Fall and winter are the perfect times of year for snowbirds to head south and catch ideal weather for outdoor events. From Florida’s coastal towns to the Bahamas and Caribbean, check out these exciting fishing tournaments, music events, food festivals, cultural celebrations and more.
Palm Beach, FL, October 16 – 20
Join the fun at this women-only fishing tournament where lady anglers compete for important causes. The third annual event presents a chance to qualify for the 2024 Costa Offshore World Championship. Benefits support the Breast Cancer Research Foundation and Billfish Foundation.
Naples, FL, October 25 – 27
Celebrate Florida’s iconic stone crab culture at this weekend-long festival featuring live entertainment, arts and crafts vendors, and attractions. Located throughout the Tin City waterfront area, guests can explore shops, galleries and delicious seafood.
Fort Lauderdale, FL, October 30 – November 3
Every year around Halloween, Fort Lauderdale transforms into one of Florida’s largest boat shows. Catch seminars, fishing clinics, vendor displays and meander through the Superyacht Village. Head to the world-famous AquaZone to witness watersport demonstrations with the latest innovations. Show locations include the Broward County Convention Center, Bahia Mar Yachting Center, Las Olas Marina and more.
Apalachicola, FL, November 1 – 2
Head to Florida’s Gulf Coast to enjoy the region’s fresh catch at this two-day festival. Food and craft vendors line the shady oaks of Battery Park overlooking the Apalachicola River where guests can participate in oyster eating and shucking contests, blue crab races, the Red Fish Run 5k and much more.
Miami, FL, November 9 – 10
Head to Miami Marine Stadium to catch Florida’s country vibe at this southern extravaganza. The star-studded lineup features headliners Carrie Underwood, Zac Brown Band and Diplo.
Sarasota, FL, November 29 – December 1
This festival at the Fairgrounds hosts live music, attractions and fresh seafood cooked on-site. Enjoy performances from local talent featuring R&B, blues, jazz, soul and rock genres. The arts and crafts marketplace hosts painting, ceramics, woodworking and tons of shopping.
Miami Beach, FL, December 6 – 8
This traveling art showcase hosts top-tier artists from across the globe and graces Miami Beach’s cultural scene with various exhibits. The Miami show is divided into several sectors with a specific creative focus. Miami Beach Convention Center offers private days by invitation only on December 4 – 5 and public days through the weekend, December 6 – 8.
Stuart, FL, December 11 – 14
Join sail fishing captains and anglers at Pirate’s Cove Resort & Marina for a world-class tournament located on fishing grounds just 30 minutes from the docks. After the competition, celebrate at the waterfront tiki bar with cold beer, seafood and live music.
Fort Lauderdale, FL, December 14
The most famous annual Florida boat parade returns for another holiday party as guests gather to witness creative décor cruise down the 12-mile route. The live broadcast “Best Show on H20” kicks off the South Florida holiday season hosting live performances and contests.
Dominica, October 25 – 27
Experience a culmination of musical talent from the Caribbean, French Antilles, African and North American regions all in one festival at this cultural celebration. Hosted at the Windsor Park Sports Stadium, the event was originally launched to promote island tourism and has since become a staple platform to honor indigenous music.
Los Cabos, Baja California Sur, Mexico, November 7 – 8
Boasting a $1.47 million payout in 2023, this prestigious fishing tournament is not to be missed! Located along the beautiful shores of Cabo San Lucas, anglers compete for best catch to win substantial prizes. Stay at a luxurious resort nearby such as IGY’s Marina Cabo San Lucas or Marina Fiesta Resort & Spa.
St. Croix, USVI, November 29 – December 1
Doubling as a celebration of the delicious fruit and the opening of Crucian Christmas holiday season, this festival is a beloved island tradition. Located on the historic Estate Bethlehem Sugar Factory site, exhibits explore the local culture by showcasing agriculture, horticulture, arts, crafts and food. cruciancoconutfestival.net
Nassau, Bahamas, December 5 – 8
This much-anticipated event brings hundreds of international sailors to the Bahamas for some of the top sloop seafaring. The regatta hosts a stellar music lineup with Bahamian entertainers and Junkanoo performances from local talent.
ARUBA CARNIVAL
November 11 – March 2
TRINIDAD AND TOBAGO CARNIVAL
February 26 – March 5
CURAÇAO CARNIVAL
February 28 – March 5
JAMAICA CARNIVAL
April 23 – April 29
ST. LUCIA CARNIVAL
July 1 – 23
ANTIGUA CARNIVAL
July 25 – August 5
BARBADOS CARNIVAL
July 31 – August 5
GRENADA SPICEMAS
August 6 – 13
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