Since Fort Lauderdale was incorporated in 1911, the Black community here has played a pivotal role in shaping its history and culture. Today, Greater Fort Lauderdale has evolved into a dynamic, sprawling hub filled with historic landmarks and cultural centers across 31 diverse municipalities.
In honor of Black History Month, we’d love to work with you to help spread awareness about the importance of how the Black community has shaped what Greater Fort Lauderdale is today, and the impact the City’s incredible Black residents, entrepreneurs, artists and other movers and shakers continue to make here each and every day. Below are just a few suggestions for unique attractions for both locals and visitors alike from my client, Visit Lauderdale – the official destination marketing organization for Greater Fort Lauderdale and tourism department for Broward County.
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Timeless Divas: On February 7, The Pompano Beach Cultural Center is hosting a musical event to honor Black women in music, including household names like Aretha Franklin, Tina Turner and Whitney Houston. Between 7 – 9 pm, visitors can relive the magic of these iconic powerhouses for only $20.
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Kijiji Moja (Swahili for one village): In honor of diverse cultures from African diasporas, The City of Fort Lauderdale is fostering unity in an immersive experience on February 15, where visitors can enjoy tribal storytelling, live entertainment and food vendors. This special event is open to the public and lasts from 2 – 4 pm.
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Sistrunk Historical Festival: On February 22, Greater Fort Lauderdale is hosting their 45th Annual Parade and Festival to celebrate Black achievements and honor one of the first African American physicians in Broward County, Dr. James Sistrunk. The festival is open to the public, kicking off with a Sistrunk 5K at 7 am and continuing with a lively street festival spanning from 11 am – 8 pm.
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That Motown Band: This electric band plays The Parker on February 22 at 7 pm, performing music from icons like The Temptations, Smokey Robinson and The Supremes. With tickets starting at $27.55, this performance is an affordable way to pay tribute to Black musicians.
In addition to these events, there are a variety of other ways to celebrate Fort Lauderdale’s history throughout the month, including visits to Black-owned restaurants such as The Katherine Restaurant and community heritage houses like the Old Dillard Museum.