Broward County has always been a cultural melting pot. Within its diversity lies a heavy dose of the Caribbean, adding island flair to the city’s arts, entertainment, and nightlife. Caribbean people were among the founders of this South Florida destination in the 18th century. Over time, Broward County has become a wellspring of Caribbean cultural attractions, serving up flair and fun for all ages. This remains true, even in the new normal brought on by COVID-19 and age of social distancing. There’s still much to explore throughout Greater Fort Lauderdale while staying safe and healthy.
Esther Rolle Centennial Celebration
Actress Esther Rolle is most known as her iconic character Florida Evans on “Good Times,” but her Sunshine State connections aren’t in name only. The beloved star’s SoFlo roots run deep. She was born on November 8, 1920, in Pompano Beach to Bahamian parents. Though she passed away in 1998, her legacy lives on in the hearts and minds of fans everywhere.
In her honor, Broward will celebrate her centennial this year, and you’re invited! The festivities start September 14 at the African-American Research Library and Cultural Center, where guests can take a stroll down memory lane and relive the “Good Times” through their exhibit on Rolle’s life and career. They’ll also present an original play entitled, “Let the Good Times Rolle” in honor of the television legend.
Tuff Gong Reggae Boat Tour
Often dubbed the yachting capital of the world, your visit to Fort Lauderdale wouldn’t feel complete without a morning, midday, or nighttime cruise. Why not add a little island flair to your trip and enjoy the fresh air with Captain Tyler on his Tuff Gong Reggae Boat Tour? Here you can relax in the tropical vibes, jamming to sweet, sweet reggae music, or take a quick swim and snorkel in the clear shallow water. This is a great experience for the entire family, a girl’s trip, or a romantic escape. This four-hour lazy day tour offers tranquillity and modern comfort while exploring the beautiful Intracoastal waters. There will be no shortage of photo ops to update your favorite social media pages.
Grace Jerk Festival
In place of their popular festivities held annually in Miramar, the hosts of the Grace Jamaican Jerk Festival have created a series of smaller events to get you through the quarantine slump. On the last Sunday in October, celebrate the newly designated National Jerk Day—feting the unique way of seasoning and grilling foods created by the Maroons of Jamaica. Foodies fiending for jerk bites are encouraged to support restaurants serving up the speciality throughout Broward County. In the home city of Miramar, festival promoters are planning something special involving residents and elected officials on the major event day. Locations and dates of official events will be posted on the organization’s social media pages and held with social distancing measures and safety protocols in place.
Coquitos Bar & Grill in Hollywood
Dancing the night away is more than a saying at Coquitos Bar & Grill in Hollywood. Here you can move your body to the intimate sounds of bachata, spin to the quick drums of salsa, or simply sit back, relax and enjoy the vibrations of Latin rhythms. Considered one of the city’s most attractive bars, this Caribbean-Latin fusion venue hosts live music almost every night, with dancing inside and outside. Make sure to visit this local favourite for their popular salsa and bachata block party events. If dancing isn’t your style, warm up your vocal cords and knock out the lyrics to your favourite song during their karaoke night. Karaoke gives everyone a chance to be a star, if only for the length of a song.
