By: Maryanne Salvat

20^th Annual International Mango Festival

Twenty years ago, a seed from one of Dr. David Fairchild’s century-old mango trees was planted in Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s fertile soil. Fast forward to the present and Fairchild is now a haven for tropical fruit research and home to hundreds of mango cultivars. This year, Fairchild celebrates the growth and development mangos have gone through to thrive in South Florida and around the world with the 20^th Annual International Mango Festival this Saturday, July 14 and Sunday, July 15 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission to the International Mango Festival is free for Fairchild members and children 5 and under. For non-members, admission is $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and up, and $12 for children 6-17. Those who walk or bike receive $5 off adult admission and $2 off child admission. Those with a Military ID have free admission, with $20 for their spouses and $10 for their children.

Alonzo and Tracy Mourning Present It’s All Overtown

NBA Champion, Alonzo Mourning, and wife Tracy Wilson Mourning, will host It’s All Overtown, “One Night…One World,” a premier annual fundraiser benefiting the Overtown Youth Center (OYC), on Thursday, July 19, starting at 6:00 p.m., at the Rusty Pelican. Guests, alongside Mistress of Ceremonies, Belkys Nerey, WSVN-TV News Anchor, will be transported around the world with entertainment, food, and specialty cocktails, all embracing the evening’s theme of multicultural inclusion. The recently redesigned Rusty Pelican will present the event and serve as the ideal backdrop in which to raise much-needed funds to support the Center, founded by Mourning in 2003. In addition to the many ways supporters can contribute to the long-term fiscal success of OYC, It’s All Overtown event-goers will have a winning chance at silent auction items that include unique experiences compliments of local eateries, hotels and spas, a variety of popular brand name fashion accessories, autographed sports memorabilia from popular athletes both current and legends, including the 2012 NBA Champions, the Miami Heat. Tickets to It’s All Overtown “One Night…One World start at $125 and are currently available. For more information, visit http://www.overtownyouth.orgor call (305) 349-1204.  

Style Saves’ 1 Year Anniversary

On Thursday, July 19th from 9 pm to midnight, stay stylish by giving back! Celebrate Style Saves’ 1 Year Anniversary at Style Saves’ 2nd Annual Summer Fashion Show Fundraiser! To kick off 2012 Miami Swim Week, Style Saves will host an exclusive event at SOHO Beach House featuring four designer fashion shows, sponsored open bar and live DJ. The runway show will showcase looks from Trina Turk, Atrium, Papi swimwear for men & iShine365 swimwear for women. Following the fashion show, the party will continue. Guests will enjoy cocktails and treats from Stella’s Sweet Shoppe while viewing the online auction hosted by charitybuzz featured on iPads throughout the space and capturing memories in the CapturePod photo booth sponsored by Atrium. Tickets cost $100 in advance, $125 at the door. To purchase tickets visit http://stylesaves.charityhappenings.org. 

SALON ALLURE Benefits Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation 

On July 21 and July 22, SALON ALLURE, a four-day boutique tradeshow featuring more than 70 of the world’s most exclusive brands in swim, resort, and now accessories, marks its third anniversary at Swim Week by inviting the public to its first-ever DESIGNER SAMPLE SALE fundraiser, net proceeds for the event will benefit Salon Allure’s charity of choice: Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation (MCHF). Chaired by Norma Jean Abraham, celebrity co-chairs Tracy Wilson Mourning and Lisa Pliner, and style blogger Ginger Harris of Electric Blogarella at the Perry South Beach, attendees will have access to the same luxury swim and resort wear worn by Hollywood A-listers, from Fergie to Rihanna, all at discounts of up to 50 percent off. Guests will also enjoy complimentary cocktails, DJ performances, and the chance to support Miami Children’s Hospital Foundation with each purchase. To learn more and offer support, visit www.mchf.org.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

Beats After Sunset

On Friday, July 6, Bass Museum of Art will host its monthly first Friday happy soiree Beats After Sunset from 8:00 to 11:00 p.m. Guests will enjoy complimentary cocktails by Herradura Tequila and beats by Joseph Anthony while browsing works from current exhibitions “MENS SUITS” by Charles LeDray and “Erasey Page” by Miami-based artist Jillian Mayer in collaboration Eric Shoenborn. Admission is complimentary for members and basspass holders; $8 museum admission for non-members. Chalk Ping Pong and Billiards Lounge, will host an after party from 11:00 pm to 12:00 a.m. where Beats guests are invited to enjoy one complimentary beverage and ping pong. 

