The Annual Guide to Boca Raton & South Florida’s Cultural Events and Festivals
Boca Raton and Palm Beach County, nestled along the stunning Florida coastline, boast a vibrant culture brimming with an array of festivals and events throughout the year. From lively cultural celebrations to extravagant food festivals and artistic showcases, this region offers a diverse tapestry of experiences for locals and visitors alike. Let’s delve into some of the top-rated and biggest festivals and events that grace the shores of Boca Raton and Palm Beach County.
JANUARY
Boca Strawberry Festival: (2 day event) A “berry” fun weekend filled with activities for all ages! Savor the scrumptious strawberry treats, local craft vendors & artisans, the America’s Got Talent Stunt Dog Show. magic, carnival rides, bumper boats, trampolines, bounce houses, a petting zoo, pony rides, arts, crafts, face painting, e-gaming, golf simulator challenges and more. There is something for everyone. For more information, https://www.bocastrawberryfestival.com/.
Palm Beach International Polo: (3 month event) Each January through April, the world’s premier polo players, and polo enthusiasts head to The Palm Beaches for top-level competition during Palm Beach International Polo Season. Located in Wellington, the National Polo Center presents weekly and often daily events. For more information, https://www.nationalpolocenter.com/.
South Florida Fair: (15 day event) The largest festival of its kind, hosted at the Palm Beach County Fairgrounds each year, the South Florida Fair welcomes thousands of visitors to enjoy thrilling carnival rides, games, livestock competitions, carnival food favorites, Yesteryear Village and so much more. For more information, https://www.southfloridafair.com/.
FEBRUARY
South Florida Seafood & Music Festival: (1 day event) Indulge in a gastronomic delight at this seafood extravaganza. Featuring delectable dishes from local restaurants and top-notch live music performances, this festival celebrates the flavors of the sea in Boca Raton. For more information, https://sflaseafoodmusicfest.com/.
Delray Beach Open: Televised nationally and internationally, the combined ATP 250 and ATP Champions Tour Legends event welcomes 60,000-plus spectators annually while hosting corporate events, amateur tennis tournaments, live music performances and social happenings over the 10 days at the Delray Beach Tennis Center. For more information, https://www.yellowtennisball.com/en/.
Delray Beach Fashion Week: (10 day event) Fashion hits the spotlight through local designers, art, and beauty at this special event created by the Downtown Development Authority and the downtown merchants. It encompasses exciting fashion shows and other amazing events including the opening runway show, fashion show luncheon, sunsational shop & sip event, trunk shows and in-store events. Participants get a sneak peak at the new spring and summer styles with all items shown on the runway available for purchase throughout the downtown retail shops. The events take place throughout downtown Delray Beach starting with the opening runway show. For more information, https://downtowndelraybeach.com/events/delray-beach-fashion-week.
The Cognizant Classic: formerly known as The Honda Classic: (5 day event) Nationally and internationally televised, The Cognizant Classic is a professional golf tournament on the PGA Tour in south Florida. It was founded in 1972 as Jackie Gleason’s Inverrary Classic, and prior to a schedule change in 2021 was frequently the first of the Florida events in late winter following the “West Coast Swing. The Classic is one of the golf world’s more notable events drawing top-ranked players including golf-greats: Tiger Woods, Ernie Els, Fred Couples and today’s champions of the greens. For more information, https://thecognizantclassic.com/.
MARCH
Festival of the Arts BOCA: (10 day event) This cultural extravaganza presents a fusion of music, literature, and visual arts. From classical music concerts performed by acclaimed orchestras to literary sessions with renowned authors, this festival appeals to diverse artistic sensibilities. For more information, https://festivalboca.org/.
Savor the Avenue: (1 day event) Delray Beach’s signature tradition of dining under the stars along the middle of Atlantic Avenue. Each year’s event features a collection of global flavors by the most notable restaurants downtown, each creating a four-course legendary Downtown Delray Beach dining experience. For more information, https://downtowndelraybeach.com/savortheave.
