The Haitian Culture Day Parade took place on Saturday, May 10, 2025, along Nostrand Avenue-officially renamed Toussaint L’Ouverture Blvd.-between Church Avenue (Pierre Toussaint Blvd.) and Flatbush Junction, in the heart of Brooklyn’s Little Haiti and Little Caribbean districts. This marked the 6th annual celebration of Haitian heritage and culture in New York, coinciding with Haitian Heritage Month.
Parade Highlights
- Start and Route: The parade began at 11:00 AM at the intersection of Nostrand Avenue and Church Avenue, proceeding through the vibrant neighborhoods of Little Haiti and Little Caribbean, and culminating at Flatbush Junction’s Hillel Place Plaza.
- Participants: The procession featured a lively mix of marching bands, dance groups, cheerleaders, community organizations, and colorful floats. Local officials and dignitaries also marched, underscoring the event’s significance to the community.
- Cultural Showcases: Attendees enjoyed performances from internationally acclaimed Haitian artists, including the Konpa band T-Vice and Raboday performer AndyBeatz, alongside dynamic local acts. The parade and subsequent festival included traditional dance, open mic sessions, arts and crafts, and face painting.
Festival and Community Spirit
After the parade, festivities continued at Hillel Place Plaza from noon until 5:00 PM. The event was free and family-friendly, offering:
- Live music and dance performances
- Traditional Haitian and Caribbean cuisine
- Vendor stalls and community resource booths
- Activities for children and interactive cultural experiences
Theme and Significance
This year’s theme, “One Love, One Haiti,” celebrated the unity, resilience, and pride of the Haitian community, honoring its cultural legacy in Brooklyn and beyond. With over 10,000 attendees annually, the Haitian Culture Day Parade has become a cornerstone event, fostering cultural pride and community empowerment within New York’s officially recognized Little Haiti District.
The parade and festival not only showcased Haitian heritage but also served as a powerful acknowledgment of the Haitian-American community’s contributions to New York City, making it a highlight of Haitian Heritage Month.