The Amazing Spider-man IMAX Experience 

For those in need of fleeing the summer‘s sweltering heat an escape to an icy cool IMAX movie theater may be the perfect solution. The Amazing Spider-man, released this week to sold-out audiences nationwide, is a sure bet for the Fourth of July holiday weekend.  With amazing 3-D effects and an impressive cast including, the adorable Andrew Garfield (Social Network), girl-next-door Emma Stone, Martin Sheen, Sally Field, and Denis Leary, the new superhero series is one not to be missed.  

FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach

On Wednesday, July 18, join creators Aleksandar Stojanovic, Matt Heien and Alain Perez as they present the 17^th season of FUNKSHION: Fashion Week Miami Beach. Since 2003, FUNKSHION has brought Miami to the forefront of the Fashion World, working with designers showcasing in New York City, Milan and Paris. FUNKSHION offers a fun, young opportunity for designer collections to come to life, merging the worlds of fashion and music. Bringing in celebrity DJs and bands, FUNKSHION provides the perfect soundtrack for the catwalk. Every year Funkshion produces runway shows every October, March and July. These events are open to the public, for a complete schedule and to RSVP visit: www.fashionweekmiami.com.

International Mango Festival at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden

Twenty years ago, a seed from one of Dr. David Fairchild’s century-old mango trees was planted in Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden’s fertile soil. Fast forward to the present and Fairchild is now a haven for tropical fruit research and home to hundreds of mango cultivars. This year, Fairchild celebrates the growth and development mangos have gone through to thrive in South Florida and around the world with the 20th Annual International Mango Festival on Saturday, July 14 and Sunday, July 15 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Admission to the International Mango Festival is free for Fairchild members and children 5 and under. For non-members, admission is $25 for adults, $18 for seniors 65 and up, and $12 for children 6-17. Those who walk or bike receive $5 off adult admission and $2 off child admission. Those with a Military ID have free admission, with $20 for their spouses and $10 for their children.

By: Maryanne Salvat

msalvat@miamisocialholic.com

Summer Trunk Show at Bella Beach Club

Local fashion brand RaMona LaRue is hosting a Summer Trunk Show on Saturday, June 30 from 3:00pm to 6:00pm at Bella Beach Club. Be the first to shop from the brand’s new fall collection before it even hits stores! The trunk show will also feature exclusive one-of-a-kind pieces not available in-stores and up to 60% OFF the summer collection. Blo – Blow Dry Bar will be on-site with a team of “bloers” offering signatures styles at the braid bar. Swimwear and accessories from ISA Boutique will also be for sale.

All-You-Can-Eat Maine Lobster at Kitchen 305

Kitchen 305 at the Newport Beachside Hotel & Resort invites those with hearty appetites and a love for seafood to enjoy an all-you-can-eat Maine lobster dinner every Wednesday for $35. For a little more than the market price of a tail, guests can indulge in endless plates of this soft shell, red crustacean flown in fresh weekly from Maine.  Alongside the “Maine” act, Kitchen 305 is serving a bowl of soup du jour and a Wedge Salad with crumbled blue cheese and Applewood smoked bacon.  The dinner special includes fresh baked bread, oven roasted potatoes and grilled corn on the cob. Kitchen 305 supper club guests will enjoy live music and entertainment with dinner and ladies drink free premium cocktails from 9 p.m. to 11 p.m. For dinner and bottle service reservations call 305.749.2110.

Aveda Seven Seas Spa & Salon Teacher Appreciation

The Aveda Seven Seas Spa & Salon is recognizing teachers for their generous contributions to the community by offering summer spa specials priced at $20.12. To celebrate the end of the 2012 school year and official start of Summer, administrators, teachers and school support staff can choose from an array of spa services ranging from a 30-minute elemental massage, pedicure and mani polish change or 30-minute exfoliating body scrub priced at $20.12 each. For appointments call 305.749.2100 or visit http://www.sevenseasspasalon.com for more information.

