Best Miami October Events: Your Ultimate Guide to Fall Fun
As October arrives, Miami bursts into life with a plethora of exciting events and festivities that promise to delight and entertain residents and visitors alike. From spooky haunted mansions to vibrant cultural celebrations, captivating festivals, and educational exhibits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy this October in the Magic City. Join us on a journey through the top Miami October events, and get ready to immerse yourself in the diverse and thrilling experiences that await. Let’s dive into the enchanting world of Miami’s October events!
1. Havana Haunted Mansion
Now – October 31, 23
As the sun sets on September 15th, the vibrant spirit of South Florida will awaken, thanks to the grand opening of Havana Haunted Mansion at the historic Curtiss Mansion in Miami Springs. This renowned location will undergo a stunning transformation, turning its grounds into an eerie and enchanting realm. Guests will be treated to mind-bending spectacles, captivating theatrical performances, chilling cocktails, and mouthwatering cuisine, all designed to transport them back to the early 20th century in Havana, Cuba. This exclusive, adults-only Halloween pop-up experience will immerse visitors in a world of puzzles and challenges, ghostly characters, and delectable Cuban dishes. Miami is privileged to be the first city to host the Havana Haunted Mansion, and it will continue to delight and thrill guests through October 31st.
2. Haunted Circus Miami 2023
Now – October 31, 23
Prepare yourselves for an extraordinary and spine-tingling adventure as Haunted Circus Miami reemerges in September, promising an unparalleled fusion of interactive quests, mesmerizing circus performances, and themed photo zones. This year’s edition boasts seven immersive quests, drawing inspiration from the Jack-o’-lantern legend, inviting attendees to unravel mysteries and immerse themselves in the haunting atmosphere. The circus show exhibits astonishing talents, pushing the boundaries of human capabilities, and leaving spectators spellbound. Furthermore, visitors have the opportunity to capture eerie moments at enchanting themed photo zones, creating lasting memories with friends and family. Haunted Circus Miami 2023 is set to run from September 14th to October 31st at Tropical Park in Miami, providing a range of ticket options for an unforgettable Halloween adventure
3. Hispanic Heritage Doral Art Exhibit
Now – October 13, 2023
Celebrating Hispanic culture in Miami is an absolute must. This vibrant destination is renowned for hosting one of the nation’s largest communities of Latinx individuals, offering a rich tapestry of cultures. Exciting events to commemorate Hispanic Heritage Month are spread across Miami, catering to art and culture aficionados.
For those with an appreciation for visual art, a visit to Doral is a must. The Hispanic Heritage Doral Art Exhibit awaits, showcasing remarkable local artworks. Alternatively, immerse yourself in a collective art exhibition titled “La Mano Hispana” (The Hispanic Hand), taking place in Hialeah.
Literary enthusiasts can partake in the celebration of Hispanic diaspora literature by attending in-person author discussions featuring Rosa Lowinger, Elizabeth Cerejido, and Lisandro Pérez.
If you’re in the mood for a lively celebration, make your way to Little Havana, the heart of Miami’s Cuban culture. Here, you can join the annual “Celebrating Milestones” event on Calle Ocho. This event offers a chance to socialize with local artists and small business owners, along with opportunities to enjoy salsa dancing, domino games, art galleries, and, of course, savor authentic Cuban cuisine.
4. Sukkot Magic Festival
October 6, 2023 – October 8, 2023
Modern ŌM is proud to co-present Sukkot Magic, a distinctive and inclusively reimagined festival centered around the Jewish holiday of Sukkot, set in the vibrant city of Miami. Nestled within a lush landscape featuring lychee, banana, and avocado groves, alongside a bamboo forest and a tropical jungle waterfall lagoon oasis, this four-day, three-night event promises a truly transformative experience.
Sukkot Magic harmoniously blends the traditions of Sukkot, Shmini Atzeret, and Simchat Torah, weaving them into a co-created tapestry of community-driven programming, shared moments, delectable meals, and reenvisioned rituals. Drawing participants from across the globe, this gathering encourages exploration of interconnected experiences rooted in ancient wisdom and future aspirations.
For those conscious individuals residing in Miami, there are limited day passes and an exclusive Shabbat Dinner ticket available, providing an opportunity to join in this exceptional celebration.
