Events
A Year-Round Guide for 2024-2025
Miami, known for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and cultural diversity, is a premier destination for events and festivals throughout the year. Its dynamic atmosphere, influenced by its rich history and multicultural population, makes it an exciting place for visitors. From music festivals and art shows to cultural celebrations and sports events, Miami offers a wide range of activities that cater to diverse interests and tastes. This guide provides detailed information about the top events happening in Miami from August 2024 to July 2025, including what makes each event special, practical tips for attending, and insider advice to enhance your experience.
January
Art Deco Weekend
Date: January 17-19, 2025
Location: Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (305) 672-2014
Description: A celebration of Miami’s unique Art Deco architecture, featuring guided tours, live music, fashion shows, and vintage car displays.
Highlights: Guided tours of historic buildings, live jazz performances, and an Art Deco fashion show.
Practical Information: Tickets can be purchased online at Art Deco Weekend. Public transport via Miami Beach Trolley is recommended. Nearby accommodations include The Betsy Hotel and Loews Miami Beach Hotel.
Miami Marathon and Half Marathon
Date: January 26, 2025
Location: Start at American Airlines Arena, 601 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
Contact: (305) 278-8668
Description: This annual marathon attracts runners from around the world, offering scenic routes through downtown Miami and Miami Beach.
Highlights: Scenic routes, finisher medals, and a lively post-race celebration.
Practical Information: Register online at Miami Marathon. Public transport and shuttle services are available. Hotels like the JW Marriott Marquis and Kimpton EPIC Hotel offer convenient accommodations.
South Beach Jazz Festival
Date: January 5-7, 2025
Location: Various venues in South Beach, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (786) 607-7909
Description: A festival featuring performances from renowned jazz musicians, aimed at promoting disability awareness.
Highlights: Free outdoor concerts, workshops, and VIP experiences.
Practical Information: Tickets and schedule available at South Beach Jazz Festival. Use public transportation or rideshare services. Stay at nearby hotels like The Ritz-Carlton South Beach or The Setai.
February
Miami International Boat Show
Date: February 13-17, 2025
Location: Miami Marine Stadium Park & Basin, 3501 Rickenbacker Causeway, Miami, FL 33149
Contact: (954) 441-3220
Description: The world’s largest boat show featuring the latest in marine innovation, yachts, and watercraft.
Highlights: Boat displays, on-water activities, and educational seminars.
Practical Information: Tickets available at Miami Boat Show. Shuttle services from major hotels are available. Nearby accommodations include the InterContinental Miami and Mandarin Oriental.
Coconut Grove Arts Festival
Date: February 15-17, 2025
Location: 2700 S Bayshore Dr, Miami, FL 33133
Contact: (305) 447-0401
Description: A premier outdoor arts festival showcasing over 360 artists, culinary arts, and live entertainment.
Highlights: Artist booths, live music performances, and food vendors.
Practical Information: Tickets and information available at Coconut Grove Arts Festival. Public transportation recommended. Stay at The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove or The Mutiny Hotel.
Gay8 Festival
Date: February 16, 2025
Location: SW 8th St, Little Havana, Miami, FL 33135
Contact: (305) 859-8688
Description: A vibrant LGBTQ festival celebrating Latin culture with music, dance, art, and food.
Highlights: Live performances, drag shows, and art installations.
Practical Information: Free to attend. More details at Gay8 Festival. Use public transportation or rideshare services. Nearby accommodations include Life House Little Havana and Selina Miami River.
March
Calle Ocho Festival
Date: March 10, 2025
Location: SW 8th St, Little Havana, Miami, FL 33135
Contact: (305) 644-8888
Description: The largest Hispanic street festival in the United States, featuring live music, dancing, and Latin American food.
Highlights: Music stages, dance floors, and food vendors.
Practical Information: Free to attend. Event details at Calle Ocho Festival. Use public transportation. Stay at nearby hotels like Hyatt Regency Miami or JW Marriott Marquis.