 Mayfair Hotel & Spa’s 4th of July Rooftop Celebration 

Spend Fourth of July poolside this year at Mayfair Hotel & Spa’s Rooftop Independence Day BBQ. Savor homemade hamburgers and cheeseburgers, Kosher hot dogs, marinated chicken breast, pulled pork sandwiches, corn on the cob, honey baked beans and a variety of fresh salads, including a “make-your-own” Cobb salad station. Sip on refreshing cocktails such as the signature Watermelon Martini or Grove Sangria Mojito. All-you-can-eat BBQ: $18.95 for adults and $12.50 per child (10 and under), exclusive of tax and gratuity. Festivities begin at 6:00 p.m. and run until 9:00 p.m.; for more information contact the Mayfair Hotel & Spa, www.mayfairhotelandspa.com. *Non-hotel guests must pay the buffet price as admittance to the rooftop. 

 Biltmore Hotel Annual Fireworks Spectacular

The historic Biltmore Hotel is proud to announce that it is partnering with the city of Coral Gables for its annual Fireworks Spectacular on the Biltmore Golf Course. The explosive show, an Independence Day favorite, will feature a special performance by the Greater Miami Symphonic Band as well as concessions, food trucks and entertaining mascots. Along with the famous fireworks display, guests are invited to stay the night with affordable room rates beginning at $189. The general public is also invited to enjoy the show ($115 for adults and $40 for children). A portion of the evening’s net proceeds will be shared with Dade Heritage Trust, the hotel’s partner in historic preservation. Special packages and rates are also available, for more details or to reserve call 305.913.3246 x 2387 or email 4thofjuly@biltmorehotel.com.

Zoo Miami Offers $5 Special Days

For the third year in a row, Zoo Miami is offering a sweet summer deal of $5 admission, backed up by Ford Motor Company. Ford Motor Company president is pleased to provide support so that the Zoo is accessible to more people during this holiday week. Representatives from Ford will be setting up shop in the zoo on July 4, 7 and 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Visitors will receive giveaways when they register to win a new Ford Focus and will be able to view some of their latest car models. Guests visiting Zoo Miami on these discounted days can enjoy a few other goodies in addition to visiting the lions, tigers and bears along with the normal attractions offered by the zoo. On July 7, Blue Bell will be helping guests cool down by distributing free samples of ice cream to lucky zoo visitors from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., as part of Scoops for Conservation, a partnership between the Zoological Society of Florida and Blue Bell Ice Cream that encourages donations for wildlife conservation. Pepsi Next will also be distributing free samples to help keep visitors refreshed on July 7 & 8 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. To help plan the perfect visit, Zoo Miami has launched a handy mobile application for iPhone and Android owners that equips users with a map, calendar, animal information and more. The application can be found by searching for Zoo Miami in the App Store or Android Marketplace. Free Wi-Fi is also offered in four large, convenient locations throughout the zoo. For the whole Zoo Miami experience, guests should plan to explore the new Playworld Playground for some wet and wild fun for the kids. If visiting on a weekend, the Hippo Slide, the world’s largest inflatable water slide, is open to the public for a seriously slippery experience. The special and limited $5 admission days are available only from July 4-8 and cannot be combined with any other offer or promotion. Go to www.zoomiami.org for more information.

Essie Summer 2012 Collection

The hottest new summer collection from Essie is sure to brighten up your mood as well as your outfit. With titles including: Off the Shoulder, Mojito Madness, All Tied Up, Bikini So Teeny, Fear or Desire, and Cascade Cool they are sure to bring some heat to the season and add a splash of color to your tips and toes. Essie is currently available at GBS The Beauty Store or www.GBSbeauty.com.

