Leave a Message

Thank you for your message. We will be in touch with you shortly.

Festivals in Fort Lauderdale: A Celebration of Culture and Entertainment

Maria Montalbano January 24, 2025


Fort Lauderdale is famous for its pristine beaches and luxury waterfront properties, but its vibrant cultural scene also draws locals and visitors year-round. From world-class art fairs to lively beachside music festivals, the city’s events highlight its diversity and dynamic energy. If you’re considering making Fort Lauderdale your home, exploring the local festivals is a fantastic way to connect with the area’s unique spirit and entertainment offerings.

1. Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

Known as the "Yachting Capital of the World," Fort Lauderdale hosts the prestigious Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (FLIBS) every year. This event attracts boating enthusiasts from around the globe, showcasing an incredible selection of luxury yachts, boats, and marine equipment. Held across multiple venues, including the Bahia Mar Yachting Center and Las Olas Marina, FLIBS offers attendees an immersive experience in the world of yachting.

Visitors can attend marine seminars, enjoy waterfront dining, and explore the latest innovations in the maritime industry. For residents of luxury waterfront properties like Selene Oceanfront Condos, FLIBS is an unbeatable opportunity to indulge in Fort Lauderdale’s nautical lifestyle.

2. Las Olas Art Fair

Twice a year, the iconic Las Olas Boulevard transforms into an open-air art gallery for the Las Olas Art Fair. This beloved event features hundreds of artists showcasing their work, including fine art, sculptures, jewelry, and crafts. As one of South Florida’s most popular art festivals, it draws crowds eager to appreciate the creativity of both local and national talent.

Strolling along Las Olas Boulevard during the fair is an experience filled with culture and community. It’s an excellent opportunity for Fort Lauderdale residents to support the arts while enjoying the city’s lively atmosphere.

3. Tortuga Music Festival

For music lovers, the Tortuga Music Festival is a can’t-miss event. This three-day beachside festival combines performances by top artists in country, rock, and pop with an emphasis on marine conservation. Held right on the sands of Fort Lauderdale Beach, Tortuga offers a unique blend of incredible live music and breathtaking ocean views.

Beyond the music, the festival supports conservation efforts through its Rock the Ocean Foundation. Selene Oceanfront Condos residents can enjoy easy access to this iconic event, making it a highlight of Fort Lauderdale’s festival calendar.

4. Fort Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival

The Fort Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival celebrates the city’s thriving culinary scene with tastings from top chefs, craft beers, fine wines, and specialty cocktails. Spread across various venues, including beachside locations and trendy local restaurants, this festival is a paradise for foodies.

Events include wine pairings, chef-led cooking demonstrations, and opportunities to sample unique dishes that reflect Fort Lauderdale’s diverse flavors. For those who love gastronomy, this festival is an excellent way to explore the best of the city’s dining culture.

5. Pride Fort Lauderdale

Fort Lauderdale’s inclusive spirit shines brightly during Pride Fort Lauderdale, an annual celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. The festival features a colorful parade along A1A, live music, beach parties, and a vendor marketplace offering unique goods and services.

Pride Fort Lauderdale is more than a celebration—it’s an expression of love, equality, and acceptance. With its lively events and welcoming atmosphere, the festival attracts a diverse crowd, making it a cherished tradition for locals and visitors alike.

6. Riverwalk Fall Festival

The Riverwalk Fall Festival is a family-friendly event held along Fort Lauderdale’s scenic New River. This autumn celebration features seasonal activities such as pumpkin patches, live music, and arts and crafts. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the cooler weather while taking in the beauty of the riverfront.

Local vendors offer delicious food, drinks, and handmade goods, making it an enjoyable outing for all ages. The Riverwalk Fall Festival is a great reminder of Fort Lauderdale’s community-oriented culture and natural charm.

7. Fort Lauderdale Air Show

The Fort Lauderdale Air Show is a thrilling spectacle that takes place over the city’s iconic beaches. Featuring high-speed aerial performances from the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, Air Force Thunderbirds, and other elite pilots, this event draws aviation enthusiasts from across the region.

Visitors can marvel at the pilots' precision and skill while enjoying the sunny, sandy shores of Fort Lauderdale Beach. For families and thrill-seekers alike, the Air Show is a must-see event that showcases the city’s flair for exciting entertainment.

8. Great American Beach Party

Held annually on Memorial Day weekend, the Great American Beach Party is a quintessential Fort Lauderdale event. This patriotic celebration includes live music, a classic car show, sandcastle-building contests, and a spectacular fireworks display.

Set against the backdrop of Fort Lauderdale Beach, the event offers something for everyone, from families looking for wholesome fun to friends gathering to celebrate the start of summer. The Great American Beach Party captures the city’s festive spirit.

Year-Round Fun for All Ages

Living in Fort Lauderdale means enjoying more than just beautiful beaches and stunning properties—it’s about immersing yourself in a city alive with culture, entertainment, and community spirit.

For residents of luxurious properties like Selene Oceanfront Condos, the city’s top festivals are always within reach, offering unparalleled access to the dynamic lifestyle that defines Fort Lauderdale. Whether your passion lies in the arts, music, or outdoor fun, Fort Lauderdale’s festival scene ensures endless opportunities to celebrate and connect.

Explore Fort Lauderdale Living with Maria Montalbano

Imagine living just steps away from Fort Lauderdale’s most vibrant festivals and cultural events. Selene condos for sale in Fort Lauderdale Florida with unmatched access to the city’s entertainment scene. Whether you’re enjoying the Tortuga Music Festival or exploring the Las Olas Art Fair, Selene Oceanfront Condos places you in the heart of it all.

Maria Montalbano is here to help you find your dream home at Selene Oceanfront Condos or anywhere in Fort Lauderdale. Connect with Maria today to begin your journey toward owning a beautiful property that blends luxury living with an exciting, culture-filled lifestyle.

*Header photo courtesy of Flickr



Work With Maria

If you are relocating to South Florida, let me know the needs of your ideal real estate purchase, and my team and I will conduct in-depth market research to prepare the properties for your viewing upon arrival or virtual showing.