Little Haiti Book Festival’s free events

IN THE MARKETPLACE

• ALL DAY BOOK FAIR – This bustling destination is packed with exhibitors, food vendors, and a book fair featuring local authors and publishers with books in English, Haitian Creole, and French.

IN THE COURTYARD

• ALL DAY HEART-PUMPING HAITIAN BEATS WITH DJ NICKYMIX – From the dynamic sounds of konpa to the soulful beats of roots and the ancestral echoes of rara, DJ Nickymix masterfully curates a playlist that embodies Haiti’s spirit.
• ALL DAY DISCOVER THE MAGIC – A cultural ambassador and creative advocate, Mecca “Grimo” Marcelin will entertain and guide you through the event as you enjoy DJ Nickymix’s heart-pumping beats.
• ALL DAY FREE BOOKS FOR KIDS – Courtesy of Miami Book Fair and The Children’s Trust’s Books for Free program.
• 1 P.M. A PERFORMANCE FROM NSL DANCE ENSEMBLE – Featuring vibrant and authentic Haitian folk dances that will transport you to another time and place.
• 3:30 P.M. LIVE MUSIC WITH PAPALOKO & LORAY MISTIK – This joyful, rhythm-driven celebration brings the festival to a powerful close. Led by Haitian artist and musician Papaloko, Loray Mistik blends traditional Haitian rhythms with Afro-Caribbean soul and spiritual energy. Their performances are known for their electrifying percussion, powerful vocals, and messages of unity, ancestry, and resistance.

 IN THE THEATER

• 12 P.M. THE FUTURE OF LITTLE HAITI – Presented by The Children’s Trust and KLOTA, this timely panel explores the evolving identity and future of the Little Haiti neighborhood. Panelists will discuss current challenges and opportunities related to gentrification, education, youth empowerment, and community preservation. Learn how local organizations and residents are working to ensure Little Haiti’s cultural legacy remains strong for future generations.
• 2 P.M. RETOUNEN LAKAY: PROTECTED STATUS, POLICY SHIFTS & DEPORTATION – Join immigration experts Ira Kurzban and Paul Christian Namphy for an urgent conversation on the realities of immigration policy, deportation trends, and the complexities surrounding Temporary Protected Status (TPS). This panel will unpack recent shifts in U.S. immigration law and their impact on the Haitian diaspora, offering both legal insights and community-based responses.

IN THE DANCE STUDIO

• 11 A.M. MEDITATION & YOGA FOR ALL AGES – Mindful Art educator Alexandra Jeanty-Leclerc will share simple yet effective techniques to calm your mind, reduce stress, and increase focus. Suitable for all experience levels, this workshop offers a welcoming and inclusive space to explore the benefits of a mindful yoga practice.
• 1 P.M. HAITIAN THEATER WORKSHOP – Step into the world of Haitian storytelling through theater! In this interactive workshop, acclaimed performers Elizabeth Guerin and Florence Jean-Louis Dupuy will guide participants in exploring traditional and contemporary performance styles. From character building to expressive movement, this session invites all ages to engage with Haiti’s rich theatrical heritage in a fun, hands-on environment.
• 3:30 P.M. CONTEMPORARY HAITIAN DANCE WITH NANCY ST. LEGER – The founder of NSL Dance Ensemble will guide you through a series of movements and choreography designed to help you connect with the rhythm and spirit of Haiti, providing you with a deeper understanding of the art form.

IN THE CHILDREN’S ALLEY

• ALL DAY CREATE! Kids Art-Making Studio with GO GO MOAD – Immerse your children in Haitian art and culture while fostering their creativity! This year’s activity invites participants to reflect on identity, belonging, and resilience through collaborative artwork. Led by artist Asser Saint-Val, children will express stories of home, culture, and memory. Plus, enjoy engaging historical puzzles from Game Time Ayiti, sparking fun and learning around Haiti’s vibrant past.
• 11 A.M. STORYTELLING & BEIGNETS WITH LILIANE NERETTE LOUIS – Cultural ambassador Liliane Nérette Louis brings laughter and tradition to life with Haitian folktales – accompanied by a sweet treat! Gather around for a cozy, delicious session of tim-tim bwa sèch and beignets!
• 12 P.M. STORYTELLING, RHYTHM & DRUMS WITH YANUI – Feel the pulse of Haiti through Yanui’s dynamic blend of stories and percussion. A favorite from Tradisyon Lakou Lakay, she invites kids to move, listen, and create rhythm together.
• 1 P.M. ONCE UPON A TIME IN HAITI WITH LUCRÈCE LOUISDHON LOUINIS – Through interactive storytelling, Lucrèce Louisdhon Louinis invites children to explore Haitian heritage and imagination, bridging past and present through powerful, personal tales.
• 2 P.M. A FISH CALLED TANGA WITH MARIE KETSIA THEODORE-PHAREL – Author Marie Ketsia Theodore-Pharel shares her beloved children’s book A Fish Called Tanga, a tale that captures the magic of storytelling, memory, and underwater adventure, rooted in Haitian culture.
• 3 P.M. SPECIAL READING WITH COMMISSIONER MARLEINE BASTIEN – Join Miami Dade County Commissioner Marleine Bastien for a special storytime session. Her presence and selection reflect a deep love of community, family, and Haitian identity – perfect for the whole family.

IN THE GALLERY

• 3 P.M. HAITI IN MY HEART: EKPHRASTIC POETRY WORKSHOP – Poets Fabienne Josaphat and Herold Pierre guide attendees in an exploration of poetic expressions. Featuring a keynote by visual artist Serge Toussaint.