By Laura Quinlan, Rhythm Foundation

The December 16 edition of Big Night in Little Haiti – free every Third Friday at the Little Haiti Cultural Center – offers a double gift.  The free concert in the plaza features one of Miami’s most respected Haitian musicians, Jan Sebon and his group Kazak International.  The night also offers a chance to enjoy the magnificent contemporary visual art exhibition in the gallery installed for Art Basel:  Haiti, Kingdom of This World.

Big Night in Little Haiti takes place Friday, December 16th, 6PM – 10PM at the Little Haiti Cultural Center in Miami, presented by The Rhythm Foundation and the Little Haiti Cultural Center.  The night also features Haitian crafts for sale (think stocking stuffers and more!), delicious food, drinks, activities for children, free secure parking and more. More more info click here or call (305) 960-2969

Jan Sebon’s group Kazak International is a unique fusion of rasin (Haitian Roots music), jazz, political commentary, and electric stage presence. They have been voted Miami’s “Best Haitian Band” in the New Times for three consecutive years, as well as garnered many awards for their educational programs. Sebon founded Kazak in 1985 to define the Haitian experience, and collaborate with other artists. Sebon has received National Performance Network commissions for several programs. His most recent CD, Haiti A Love Story, included a collaboration with DJ Le Spam created as a fundraiser for Haitian earthquake relief. He is currently taking part in an artistic exchange in Curacao.

Last month’s Big Night in Little Haiti was a little bit rainy, and the live show by Papaloko and Loray Mistik moved indoors to the neighboring 7 Circuit Studios.  The Little Haiti Cultural Center hosted some great music from DJ Mack of Mizikpam.com, and a SketchyMiami party.