5. Sip and Savor – October
October 07, 2023
Get ready for a captivating weekend at the “Sip and Savor” event in the Garden, where a delightful fusion of flavors, atmosphere, and nature awaits. Immerse yourself in this experience as you savor signature sangria concoctions, skillfully blended with luscious fruits and wines, elevating your Garden visit to a new level.
A revolving selection of food trucks caters to diverse culinary preferences, ensuring there’s something to please every palate. Amidst the lush garden backdrop, take leisurely strolls along tranquil pathways, capturing the true essence of nature’s beauty. This event awakens the senses and creates cherished memories.
Admission and sangria can be conveniently obtained on-site, and guided tours are available at 11 A.M or 1:30 P.M. For an even more indulgent experience, guests can secure a reservation for the 3 PM Daily Tasting Tour with just a day’s notice, promising moments of pure delight.
6. Miami Carnival Parade and Concert
October 8, 2023
If you’re passionate about towering feathered headdresses, adorned costumes, and the splendid spectacle of Caribbean jump bands, then Miami Carnival is an event not to be overlooked. Taking place at the Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition grounds, this vibrant celebration includes the Parade of Bands & Concert, a dazzling display of themed bands adorned in intricately detailed costumes as they march along the parade route. Delight in 12 hours of non-stop dance, music, vendors, chances to win prizes, and relish the flavors of Caribbean cuisine from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.
7. 13th Annual Miami Children’s Museum Halloween Bash
October 8, 2023
Join for an afternoon of Halloween family fun at the Miami Children’s Museum’s “Not So Scary Halloween Bash” on Sunday, October 8th. In its 13th edition, this family-friendly Halloween extravaganza promises a plethora of enjoyable activities for the kids. These include trick-or-treating throughout the museum’s 17 galleries, mini pumpkin decorating, spooky arts and crafts, a delicious lunch, character meet-and-greets, and much more! And for those feeling brave, the museum’s famous Haunted House eagerly awaits your visit. Don’t forget to come dressed in your finest Halloween costumes!
It’s worth noting that all proceeds from this event will directly contribute to supporting the Museum’s educational programs, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, immersive, hands-on learning experiences for children of all backgrounds and abilities.
Please keep in mind that this event will take place regardless of the weather, rain or shine. Additionally, children under the age of two do not require a ticket for entry.
8. Sharks Exhibit At The Phillip And Patricia Frost Museum Of Science
October 14 – April 21, 2024
PHILLIP AND PATRICIA FROST MUSEUM OF SCIENCE
If Shark Week holds a special place on your calendar every year, you won’t want to miss the Sharks exhibition at the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science in Downtown Miami. This captivating exhibit sheds light on the diversity, habitats, and interactions of these ancient denizens of the sea.
Museum-goers can immerse themselves in an oceanarium that provides a submersion-like experience, featuring 10 life-sized, scientifically precise representations of sharks, including an up-close examination of the once-extinct buzzsaw shark. To enhance the experience, 3D interactive displays facilitate in-depth exploration of the anatomy and adaptations of sharks in various environments. Additionally, visitors can enjoy a unique 360-degree view of a hammerhead shark. For those seeking live action, the museum’s three-level aquarium offers excellent vantage points to observe real sharks.
9. Water Lantern Festival
October 14, 4:30-8:30pm
The Water Lantern Festival, voted #1 Festival by USA Today, is coming up soon. Don’t miss this incredible experience where you will create a magical memory as the lanterns illuminate the water in a beautiful display. This festival brings people together from all ages, backgrounds, and walks of life, for a magical night of great music, tasty food, and the most awe-inspiring sight as thousands of floating lanterns light up the water. As the sun begins to set on the evening sky, Water Lantern Festival begins to shine with the launch of the lanterns onto the water as we Light The Water together. Participants will watch their unique lantern drift out into the water as it joins other lanterns carrying hope, love, happiness, healing, peace, and connection.
10. Meet Florida Fish Farmers
October 19, 2023
SALT Waterfront Restaurant, situated on the campus of the University of Miami’s Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science on Virginia Key, offers a stunning backdrop for appreciating the scenic charm of Biscayne Bay. Located just off the Rickenbacker Causeway, which connects mainland Miami to Key Biscayne, this restaurant provides a majestic setting.
