For the Foodie
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Kick off the new year in Greater Fort Lauderdale with one of the region’s signature food events, the Visit Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival. Taking place Jan. 19–25, the festival, now in its seventh year, features an eclectic mix of small collaborative dinners, hands-on activities and walk-around tastings with more than 100 samples. Attendees can also meet Food Network personalities including Richard Blais, Nancy Fuller and Eddie Jackson.
Travelers whose vacations revolve around dining and discovering new flavors may want to plan a visit in August or September for Dine Out Lauderdale. During the event, participating restaurants offer three-course prix fixe menus for lunch and dinner at a range of price points. Last year, more than 140 restaurants participated, making it a prime opportunity to explore local favorites, including Michelin-recommended restaurants, and revisit longtime standbys. In addition to dining, the event includes hands-on classes and interactive experiences.
Dania Beach Wine and Seafood Fest takes place March 14 and features seafood tastings, cooking demonstrations and unlimited wine, beer and spirits for guests who purchase a sampling ticket.
The 30th annual Las Olas Wine & Food Festival is scheduled for April 24. The destination’s longest-running charitable wine and food festival spans four blocks of Las Olas Boulevard and includes dishes from more than 40 local restaurants, along with samples of more than 200 wines from around the world. General admission and Grand Cru VIP tickets are available, with the latter offering early entry, a VIP kickoff party and additional perks.
For the Water Lovers
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With miles of winding canals and easy access for large vessels, Greater Fort Lauderdale is widely known as the Yachting Capital of the World. From world-class boat shows to festive flotillas, the water plays a central role in the city’s identity, most notably at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, considered the largest in-water boat show in the world.
Each October, visitors arrive to explore floating docks lined with yachts and nautical merchandise. Many attend simply to take in the atmosphere, with food and beverage offerings available throughout the show. The Water Taxi provides convenient transportation between show locations along the waterfront.
The year concludes with the Seminole Hard Rock Winterfest Boat Parade in December. The holiday event features a procession of illuminated boats and yachts traveling north along the Intracoastal Waterway to Lake Santa Barbara in Pompano Beach. Viewing areas are available throughout the route, including the official Winterfest viewing area at Las Olas Intracoastal Promenade Park near Fort Lauderdale beach.
For the Spectacle Seekers
Back to Top of ListThere is no shortage of events throughout the year in Greater Fort Lauderdale, making it a destination worth visiting in any season. One of the newest additions to the calendar is the inaugural Barbie Dream Fest, scheduled for March 27–29. The fan convention from Mattel brings the world of the iconic doll to life through immersive activations, including a walk-through, life-size Dream House and interactive experiences.
Country music fans may want to plan a visit in April, when the Rock the Ocean’s Tortuga Music Festival takes over Fort Lauderdale beach on April 10–12, 2026. The three-day festival features chart-topping artists spanning country, pop, rock and roots, while also highlighting marine conservation efforts. This year’s lineup includes Post Malone, Riley Green and Kenny Chesney, along with pop-up performances and programming within the Conservation Village.
Aviation enthusiasts can experience the annual Fort Lauderdale Air Show on May 9–10 along the shoreline. The event features the U.S. Navy Blue Angels and parachute teams, with viewing options ranging from public beach access to VIP experiences, including beachside hospitality tents and the Pelican Grand Penthouse.
Holiday celebrations also draw visitors throughout the year, from Fourth of July events along the shoreline to seasonal dining and waterfront festivities during Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s.
For the Culture Chasers
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Cultural events take place throughout the year in Greater Fort Lauderdale, offering visitors opportunities to explore art, history and heritage during their stay. One of the highlights is Ignite Broward, scheduled for Feb. 13–22, 2026, a 10-day festival that features large-scale installations and interactive works combining light, movement and technology. Dozens of pieces by artists from South Florida and beyond appear at venues including Mad Arts in Dania Beach, Esplanade Park in downtown Fort Lauderdale and ArtsPark at Young Circle in Hollywood.
The Florida Renaissance Festival runs Saturdays and Sundays from Feb. 7–March 29 at Quiet Waters Park. The event recreates a 16th-century village with costumed performers, theatrical shows and artisan demonstrations. More than 100 merchants participate, showcasing traditional crafts and selling items ranging from leather goods to glasswork, pottery and Renaissance-inspired attire.
St. Patrick’s Day celebrations also draw visitors to the area each March, with parades and events held in downtown Hollywood and Fort Lauderdale. Festivities extend from beachfront bars to neighborhood pubs, including McSorley’s Beach Pub & Rooftop in Fort Lauderdale Beach and Tipperary Pub in Deerfield Beach.
The fall season brings additional cultural celebrations, including the Brazilian Festival in October and Day of the Dead events in downtown Fort Lauderdale in November. These festivals feature traditional cuisine, artisan markets, processions and performances rooted in cultural heritage.