With a large diaspora population, it’s no surprise that Caribbean American Heritage Month stands out as a prominent celebration amid South Florida’s buzzing event calendar. From traditional dances to music, art exhibits and even something for the kids, the events lined up for June promise an immersive experience into Caribbean culture. Here’s what’s happening this month:
Cultural Events
If you’re looking to enjoy multiple events throughout the month, The LOOP Fort Lauderdale Beach and the City of Fort Lauderdale Beach Business Improvement District are putting on their second annual, month-long Caribbean American Heritage Month Celebration. The LOOP (Las Olas Oceanside Park) has become a focal point for celebrating this occasion, offering a colorful showcase of Caribbean culture through food, live cooking demonstrations, art, music and entertainment. Free and open to all ages, the festivities will take place every Saturday and Sunday in June, along with special events like a beach cleanup on June 8th, Socaton family dance on June 23rd and a screening of “Cool Runnings” on June 28th, among others.
Caporella Park in Tamarac transforms into a hub of Caribbean vibes at Island Groove In The Park on June 8th. With live entertainment and delicious food vendors, attendees can immerse themselves in the rhythms of the islands from 6pm to 9pm. And better yet? Admission is free, ensuring everyone can join in the celebration of Caribbean Heritage Month.
If you’re wanting to support Caribbean makers, a good way to start is by shopping for unique, hand-crafted items at a special edition of the Local Vendor Craft Sale on June 8th from 12pm to 5pm at the Miramar Branch Library and Education Center. This month, this popular community event will feature a variety of cultural and artistic creations, including Caribbean-made soaps, jewelry and bags. Enjoy the atmosphere with live steel pan entertainment as you find the perfect gifts for your friends and family.
Later in the month, mark your calendars for an exciting evening at the Caribbean-American Heritage Festival in Pembroke Pines. On June 29th from 6pm to 10pm, the Charles F. Dodge City Center will come alive with Caribbean culture. Enjoy live music and dance, savor a variety of dishes at the Caribbean food court and explore the makers village. The Frank C. Ortis Art Gallery will also host engaging lectures, workshops and family-friendly arts and crafts activities.
And don’t just limit yourself to festivals! The Museum of Contemporary Art North Miami is currently presenting two groundbreaking exhibitions by acclaimed artist Manuel Mathieu: World Discovered Under Other Skies and Dwelling on the Invisible from now until October 6th, 2024. These exhibitions mark Mathieu’s first major solo showcase in the United States, promising an immersive experience into the rich tapestry of his Haitian heritage and artistic vision.
Mixed media on canvas
80 x 75 in
Private Collection, Palm Beach
History and Learning Opportunities
Looking to find out more about Caribbean culture, health, history and more?
On June 8th, join the The Jamaican Nurses’ Association of Florida, the Jamaican Men of Florida and the Jamaican-American Bar Association at Island SPACE Museum for the “Mek Wi Talk” Community Forum: Men’s Health Edition, discussing the importance of men’s health while also offering free health screenings.
Early in the month, learn about Jamaica’s impact on World War 2 with The Forgotten Reapers of World War II: Gallant Jamaicans Help Defeat The Axis Powers Book Launch by the 103 year old John L. McHugh at West Regional Library in Plantation on June 9th.
Those looking for engaging experiences can look forward to the Timeless Passion – Reception and Artist Meet & Greet on June 13th with Jamaican-born fine artist Andy Ballentine, whose works will be on view at the Ansin Family Art Gallery in Miramar. A few days later, join Poet Laureate of Jamaica, Professor Kwame Dawes, as he dives into a virtual lecture on Language and Imagination in Contemporary Jamaican Poetry at the 5th Annual Louise Bennett-Coverley Memorial Lecture Series on June 15th.
Maybe learning, for you, means discovering more about a nearby city. Join Tap Tap Tours and Sounds of Little Haiti’s Little Haiti After Dark event on June 21st, giving attendees a tour of Little Haiti in Miami complete with hidden gems, important landmarks and pivotal neighborhoods all while listening to traditional Kompa music. Later, check out the Harlem Renaissance and the Tropics exhibit and panel discussion on June 23rd at The Wolfsonian – FIU, exploring the Caribbean’s impact on art during this time.
Food and Entertainment Events
Caribbean Pride and Food Distribution kicks off on June 8th in North Miami with an afternoon of free live music, performances, food, community and a health resource fair.
A night of lively music, exciting games and community awaits at the L.A.Lee YMCA / Mizell Community Center on June 20th. From limbo to steel drum karaoke, dominos and even trivia, attendees can feel like a kid again at the Adult Game Night: Caribbean Games & Fete while also immersing themselves in the spirit, culture and history of the islands.
More interested in a laugh? Enjoy an unforgettable evening of side-splitting humor and entertainment at the Majah Issues Comedy Tour with Majah Hype & Friends. Join the Caribbean King of Comedy, along with Haitian V, Marc Trinidad and Razor as they showcase their unique comedic delivery on stage. This hilarious event will take place on June 21st at the Miramar Cultural Center from 8pm to 11pm.
Those who delight in the Caribbean’s cuisine will enjoy the annual Taste of the Caribbean Islands at Miramar Regional Park on June 22nd, a culinary journey celebrating the flavors of the islands from traditional Jamaican jerk and Haitian griot alongside unique iterations of the classics. Live cooking demonstrations, steel drum music and local food and drink samples await attendees from 3pm to 11pm, all in honor of celebrating what the South Florida diaspora has to offer.
Parties and Galas
No one knows how to party like the diaspora, so for those looking to get down, there are a lot of options. Check out Rise + Toast Caribbean Brunch and Social on Sunday, June 9th at The Urban in Miami for delicious eats, drinks and music by Extatic Sound. Later in the month, Jouvert in June comes to Lallos on June 29th, as a celebration of music, color and Caribbean culture. Then, close out the month with the 10th Annual Unique CAHM and CULTURE Awards Banquet and Gala on June 30th to recognize and celebrate influential community leaders.
Kids Events
Got plans for Father’s Day? You do now! The Jamaican Men of Florida are hosting their Father’s Day Family Fun Day on June 15th, complete with music, games, food trucks, sports, dominoes and more for the family.
Caribbean American Heritage Month kicks off with Island SPACE’s Saturday Youth Quadrille and Maypole Dance Workshop that started on June 1st. The museum invites children aged 6 to 12 to delve into the rich traditions of the Caribbean with expert instructors leading participants through traditional dances, music and history every Saturday from now until July 27th.
Island SPACE Caribbean Museum’s Anancy Festival on June 29th will close out Caribbean American Heritage Month with a family-friendly celebration of the popular children’s story character. Families can enjoy storytelling, a talent show, crafts and more, as children and adults alike participate in a day of cultural activities from 1pm to 5pm.
Live Music
Those who enjoy live music can look forward to a night of reggae, soca and more at Tarpon River Brewing with Neville Humphreys Caribbean Element on June 14th, or the trumpet phenomenon Etienne Charles at Fete de la Musique on June 21st at the Miami Beach Bandshell. Food, cocktails and music by the newest Haitian band, Mood Band, also await on June 21st for the Little Haiti Cultural Complex’s June edition of their Sounds of Little Haiti concert. Then, on June 22nd, Reggae Love Fest 2024 comes to Sunrise, Florida with a concert featuring music from legends Shabba Ranks, Spice, Super Cat, Slick Rick and more.
As South Florida pays homage to Caribbean American Heritage Month, these events serve as a testament to the enduring influence and spirit of Caribbean culture in the region. Whether through dance, food, art or entertainment, attendees are invited to immerse themselves in Caribbean heritage throughout the month of June.
