It’s almost springtime in South Florida, giving locals an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful weather for a few more weeks. This month kicks off with the 305 Half Marathon and 5k, with a scenic route that will take runners throughout Miami Beach on March 1. There’s no lack of culture this month, as the Miami International Film Festival kicks off on March 6 to showcase films from all over the world in theatres across the city.

The North Beach Bandshell will host the Global Cuba Fest on March 7 and the North Beach Social, featuring a special performance from Afrobeta on March 19. Enjoy a taste of Japanese culture on March 29 as the Miami Beach Botanical Garden hosts their Annual Japanese Spring Festival.

305 Half Marathon & 5K

South Beach

Sunday, March 1

Locals can enjoy the best of Miami Beach during the 305 Half Marathon and 5K on Sunday, March 1. Formerly known as 13.1 Miami Beach, the race has been held for many years. The race kicks off at 1200 Ocean Drive and features a winding course showcasing the coast and parts of South Beach.

Both the half marathon and 5k end at Lummus Park, where runners and volunteers can enjoy a festival after the event. Spots for the 5k are sold out, but registration for the half marathon is still open!

Miami International Film Festival

Various locations

March 6 - 15

The Miami International Film Festival kicks off it’s 37th year on March 6, hosting a variety of films and documentaries throughout the city. Over 125 films, documentaries, and narratives will be showcased throughout the festival. Tickets range between $10 - $13 per film.

Miami Beach is hosting an event on Friday, March 13. The Confidante Retro Affair, hosted by the Confidante Miami Beach, will feature a special after party inside the 1930’s Bungalow located by their pool area. The night will feature filmmakers and other guests, sponsored by San Pellegrino.

Global Cuba Fest

North Beach Bandshell

Saturday, March 7

The Rhythm Foundation, FUNDarte, and Miami Light Project have joined forces to bring the best of Cuba’s new artists to Miami. On Saturday, March 7, the Global Cuba Fest will take place at the North Beach Bandshell, kicking off at 7 pm.

Headlining the show are Yelsy Heredia and Brenda Navarrete, who are both accompanied by Cuban artists. Navarette blends together Afro-Cuban heritage and modern jazz influences for her sound, and will be joined by Mi Mundo, who will be making their Miami debut at the fest. Heredia is a bassist who has toured with many bands and is bringing his passion project, the Changüí Project, to the stage. Changui is the traditional rhythm of the sugar cane farms hailing from Heredia’s native region of Guantanamo in Cuba.

Tickets start at $30 for pre-sale and can be purchased here.

North Beach Social: Afrobeta

North Beach Bandshell

Thursday, March 19

Avant-dance musical duo Afrobeta will be headlining the next North Beach Social on Thursday, March 19! The group, comprised of Cuci Amador and Smurphio, are hometown favorites who have been performing since 2006.

This North Beach Social is one of four socials, each featuring a pop-up food hall and long communal tables for locals to meet each other, while enjoying some of the best restaurants and chefs in the Miami Beach and North Beach area.

This particular social will not only feature amazing food and a live performance from Afrobeta, but will also have a yoga activation from Skylight Yoga.

This event begins at 6 pm and is free with RSVP.

Annual Japanese Spring Festival

Miami Beach Botanical Gardens

Sunday, March 29

Celebrate the coming of Spring and Japanese culture at the Miami Beach Botanical Gardens on Sunday, March 29. The Annual Japanese Spring Festival is a family friendly event and will feature workshops and performances throughout the day.

Guests will be able to experience a myriad of Japanese experiences, including a traditional tea ceremony, Ikebana floral design workshops, origami lessons, and Taiko drumming performances by Fushu Daiko. Apart from the workshops, there will also be a market featuring Japanese goods and a children’s corner with arts and crafts.

The festival will begin at 10 am and run until 4 pm, and tickets are free with RSVP.

Urban Resource is a team of locals who live and work in the North Beach, Miami Beach area. The team is dedicated to fostering a sense of community for those who reside here, particularly through community engagement and cultural events. As locals, we understand how important it is to love where you live and feel connected to the neighborhood. This sense of connection is fostered through our sponsorship of events with the Normandy Fountain Business Association and the North Beach Bandshell, helping to uplift both the residents and local businesses in our neighborhood.