Free Events In South Florida

Kick off Broward County’s cultural season at Arts Launch Broward 2026, a free, family-friendly event presented by the Broward Cultural Division.

Taking place at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Arts Launch brings nearly 90 local arts and cultural organizations together for a day of live performances, interactive activities, artist showcases, and “information about upcoming arts and cultural programs throughout Broward County.

Guests can explore activities and performances throughout the Broward Center, including the JM Family Studio, Amaturo Theater lobbies and Abdo New River Room.

What to expect:
• Live music, dance, theater, and multidisciplinary performances
• Nearly 90 arts and cultural organizations showcasing upcoming performances, exhibitions, festivals, classes, and programs
• Interactive art activities for children and adults
• Meet local artists and representatives from arts organizations
• Exclusive load-in preview of Slow Burn Theater Company’s upcoming production Come From Away
• Information about arts experiences and cultural events happening throughout Broward County

Make a Day of It: Arts Launch Broward coincides with Fort Lauderdale’s Jazz Brunch at Esplanade Park along the Riverwalk, giving visitors another option for live music and entertainment while downtown.

Admission is FREE, but registration is encouraged. Discover something new, connect with local artists and organizations, and kick off another exciting arts season in Broward County.

The Sunday Jazz Brunch is an ideal way to relax and enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s scenic Riverwalk. This free, live outdoor concert series features the area’s best local jazz artists. Listen to the music on three different stages on the first Sunday of each month from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Well-behaved leashed pets are also welcome to attend. There is plenty of room to set up chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets to experience the fabulous entertainment. Eventgoers can also stroll along the historic brick-lined walkway to enjoy live music while browsing items from local merchants and enjoying food from area restaurants.

For more information, visit parks.fortlauderdale.gov/jazzbrunch.

A weekly art program designed for our youngest visitors and their caregivers to foster new discoveries in sensory awareness, creativity and pre-literacy skills through hands-on art activities. Each week, students will learn about colors, shapes, patterns, numbers and letters while exercising free expression. This practice aids in problem solving, assists in decision-making, and provides a creative outlet for early learners. Led by teaching artist, Paloma Dueñas, these multidisciplinary and sensory sessions are designed for toddlers to learn basic concepts of art and artists through the exploration of art and music, bonding with their caregivers, and assisting with the transition from home into a school environment.

The Coral Springs Chapter of the Southern Handcraft Society will hold their 32nd annual “Holiday Extravaganza” on October 8th from 4 pm – 8 pm; Friday, October 9th from 9 am – 8 pm and Saturday, October 10th from 9 am – 4 pm at La Quinta Inn and Suites, 3701 N. University Drive, Coral Springs, FL 33065. Admission for the preview show on Thursday is $3.00. No charge for show on Friday and Saturday.

Celebrate the season by visiting the premier juried craft show with unique, handcrafted Fall, Halloween, Christmas and Hanukkah gifts and ornaments, jewelry, greeting cards, beach items, home décor, fabric crafts, and artwork. All of our items are lovingly made by our talented members from this and other SHS chapters!

The Coral Springs Chapter of the Southern Handcraft Society will hold their 32nd annual “Holiday Extravaganza” on October 8th from 4 pm – 8 pm; Friday, October 9th from 9 am – 8 pm and Saturday, October 10th from 9 am – 4 pm at La Quinta Inn and Suites, 3701 N. University Drive, Coral Springs, FL 33065. Admission for the preview show on Thursday is $3.00. No charge for show on Friday and Saturday.

Celebrate the season by visiting the premier juried craft show with unique, handcrafted Fall, Halloween, Christmas and Hanukkah gifts and ornaments, jewelry, greeting cards, beach items, home décor, fabric crafts, and artwork. All of our items are lovingly made by our talented members from this and other SHS chapters!

tory Time Para Todos: Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month
October 9 | 4:00 PM – 5:00 PM
Miami International Mall

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, Miami International Mall, in partnership with the Miami-Dade County Public Library System’s International Mall Branch, invites families to Story Time Para Todos, a free afternoon of storytelling, crafts, and cultural enrichment.

