This June, The LOOP Fort Lauderdale Beach proudly presents its Second Annual Caribbean American Heritage Month Celebration. Sponsored by the City of Fort Lauderdale Beach Business Improvement District, this month-long series of events promises a dynamic and immersive experience in the heart of Las Olas Oceanside Park.

Since its inception in 2006, June has been nationally recognized as Caribbean American Heritage Month, celebrating the invaluable contributions and vibrant culture of Caribbean Americans within the United States. In 2023, the City of Fort Lauderdale further honored this tradition by awarding The LOOP with a proclamation, solidifying June as Caribbean American Heritage Month within the city.

Rooted in The LOOP’s mission to offer an “Infinite Experience for Everyone Under the Sun,” this month-long celebration will unfold across the weekend MKT, held every Saturday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The festivities are free and open to all ages, offering a diverse array of activities that highlight the essence of Caribbean culture through food, art, music, and entertainment.

A Taste of the Caribbean

Immerse yourself in the soulful and deep flavors of Caribbean cuisine with live cooking demonstrations and tastings every Saturday from 10:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. Discover the culinary delights of Cuba, Haiti, Jamaica, and more.

June 1, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.: Meet & Greet and Taste the Islands Cookbook Signing with Chef Thia
June 1, 12–2 p.m.: Meet & Greet and pre-order Koupe Dwet Boule Kay: Revolutionary Plant-Based Haitian Recipes with Vegan-chef Nzingah of “Yes Baby I Like It Raw”
June 9, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.: Meet & Greet and Taste the Islands Cookbook Signing with Chef Irie
June 15: Complimentary samples from Vicky Bakery (spotlight on Cuba)
June 22: Complimentary samples with Chef Damon from Island Chef & Plantains (spotlight on the Bahamas, Trinidad and Tobago)
June 28, 5–10 p.m. & June 29, 9 a.m.–5 p.m.: Visit the Good Foods purple airstream for free samples of chunky guacamole and avocado salsa
June 30: Meet & Greet and Cookbook Signing with Chef Keisha Mitto, author of Anyone Can Cook Caribbean Fusion

The Colors of the Islands

Experience the vibrant artistry of the Caribbean through the local artisans at the weekend market. Additionally, a special pop-up gallery will showcase visual and performance art on Sunday, June 23.

June 23, 11 a.m.–2 p.m.: Pieces of Jamaica Book Signing with Photographer David Muir
June 23: Island Space presents Jamaican Flair Carnival Costumes and Mask Making
June 23, 10 a.m.–5 p.m.: Caribbean-American Artist Gallery Showcase

Island Vibes: Music & Dance

Feel the pulse of the Caribbean through music and dance. Every Saturday from 12 to 3 p.m., enjoy a musical journey celebrating different Caribbean nations.

June 1, 10:30–11:30 a.m.: Intro to Haitian Dance with Nzingah – FREE
June 1: Dillard Center for the Arts – spotlight on Haiti
June 8: Sabor Latino – spotlight on Puerto Rico
June 15: Oriente Quartet – spotlight on Cuba
June 22: Pan Paradise – spotlight on Trinidad & Tobago and the Bahamas
June 29: Paul Anthony & The Reggae Souljahs – spotlight on Jamaica

Reggae Sundays, hosted by the legendary Tanto Irie, invite everyone to enjoy live bands and DJs, epitomizing the fusion of culture, community, and Caribbean vibes.

Special Activities

Three special activities will round out the month-long celebration:

June 8, 8 a.m.–11 a.m.: One Love. One Ocean. Beach Clean Up. Register at theloopflb.com/events/one-love-one-ocean/ – FREE
June 23, 10–11:30 a.m.: Socaton – Dance. Sweat. Fete. Focus on men’s health awareness – FREE
June 28, 8 p.m.: Movies by Moonlight – Cool Runnings screening under the stars – FREE

Where: Las Olas Oceanside Park, 3000 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316. Parking is available at the Las Olas Beach Parking Garage with the PayByPhone App.

For more information, visit theloopflb.com/events/cahm2024.