Miami Open
Date: March 17-30, 2025
Location: Hard Rock Stadium, 347 Don Shula Dr, Miami Gardens, FL 33056
Contact: (305) 943-OPEN
Description: A premier tennis tournament featuring top players from around the world.
Highlights: High-stakes matches, player meet-and-greets, and fan zone activities.
Practical Information: Tickets available at Miami Open. Use public transportation or park at the stadium. Nearby accommodations include Stadium Hotel and Courtyard by Marriott Miami Aventura Mall.
Ultra Music Festival
Date: March 28-30, 2025
Location: Bayfront Park, 301 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
Contact: (786) 456-4444
Description: An internationally renowned electronic dance music festival featuring top DJs and artists.
Highlights: Multiple stages, spectacular light shows, and VIP areas.
Practical Information: Tickets and packages available at Ultra Music Festival. Use public transportation or rideshare services. Stay at nearby hotels like Kimpton EPIC Hotel and Hyatt Regency Miami.
April
Miami Beach Pride
Date: April 6-13, 2025
Location: Ocean Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (305) 673-7000
Description: A celebration of the LGBTQ+ community featuring a parade, beach party, and cultural events.
Highlights: Pride parade, live performances, and family-friendly activities.
Practical Information: Free to attend. Details available at Miami Beach Pride. Use public transportation. Nearby accommodations include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach and The Betsy Hotel.
Miami Rum Renaissance Festival
Date: April 18-20, 2025
Location: Miami Airport Convention Center, 711 NW 72nd Ave, Miami, FL 33126
Contact: (305) 443-7973
Description: A festival celebrating rum with tastings, seminars, and cocktail competitions.
Highlights: Rum tastings, mixology classes, and live music.
Practical Information: Tickets and information available at Rum Renaissance Festival. Use public transportation or park at the convention center. Stay at nearby hotels like the Hilton Miami Airport and Sheraton Miami Airport Hotel.
Outshine Film Festival
Date: April 25-May 4, 2025
Location: Various venues in Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (305) 751-6305
Description: A premier LGBTQ+ film festival showcasing the best in queer cinema from around the world.
Highlights: Film screenings, panel discussions, and opening and closing night parties.
Practical Information: Tickets and schedule available at Outshine Film Festival. Use public transportation. Nearby accommodations include The Ritz-Carlton South Beach and The Betsy Hotel.
May
Miami Fashion Week
Date: May 28-June 1, 2025
Location: Ice Palace Film Studios, 1400 N Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33136
Contact: (305) 428-9004
Description: An international fashion event showcasing resort wear collections from top designers.
Highlights: Runway shows, designer showcases, and after-parties.
Practical Information: Tickets and information available at Miami Fashion Week. Use public transportation or park at nearby facilities. Stay at nearby hotels like the Kimpton EPIC Hotel and JW Marriott Marquis.
Rolling Loud Festival
Date: May 9-11, 2025
Location: Hard Rock Stadium, 347 Don Shula Dr, Miami Gardens, FL 33056
Contact: (305) 943-8000
Description: The largest hip-hop festival in the world, featuring performances by top artists.
Highlights: Live performances, exclusive merch, and VIP areas.
Practical Information: Tickets and packages available at Rolling Loud Festival. Use public transportation or park at the stadium. Nearby accommodations include Stadium Hotel and Courtyard by Marriott Miami Aventura Mall.
Redland International Orchid Festival
Date: May 17-19, 2025
Location: Fruit and Spice Park, 24801 SW 187th Ave, Homestead, FL 33031
Contact: (305) 247-5727
Description: A renowned orchid show featuring vendors from around the world, workshops, and orchid displays.
Highlights: Orchid exhibits, plant sales, and educational seminars.
Practical Information: Tickets available at the entrance. Use public transportation or park at the venue. Stay at nearby hotels like Hampton Inn & Suites Miami-South/Homestead and Courtyard by Marriott Miami Homestead.