The event will feature special guest Alexandra Alessandri, award-winning author of Isabel and Her Colores Go to School, The Enchanted Life of Valentina Mejía, Lupita’s Hurricane Palomitas, and Grow Up, Luchy Zapata. The daughter of Colombian immigrants, Alessandri is also an educator and poet whose work celebrates language, identity, and Latino culture.

Families of all ages are welcome to enjoy this engaging community event that promotes literacy, creativity, and the richness of Hispanic heritage.

Free admission.

Join NAMI (National Alliance on Mental Health) Broward on World Mental Health Day (October 10) for NAMIWalks Broward to help break the stigma surrounding mental health. Mental health support is always within reach and together we will improve the quality of life for people with mental illness and their families through support, education and advocacy.

Choose the 5K or 3k walk route; no fee to register. Self-donate or raise $100 or more, you will receive an official 2026 NAMIWalks event T-shirt. Raise $1,000 or more to become a Walk Star and get the 2026 NAMIWalks commemorative lapel pin. Before the walk, hear from and connect with Broward County mental health judges, local law enforcement, business leaders, and other walkers who are passionate advocates for mental health awareness.

NAMIWalks Broward is one of the nation’s Top 30 Peer-to-Peer Fundraisers and is a reminder that meaningful change is powered by people. NAMI Broward was established in 1984 and provides free peer-to-peer mental health support groups, programs, and training for individuals and families across Broward County ages 5 and up.

Walk teams and sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, please visit https://bit.ly/namiwalks2026.

Spotlight on the Premier Sponsors: Evolutions Treatment Center, Midtown Athletic Club, Modera Wealth, Nova Southeastern University, Rotary Club of Weston

A weekly art program designed for our youngest visitors and their caregivers to foster new discoveries in sensory awareness, creativity and pre-literacy skills through hands-on art activities. Each week, students will learn about colors, shapes, patterns, numbers and letters while exercising free expression. This practice aids in problem solving, assists in decision-making, and provides a creative outlet for early learners. Led by teaching artist, Paloma Dueñas, these multidisciplinary and sensory sessions are designed for toddlers to learn basic concepts of art and artists through the exploration of art and music, bonding with their caregivers, and assisting with the transition from home into a school environment.

Planning a Bar or Bat Mitzvah in Fort Lauderdale or South Florida? Glow Big or Go Home at this high-energy neon showcase hosted at the Marriott Fort Lauderdale Airport.

Experience the venue fully transformed with glow-inspired décor, immersive lighting, and a vibrant dance floor while meeting top mitzvah vendors—all creatively adhering to the Glow theme in their booths. From DJs and live entertainment to décor, photo experiences, and event specialists, you’ll find everything you need to plan an unforgettable celebration in one place.

Enjoy interactive games, a glow dance floor, photo booth experiences, mocktails, food tastings, sample stations, swag bags, and live entertainment throughout the event.

Parents can connect directly with trusted vendors, explore event layouts, and take advantage of event-only exclusive discounts and giveaways, while teens experience the fun firsthand.

Self parking in our garage included.

Vendors:

Elegant Parties (Event Rentals)

Outrageous Productions (DJs, Entertainment, A/V, Event Production)

Good Vibes Party Rental (LED Furniture, Dancefloors)

84 West Events (Event Production, LED Installations, Entertainment)

… and more!

Glow big. Plan boldly. Celebrate confidently!

PLEASE NOTE: Attendees under 18 years old must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
This is not a party—it is a trade show featuring interactive elements and entertainment, designed for parents to explore event services while children enjoy the ambiance.

A weekly art program designed for our youngest visitors and their caregivers to foster new discoveries in sensory awareness, creativity and pre-literacy skills through hands-on art activities. Each week, students will learn about colors, shapes, patterns, numbers and letters while exercising free expression. This practice aids in problem solving, assists in decision-making, and provides a creative outlet for early learners. Led by teaching artist, Paloma Dueñas, these multidisciplinary and sensory sessions are designed for toddlers to learn basic concepts of art and artists through the exploration of art and music, bonding with their caregivers, and assisting with the transition from home into a school environment.

