Experience Summer in South Florida: A Local's Guide to the Best Summer Activities in West Palm Beach, Delray Beach and Fort Lauderdale

Photo from Unsplash by Lance Asper at Fort Lauderdale Beach

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Summer is in full swing, and South Florida is the place to be! As the temperatures rise and the days grow longer, the area comes alive with a plethora of exciting activities and events. From outdoor adventures to cultural experiences, we've got you covered with everything you need to know. As locals, we're excited to share our insider's guide to the region's most exciting events and attractions from West Palm Beach to Fort Lauderdale, ensuring you make the most out of your summer vacation.  So, grab your sunscreen and get ready to dive into the magic of summer in the Sunshine State! 

Photo from Unsplash by Tobias Seward at West Palm Beach

West Palm Beach 

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1. Screen On The Green [ 2nd Friday of Every Month ]
​Screen on the Green is a beloved summer tradition in West Palm Beach, offering locals and visitors alike a chance to enjoy free outdoor movies under the stars. Picture this: a warm summer evening, a cool breeze off the water, and your favorite movie playing on a big screen under the stars. That's the magic of Screen on the Green in West Palm Beach! It's a free event where you can kick back on the grass, snack on treats from local vendors, and enjoy a flick with family and friends. Whether it's a classic film or a new release, there's something special about watching movies outdoors. So grab your blanket and join the fun at Screen on the Green!

2. 4th On Flagler [ July 4th, 2024 ]
4th on Flagler is West Palm Beach's premier Independence Day celebration, drawing thousands of locals and visitors alike to the city's beautiful waterfront. This annual event features a day filled with family-friendly activities, live music, delicious food, and patriotic fun. As the sun sets, the highlight of the evening begins with a stunning fireworks display over the Intracoastal Waterway, lighting up the night sky in a dazzling array of colors. It's a festive and memorable way to celebrate America's birthday in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach. 

3. See A Show At iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre
Nestled in the heart of West Palm Beach, this premier outdoor venue offers the perfect setting for unforgettable concerts under the stars. Whether you're a fan of rock, pop, country, or hip-hop, this summers lineup promises something for everyone.  iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre ensures a night of music and memories you won't want to miss. Grab your tickets, gather your friends, and make this summer one to remember with a sensational show at iTHINK Financial Amphitheatre!

May 24th & 25th - Dave Matthews Band
June 13th -  21 Savage: American Dream Tour
June 18th - Red Hot Chili Peppers: Unlimited Love Tour
June 20th - Alanis Morissette: The Triple Moon Tour
July 10th - The Doobie Brothers
July 18th - Janet Jackson: Together Again

​To see the full summer lineup click here! 

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Photo from Unsplash by Rafael Figueroa at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens

Delray Beach 

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1. Coco Market Delray Beach [ First Sunday Of Every Month ]
Held monthly at Old School Square this FREE vibrant market is a celebration of all things wellness and community, offering fun and interactive activities for kids and adults alike. Enjoy healing classes such as yoga, meditation, and sound baths with musicians, and explore healing modalities like spinal adjustments, cupping therapy, massages, and energy work. Discover workshops, crafts, and unique products from local vendors, and taste offerings from small local restaurants and pop-up food vendors, featuring both vegan and non-vegan options.  Get out and connect with the community at Coco Market!

2. Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
Discover a world of tranquility and culture at the Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens in Delray Beach. Nestled amidst lush landscapes, Morikami offers a captivating journey through Japanese art, history, and traditions. Stroll through six distinct gardens, each inspired by different historical periods and styles of Japanese gardening. The museum features rotating exhibits, educational programs, and a permanent collection that showcases Japanese heritage. Visitors can also enjoy traditional tea ceremonies, cultural festivals, and workshops throughout the year. Morikami is a delightful escape where you can soak up nature and culture all in one place!

3. July 4th Festival and Fireworks
Delray Beach's annual 4th of July Celebration is the highlight of the summer, offering a spectacular lineup of festivities for all ages. From a fireworks display to live music, delicious food, and a variety of family-friendly activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. The entertainment is non-stop, and the night wraps up with a breathtaking fireworks show lighting up the night sky over the ocean. Don't miss this unforgettable day filled with fun, food, and fireworks. Click here for the full schedule of events!

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Fort Lauderdale

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1. Sunday Jazz Brunch [ First Sunday Of Each Month ]
​Treat yourself to a soulful Sunday experience at Fort Lauderdale's Jazz Brunch, a beloved tradition that brings together music lovers and foodies alike. Relax by the New River as talented jazz musicians serenade you with their melodious tunes. Sample an array of brunch delights from local restaurants and vendors while soaking in the scenic beauty of the Riverwalk. Whether you're a jazz aficionado or simply looking to unwind, the Jazz Brunch in Fort Lauderdale offers a laid-back ambiance and a taste of the city's vibrant cultural scene. Click here to see the full schedule!

2. Great American Beach Party [ May 25th ]
Start your summer off right at Fort Lauderdale's Great American Beach Party, a Memorial Day weekend tradition you won't want to miss! Join us as we transform a section of our stunning beach into an entertainment hub, complete with live bands, water slides, and a kids zone. Admire the craftsmanship at the classic car show, marvel at the creativity of the sand sculpting contest, and witness the bravery of the SOCOM Para-Commandos during their parachute jump. With so much to see and do, this event is the perfect way to celebrate the holiday weekend with family and friends! Find more information here. 

3. 4th Of July Spectacular
Experience an unforgettable 4th of July at Fort Lauderdale's spectacular Independence Day Celebration! Head to Las Olas Oceanside Park and Fort Lauderdale Beach for a day of live bands, beach games, contests, and family activities. The kids zone will keep the little ones entertained with inflatable water slides and face painting. As night falls, enjoy live music before a stunning fireworks display lights up the sky. This free event is the perfect way to celebrate America's birthday with family and friends! See full schedule here. 

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Summer in South Florida is truly a magical time, filled with endless opportunities for fun and adventure. Whether you're a local looking to explore your own backyard or a visitor eager to experience all that this vibrant region has to offer, there's no shortage of excitement waiting for you. From the stunning beaches of West Palm Beach to the gems of Fort Lauderdale, summer here is a one-of-a-kind experience. We hope our guide has inspired you to make the most of your summer vacation and create memories that will last a lifetime. So, pack your bags, soak up the sun, and prepare to discover the beauty and excitement of summer in the Sunshine State!