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A Perfect Family Day Out at the South Florida Fair

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An Annual Tradition of Laughs, Thrills and Togetherness at the South Florida Fair

January 26th, 2025

My family and I made our annual trip to the fair this past Saturday, and let me tell you, it did not disappoint! After a week of cold, rainy gloom, Saturday graced us with perfect weather—sunny skies, a light breeze, and the kind of warmth that makes you crave fair food. This year’s theme, “Imagine the Future,” was on full display the moment we stepped into the expo center. From interactive exhibits to high-tech entertainment, it felt like stepping into a carnival from the year 2050! Even the ice show embraced the theme with a sci-fi spectacle that had the whole audience captivated.

Speaking of the ice show—what a blast! The skaters dazzled with gravity-defying moves, but my son’s favorite part? The glow-in-the-dark juggling act on ice! Who knew neon bowling pins could be so mesmerizing? The costume changes were nonstop—aliens, robots, space explorers—it was like watching a futuristic Broadway production on skates.

But the magic show with Josh Knotts may have stolen the spotlight. This wasn’t your ordinary “pick-a-card” kind of magic. Josh made a motorcycle appear out of thin air with several volunteered children on stage with him, used props we had never seen before (including a robotic dinosaur in a dream sequence!) and had the audience roaring with laughter. The highlight? Watching two unsuspecting dads get pulled on stage for an impromptu toilet paper dance-off. It was pure comedic gold.

South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

Of course, the fair isn’t just about the shows—it’s about the thrills! After marveling at the art exhibits and learning some fun facts about bees (did you know they can recognize human faces?), we hit the midway. Rides, games, and flashing lights stretched in every direction. The little ones in our group were thrilled to finally be tall enough for the big-kid rides, and we spent the better part of the day spinning, soaring, and screaming our lungs out on one of the rides.

Then came the ultimate challenge: choosing what to eat. Sure, the classics were there—pizza, cotton candy, cinnamon rolls—but we were feeling adventurous. Korean corndogs? Yes, please. Mexican street corn? A must. Donut burgers? Why not! And for the truly daring—chocolate-covered bacon. Let’s just say we left the fair with full stomachs and zero regrets.

By nightfall, the fairgrounds were packed, and the lines started to get longer. We didn’t make it to the animal exhibits this year (sorry, roosters—we’ll catch you next time), but after a day packed with excitement, we were ready to call it a night. The only downside? The traffic getting in and out of the fair was no joke. Parking was a bit of a nightmare, with some folks having to what seemed like a mile just to reach the entrance. Here’s hoping for a smoother system next year!

The South Florida Fair is always a guaranteed good time. Whether you’re catching a live band, indulging in deep-fried delights, shopping for quirky finds, or screaming your heart out on a carnival classic, there’s something for everyone. The only challenge? Figuring out how to squeeze it all into one day!

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

  • South Florida Fair. photo by Louis Shapiro

Events

Fangtasia at Regatta Grove Brought Vampire Vibes and Spooky Cocktails to Miami

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From vampire bartenders and a neon coffin photo op to Halloween cocktails and waterfront dancing, Regatta Grove’s Fangtasia was a bloody good time.


November 2, 2026

Halloween in Miami just hits differently. While the rest of the country is bundling up for spooky season, we’re sipping cocktails by the water, dancing under the stars, and apparently hanging out with vampires.

And honestly? We wouldn’t have it any other way.

Regatta Grove in Coconut Grove went all in for Halloween weekend with Fangtasia, a two-night vampire-inspired celebration on October 30 and 31 that turned the waterfront hotspot into a spooky little paradise.

We stopped by to see what all the fang-tastic fun was about, and between the elaborate costumes, DJ, festive cocktails, and vampire staff, there was plenty to love.

The first thing we noticed? Regatta Grove was fully committed to the theme.

Red Halloween decorations transformed the open-air venue, creating a moody atmosphere against the backdrop of Biscayne Bay. Guests showed up in elaborate costumes, bringing plenty of Halloween personality to an already lively setting.

But our favorite detail might have been the staff.

Every staff member was dressed as a vampire.

Yes, even the people making your drinks were embracing their undead era. It’s those little details that make themed events so much more fun, and Regatta Grove definitely understood the assignment.

And then there was the neon coffin photo op, because what’s a vampire party without somewhere to take a ridiculously good Halloween picture?

Let’s just say the photo opportunities were not lacking.

Now, obviously, we need to talk about the drinks.

Fangtasia featured three Halloween specialty cocktails made with Ketel One vodka, each with its own spooky personality.

The Ghoul’s Mule was a Halloween twist on the classic Moscow Mule, made with Ketel One vodka, ginger beer, strawberry, and lime. Fruity, refreshing, and just the right kind of festive for a warm Miami evening.

