We went to Fort Lauderdale a few years ago. To get from where we live we needed to take Alligator Alley from Naples. It was a long trip from the Tampa area. Driving through the tall sea-of-grass was an interesting experience, similar to driving through the Arizona desert or the rolling miles of Texas. You see miles and miles of the same thing. Except for the road, grass and sky are all you see.
We didn’t see much of Fort Lauderdale because our destination was on the outskirts. But what we saw of the skyline told us that this was a large city.
On the occasion that you may live near or may be going to the Fort Lauderdale area, I have put together an annual calendar of activities that take place throughout the year.
Annual Calendar of Events:
Seasonal or Ongoing Events:
Suntrust Sunday Jazz Brunch:
11:00am-2:00pm on Riverwalk, Downtown Fort Lauderdale, 954 828 5363
First Sunday of each month enjoy a free outdoor concert on four different stages by local jazz musicians. Bring your blanket, chair, picnic and well-behaved pet, which must be on a leash.
Monthly Annual Events:
January:
Jazz Picnic in the Park:
January-April 10, 2011, 10:30am-2:30pm, 954 730 3000
Ilene Lieberman Botanical Gardens, 3801 Inverrary Blvd, Lauderhill
Enjoy a free jazz concert from January to April.
February:
Chrystal Hartigan Presents Songwriters Showcase:
Broward Center for the Performing Arts, 201 SW 5th Ave, 954 462 0222.
This is a showcase for musicians from around the world to perform. It is also an opportunity for open mic sessions for newcomers to get public exposure for their material.
Gun and Knife Show:
War Memorial Auditorium, 800 NE 8th St, 954 828 5380
Both private collectors and dealers exhibit at this show.
Sistrunk Parade and Street Festival:
8:00am-6:00pm, 954 687 3472
The parade goes down Sistrunk Blvd with a huge street celebration along the way.
Florida Renaissance Festival and Crafts Village:
Entire month of February on into March
Quiet Waters Park, 954 776 1642
You will find period food, games of chance, olde time crafts and jousting knights in costume.
Collectible Glassware Show and Sale:
War Memorial Museum, 305 884 0335
For thirty years, dealers from across this country have been coming to exhibit their antique china, vintage glass and pottery in this event.
Bridal and Party Cruise to Jamaica:
Navigator of the Seas Cruise Ship, 800 469 0091
You will not only find the bridal expo, fashion show, bachelor and bachelorette parties onboard, you will also have the opportunity to participate in casino night, a reggae party, a pamper-me party and a Copacabana white linen pool side party among other activities.
Decorate, Dine and Donate Auction:
Design Center of the Americas, 954 961 3234
This auction is to help support the work of the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. You will have the opportunity to help support this effort by bidding on artwork, collectibles, plane tickets as well as tickets for land-based getaways and cruises.
March:
For Art’s Sake! Typeface:
March 1-4, 2011, 9:00am-6:00pm
The Collide Factory, 541 NW 1st Ave, 954 235 8396
Come view an art show specializing only in the illustration and design fields.
Las Olas Art Fair:
March 5-6, 2011, 10:00am-5:00pm
Downtown Fort Lauderdale, 954 472 3755
This is an outdoor show with art work from all over the nation.
Lauderdale-By-The-Sea Craft Festival:
March 12-13, 2011, 10:00am-5:00pm
Lauderdale-by-the-Sea, Commercial Blvd at A1A, 954 472 3755
You can find plants, handcrafts, gourmet food and other items at this event.
Broward Quilt Expo:
March 18-20, 2011, Friday-Saturday, 9:00am-5:00pm, Sunday 10:00am-4:00pm
War Memorial Auditorium, 800 NE 8th St, 954 828 5380
Adults: $7/day, $16/three day; Children free with adult if eleven and under
This event includes a competition, exhibition, vendors, classes, a mini-quilt auction, door prizes as well quilt appraisals.
Third Annual Glamour in the Garden:
March 20, 2011, 12:00noon-3:00pm
Gilda’s Club South Florida, 119 Rose Dr, 954 763 6776
$50, reservation required
Enjoy lunch at the Clubhouse then get a message and makeover as well view a fashion show and cake decorating and also participate in an auction.
New Shanghai Circus:
March 20, 2011, 3:00pm
Miramar Cultural Center, 954 602 4500
$ 15, $25, $35
Bring your family to this unique circus which performs in the tradition of the Chinese circus.
Fort Lauderdale Spring Home Show:
The Greater Fort Lauderdale-Broward County Convention Center, 954 765 5900
Come look for the latest items to enhance your home decor.
