Get ready for an unforgettable evening as The Little Lighthouse Foundation (LLF) hosts its 15th annual Hearts & Stars Gala on Saturday, March 15, 2025, at the Miami Design District’s Jungle Plaza. This year’s “Carnaval do Brasil” theme brings a vibrant fusion of music, culture, and philanthropy, headlined by award-winning rapper and actor Ja Rule. The highly anticipated event will raise funds for LLF’s mission to support children and families in South Florida facing educational, financial, and medical challenges. Guests will be transported to Brazil with immersive décor, high-energy beats, and a lively atmosphere.

The night promises an electric experience with a giant “Feira” tent, replicating Brazil’s iconic street markets, handcrafted cocktails at the Nossa Caipirinha Lounge, and top-tier spirits like Ja Rule’s Amber & Opal whiskey, Tito’s Handmade Vodka, and Casamigos. Guests will indulge in gourmet bites from acclaimed South Florida restaurants such as Pubbelly Sushi, Paperfish, RED Steakhouse, Dukanoo, STK Steakhouse, and more. The evening will also honor Udonis Haslem with the prestigious Shining Light Award for his community impact. Secure your spot for this unforgettable night of entertainment, luxury, and giving at HeartsAndStarsGala.com, with VIP experiences available for an elevated celebration.

Live music, art and Latino culture will be on display this weekend as the 26^th annual Carnaval on the Mile will take over Miracle Mile in Coral Gables on March 2-3.

The free weekend-long festival will feature Latin GRAMMY-nominated Cuban singer Leoni Torres, Cuban folk ensemble Cortadito featuring Latin GRAMMY-winning flutist Nestor Torres, Latin GRAMMY-nominated percussionist Pedrito Martinez, and popular Dancemenco act Paco Versailles. Other notable acts include Leslie Cartaya, Orlando Mendez, and Marti, among other talented musical performers scheduled to appear.

Acclaimed contemporary artist Anthony “Mojo” Reed II will be on-site displaying his original piece entitled ‘Our Heartbeat’ which serves as this year’s Carnaval Miami poster art. A graduate of the Savannah College of Art & Design (SCAD) with a degree in Fine Art specializing in Sequential Art, Mojo uses visual storytelling to create impactful, culturally rich works that uplift and inspire. A native of St. Louis, Missouri, Mojo moved to Miami in 2018 and has seen his career flourish. In 2021, he founded Healing with Hues, Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to community-based art initiatives, art therapy, and youth development. Through his art and advocacy, Mojo strives to elevate collective consciousness and serve communities with creativity and purpose.

Carnaval Miami 2025 is organized by the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana. An annual pillar of the community, Carnaval Miami’s marquee events begin with the annual Carnaval on the Milethis coming weekend on March 1-2 followed by the legendary Calle Ocho Music Festival on March 9^th.

Get ready for a creative explosion in the Grove. For 61 years, the Coconut Grove Arts Festival has been the place to experience world-class art, live music, and interactive fun. It’s not just a festival; it’s a vibrant celebration of creativity, community, and the sheer joy of art.

Wander along the scenic Bayfront and discover hundreds of artists showcasing their talents across multiple visual categories. With 285 juried artists, you’re sure to find a masterpiece that speaks to you. But the CGAF is more than just an art show- it’s a champion for emerging artists. For 61 years, this Presidents’ Day Weekend bash has supported scholarships and programs that nurture creativity, making a real difference in the South Florida arts community.

Festival Highlights (aka Things You Absolutely Can’t Miss):

• Rock Out: Live music at Peacock Park, courtesy of Hard Rock & Guitar Hotel Stacks! Get ready to groove.
• Art & Drafts: Wynwood Brewery brews + live artistry = pure genius. Sip and be inspired.
• Get Creative: Unleash your inner artist at Regatta Park. It’s time to get hands-on!
• Kid Zone: Home Depot’s Creative Corner is where the magic happens. Let the little ones explore their artistic side.
• Young Collectors: Kids can buy real art for just $5! It’s the perfect way to start a lifelong love of collecting.
• VIP Treatment: Collectors Club tickets = open bar, bites, and AC. Need we say more? Indulge in the ultimate festival experience.
  This year, the Coconut Grove Arts Festival is turning 61 and throwing a party – with art! Think interactive experiences that’ll unleash your inner Picasso, and enough deliciousness to satisfy any craving. It’s the perfect Presidents’ Day Weekend getaway. Join the fun, explore the incredible art, and make a difference by supporting future artists.
• https://cgaf.com
  Snag your tickets and get the details at cgaf.com! see you in the Grove!