June
Miami/Bahamas Goombay Festival
Date: June 7-8, 2025
Location: Grand Avenue, Coconut Grove, Miami, FL 33133
Contact: (305) 569-0605
Description: A festival celebrating Bahamian culture with music, dance, art, and food.
Highlights: Live Bahamian music, Junkanoo parade, and authentic Bahamian cuisine.
Practical Information: Free to attend. Use public transportation. Stay at nearby hotels like The Ritz-Carlton Coconut Grove and The Mutiny Hotel.
Coral Gables Restaurant Week
Date: June 3-23, 2025
Location: Various restaurants in Coral Gables, FL 33134
Contact: (305) 569-0311
Description: A culinary event featuring special prix-fixe menus at participating restaurants.
Highlights: Discounted meals, chef specials, and culinary events.
Practical Information: No tickets required; reservations recommended. Use public transportation or park at nearby facilities. Stay at nearby hotels like Hyatt Regency Coral Gables and Hotel Colonnade Coral Gables.
American Black Film Festival
Date: June 12-16, 2025
Location: Various venues in Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (646) 375-2144
Description: A festival showcasing films by and about people of African descent, with screenings, panels, and networking events.
Highlights: Film premieres, industry panels, and award ceremonies.
Practical Information: Tickets and schedule available at American Black Film Festival. Use public transportation. Stay at nearby hotels like The Ritz-Carlton South Beach and The Betsy Hotel.
July
Independence Day Fireworks Celebration
Date: July 4, 2025
Location: Bayfront Park, 301 Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33132
Contact: (305) 358-7550
Description: A spectacular fireworks display to celebrate Independence Day, with live music and food vendors.
Highlights: Fireworks show, live performances, and family-friendly activities.
Practical Information: Free to attend. Use public transportation or park at nearby facilities. Stay at nearby hotels like Kimpton EPIC Hotel and Hyatt Regency Miami.
Swim Week Miami
Date: July 10-16, 2025
Location: Various venues in Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (305) 428-9004
Description: An annual event showcasing the latest swimwear collections from top designers.
Highlights: Runway shows, trade shows, and after-parties.
Practical Information: Tickets and information available at Swim Week Miami. Use public transportation or park at nearby facilities. Stay at nearby hotels like The Ritz-Carlton South Beach and The Setai.
Miami Salsa Congress
Date: July 23-27, 2025
Location: Eden Roc Miami Beach, 4525 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33140
Contact: (305) 220-7115
Description: A week-long salsa festival featuring workshops, performances, and dance parties.
Highlights: Salsa workshops, live performances, and nightly dance parties.
Practical Information: Tickets and packages available at Miami Salsa Congress. Use public transportation or park at the hotel. Stay at Eden Roc Miami Beach or nearby hotels.
August
Miami Spice
Date: August 1-September 30, 2024
Location: Various restaurants in Miami, FL
Contact: (305) 539-3000
Description: A culinary event offering discounted prix-fixe menus at Miami’s top restaurants.
Highlights: Discounted dining, chef specials, and culinary events.
Practical Information: No tickets required; reservations recommended. Use public transportation or park at nearby facilities. Stay at hotels across Miami.
International Ballet Festival of Miami
Date: August 15-September 7, 2024
Location: Various venues in Miami, FL
Contact: (305) 549-7711
Description: A prestigious ballet festival featuring performances by top ballet companies from around the world.
Highlights: Ballet performances, master classes, and gala events.
Practical Information: Tickets and schedule available at International Ballet Festival. Use public transportation. Stay at hotels like the JW Marriott Marquis and Kimpton EPIC Hotel.
Afro Roots Fest
Date: August 23-25, 2024
Location: Historic Virginia Key Beach Park, 4020 Virginia Beach Dr, Miami, FL 33149
Contact: (305) 672-5202
Description: A music festival celebrating African music and culture.
