What is “Vin Danse”?

“Vin Danse” means “Come Dance” in Haitian Creole. It’s more than just a phrase — it’s an invitation: an open call to everyone, everywhere, to learn the music and dance of Konpa, to connect with Haitian culture, celebrate its heritage, and share in its rhythm and joy. Through “Vin Danse,” we open the doors to community, heritage, and movement — whether you’re a seasoned dancer or someone who’s never heard a Konpa beat.

In this spirit, KOTR Dance invites you to join — to learn Konpa dance, to play some Konpa tunes now and then, to feel the heartbeat of Haiti, no matter where you are.

A Brief History of Konpa — From Haiti to the World

Konpa (sometimes spelled “Compas” or “Kompa”) was born in Haiti in 1955, when the visionary musician Nemours Jean-Baptiste and his band transformed traditional Haitian méringue into something new: a smoother, modern, danceable rhythm.

Over time, Konpa evolved — moving from orchestras to small bands, incorporating guitars, brass, drum machines, and evolving influences from jazz, Latin music, and Afro-Caribbean rhythms.

As Haitians migrated across the globe, they carried Konpa with them. In communities from Miami to Montreal, Paris to New York, Konpa became a global soundtrack for diaspora identity, unity, and celebration.

The Global Rise of Konpa — Why 2025 Is a Landmark Year

Official Recognition in New York City

On November 20, 2025, the New York City Council introduced Resolution 0987‑2025, which declares July 26 as Haitian Konpa Day — an annual celebration of Haitian music and dance across all five boroughs.

This landmark decision acknowledges Konpa as more than just a music genre — it embraces it as a cultural treasure that has shaped lives, built community, and enriched New York’s cultural landscape.

On the Path to UNESCO Recognition

In March 2024, Haiti formally submitted a candidacy for the practice of Konpa dance and music to be inscribed on the UNESCO Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.

In late 2025, the technical committee of UNESCO gave a favorable opinion — a major milestone toward full world-heritage status for Konpa.

If formally inscribed, Konpa will join other recognized Haitian cultural treasures — cementing its place not just in Haitian history, but on the global stage.

Why “Vin Danse” Matters Now — Heritage, Identity & Community

• Preserve and Celebrate: As Konpa gains official recognition, “Vin Danse” helps keep our dance — its movements, its soul — alive for future generations.
• Connect Across Borders: Whether you’re in Miami, New York, Paris, or beyond, “Vin Danse” builds a bridge between Haitian culture and the wider world.
• Empower Through Culture: Recognition by UNESCO and NYC sends a powerful message: Haitian culture matters, Haitian identity matters. “Vin Danse” channels that pride into movement.
• Inclusive Invitation: Not just for Haitians — “Vin Danse” is for everyone who wants to feel the rhythm, learn the steps, and share in the joy.

Learn to Dance Konpa — Join Our Virtual Lessons

Looking to learn how to dance Konpa — or perhaps even play some Konpa tunes? We now offer online virtual lessons and workshops.

Use the form below to learn more about Konpa or to book a virtual “Vin Danse” workshop from anywhere in the world. Whether you’re in Florida, Europe, the Caribbean, or beyond — everyone is welcome.

Conclusion: Why “Vin Danse” Is a Movement, Not Just a Dance

“Vin Danse” is more than an invitation — it’s a celebration, a reclaiming, and a bridging of generations. As Konpa rises to official recognition, as communities across the diaspora unite under its rhythm, we invite you to dance with us, to learn, to celebrate, and to belong.

Whether you know the steps or never heard a Konpa beat before — this is your moment. Come dance. Vin Danse.