February Festivals, Feasts, and Fairs Highlight South Florida

From art shows to food events, the region was bustling with community celebrations last month.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 6:05am

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South Florida was the place to be in February, with a packed calendar of festivals, feasts, and fairs across the region. The South Miami Rotary Art Festival, the Junior Orange Bowl Committee's business meeting, and the Way Forward Foundation's annual Lobster Feast were just a few of the highlights that brought together locals and visitors alike to enjoy art, food, and community.

Why it matters

These events showcase the vibrant culture and community spirit of South Florida, drawing crowds and supporting local businesses, nonprofits, and youth programs. They also provide opportunities for residents to come together and celebrate the unique identity of their neighborhoods.

The details

The South Miami Rotary Art Festival featured bands, art vendors, and a children's area with games and a mini trampoline. The Junior Orange Bowl Committee welcomed new members, including former University of Miami Women's Basketball coach Katie Meier. The Way Forward Foundation's annual Lobster Feast raised funds for programs supporting individuals living with paralysis. Celebrity chef Chris Valdes hosted the fifth annual EATZ event, showcasing local culinary talent ahead of the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival.

  • The South Miami Rotary Art Festival took place on the weekend of February 21-22, 2026.
  • The Junior Orange Bowl Committee met on February 27, 2026.
  • The Way Forward Foundation's Lobster Feast was held on Monday, February 23, 2026.
  • The fifth annual EATZ by Chris Valdes event was timed with the 25th anniversary of the Food Network South Beach Wine & Food Festival.

The players

South Miami Rotary

The local Rotary club that organizes the annual South Miami Rotary Art Festival.

Mimmi Balaam

The executive director of the Junior Orange Bowl Committee, who returned from Australia with her visa credentials in order.

Woody Beckham

The founder of The Way Forward Foundation (formerly The Woody Foundation), which hosted the annual Lobster Feast.

Chris Valdes

A celebrity chef who hosted the fifth annual EATZ event in Miami.

Eddie Cora

The president and CEO of the Miami Dade County Fair & Exposition, who spoke at the Greater Kendall Business Association meeting.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

The takeaway

South Florida's vibrant community spirit was on full display in February, with a diverse array of festivals, feasts, and fairs that brought together locals and visitors to celebrate the region's rich culture, support local businesses and nonprofits, and create lasting memories.