Highlights: Live performances, cultural workshops, and art exhibits.
Practical Information: Tickets available at the entrance. Use public transportation or park at the venue. Stay at nearby hotels like the Hilton Miami Downtown and Marriott Biscayne Bay.
September
Brazilian Film Festival of Miami
Date: September 12-19, 2024
Location: Colony Theatre, 1040 Lincoln Rd, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (305) 600-3347
Description: A film festival showcasing the best of Brazilian cinema.
Highlights: Film screenings, panel discussions, and award ceremonies.
Practical Information: Tickets and schedule available at Brazilian Film Festival. Use public transportation. Stay at nearby hotels like The Ritz-Carlton South Beach and The Betsy Hotel.
Miami Home Design and Remodeling Show
Date: September 20-22, 2024
Location: Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (305) 667-9299
Description: A comprehensive home design show featuring the latest trends and products in home improvement.
Highlights: Exhibitor booths, workshops, and celebrity guest appearances.
Practical Information: Tickets available at Home Design Show. Use public transportation or park at the convention center. Stay at nearby hotels like The Ritz-Carlton South Beach and The Betsy Hotel.
Miami Carnival
Date: September 28-October 6, 2024
Location: Various venues in Miami, FL
Contact: (305) 653-1877
Description: A vibrant Caribbean carnival featuring parades, music, and cultural events.
Highlights: Parade of Bands, Panorama, and J’ouvert.
Practical Information: Tickets and schedule available at Miami Carnival. Use public transportation. Stay at hotels across Miami.
October
South Beach Seafood Festival
Date: October 23-26, 2024
Location: Lummus Park, Ocean Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (305) 461-2700
Description: A festival celebrating South Florida’s seafood with tastings, cooking demonstrations, and live music.
Highlights: Chef demonstrations, seafood tastings, and live entertainment.
Practical Information: Tickets available at South Beach Seafood Festival. Use public transportation. Stay at nearby hotels like The Ritz-Carlton South Beach and The Betsy Hotel.
Miami Broward One Carnival
Date: October 13, 2024
Location: Central Broward Regional Park, 3700 NW 11th Pl, Lauderhill, FL 33311
Contact: (305) 653-1877
Description: A Caribbean carnival celebrating the cultures of Miami and Broward with music, dance, and colorful costumes.
Highlights: Parade of Bands, J’ouvert, and live performances.
Practical Information: Tickets available at Miami Broward One Carnival. Use public transportation or park at the venue. Stay at hotels across Miami and Broward.
Miami International Auto Show
Date: October 4-13, 2024
Location: Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (305) 981-1448
Description: An annual auto show showcasing the latest vehicles from top manufacturers.
Highlights: Vehicle displays, test drives, and special exhibits.
Practical Information: Tickets available at Miami Auto Show. Use public transportation or park at the convention center. Stay at nearby hotels like The Ritz-Carlton South Beach and The Betsy Hotel.
November
Miami Book Fair
Date: November 17-24, 2024
Location: Miami Dade College, 300 NE 2nd Ave, Miami, FL 33132
Contact: (305) 237-3258
Description: One of the largest literary festivals in the United States, featuring author readings, panel discussions, and book signings.
Highlights: Author readings, children’s alley, and street fair.
Practical Information: Free to attend. Event details available at Miami Book Fair. Use public transportation. Stay at nearby hotels like Kimpton EPIC Hotel and Hyatt Regency Miami.
Miami International Agriculture, Horse & Cattle Show
Date: November 15-17, 2024
Location: Tropical Park, 7900 SW 40th St, Miami, FL 33155
Contact: (305) 223-7060
Description: A showcase of agriculture, livestock, and equestrian activities, featuring competitions and exhibitions.
Highlights: Livestock shows, equestrian competitions, and agricultural exhibits.
Practical Information: Tickets available at the entrance. Use public transportation or park at the venue. Stay at nearby hotels like Hyatt Regency Coral Gables and Courtyard by Marriott Miami.