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and mingle with the stars at the iconic South Beach Wine & Food Festival (SOBEWFF).

This four-day extravaganza, which returns for its 24th year from February 20-23, has grown far beyond its South Beach roots, spreading its culinary magic across Miami’s Design District, Wynwood, and Coconut Grove.

Imagine a gourmet playground teeming with over 500 celebrity chefs, renowned personalities, and beverage wizards. From Rachael Ray rocking the 18th annual Mike’s Amazing® Burger Bash to Aarón Sánchez sizzling up the hottest tacos at Tacos & Tequila, SOBEWFF promises an unforgettable foodie adventure.

But the delicious adventures don’t stop there. Dive into intimate brunches, masterclasses, and exclusive dinners, or bring the whole family for special events. Feeling festive? Late-night parties await. Whether you crave intimate culinary conversations or a grand tasting extravaganza with 1,200+ delectable samples spread across 135,000 square feet at the Goya Foods’ Grand Tasting Village, SOBEWFF caters to every palate and party mood. 

Speaking of the Goya Foods Grand Tasting Village- it ranks among our favorite activations of the weekend. Imagine a daytime dance party with your 1000 closest friends right on the sand… but with a twist. The culinary playground features live cooking demos from Food Network stars, 1,200+ food and drink samples, and unforgettable concert experiences curated by the brilliant minds behind Groot Hospitality and Only in Dade. Get ready to groove and graze as Ultra meets the SOBEWFF.

The best part is that each bite you savor supports a worthy cause. 100% of the festival’s net proceeds benefit the Chaplin School of Hospitality & Tourism Management at Florida International University, a top-ranked program shaping the future stars of the industry. So raise a glass (or fork!) to good food, good company, and giving back at this epicurean extravaganza!Tickets are just a click away at SOBEWFF2025.

Don’t miss your chance to be part of Miami’s most fun, creative and elaborate culinary happening.

TINA – The Tina Turner Musical isn’t just a show, it’s an electrifying explosion of raw talent, undeniable grit, and pure, unadulterated ROCK ‘N’ ROLL! Witness the legendary comeback story of the Queen herself, as she rises from the ashes to become an icon.

With a soundtrack that will have you dancing in the aisles, this show is a non-stop thrill ride. 12 Grammy Awards? Check. Millions of screaming fans? You betcha. More concert tickets sold than any other solo artist in history? Absolutely!

Get ready to feel the heat, hear the thunder, and experience the power of Tina Turner like never before. This ain’t no ordinary musical, folks. It’s a celebration of life, love, and the unstoppable force of a woman who refused to be silenced.

Warning: Contains adult themes, loud music, strobe lighting, haze, simulated gunshots, and strong language.

Dates: January 14th – 19th, 2025

Ziff Ballet Opera House at the Adrienne Arsht Center 

Run Time: 3 Hours of Pure Dynamite (with a 20-minute intermission)

Parental Guide: Ages 14+ 

Price: $35-$155 (Worth every penny!)

For more information, visit: https://www.arshtcenter.org

Get ready to Mambo under the Miami moonlight at the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana’s most fun event of the year – the “Every Child Has a Dream” Gala. Don your most comfortable dancing shoes for what’s sure to be a dance marathon- all for a great cause.

The party will take place on Saturday, December 14th at the Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition Center. Get ready to shimmy to the electrifying beats of DJ Alex Gutierrez and DJ Jimmie E., then sing your heart out to chart-topping Cuban crooner Leoni Torres. Keeping the whole night lively will be the ever-charming Martica Lopez, host of the afternoon show on Hits 97.3. The fun starts at 7:00 pm and unlimited cocktails and food will be served.

The real stars of the night are the kids. The Kiwanis of Little Havana Foundation has been making a difference in the lives of children and young adults for years, providing scholarships, educational programs, summer camps, and more. They’ve impacted hundreds of thousands of kids and awarded over $3 million in college scholarships Now that’s something to celebrate!

A big shout-out to Bacardi, Amerant Bank, Williamson Cadillac, Coca-Cola South Florida, Café La Llave, Gaviña Gourmet Coffee, Homestead Speedway, and all of the sponsors who are helping make this night possible.

Head to https://kiwanisgala.com for tickets. Follow the Kiwanis Club of Little Havana on Facebook (@KiwanisLittleHavana) and Instagram (@KiwanisofLittleHavana) to stay in the loop.