Miami’s Health-Conscious Influencers

On Tuesday, June 26 from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m., Miami Beach Plastic Surgery Center and MedSpa is joining forces with Sean Donaldson Hair, Sobe Tan by Fabiola and Ted Ryce Fitness to produce the first installment of a unique ongoing South Beach networking event for Miami’s’ health-conscious influencers. Dr. Leonard Tachmes, among other industry leaders, will be on-hand to meet and mingle with guests, complimentary healthy, light bites by DeliverLean and Three Olives cocktails will be provided. The evening will also include raffle items and gift bags full of beauty essentials. To RSVP, contact beautyblockparty@taraink.com.

Mercadito Midtown Presents Don Julio June Tequila Dinner

In presenting Miami’s hottest monthly series, Mercadito Midtown is pleased to present Don Julio for its June tequila dinner along with a culinary theme perfect for the summer months: Grilling and Barbeque! On Wednesday, June 27 beginning at 8:30 p.m., Chef/Partner Patricio Sandoval together with Executive Chef Aldo Ayala will present four gourmet sharing courses featuring seasonal ingredients – all grilled utilizing Don Julio tequila. The evening’s special cocktails will also showcase the spirit and will be paired with each course. The cost to attend is $45 per person exclusive of tax and gratuity. Reservations are highly recommended, call 786. 369.0430.

Modern Luxury Brides South Florida & The Caribbean Official Launch Party

Modern Luxury, the largest publisher of luxury city magazines in the United States, proudly announces and celebrates the release of the first ever Modern Luxury Brides South Florida & The Caribbean with a launch party on Thursday, June 28 at Turnberry Isle from 7:00 to 10:00 p.m. The title joins MIAMI magazine as the company’s second local publication dedicated to the affluent market. Featuring everything bridal from: couture gowns to luxurious wedding hot spots, coverage of the region’s most extravagant weddings, and a photo gallery of South Florida’s favorite betrothed couple, Modern Luxury Brides South Florida & The Caribbean will be the quintessential wedding resource for the stylish, affluent bride. Guests will arrive to a welcoming train of male models expertly outfitted in trim tuxedoes by Black Tie Miami and will dance the night away to a variety of musical acts across three stages, including an acoustic set by Academy-Award performing singer-songwriter Jon McLaughlin, as well as a jazz ensemble featuring sultry vocalist Jessi Campo and beats by DJ Maximus 3000, both from Javi Productions.

COSMO’S Fab @ 40 Smirnoff Beach Bash 

On Saturday, June 30, celebrate 40 years at Nikki Beach with Sexy Cocktails, Hors d’oeuvres, Entertainment & Friends. Cosmopolitan en español, the leading Spanish-language fashion and beauty magazine for the fun, fearless Hispanic female, is celebrating its 40^th anniversary with a Fab @ 40 Smirnoff Beach Bash along with presenting sponsor Smirnoff Ice. The first 250 guests will receive an exclusive VIP gift bag at this summer’s hottest “after beach” party. Smirnoff Ice will provide a welcome drink and $9 cocktail specials. The event will also feature models wearing L*Space swimwear, entertainment, a Polaroid photo booth and passed hors d’oeuvres from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. The festivities run from 5:00 to 10:00 p.m.; to RSVP contact RSVP@televisapublishing.com.

8th Annual Irie Foundation Weekend 2012

Miami’s own DJ IRIE will be his hosting his 8th Annual three-day action – packed charity weekend June 28 through June 30. The 2012 IRIE Weekend will commence Thursday night with an exclusive Chambord Vodka kick-off event at a private residence on Star Island. On Friday, the celebrity golf tournament will take place at the Melreese Country Club, followed by a welcome concert at Mansion nightclub. Saturday evening IRIE Weekend & Verizon will take over Lucky Strike bowling alley with the South Florida After – School All – Stars then close the night at Arkadia Lounge. Proceeds raised throughout the weekend will benefit the IRIE Foundation; for more information visit http://www.iriefoundation.org.