Enjoy a free concert series with a broad range of musical varieties featuring a different live performer each showtime! Carter Park Jamz takes place on the third Friday of select months from 7 to 10 p.m. at Carter Park.

For several years, Carter Park Jamz has provided residents and visitors with the opportunity to experience music outdoors with their family and friends while relaxing under the evening stars. Residents and visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs, picnic blankets, and coolers. Food and beverages are available for purchase.

The concert is free to attend. From R&B to pop, Carter Park Jamz has it all!

Date:

October 16, 2026 – Larry Dogg Band (Hip-Hopm Soul, R&B)

Time: 7-10 PM

Location: Carter Park, 1450 W. Sunrise Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33311

Info: parks.fortlauderdale.gov/carterparkjamz

A weekly art program designed for our youngest visitors and their caregivers to foster new discoveries in sensory awareness, creativity and pre-literacy skills through hands-on art activities. Each week, students will learn about colors, shapes, patterns, numbers and letters while exercising free expression. This practice aids in problem solving, assists in decision-making, and provides a creative outlet for early learners. Led by teaching artist, Paloma Dueñas, these multidisciplinary and sensory sessions are designed for toddlers to learn basic concepts of art and artists through the exploration of art and music, bonding with their caregivers, and assisting with the transition from home into a school environment.

A weekly art program designed for our youngest visitors and their caregivers to foster new discoveries in sensory awareness, creativity and pre-literacy skills through hands-on art activities. Each week, students will learn about colors, shapes, patterns, numbers and letters while exercising free expression. This practice aids in problem solving, assists in decision-making, and provides a creative outlet for early learners. Led by teaching artist, Paloma Dueñas, these multidisciplinary and sensory sessions are designed for toddlers to learn basic concepts of art and artists through the exploration of art and music, bonding with their caregivers, and assisting with the transition from home into a school environment.

A weekly art program designed for our youngest visitors and their caregivers to foster new discoveries in sensory awareness, creativity and pre-literacy skills through hands-on art activities. Each week, students will learn about colors, shapes, patterns, numbers and letters while exercising free expression. This practice aids in problem solving, assists in decision-making, and provides a creative outlet for early learners. Led by teaching artist, Paloma Dueñas, these multidisciplinary and sensory sessions are designed for toddlers to learn basic concepts of art and artists through the exploration of art and music, bonding with their caregivers, and assisting with the transition from home into a school environment.

Family Day with Miami City Ballet’s Explore Dance Community Class

Celebrate Halloween with a design twist, inspired by Vagabondia’s theatrical apparitions and performance. Families will create expressive masks using line, shape, and texture—perfect for costumes and imaginative play.

Join Miami City Ballet for an Explore Dance Community Class during The Bass Family Day! Designed for all ages and experience levels, this fun and interactive movement class invites children and adults to explore creative movement, express themselves, and connect through dance. Led by a Miami City Ballet Community Engagement Teaching Artist, participants will discover the joy of movement through playful activities and guided exploration. Come ready to move, create, and have fun. No dance experience necessary!

A weekly art program designed for our youngest visitors and their caregivers to foster new discoveries in sensory awareness, creativity and pre-literacy skills through hands-on art activities. Each week, students will learn about colors, shapes, patterns, numbers and letters while exercising free expression. This practice aids in problem solving, assists in decision-making, and provides a creative outlet for early learners. Led by teaching artist, Paloma Dueñas, these multidisciplinary and sensory sessions are designed for toddlers to learn basic concepts of art and artists through the exploration of art and music, bonding with their caregivers, and assisting with the transition from home into a school environment.

A weekly art program designed for our youngest visitors and their caregivers to foster new discoveries in sensory awareness, creativity and pre-literacy skills through hands-on art activities. Each week, students will learn about colors, shapes, patterns, numbers and letters while exercising free expression. This practice aids in problem solving, assists in decision-making, and provides a creative outlet for early learners. Led by teaching artist, Paloma Dueñas, these multidisciplinary and sensory sessions are designed for toddlers to learn basic concepts of art and artists through the exploration of art and music, bonding with their caregivers, and assisting with the transition from home into a school environment.