For More Than 45 Years, This Neighborhood Has Hosted The Longest-Running Free Community Festival In Florida
By Megan Todaro|Published August 24, 2023
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Megan Todaro
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Megan Todaro was born and raised in Miami, Florida, and still calls The Sunshine State home today. While saving lives and putting out fires during the day, Megan is also passionate about writing and travel, especially when it comes to sharing her knowledge of her home state. A few of Megan's favorites include: favorite Florida vacation destination - New Smyrna Beach. Favorite Florida restaurant - Eastside Pizza in Miami. Favorite Florida hidden gem - Shibuya Sushi Art. Favorite Florida OnlyInYourState article: Take A Terrifying Florida Road Trip That Will Surely Haunt Your Dreams.
Don’t you love a good neighborhood festival? I do, too. In my opinion, there is nothing better than getting the community together to enjoy food, music, architecture, history, and friends! Taking place in Miami Beach, it is the longest-running free community festival in Florida. Going strong for over 45 years now, Art Deco Weekend is an instant classic, taking over the famed Ocean Drive for a weekend of fun and festivities.
The Art Deco Historic District in Miami Beach is a renowned neighborhood known for its distinctive architectural style and historical significance. It's one of the most iconic and visually captivating areas in Miami.
This annual festival has it all and then some—food, drinks, films, a classic car show, a dog show, a lecture series, walking tours, and live music. It takes place over the course of three days every January.
The Art Deco Weekend was first organized in 1976 by the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL) as a way to raise awareness about the historic preservation efforts in the Miami Beach Art Deco Historic District.
During the Art Deco Weekend, the streets of the historic district come alive with a wide range of activities and attractions, including guided tours, vintage fashion shows, lectures, workshops, arts and crafts, classic cars, local food and drinks, and more.
One of the highlights of the Art Deco Weekend is the Parade along Ocean Drive. The parade showcases colorful floats, vintage cars, costumed participants, and musical performances, all capturing the spirit of the Art Deco era.
The majority of the events and activities during the Art Deco Weekend are free and open to the public. Some special events and tours may require advance registration or tickets.
Have you ever been to Art Deco Weekend before? Did you know it was the longest-running free community festival in Florida? Sound off in the comments section! Or, if you want to find out more about the festival, visit the Art Deco Weekend website or the Art Deco Weekend Facebook Page.
Also, take a look at this YouTube video from Miami Design Preservation League to see what previous years have been like!
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