Community Celebration

For nine years the Roots and Culture Festival brought throngs of eager celebrants to Little Haiti for music, food, and fun. But the festival went into hibernation in 2004 for a poignant and personal reason. “One of the main founders, Albert Alexis, died, unfortunately. Very young. He was the key person, the go-getter, he put everything together. So they needed to take some time off,” explains Romel Dossus, international event coordinator. But this year, festival organizer Stanley Alexis has vowed to return and maintain the legacy of his brother’s always-anticipated cultural event.

To celebrate its tenth year, the fest is coming back bigger and better than ever. This year’s lineup reflects the best of Haitian music, and includes artists like Erol Josue, Manmzel Newyork, Vwadezil, Strings, and Ayabombe. International performers will include the Soukous Stars featuring Diblo Dibala from Africa, Martinique’s Valerie Louri, and Jamaican reggae legend Freddy McGregor. In addition to the music, there will be a car show, health fair, kids’ world expo, and environmental awareness forum for the people of the community. And best of all? Admission is free! Come on down to Little Haiti (on North Miami Avenue, between 54th and 62nd streets) for world music revelry from 11:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Sat., May 26, 11 a.m.-11 p.m.