This venue serves as the location for the “Meet Florida Fish Farmers” event, where attendees have the opportunity to engage with farmers involved in harvesting a diverse range of fish. Guests can also watch informative films highlighting the environmental advantages of the fish-farming industry while indulging in delicious bites.
11. Rare Plants & Orchid Festival
October 20 – 22
Nestled within the tranquil embrace of Redland Fruit and Spice Park in South Dade, the Rare Plant Festival emerges as an irresistible magnet for plant enthusiasts from all walks of life. This event serves as a captivating ode to the passion shared by those who hold a deep affection for the world of botanical marvels. Over the course of three exhilarating days, attendees are invited to immerse themselves in a plant-centric extravaganza, guided by world-renowned plant growers and kindred spirits who share a profound fascination for rare flora.
It is important to note that external promotions or coupons do not apply to this special event, ensuring a consistently exceptional experience for all participants. Furthermore, organizers kindly request that visitors refrain from bringing large coolers or pets.
For savvy attendees, securing advanced tickets at discounted rates is highly recommended, with availability extending until the promotional period’s conclusion. Please be aware that admission for Thursday, October 19th, is exclusively accessible online in advance. The Rare Plant Festival promises an unforgettable botanical adventure for all who choose to partake.
12. South Beach Seafood Festival
October 21, 2023
Don’t overlook the 11th annual South Beach Seafood Festival, a splendid occasion that beckons you to savor Florida’s renowned stone crab season, commencing on October 15th. Unlike most typical festivals, where seafood enthusiasts casually wander among food trucks, this South Beach event distinguishes itself by presenting an array of special activities that spotlight the region’s finest chefs and exquisite seafood offerings.
Embrace this beachfront celebration where Miami’s premier restaurants set up pop-up cafes, more than 30 bars craft delectable cocktails, and culinary demonstrations are hosted by the local Milam’s Markets of Miami. The festival also features celebrity DJs and boasts three live music stages, culminating in an extraordinary seafood extravaganza by the sea.
13. Fire Flies Forest “Afterlife”
October 27, 2023 – October 30, 2023
Attendees are invited to embark on a captivating journey into the afterlife at the upcoming “Afterlife” celebration. In a departure from previous years, this event aims to honor diverse cultural perspectives on death and the afterlife. Exploring profound questions about the nature of existence after death and the fear it evokes, participants will also discover ways to incorporate the concept of death into their lives in a healthy manner. This gathering coincides with a time when various cultures believe that the boundary between the living and the afterlife is at its thinnest, facilitating connections with ancestors through playful rituals, prayer, and remembrance. The event schedule, shrouded in mystery until arrival, promises a range of empowering activities, including yoga, sound healing, workshops, live music, ceremonies, tantra, storytelling, and more. On-site amenities include a mindful market, food vendors, and First Aid services. Attendees are encouraged to leave behind aggression, alcohol, illegal substances, and litter, and to bring an open heart and mind.
14. Miami Dragon Boat Festival
October 28, 2023
To conclude the month, one can partake in the Miami Dragon Boat Festival, an exceptional boat racing extravaganza taking place at Haulover Park, located just south of Sunny Isles Beach. Spectators can witness both novice and elite rowing teams in fierce competition, while also admiring the intricately designed dragon heads and tails adorning the boats, contributing to the event’s overall enjoyment. Beyond the races, attendees can indulge in live entertainment, savor dishes from food trucks, and explore a village dedicated to health and wellness. Notably, a portion of the event’s proceeds goes towards supporting the Save Our Sisters Miami program, which introduces breast cancer survivors to the world of dragon boat racing.
15. Tropical Harvest Heritage Fest
October 28 – 29, 2023
Everyone is invited to partake in the celebration of South Florida’s rich farming and growing traditions, immersing themselves in the region’s agricultural heritage at this distinctive festival. Attendees can savor delectable cuisine, forge connections with the dedicated individuals behind our sustenance, and gain insights into the agricultural history and present through a variety of engaging activities such as food demonstrations, tastings of sangria, informative presentations, a children’s cook-off, and even a costume contest with a farmer theme. Furthermore, they will have the opportunity to acquire garden seedlings, seeds, food plants, and essential gardening supplies. Families and friends are encouraged to join and witness the vibrant local farm-to-table scene in action, allowing inspiration to flourish. This event represents a collaborative effort between GrowFest and Fruit and Spice Park, ensuring a truly exceptional occasion.
