Overtown came alive on Saturday, July 19, as the Overtown Music & Arts Festival Family Reunion Fest transformed Historic Dorsey Park into a vibrant celebration of culture, community, and music. Thousands gathered for a full day of live performances, family-friendly activities, and heartfelt tributes — all rooted in the spirit of togetherness and pride in Miami’s historic Black neighborhood.

The day began on a high note with a soul-stirring gospel segment featuring performances by Greater Bethel Church Praise Group, Sis Martha, and Faith on Full. Longtime host Larry Dogg made a special moment even more meaningful by reuniting with former 99 Jamz personality Felisha Monet, who returned as a surprise co-host. Together, they paid tribute to the late Jill Tracey, a beloved figure in South Florida radio and one of the original hosts of the festival in 2014, with a touching video montage and warm words of remembrance.

Families enjoyed a wide range of activities throughout the park, with the T.E.E.S. x Simkins Family Foundation Youth Zone as a major highlight for younger attendees. Kids were treated to interactive bubble shows, creative arts and crafts from Kid Creates, face painting, gaming in the GameRunner truck, inflatable sports stations, and even a custom TikTok mural for dance videos and selfies. Sponsors like DTLR and Demesmin & Dover Law Firm helped elevate the experience by offering giveaways, including exclusive Miami Heat hats and gift cards.

Local talent shined throughout the afternoon with performances from Artistic Freedom Mentorship Program artists Eleny & Sophia, Christy Zemour, and Rachel Graham. They were joined by South Florida standouts Nia Devine, Lace, Dem Twinz, KL.Z, and Tyler Watts, whose performance of Prettiest Girl earned enthusiastic crowd participation.

One of the festival’s most dynamic segments came during the DJ Sound Clash. Miami’s top DJs showcased the city’s musical diversity with themed sets:

• DJ TilleryJames educated the crowd with The Sample Set, connecting classic tracks to their modern remakes.
• DJ Richie D delivered a Caribbean vibe with The Island Heatwave, spinning Dancehall, Reggae, and Afrobeat.
• DJ Vybz took it back with The Doo-Wop All R&B Set, featuring crowd-led singalongs.
• DJ Quick Silva, flying in from Baltimore, brought a nostalgic Who’s Era mix of 80s to 2000s hip-hop and go-go.
• The clash wrapped up with Funkmasta Olly and DJ H2’s Tribute to Miami Music, honoring the city’s legendary sound.

As the evening rolled in, national acts took the stage for a high-energy grand finale. Tito Puente Jr. brought Latin flair, while Carl Thomas stirred up R&B nostalgia. Melanie Fiona delivered powerhouse vocals, and Estelle brought the crowd to its feet — even joining fans in the audience for a true family-style celebration.

Throughout the day, hosts Felisha Monet, Quick Silva, and Larry Dogg kept the momentum going with games, trivia, and crowd contests. Oshi Creates supported the fun with giveaways including headphones, creator tools, and a karaoke machine.

The 2025 Overtown Music & Arts Festival Family Reunion Fest was made possible by presenting sponsors Miami-Dade County Commissioner Keon Hardemon and the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs, along with support from Demesmin & Dover Law Firm, Omni CRA, Southeast Overtown Park West CRA, City of Miami Mayor Francis Suarez, and the City of Miami Parks & Recreation Department. The Youth Zone was presented by T.E.E.S. and the Simkins Family Foundation, with additional support from DTLR and Shoe Gallery.

Check out Hy-Lo News’ official recap video below to relive the best moments of this unforgettable day:

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