April:
16th Annual Wine and Culinary Celebration:
April 1, 2011, VIP, 6:00-11:00pm, General 7:30-9:30pm
VIP $150, General $85
Museum of Discovery & Science and AutoNation® IMAX® Theater
401 SW 2nd Ave, 954 713 0954
There will be demonstrations from some of Florida’s top restaurants and chefs, food pairings with wines from around the world, a silent auction and a free Riedel wine glass for every guest. There is also a whole list of exclusive VIP events, such as seminars, wine tasting and a VIP Lounge planned for this event.
YMCA National Short Course Swimming and Diving Championships:
April 3-11, 2011
Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Complex, 954 828 4580
Fort Lauderdale International Auto Show:
April 8-10, 2011
Broward County Convention Center
Port Everglades, 1950 Eisenhower
Riverwalk Get Downtown:
April 8, 2011, 5:00-8:00pm
Las Olas Place, 954 468 1541
$15 prepaid, $20 at the door
Come enjoy food sampling and drinks from local restaurants along with the music of live bands.
Gun and Knife Show:
April 9-10, 2011, Saturday 9:00am-5:00pm, Sunday 10:00am-5:00pm
War Memorial Auditorium, 800 NE 8th, 954 828 5380
Adults $8:00, $7:00 with coupon, Children 12 and under free, all under 18
must be with an adult.
This show includes exhibits from private collectors and dealers.
YMCA Masters Nationals and Diving Championships:
April 14-19, 2011
Fort Lauderdale Aquatic Complex, 954 828 4580
Fleet Week 2011:
April 25-30, 2011
Men and women from the US Navy, US Marine Corp and US Coast Guard participate in this annual recognition of maritime services.
Las Olas Wine and Food Festival:
April 28, 2011-May 1, 2011
Las Olas Boulevard
There are special events planned for each day of this event from a VIP reception, a street festival, live music, wine sampling, wine bars, wine dinners, a Wine Rave to a brunch.
Bank of America Wine and Culinary Celebration:
Fort Lauderdale’s Museum of Discovery and Science, 954 467 MODS
Chefs from more than thirty South Florida’s restaurants will be demonstrating food and wine pairings for your entertainment and education.
AVP Nivea Pro Beach Volleyball Tour:
Mid-April weekend
South Beach Park on Fort Lauderdale Beach, 714 345 4490
This is an annual event held by the Association of Volleyball Professionals, Los Angeles.
New Times International Beerfest:
Esplanade Park, Downtown Fort Lauderdale, 954 233 1559
Come enjoy over 225 varieties of beers served with food. Be entertained by radio DJ’s and live entertainment.
Ocean Fest:
The reef at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean in Fort Lauderdale, 954 839 85 16
Over $20,000 in prizes are available along with food, exhibits on anything related to diving and other related fun.
May:
Vacation like a VIP in Greater Fort Lauderdale with Two-for-One Summer Deals:
May 1-September 30, 2011
This isn’t actually an event, but an offer from more than twenty-five spas, golf courses, attractions, dive operations and restaurants.
Eighth Annual Women’s Power Caucus:
May 13-14, 2011
Hyatt Regency Pier Sixty-Six
This event brings together new as well as established women of action, achievers and leaders to provide an opportunity for sharing successful principles and strategies along with an opportunity to network.
Sunshine State Games Figure Skating:
May 13-15, 2011
Incredible Ice, 954 341 9956
This is Florida’s longest running amateur figure skating competition for all ages and skills.
Fort Lauderdale Home Design and Remodeling Expo:
May 27-30, 2011
Broward County Convention Center, Port Everglades, 1950 Eisenhower, 888 353 3976
You will find various outdoor and indoor home improvement projects exhibited at this show.
Antique and Collector Fair:
War Memorial Auditorium in Holiday Park, 954 828 5380
Come have fun browsing the collectibles and antiques at this fair.
Market Pro Computer Show and Sale:
War Memorial Auditorium in Holiday Park, 954 828 5380
You will find anything computer related at this show.
America’s Red Clay Tennis Championship:
Jimmy Evert Tennis Center in Holiday Park, 954 828 5378
The location of this annual event is the home to Chris Evert and Jennifer Capriati’s training on red clay.
June:
Learn to Dive Month in Greater Fort Lauderdale:
June 1-30, 2011
If you get certified in diving during this month you will receive a free graduation dive and a free night in a local hotel. Check out this website for the participating dive operators.
Third Annual Saturday Nite Alive:
June 4-September 3, 2011, 7:00-1:00pm
Fort Lauderdale Beach A1A
You will find street vendors and over twenty bands along the beach every Saturday night from June to September. There will be a special trolley service and special parking prices.
Fort Lauderdale Gun and Knife Show:
War Memorial Auditorium, 954 828 5380
Come see everything related to knives and guns on exhibit.
