Travelers who look beyond Miami’s idyllic beaches, perennial sunshine and lively nightlife, will find a seaside city brimming with culture. Whether you’re into food, art, music or something in between, Miami has an annual festival or event for you. Here are seven worth planning a vacation for.
7 Annual Events Worth Visiting Miami For
1. Food Network & Cooking Channel South Beach Wine & Food Festival
When: February
Why visit: This is a can’t-miss event for foodies, wine connoisseurs and chefs. Treat your senses to exclusive dinners, happy hours and tastings hosted by more than 400 top chefs, winemakers, spirits producers and culinary personalities.
Insider tip: Bookmark the event homepage to stay in the know.
2. Discover Boating Miami International Boat Show
Why visit: Whether you’re in the market for a new boat or seeking a unique experience, the Miami International Boat Show deserves a spot on your “must-see in Miami” list. Serious boat shoppers can peruse or test drive more than 1,000 exhibitors and thousands of boats. When you’ve had your fill of boats, check out live concerts, interactive boating experiences, food and drinks. Spectators can enjoy family-friendly interactive fun at the Boat Show Experience at Pride Park.
Insider tip: There’s no longer a box office at the event, so purchase your digital tickets in advance.
3. Calle Ocho Music Festival
When: March
Why visit: Each year, Miami hosts Carnaval Miami to showcase and celebrate food, art, dancing and Latin culture. Calle Ocho Music Festival is one of Carnaval’s highlight events. This one-day, free event fills more than 15 blocks in Little Havana with food, dancing and live music.
Insider tip: Bring your appetite and order small items to enjoy the various food and drink offerings without filling up.
4. Miami Beach Pride
When: April
Why visit: Celebrate all things LGBTQ+ with more than 170,000 people at one of the country’s largest Pride festivals. In addition to the famous Sunday Parade, the event includes a pool party, a music festival, a gala and other inclusive fun.
Insider tip: Here’s everything you need to know before you go.
5. Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix
When: May
Why visit: More than 20 of the world’s best drivers, top teams and nearly 250,000 fans will descend on the Miami International Autodrome for the Formula 1 Miami Grand Prix. Watch teams compete in 1,000 horsepower open wheel cars race on a 3.4-mile custom track built exclusively for the F1 races.
Insider tip: Historically, tickets sell out early, so consider downloading the app to stay in the loop.
6. American Black Film Festival
When: June
Why visit: For 25 years and counting, the American Black Film Festival (ABFF) has created a forum for Black culture lovers and film fans for five days of art and culture. Get your fill of in-person film and TV screenings, filmmaker talks, exclusive parties and competitions for up-and-coming Black creatives.
Insider tip: If you can’t make it in person or want an encore, check out the virtual component of the ABFF.
7. Art Basel
When: December
Why visit: Art Basel Miami Beach is one of only four Art Basel fairs worldwide and the only one in North America. Thousands of art dealers, collectors, enthusiasts and artists flock to Miami Beach to appreciate the world’s best contemporary art and related events.
Insider tip: Make the most of your Miami vacation and enjoy all the area offers, from cuisine to music to shopping and more.
Where To Stay
Crescent on South Beach, a Hilton Vacation Club, is Hilton Grand Vacations’ latest Miami Beach resort and an ideal South Beach retreat. This boutique resort puts you in the heart of the action in Miami’s”SoBe” Historic district and just steps from the sand.
Choose from spacious and comfortable 1- or 2-Bedroom Suites with fully equipped kitchens and a quintessential Art Deco design for a truly South Florida escape.
Read “3-Day Getaway: Miami Beach” for an unforgettable Miami vacation itinerary.