The Compas Festival of Haiti
It has been a while since the Compas Festival was on Billboard Magazine’s play list as number 8 for best in live entertainment. You would think it was impossible. The festival has been making us dance for over a quarter of a Century. Haitians are enjoying music in the United States as they did in Haiti. The sound of live music in the street and your loved ones right beside you dancing with you is the greatest thing. You’ll never forget it.
Over 25 years this Festival brought laughter and camaraderie through the sounds of Haitian music. It has given us a glimpse into what Haitian living is all about. It’s something we can call our own. As the promoters put on their producer hats, we are poised to witness the Noel and Ce Ci Bon machine at work. Rodney Noel and Jean Michel Cerenord leave nothing to the imagination. Every aspect of the Festival is scrutinized. Each person has a job to do from the Artists to the Vendors to the Special guests. The time is now May 18, on Haitian Flag Day Miami will enjoy The Largest Haitian Compas Festival.
You don’t just come to see your favorite band. They are all going to be at Bayfront Park. If not they’ll be at the before and after parties. The voice you hear on radio will be with you live. You can see Arly belting out your favorite song Rutshelle making you want to whyne or Gazman who you thought was short towering over the happy crowd. When DJ Grio announces the next group that Will play your heart skips a beat hoping it’s the one you’ve been waiting for. The loud speakers don’t bother you, they put a feast in your ears and it goes down to your spine.
It makes you feel alive whether you get the one little ticket or your party of six has VIP and Bottle service in the front row. You come to celebrate with your people. Speaking Creole or ‘Crenglish’ the best you can. The melon and pineapple stands are almost empty. The fresh coconut vendor replenishes his stack because the Crowd guzzles down coconut water like it would never be found again. You will find all kinds of Haitian food to buy and amuse your bouche to your content.
There are groups at this event. People who book their plane tickets together, who print T-shirts and take off from work. whether they’re a family a sorority or just some friends hanging out. They have the best time at CompasFest. If there are Gangs in here, there are also fathers and brothers making sure their little one has a good time. This Festival is for everyone young and old. Your little girl was introduce to Haitian Music at CompasFest. It was magical.
The Compas Festival invites you to enjoy a few minutes of fun of remembrance of heritage. It only occurs once a year. Celebrate Haitian Flag Day by being a part of The Haitian Compas Festival on May 18, 2024!
Nadia Pressage
Rebelle Today