Sure, there’s the beach, but Greater Fort Lauderdale has so much more. With the legendary EBONY stamp of excellence, step into these events for the best vibes, a grand celebration of Black culture, priceless knowledge and a food experience like no other. Go and grab your mama, daddy, sisters and cousins, too and check out these eight must-attend events in Greater Fort Lauderdale.
JAZZ BRUNCH ALONG THE RIVERWALK, FIRST SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH FROM 11 A.M. to 2 P.M.
Who doesn’t love an easy Sunday, especially when you double down with Jazz and set the scene on the Riverwalk. Jump into summer at the free, premier outdoor concert series that welcomes pets, picnics and pure relaxation. Take a leisurely stroll along the historic brick walkway, enjoy live music, explore local vendors and savor delectable dishes from nearby restaurants. How could you miss something so easy?
ICC T20 CRICKET GAMES, JUNE 11-16
Greater Fort Lauderdale is about to come alive with cricket, the beloved international ball-and-bat sport. Prepare for a summer of excitement with fun foods, lively music, rich culture and thrilling sports. Brace yourselves for a season of fun!
• Tuesday, June 11, 2024: Sri Lanka vs. Nepal
• Friday, June 14, 2024: USA vs. Ireland
• Saturday, June 15, 2024: India vs. Canada
• Sunday, June 16, 2024: Pakistan vs. Ireland
32nd ANNUAL SOUTHERN FRIED POETRY SLAM, JUNE 12-15
Southern Fried Poetry Slam. Image: courtesy of Visit Lauderdale.
Prepare to experience a soulful spread of artists from far and wide in a passionate spoken word and performance poetry tournament. Hosted in the city of Pompano Beach, be among an artistic community and indulge in one of the largest creative experiences in the world. Watch as these vastly imaginative minds compete for cash and prizes, and to claim bragging privileges!
MIRAMAR CULTURAL CENTER-JUNETEENTH, JUNE 19
This year, dive headfirst into our culture with a mix of play, interaction and creativity. Create memories at the Miramar Cultural Center for a day filled with arts, crafts and various activities for the whole family to enjoy in honor of Juneteenth. Come together to celebrate the achievements and rich history of Black culture!
JUNETEENTH CELEBRATION WEEKEND, JUNE 20-22, 7 P.M.
Celebrate Black History and honor the essence of freedom at the 3rd annual Juneteenth Celebration Weekend at the Lauderhill Performing Arts Center. There will be concerts, art and comedy as we honor African American traditions.
ORANGE BLOSSOM CLASSIC-THE ELEVATION EXPERIENCE, JULY 14
Celebrate sisterhood and success at this transformative event while moving up the corporate ladder. Meet, mingle, and share stories with some of the most ambitious women around. The day starts with leadership enrichment and continues with experiences designed to elevate your career and mood. This is a must-attend event for women who want to excel beyond the office and level up their management skills.
DINE OUT LAUDERDALE, AUGUST 1 TO SEPTEMBER 31
This culinary-centric affair is one of Visit Lauderdale’s signature events. Food enthusiasts can explore South Florida’s local cuisine while revving up revenue for the community. Get ready for a culinary adventure with an impressive variety of delectable options. Indulge in robust cocktails, decadent and affordable three-course dinners, and just a good time.
TASTE OF THE CARIBBEAN ISLANDS, JUNE 22
Get a rich feel for the colorful diversity amongst the Black community through a Taste of the Caribbean. An authentic experience of the tropics, this event highlights traditional Caribbean beverages and cuisine through top-of-the-line chefs and culinary teams as they come together annually to showcase their skills as well as compete.
Wait a minute! Before you start packing, make sure to explore Greater Fort Lauderdale’s rich testament to the Black community through cuisine by visiting these outstanding local Black-owned restaurants:
• The Katherine /Globally Inspired
• Just Spoon’s Café /Comfort Food with a Twist
• Class Soiree Steakhouse /Steakhouse
• Betty’s Soul Food / Soul Food
• Swirl Wine Bistro / Fusion-inspired European, Caribbean and American
• Donna’s Caribbean Cuisine / Jamaican Food
• The Rabbit Hole / Vegan Soul Food
• Sister Sara’s Crab House / Southern Seafood