Thirsty Thursdays : HMI Summer Nights Kick Off at Ou Lala Café June 26 with DJ RickyMix & DJ HStar

By Haitianbeatz

Summer in NYC hasn’t felt the same without Thursday nights packed with friends, good music, and a real HMI vibe. This year, Ou Lala, Haitianbeatz, and HQONY are teaming up to bring the energy back. Starting June 26, Thirsty Thursdays with DJ RickyMix and DJ HStar at the decks, ready to bring the crowd to life.

Hosted by Fabiola Antonin and Samise Labarbera, this night is about reconnecting with the sounds and faces that made summers unforgettable. Expect great drinks, amazing food, and the best Haitian beats in the city. If you’ve missed those classic HMI summer nights, it’s time to be part of something special again.

Bringing Back the Golden Era of NYC’s HMI Summer Nights. Those who remember the golden years of the Haitian Music Industry (HMI) in Brooklyn, Queens and Long Island know that Thursday nights in the summer meant only one thing: real vibes, unbeatable music, and a true sense of community. There was energy in every step, and laughter echoed through every venue. People still talk about those nights—the ones where Rapadou, Siwèl, Tempo, Zin, Phantoms, and a lineup of iconic acts ruled the stage. It was a season that belonged to us all.

NYC’s Haitian scene was never short on places to gather and let loose. Each spot offered its own flavor, but they all became home base for the crowd. The air was thick with anticipation, and everyone’s week built toward Thursday.

Each Thursday, these events felt like both a celebration and a family reunion. New friendships formed in the glow of stage lights, and old ones got a little stronger with every konpa’s rhythm.

When the music started, the stress of everyday life faded out. Thursdays weren’t just about dancing—they symbolized togetherness. School was over for the week, work could wait, and the city buzzed with plans to meet up. Everyone showed up ready to catch up, share stories, and enjoy the best parts of the culture.

The break from these beloved summer nights left a real gap for many people across the city. Folks often say, “NYC summers just aren’t what they used to be.” The demand for something real and familiar never went away.

Bringing Thirsty Thursdays back is about more than just a party. It’s about recreating those moments when the city felt alive with Haitian music—the kind of nights when time seemed to slow down and every song felt like our own. The return signals a new chapter but with all the magic from the days when the words “Thursday night” meant excitement and memories waiting to be made.

For anyone missing those up-late Thursdays, you’re not alone. The team at Ou Lala, HQONY, and Haitianbeatz get it. They’re fans, too. This summer, it’s about restoring a favorite NYC tradition—one that made summers memorable for the Haitian community for decades.

The city’s summer rhythm gets a fresh start as Oulala Café and Lounge kicks off Thirsty Thursdays on June 26. Presented by Haitianbeatz and HQONY, with Fabiola Antonin and Samise Labarbra leading the charge, this new weekly program brings back what made NYC summer nights legendary. The goal is simple: offer a spot to unwind, dance, and enjoy everything you love about HMI culture—all in one place.

This season’s lineup features two crowd favorites at the decks: DJ RickyMix and DJ HStar. Expect a soundscape that covers everything from classic compas to modern hits, with a splash of afrobeats and hip-hop to keep every Thursday night exciting.

The drink menu is stacked with creative cocktails that nod to the season. Fan favorites  If you’re hungry, the café kitchen is rolling out small plates and Haitian classics. Grab griot, plantains, or wings while you catch up with friends.

What sets Thirsty Thursdays apart is the vibe. You’ll find: Lively, diverse crowd open to newcomers and regulars alike. Comfortable indoor and outdoor seating for every mood. Friendly, welcoming staff who make every guest feel at home. Music that keeps the energy high but never overwhelms a good conversation

Each week, the event settles into an easy rhythm: doors open with happy hour specials, DJs start spinning by 8 pm, food flows, and people mingle until late. It’s as much about hanging out as it is about dancing. A brand new band in the HMI led by Jean Max Valcourt, will be making surprise performance throughout the Summer. Your favorite HMI superstars will be making guest appearances as well.

Bringing back these nights isn’t just about entertainment—it’s about restoring a sense of community. The partnership between Haitianbeatz and HQONY means more than big names on a flyer. Fabiola Antonin and Samise Labarbera are creating a space where old friends reconnect and new faces feel right at home.

NYC’s Haitian summer scene once set the pace for a generation. With Thirsty  at Oulala, those stories and connections aren’t just memories—they’re happening all over again. Here, community isn’t just a word; it’s every smile, greeting, and new track on the playlist.

Dress to impress without going overboard. Leave the formal wear at home, but don't show up underdressed—think “casual chic. “You’ll want to look good for the social crowd and the dance floor but still feel relaxed enough to move” says Fabiola.

To get the most out of your night, arrive early. Happy hour specials are worth showing up on time. Doors open at 8 pm, .DJs start spinning by 8 pm.  making reservations, lock in your spot. Groups and regulars often book ahead, especially for big nights. Don’t miss out. Please call for reservations. If you plan to celebrate a birthday or special event, mention it—the staff might add an extra touch.

Swap music tips, introduce yourself to regulars, and you’ll feel like part of the Ou Lala family in no time. Dress fresh, show up early, grab your table, invite your friends, and get involved with the crowd and music. Summer Thursdays at Ou Lala are about making memories—and everyone plays a part.

Thirsty Thursdays at Ou Lala Café and Lounge are set to fill up Lynbrook LI.’s summer nights with the energy and friendship the city has missed. With DJ RickyMix and DJ HStar keeping the dance floor alive and Haitianbeatz, HQONY, Fabiola Antonin, and Samise Labarbera hosting, every Thursday promises true HMI spirit and good company. Mark your calendar for June 26 and invite your crew early—RSVP to lock in your spot and spread the word on social media. Catch up with old friends, enjoy classic music, and help bring a beloved tradition back to life.