July:
July 4th Family Celebration:
July 4, 2011
Fort Lauderdale Beach, 954 828 5363
Bring your family to enjoy a huge fireworks display along with related free entertainment on the beach.
September:
Lauderdale Spa Chic:
September 1-30, 2011
954 765 4466
Local Spa resorts are offering their treatments for $99, for the month of September.
Annual Hortt Memorial Exhibition:
Fort Lauderdale’s Museum of Art, 954 525 5500
This is an annual competition showcasing South Florida’s finest artists.
Las Olas Art Festival:
Andrews Avenue on Las Olas Blvd, 954 525 5500
More than 250 artists will be exhibiting their jewelry and sculpture as well as acrylic and oil art pieces.
October:
Dine Out Lauderdale:
October 1-November 10, 2011
For this time only, three-course menus offered from over thirty-five restaurants for $35.
52nd Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show:
October 27-31, 2011
954 764 7642
This affair is billed as the world’s largest boat show, located in six separate locations. The venues will be Hyatt Pier 66 Hotel & Marina, Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Broward County Convention Center, Hall of Fame Marina, Las Olas Marina and Fort Lauderdale Grande Hotel and Yacht Club. You will find yachts, superyachts, boats and boating accessories from all major, worldwide marine manufacturers.
Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival:
954 760 9898
This event presents independent film features from around the world along with seminars, parties and celebrity appearances.
MOD(March of Dimes) Gourmet Feast and Auction:
The Westin Diplomat Resort and Spa, 877 877 7677
This event is put on to help the March of Dimes fight birth defects. You have the opportunity to participate in a silent auction, taste wine and fine food as well as compete for prizes while enjoying the provided entertainment.
!Viva Broward!:
Stranahan Park in front of Broward County Main Library, 954 527 0627
Come celebrate Latin culture and heritage in this lively festival.
November:
Florida Cajun-Zydeco Festival:
November 11-13, 2011
CB Smith Park
You can enjoy dancing on a huge wooden dance floor while being entertained by three stages of non-stop performances of musicians talented in genuine Cajun and Zydeco. You will also have the opportunity to eat lots of Cajun and Creole food as well as checkout the arts and crafts.
Fort Lauderdale Home Design and Remodeling Expo:
November 11-13, 2011
Broward County Convention Center, Port Everglades, 1950 Eisenhower, 305 667 9299
At this event you will find anything to do with exterior/interior remodeling as well as furnishings and home accessories all in the same place.
Riverwalk Get Downtown:
Early to Mid November
Downtown Fort Lauderdale’s Riverwalk, 954 468 1541
The local restaurants will be serving specialty coffees, and food as well as two free cocktails while you enjoy free entertainment in the Downtown Riverwalk area.
Promenade in the Park:
Huizenga Plaza, Andrews Ave and Las Olas, 954 525 5500
This Winterfest event is to benefit the Museum of Art and has done so since 1959. Come enjoy rides, shopping, food and other planned events.
December:
Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade:
December 10, 2011, 6:00pm
954 767 0686
Free or Grandstands, $15-$20
The parade begins on the New River in Downtown Fort Lauderdale and will end in Lake Santa Barbara in Pompano Beach. The route will travel along the Intercoastal Waterway.
Cystic Fibrosis Foundation Jeb Bush Florida Classic:
Coral Ridge Country Club and the Hyatt Regency Pier 66 and the ship Gallant Lady,
954 739 5006
This weekend affair sponsors a charity auction of winemaker dinners, vacation packages and other fun items. It also hosts a private cocktail reception aboard the Gallant Lady along with fishing and golfing to be enjoyed by all during this event.
Christmas on Las Olas:
During the Christmas season
Las Olas Blvd, 954 288 7208
This main thoroughfare will be lit up with special Christmas displays along with the local shops offering special holiday items for sale. They will be staying open later than usual for the seasonal shopping period.
Holiday Fantasy of Lights:
Tradewinds Park, 954 623 6556
Come enjoy the drive-through displays lit up just for the Christmas season.
Sources:
http://fort.lauderdale.eventguide.com/annual_events_overview.html
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=01-01-2011
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=02-13-2011
http://fort.lauderdale.eventguide.com/annual_events_overview.html
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=02-20-2011
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=02-27-2011
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=03-06-2011
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=03-13-2011
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=03-27-2011
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=04-03-2011
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=04-10-2011
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=04-24-2011
http://www.sunny.org/vip
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=05-08-2011
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=05-22-2011
http//:www.sunny.org/learntodive
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=05-29-2011
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=08-28-2011
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=09-25-2011
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=10-23-2011
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=11-06-2011
http://www.sunny.org/events/index.cfm?showweek=1&cdate=12-04-2011
Here’s another source for calendar events:
http://www.fortlauderdale.gov/calendar/calendar.asp