The Black Widow was one for the espresso martini lovers, combining Ketel One Espresso vodka, cold brew, and coffee liqueur. Dark, coffee-forward, and appropriately named for the occasion. We love a cocktail that matches the dress code.

And finally, the Bloody Good Martini mixed Ketel One vodka, triple sec, lemon juice, and strawberry for a citrusy, fruity take on a Halloween martini.

Honestly, who needs a cauldron when the cocktail menu is already this fun?

One of the best things about Regatta Grove is its location. Set right along Biscayne Bay, the Coconut Grove venue already has that laid-back, tropical atmosphere that makes Miami nights so much fun.

But for Fangtasia, things got a little darker.

The red decorations, vampire costumes, and Halloween details gave the venue a completely different personality, while a great DJ kept the energy going throughout the celebration.

And the guests definitely brought their A-game. From elaborate costumes to all-out Halloween looks, the crowd was clearly having fun with the theme.

There was something especially entertaining about seeing such an eerie Halloween atmosphere mixed with palm trees, waterfront views, and Miami’s warm evening breeze.

A little spooky, a little glamorous, and very Miami.

Between the costumed crowd, vampire staff, themed cocktails, and neon coffin photo op, Fangtasia at Regatta Grove was such a fun way to celebrate Halloween in Coconut Grove.

What made the night memorable wasn’t just one big attraction. It was how all the details came together, from the music and decor to the staff getting in on the fun.

And really, a Halloween party where you can dance by Biscayne Bay, sip a Bloody Good Martini, and take photos in a glowing coffin? That’s pretty hard to beat.

Fangtasia may be over for this year, but we’re already curious to see what Regatta Grove has planned next.

Until then, we’ll be keeping our fangs crossed for another round next Halloween.

 

Regatta Grove | Coconut Grove, Miami

3415 Pan American Drive, Miami, FL 33133

Event: Fangtasia Halloween Celebration

Dates: October 30–31, 2026

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South Beach Seafood Festival Brings The Boil

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Come for the Crab, Stay for the Party: South Beach Serves Up a Saturday Worth Savoring.

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Crab With a Side of Party

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South Beach Seafood Festival serves sweet stone crab, buttery shrimp and a Miami soundtrack worth sticking around for.

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Fright Nights Unleashed: Big Scares, Bold Bites and a Night to Remember

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Fright Nights Delivers Scares, Flavor and a Behind-the-Scenes Look at Halloween Magic.

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Boca’s South Florida Pickle Festival Proves to be a Big Dill

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From pickle-topped pizza and bucking cucumbers to pun-filled fashion and lively music, Boca Raton’s briniest celebration delivered plenty of flavor before lightning crashed the party. (more…)

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Horrorland Scares Up a Frightfully Good Time

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Six haunted houses, sinister surprises and death-defying entertainment turn Miami’s Jungle Island into a scream-worthy playground where fear and fun collide. (more…)

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The Wharf Fort Lauderdale Is Going Full Halloween, and We Want In!

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Horror movie villains on Friday, disco skeletons on Saturday, and two nights of Halloween chaos we absolutely cannot miss.


October 14, 2026

Okay, Fort Lauderdale, Halloween weekend is looking GOOD.

The Wharf Fort Lauderdale is giving us not one, but TWO completely different Halloween parties this year, and honestly, choosing between them feels unfair. One night we’re running from horror movie villains, and the next we’re dancing under disco balls with skeletons. What more could we possibly want?

Whether you’re the type who lives for a good scare or just wants an excuse to wear something outrageous and dance all night, The Wharf has plans for you.

And yes, we’re already thinking about costumes.

Friday, October 30: Slasher Drive-In

Remember when horror movies were all about creepy drive-in theaters, questionable decisions, and someone inevitably running in the wrong direction?

Well, The Wharf is bringing that energy back with Slasher Drive-In, an old-school horror-inspired Halloween party that sounds equal parts terrifying and ridiculously fun.

The venue is transforming into a vintage-style drive-in movie theater, complete with a throwback concession stand serving movie-night snacks.

Cute, right?

Except there’s one tiny problem.

Freddy Krueger, Jason Voorhees, Ghostface, and Leatherface are all on the guest list.

Yes, the horror icons themselves will be roaming around the venue throughout the night, so maybe think twice before wandering off alone.

We love a good Halloween theme, but this one sounds like you’re stepping straight into your favorite slasher movie. Except instead of screaming at the characters on screen, you might actually be the one doing the screaming.

And honestly? We’re kind of into it.

