Dwelling to one of many largest Caribbean populations in the US, South Florida comes alive every June as cities throughout the area honor the legacy and tradition of their Caribbean American residents. Caribbean American Heritage Month, now in its twentieth yr, is greater than only a celebration—it’s a tribute to the music, meals, historical past, and enduring affect that Caribbean communities have woven into Florida’s cultural cloth for generations.
Whereas festivities started earlier this month, there are nonetheless loads of alternatives to hitch the celebration in these cities. For extra data on city-specific occasions, go to native municipal web sites.
Pembroke Pines: Pageant and Artwork Showcase
Pembroke Pines will host one of many month’s largest occasions on June 28 on the Charles F. Dodge Metropolis Middle. The free Caribbean American Heritage Pageant guarantees an electrical night from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m., with reside performances from LaVie, Rupee, and Visions Band. The USVI Mocko Jumbies, Melo Groove Metal Orchestra, and host Nikki Crosby will add much more island aptitude.
Earlier than the principle stage heats up, The Frank Artwork Gallery subsequent door will open its doorways from 5 to 7 p.m. for an artist-led embroidery and fiber workshop impressed by cultural reminiscence and storytelling. A neighborhood craft zone, straw weaving exercise, and exhibition viewing that includes Caribbean-themed installations may also run all through the night.
Miramar: A Style of the Islands
Miramar launched the month-long celebration with an lively Kick‑Off Celebration on June 3 at Metropolis Corridor Plaza. Metal drum music, moko jumbies, reside performances and Caribbean snacks introduced the island vibe to city, hosted by Jamaican-American Commissioner Carson “Eddy” Edwards.
On June 28, Miramar will host “Taste of the Caribbean” on the Regional Park Amphitheater from 5 p.m. to 10 p.m. The occasion options reside music, cultural performances, mouthwatering Caribbean delicacies, and $10 parking (admission is free).
Tamarac: Live performance with Caribbean Royalty
The Metropolis of Tamarac will host “Yard on the Lawn”, a high-energy out of doors live performance, on June 28 on the Tamarac Sports activities Advanced from 6 to 9 p.m.. Headliners embody Grammy-winning reggae group Morgan Heritage, with supporting acts like Orale Johnson and DJ Undisputed. Miss Kitty, the beloved Jamaican media persona, will emcee the night. Free shuttle service is offered from Tamarac Metropolis Corridor and Tamarac Park starting at 5:30 p.m. Attendance is free.
Dawn: Caribbean Household Pageant
The City of Sunrise will rejoice on June 14 with a free neighborhood occasion at Metropolis Park from 5 to 9 p.m. that includes Internal Circle, the Lauderhill Metal Ensemble, moko jumbies, and Junkanoo performers. With meals distributors, craft stations, face portray, and a metal pan workshop, the occasion is designed for the entire household.
North Miami: A Month-Lengthy Cultural Journey
North Miami is celebrating Caribbean American Heritage Month with a strong calendar of occasions that vary from storytelling and dance workshops to a carnival-style bike experience. Highlights embody the “Awkward Dinner” dialogue sequence, soca and dancehall courses on the Scott Galvin Group Middle, and the “Experience & Fete – Carnival by the Pier” bike social gathering on June 21.
On a number of days this month, the North Miami Public Library will host a particular storytelling session as a part of its “NoMi Library Tales” program, and on June 14, MOCA Makers will current an interactive session led by Lýsz Flo at 1 p.m., including a inventive and literary twist to the celebrations.