Dov Davidoff at The Improv Coconut Grove

Todd Weldon, Gray Corder, and Brian S. Long host a night at the Improv featuring Dov Davidoff from the Comedians of Chelsea Lately benefitting The Place of Dreams and The School of Dreams in Antigua, Guatemala (www.giveforward.com/theschoolofdreams) on Thursday, June 14, at 8:30 p.m. at the Improv, Coconut Grove. Tickets are on sale priced at $17 per person, 100% of proceeds go to The Place of Dreams/The School of Dreams). To purchase tickets, email Brian at MrLong@bl-pr.com. Each ticket will grant admission to this evening’s event as well as a VIP ticket to a future Improv event of your choice as well as free admission to the after-party at Mansion Nightclub South Beach. For more information or to purchase tickets contact Brian Long at 917.294.7370 or MrLong@BL-PR.com.

Keeping Cool with Bubbly

To keep cool this summer, HIGHBAR and Tudor House at the Dream Hotel will be offering a free flowing champagne happy hour for the ladies from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m., Monday through Friday.

The ONE Group and STK Miami also present the launch of “Magnum Mondays,” a weekly dinner party series featuring upgrades on Veuve Clicquot Champagne, available on Mondays throughout the month of June. Dinner reservations are encouraged and available via open table. For more information, call 305.604.6988 or online www.stkmiami.com.

Amigos for Kids Presents Celebrity Domino Night

It’s DOMINO time!  Amigos For Kids, the nonprofit organization that aims to prevent child abuse and neglect by valuing children, strengthening families and educating communities, is ready to host its signature annual fundraiser, ING Miami Celebrity Domino Night. The popular event will take place on Saturday, June 16 at 8:00 p.m. at Jungle Island. The evening will feature celebrities, an open bar courtesy of presenting sponsor, Bacardi USA, and a luxurious silent auction display. ING Miami Celebrity Domino Night will also entertain guests with a live performance by one of Miami’s hottest bands, the Celia Cruz All-Stars. To become an Amigo by donating your time or other resources to children in need, call 305.279.1155 or visit http://amigosforkids.org/ .

TRUE WEST at the Miami Theater Center

Miami Theater Center, formerly known as The PlayGround Theatre, proudly presents a staged reading of Pulitzer Prize winner Sam Shepard’s TRUE WEST, a tale of two estranged brothers who unexpectedly reconnect after five years, Saturday, June 16at 8:00 p.m. in The SandBox, the theater’s 50-seat venue. Directed by Stephanie Ansin, and starring Miami’s own Louis Aguirre and Aaron Glickman, TRUE WEST will transport audiences into a world of sibling rivalry, transformation, and an intense battle of ideals. Proceeds will benefit Miami Theater Center, the new home of The PlayGround Theatre. Louis Aguirre and Aaron Glickman will perform key roles, Austin and Lee, respectively. The production will also feature Howard Elfman in the role of film producer Saul Kimmer and Linda Bernhard as the brothers’ mother. Tickets are $50 per person and may be purchased at the door or for reservations contact jackie@theplaygroundtheatre.com or call 305-751-9550 ext. 234. Food, refreshments, and a DJ will be offered. Proceeds will be donated to Miami Theater Center. Visit www.theplaygroundtheatre.com for up-to-date information.

Dinner and a Show at Frenchies American Diner

On Thursday, June 21 at 7:00 p.m., join Frenchies American Diner in Coral Gables as they present 12 Footstool Comedies that are sure to knock your socks off. Prior to the performances, Frenchies will be offering a $38 per person prix fixe dinner menu with a choice of appetizers, entrees and desserts. Seating is limited, reservations strongly suggested, for more information call 305.442.4554. 

Vernissage at Villa Azur

On Thursday, June 21 at 7:00 p.m., Villa Azur together with Avant Gallery will be hosting a cocktail reception with passed hors’ d’oeuvres, wine and champagne to celebrate the installation of “The Photography of Guy Le Baube,” which will be on display for a month at Villa Azur. To RSVP and attend the event call 305.763.8688 or by email: info@VillaAzurMiami.com.