Saturday, October 31: ‘Til Death Do Us Party

Now THIS is our kind of afterlife.

On Halloween night, The Wharf is trading horror movie scares for a full-blown disco takeover with ‘Til Death Do Us Party, where Studio 54 meets the great beyond.

Think glitter, mirror balls, disco skeletons, fabulous costumes, and a dance floor that refuses to rest in peace.

It’s spooky, it’s glamorous, and it’s giving us every reason to break out the sequins.

There will also be a costume contest, plenty of photo opportunities, and a special menu of $12 Halloween cocktails, because what’s a disco in the afterlife without a little something spooky to sip?

We’re picturing outrageous outfits, sparkly accessories, and a whole lot of dancing. If you’ve been saving a dramatic Halloween look for the perfect occasion, this might be it.

And can we just appreciate a Halloween party that doesn’t make us choose between looking fabulous and embracing the spooky season?

So, Which Night Are We Going?

Here’s the thing. We genuinely cannot decide.

Friday is for horror movie lovers who want to hang out with the villains they’ve spent years being terrified of.

Saturday is for the disco queens, costume enthusiasts, and anyone who believes Halloween should involve a little glitter and a lot of dancing.

Our solution? Both. Obviously.

Halloween only comes around once a year, and The Wharf Fort Lauderdale is making a pretty convincing case for clearing the entire weekend.

So call your friends, start planning those costumes, and prepare for two nights that sound way too fun to stay home for.

Because whether you’re running from Ghostface or dancing with the dead, one thing’s for sure: Fort Lauderdale isn’t going to be boring this Halloween.

The Halloween Weekend Details

Where: The Wharf Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Friday, October 30: Slasher Drive-In, featuring horror movie characters, drive-in theater vibes, and movie-night snacks.

Saturday, October 31: ‘Til Death Do Us Party, featuring a Halloween disco, costume contest, photo ops, and $12 specialty cocktails.

The vibe: A little spooky, a little fabulous, and absolutely worth getting dressed up for.

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Regatta Grove Is Getting Spooky, and Fangtasia Might Be Our Favorite Halloween Plan Yet!

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Vampire vibes, waterfront cocktails, and two nights of Halloween fun on Biscayne Bay? We’re so in.


Okay, Miami, THIS is the kind of Halloween we’re talking about.

Picture this: you’re sipping a cocktail by the water, the sun is setting over Biscayne Bay, there’s a breeze coming off the water, and suddenly your favorite waterfront hangout has entered its vampire era.

Welcome to Fangtasia at Regatta Grove, where Halloween meets Miami’s favorite kind of night out.

Taking over Regatta Grove on Friday, October 30, and Saturday, October 31, Fangtasia is bringing a darker, moodier twist to the waterfront spot we already love. And honestly, vampires and cocktails by the bay? We’re listening.

There’s something about Regatta Grove that makes an ordinary night feel like a mini vacation. The waterfront views, the open air, the tropical atmosphere. It’s the kind of place where you show up for a drink and somehow lose track of time.

Now imagine all of that with a spooky Halloween twist.

Fangtasia is bringing the Halloween spirit to Coconut Grove without losing the laid-back coastal charm that makes Regatta Grove so much fun in the first place.

Think mysterious waterfront vibes, wicked cocktails, and the perfect excuse to embrace your dark side for the evening.

And can we talk about how good a vampire-inspired Halloween party sounds against a Miami sunset?

We’re already obsessed with the idea.

Listen, we love a haunted house. We love a good Halloween party. But there’s something especially appealing about celebrating spooky season with a cocktail in hand and Biscayne Bay as your backdrop.

No need to choose between your favorite Miami waterfront hangout and getting into the Halloween spirit. Fangtasia is giving us both.

Whether you’re going all out with your costume or just looking for somewhere fun to spend Halloween weekend, this is the kind of plan that’s easy to get excited about.

And with two nights to choose from, there’s really no excuse not to get a little fang-tastic.

If your Halloween group chat is still full of “What are we doing?” messages, consider this your answer.

Regatta Grove is already one of those places we love finding an excuse to visit, and throwing a vampire-inspired celebration into the mix just makes it better.

Grab your favorite people, embrace the spooky season, and make your way to Coconut Grove for a Halloween weekend with a little bite.

Because really, who wouldn’t want to spend Halloween sipping cocktails by the bay?

Fangtasia at Regatta Grove

Where: Regatta Grove, Coconut Grove, Miami

When: Friday, October 30, and Saturday, October 31, 2026

The Vibe: Moody waterfront Halloween fun, wicked cocktails, and a vampire-inspired twist on a Miami favorite.

Our take? Halloween by the water with a little vampire energy sounds like a pretty perfect night to us.

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