Seed Food & Wine Festival
Date: November 6-10, 2024
Location: Various venues in Miami, FL
Contact: (305) 450-7975
Description: A plant-based food and wine festival featuring tastings, cooking demonstrations, and wellness events.
Highlights: Food tastings, wellness events, and celebrity chef appearances.
Practical Information: Tickets available at Seed Food & Wine Festival. Use public transportation. Stay at nearby hotels like Kimpton EPIC Hotel and Hyatt Regency Miami.
December
Art Basel Miami Beach
Date: December 5-8, 2024
Location: Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Dr, Miami Beach, FL 33139
Contact: (305) 674-1292
Description: One of the most prestigious art shows in the world, featuring contemporary and modern art from leading galleries.
Highlights: Art exhibitions, panel discussions, and VIP events.
Practical Information: Tickets and information available at Art Basel. Use public transportation. Stay at nearby hotels like The Ritz-Carlton South Beach and The Betsy Hotel.
Holiday Evening at Vizcaya
Date: December 20, 2024
Location: Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, 3251 S Miami Ave, Miami, FL 33129
Contact: (305) 250-9133
Description: A festive evening event featuring holiday decorations, live music, and seasonal treats.
Highlights: Holiday decorations, live performances, and refreshments.
Practical Information: Tickets available at Vizcaya. Use public transportation or park at the venue. Stay at nearby hotels like Four Seasons Hotel Miami and JW Marriott Marquis.
Santa’s Enchanted Forest
Date: November 1, 2024 – January 5, 2025
Location: Tropical Park, 7900 SW 40th St, Miami, FL 33155
Contact: (305) 559-9689
Description: The largest holiday theme park in Miami, featuring rides, shows, and holiday displays.
Highlights: Holiday lights, amusement rides, and live shows.
Practical Information: Tickets and packages available at Santa’s Enchanted Forest. Use public transportation or park at the venue. Stay at nearby hotels like Hyatt Regency Coral Gables and Courtyard by Marriott Miami.
Tickets and Booking
- Online: Most event tickets can be purchased online through official event websites.
- On-site: Some events offer tickets at the entrance or on-site registration.
- Travel Agents: Certain events can be booked through travel agents.
Getting There
- Public Transportation: Utilize Miami-Dade Transit, including Metrorail, Metromover, and Metrobus.
- Parking: Most event venues offer parking, though it can be limited and may require early arrival.
- Accessibility: Check event websites for accessibility options and services.
- Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton South Beach, Four Seasons Hotel Miami
- Mid-range: Kimpton EPIC Hotel, Hyatt Regency Miami
- Budget: Courtyard by Marriott Miami, Hampton Inn & Suites Miami-South/Homestead
Insider Tips
Best Times to Attend
- Avoid Crowds: Arrive early or attend on weekdays for fewer crowds.
- Optimal Experience: Check event schedules for key performances or activities.
Local Customs and Etiquette
- Respect Local Culture: Be mindful of local customs, especially during cultural festivals.
- Dress Appropriately: Wear comfortable clothing suitable for the weather and type of event.
Nearby Attractions
- Explore Miami: Visit other attractions such as the Miami Design District, Wynwood Walls, and Little Havana.
Safety and Comfort
Safety Measures
- Large Festivals: Stay aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure.
- Outdoor Activities: Use sun protection and stay hydrated.
Comfort Tips
- What to Wear: Dress in layers, bring comfortable shoes, and pack essentials like sunscreen and water.
- What to Bring: Carry snacks, a camera, and any necessary tickets or confirmations.
Planning Your Visit
Miami’s event calendar is packed with exciting activities that reflect the city’s vibrant culture and dynamic spirit. From art festivals and culinary events to music festivals and sporting events, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit around these events to experience the best of what Miami has to offer, and make the most of your trip with the practical tips and insider advice provided in this guide.