.com - All rights reserved.