Palm Beach International Boat Show: (4 day event) For marine enthusiasts, this show is a highlight. Set against the backdrop of Palm Beach’s scenic waterfront, it showcases a stunning array of yachts, boats, and marine accessories, drawing boating aficionados and industry experts. For more information, https://www.pbboatshow.com/en/home.html.
APRIL
Delray Affair: (3 day event) Renowned as the largest arts & craft festival in the Southeast United States, Delray Affair transforms the streets of Downtown Delray Beach into an artistic haven. With over 800 vendors showcasing unique arts, crafts, and culinary delights, this event attracts art enthusiasts from near and far. For more information, https://delrayaffair.com/.
MAY
SunFest: (3 day event) One of Florida’s largest waterfront music and art festivals, SunFest attracts thousands annually. Spanning several days, this event hosts renowned musical acts across various genres, along with local artists’ exhibits, delicious food vendors, and captivating waterfront views. For more information, https://www.sunfest.com/.
Palm Beach International Film Festival: (4 day event) Showcasing a diverse selection of domestic and international films, this event celebrates the art of cinema. Film screenings, panel discussions, and networking events make it a must-visit for film enthusiasts. For more information, https://palmbeachfilmfest.com/.
OCTOBER
Boca Pumpkin Patch Festival: (3 day event) Enjoy a family-friendly fall festival at Mizner Park Amphitheater featuring a pumpkin patch, scarecrow village, carnival, corn maze, pumpkin crafts, a fabulous food court and more. For more information, https://www.bocapumpkinpatch.com/.
NOVEMBER
Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show: (5 day event) Experience the largest in-water presence of boats and marine exhibits in the world. This event showcases more world and U.S. debuts than any other boat show in the country. For more information, https://www.flibs.com/en/home.html.
Sunset Tequila & Mezcal Fest: (1 day event) The area’s largest annual celebration of all things agave! Experience a day of unlimited tequila, mezcal & spirits tastings from over 35 small batch & global brands; live music, and an crave-worthy culinary array of South Florida’s favorite food masters, trucks & culinary artisans. Held each year at Mizner Park Amphitheater in downtown Boca Raton. For more information, https://sunsettequilafest.com/.
Boca Raton Wine & Food Festival: (1 day event) This annual wine & food festival brings you face-to-face with those who have made their lives — their craft. This is the time for you to dine, drink fine wine and experience A top-rated Culinary Affair! For more information, http://www.bocaratonwineandfoodfestival.com/.
DECEMBER
Boca Holiday Festival: (2 day event) December is magical and this year the Boca Holiday Festival will be at the top of your list of feel-good events to attend. – A fantastic weekend of holiday and winter fun at Mizner Park Amphitheater with festive activities, thrilling rides, photos with Santa, holiday décor, delicious food, gift shopping, live stage shows and entertainment for all ages! For more information, https://www.bocaholidayfestival.com/.
Palm Beach Food & Wine Festival: (4 day event) A paradise for foodies, this festival brings together top chefs, renowned sommeliers, and culinary experts for a gastronomic celebration. Indulge in exquisite tastings, cooking demonstrations, and exclusive dining experiences. For more information, https://www.pbfoodwinefest.com/.
The Fort Lauderdale Food & Wine Festival: (5 day event) The premier culinary event in Broward County. Featuring activations throughout the year and culminating with a week-long celebration, the festival puts the spotlight on Greater Fort Lauderdale’s hospitality industry all year long. VLFWF showcases Broward County’s renowned and emerging chefs, restaurateurs and local food & beverage establishments. For more information, https://vlfoodwine.com/.
These events and festivals represent just a glimpse of the rich cultural tapestry woven throughout Boca Raton, Palm Beach and Broward Counties. Whether you’re a music aficionado, food lover, art enthusiast, or simply looking to immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture, these festivals offer a myriad of experiences to cherish and enjoy. Plan your visit to coincide with these festivities for an unforgettable time in this picturesque region of Florida. For local vacation rentals in the area visit www.discoveryouroasis.com, or Boca Raton’s beachside boutique hotel, www.365Ocean.com.