Gerry Kelly’s ROYAL Birthday X-TRAVAGANZA

Join Gerry Kelly for his “ROYAL Birthday X-TRAVAGANZA” on Saturday, June 23 at Trio on the Bay. In the spirit of Kelly’s legendary Studio 54 Birthday celebrations — always the summer’s most anticipated spectacle — the cast of the ’70s disco-inspired smash hit, The Donkey Show will make a very special appearance before the show officially opens at the Adrienne Arsht Center this summer. The venue will be transformed by the acclaimed set decorators 3DX Design in majestic red and magnificent gold colors. Kelly has also teamed up with choreographer and producer, Pamela Canellas to present a bevy of breathtaking shows with the royal touch of “pomp and circumstance.”;Musical orchestration for the evening by DJ Smiley spinning open format on the patio and DJ Nyx spinning Studio 54 classics in the main room. For guests that would like to dine before the celebration, Trio on the Bay has created a special 3-course menu, for $39 per person. The official celebration begins with Red Carpet arrivals at 10:00 p.m. followed by an open SX Cocktail Reception until 11:00 p.m. For table service, Trio on the Bay will provide SX bottle specials throughout the evening (2 bottles for $250). For dining or table reservations, call 305.866.1234.

By: Maryanne Salvat 

“Bring Me Food” Wednesdays at Cecconi’s 

Cecconi’s Miami Beach is proud to introduce Bring Me Food (BMF) Wednesdays, a new family-style dinner series featuring a four-course prix fixe ($35*) menu by Executive Chef Sergio Sigala and Pastry Chef Oscar Bonelli. Designed as an indulgent spread reminiscent of old-school Italian suppers, guests will enjoy a different menu each week that showcases staple dishes and fresh, seasonal produce and fare.

The feast will commence with a glass of Italian sparkling wine, served upon arrival with an assortment of appetizers. The second course will consist of two hearty pastas, presented in oversized rustic bowls. Three entrees, to be shared by the table, will include a selection of Cecconi’s signature pizzas and a variety of meat and seafood dishes. The feast concludes with three tantalizing desserts. Reservations are encouraged at 786.507.7902 or miami@cecconisrestaurant.com.

The District Factory 

On Saturday, June 9 from 7:00 to 9:00 p.m., Gallery Walk’s most anticipated evening shopping event and mash-up, The District Factory, will feature a growing list of local designers and artists who continue to keep Miami on the forefront of fashion. Leading the charge, as special guest host, popular Miami Blogger, Annie Vazquez, The Fashion Poet, will help usher in June’s installment of talented artists showcasing their inspirations including art, jewelry, apparel, reconstructed vintage, and so much more. Welcomed by presenting sponsor Mercedes-Benz of Coral Gables, shoppers can also expect to be entertained by the sounds of Scratch DJ Academy’s DJ I.A.N., Société Perrier infused cocktails, snacks by Pop Chips, a Midtown Nail Bar & Beauty Lounge, and an indie “Factory Flick” courtesy of O Cinema. To add, the Factory will feature artwork by post-pop artist Carol Adrianza and art installations by Taylor Kienholz of Pencils and Saw blades. Phuc Yea!, Miami’s first “pop-up” restaurant, best known for their modern interpretation of traditional Vietnamese cuisine, makes a comeback cameo. The District Factory will once more donate a portion of the proceeds to Dress for Success Miami to support their mission of providing training and clothing to individuals struggling to secure and retain employment; for more detailed information visit www.districtfactory.com.

France vs. Italy Cook-Off

Culinary maestro Angelo Elia, chef/owner of South Florida’s acclaimed Casa D’Angelo restaurants, D’Angelo Pizza ∙ Tapas ∙ Wine Bar and D’Angelo Trattoria, will go head to head with culinary educator and dear friend, Chef Jean Pierre of Jean Pierre’s Cooking School, when the two face-off for a France vs. Italy cook-off on Monday, June 11, at Casa D’Angelo in Fort Lauderdale. The fourth annual fun-filled competition promises an evening of sumptuous cuisine, wines, education and lots of laughter. The four-course cooking demo and dinner features a taste of both Italy and France – two appetizers, two fish, two meats and two desserts. Each course will be paired with corresponding French and Italian wines. The chefs will guide guests through their preparations and the evening will culminate with a vote to determine which cuisine reigns best. The cook-off is priced at $145 per person, excluding tax and gratuity. Seating is limited. To reserve your seat, call Casa D’Angelo at 954. 564.1234.