Experience the Magic: 5 Reasons Greater Fort Lauderdale Should Be at the Top of Your 2024 Travel List!
Written by Xander Zellner on January 13, 2024
Kickstart 2024 in Greater Fort Lauderdale, the gem of southeast Florida! Immerse yourself in a world of vibrant events and festivals, from jazz and food and wine fests to activities filled with Afro-Caribbean culture. Greater Fort Lauderdale is your ultimate destination for endless fun and unforgettable experiences. Here are five incredible activities you won’t want to miss!
1. Kick back at the VISIT LAUDERDALE FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL from January 8 to 14, 2024.
Get ready to feast, play and learn at the fifth annual Visit Lauderdale Food and Wine Festival, from January 8 through January 14. Indulge in a unique display of talented chefs, mixologists and restaurateurs all while supporting the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. The featured Grand Tasting event is just a 5-minute stroll away from the beach. This event offers both convenience and a major mission. With live music, cooking demonstrations, and delectable food and beverage tastings, this laid-back event (with purpose) is not to be missed!
2. Feel the Vibe at the JAZZ FEST POMPANO BEACH from January 18 to 20, 2024.
Immerse yourself in this breathtaking beachfront for an unforgettable experience! Kick off the new year in style at the highly anticipated third annual Jazz Fest Pompano Beach. Make a note of the dates, January 18 through the 20, as a star-studded lineup of musical legends is brought to you. From local heroes to globally renowned artists, this festival promises to deliver an extraordinary showcase of talent. On opening night, immerse yourself in the captivating melodies of the Valerie Tyson Band at the Pompano Beach Cultural Center. And that’s just the beginning! Enjoy the sun, sand and soulful sounds on Friday and Saturday. Indulge in up-close-and-personal performances, engaging artist conversations and captivating outdoor stages. Plus, satisfy your cravings with a variety of mouthwatering food and drink options, and explore the vibrant art vendors. Don’t miss this fun and leisurely event!
3. Experience Culture at the AFRO-CARIB FESTIVAL on February 17, 2024.
Get ready to be swept away during Black History Month as you immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythm, enchanting allure, and rich heritage of Blackness at the legendary Afro-Carib Festival in beautiful Miramar. On the verge of becoming a “chocolate city” Miramar is a community that boasts a high net-worth multicultural entrepreneurial base. “We are a community comprised of a rich blend of people from the African Diaspora…many different nations call the Greater Fort Lauderdale area home! Here, we all come together and celebrate with African Americans and share what unifies us all – food, music and culture,” says Neki Mohan, Visit Lauderdale Vice President of Multi-Cultural Business and Community Engagement. Prepare to witness the harmonious blending of Black cultures at this electrifying live event where music and culinary delights come together to celebrate the soulful diversity within the Black community. Mark your calendars for February 17, from 6 to 11 p.m., and do not miss this iconic experience at Miramar Regional Park Amphitheatre.
4. Support Locals at the SISTRUNK HISTORICAL FESTIVAL AND PARADE on February 24, 2024.
Indulge in a vibrant celebration of community! Dive into the rhythmic energy as you march, step and salute the cultural richness of African heritage at the Sistrunk Historical Festival and Parade. Named after Dr. James Sistrunk, the doctor who opened Greater Fort Lauderdale’s first Black hospital, this festival is a testament to the community’s history and heritage. A place loaded with uniqueness, the Western end of Sistrunk Boulevard is home to the African American Research Library and Cultural Center, one of only three similar institutions in the country. So, gear up for a fresh take on an event packed with meaning, food and fun! On February 24, start your day with an invigorating 5K, followed by a spectacular parade at 8:30 am. Then, from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m., indulge in our highly anticipated street fest, featuring a diverse array of vendors, live bands, interactive games, a kid’s zone and diverse foods. Do not miss the excitement; join in and be a part of the fun!
5. Make Meaningful Memories at the TORTUGA MUSIC FESTIVAL from April 5 to 7, 2024.
In April 2024, get ready to vibe with a purpose at the Tortuga Music Festival! This three-day extravaganza is all about making waves for marine conservation while having an absolute blast. From April 5 to 7, Fort Lauderdale beach will be transformed into a glittering hub of country and R&B music, featuring an incredible lineup of stars like Lainey Wilson, Hardy, Teddy Swims, Boyz II Men, TLC and many more. Don’t miss out on this incredible festival that not only promises unforgettable performances but also supports a beautiful cause.
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