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April 28, 2026
—Family-friendly events are taking place throughout Miami Beach all year long—
Miami Beach, FL – The City of Miami Beach will honor America’s 250th birthday with multiple events starting on Memorial Day Weekend — continuing with dual firework displays over the Fourth of July — and culminating with the largest Veterans Day parade of the day in South Florida.
“Two hundred and fifty years ago, our nation was founded on the enduring ideals of freedom, courage, and self-determination. As we honor this historic milestone, we pay tribute to the generations who have defended those principles,” said Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner. “In Miami Beach, we celebrate America’s legacy not only with reverence, but with a continued resolve to public safety, opportunity, and the values that unite us as one nation.”
After the war, many of the approximately half-a-million troops who passed through the city during the war years made Miami Beach their permanent home. Their influence continues to be felt throughout the 7-mile island to this day. Over the years, Miami Beach has also welcomed a number of immigrants to its shores — including Jewish residents seeking freedom from persecution and thousands of immigrants from Cuba, Latin America and Europe who followed their American dreams to Miami Beach.
In honor of the semiquincentennial, the city will retrofit its iconic sunburst lifeguard tower at 8 Street in patriotic stars and stripes as a permanent reminder of America’s milestone birthday.
“Freedom has always been the guiding force that draws people to America — and Miami Beach embodies that promise every day,” said Miami Beach Commissioner Alex Fernandez, who sponsored the commemorative lifeguard tower. “From those like my parents who came to this country seeking liberty, to those who arrived in search of opportunity, our community stands as a testament to what is possible. Our newly unveiled patriotic lifeguard tower honors these ideals, reminding us that the life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness is alive right here on our paradise.”
The May movie lineup for the SoundScape Cinema Series taking place on Wednesdays at 8 p.m. will feature films that celebrate American stories, culture and resilience. The special programming includes screenings of “An American Tail: Fievel Goes West” on May 6, “Hamilton” on May 13 and “Lincoln” on May 20.
The city will present a special America’s 250th exhibit called Miami Beach FREEDOM at Galeria Ocean Drive (between 11 and 12 streets) on Thursday, May 21 to celebrate patriotism, culture and our coastal lifestyle. Curated by the Office of the Mayor and Commission, the new exhibit will be unveiled in partnership with the Hyundai Air & Sea Show. Supported by the Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau (GMCVB), the Miami Beach FREEDOM exhibit will be open to the public through July 15, 2026.
On Memorial Day weekend, witness the splendor of the legendary Air Force Thunderbirds over the skies of South Beach for the first time ever at the Hyundai Air & Sea Show on May 23-24. The official viewing area for the two-day National Salute to America’s Heroes is located on the beach between 11 and 14 streets. On Saturday at 6:30 p.m., Ocean Drive transforms into a vibrant stage celebrating freedom and America’s 250th birthday. The evening of free entertainment features top musical artists and a 3D projection mapping display at 14 Street that illuminates the facades of Ocean Drive’s iconic buildings. The night culminates with a dramatic U.S. Army Golden Knights nighttime pyro parachute jump, followed by a spectacular drone show and fireworks extravaganza. Visit www.usasalute.com.
Next, kick up your heels at Red, White and Boots: Line Dancing on Lummus for a lively evening of country‑inspired fun, line dancing and music on Saturday, May 30 from 6-8 p.m. The event brings a little country panache to Lummus Park at 12 Street and Ocean Drive. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just looking for a fun night out, this family‑friendly event is the perfect way to celebrate America on a warm summer night.
On Sunday, June 14 at 8:30 p.m. bring your blankets and chairs to the American Summer Cinema on the Sand at 12 Street and Ocean Drive for a free outdoor screening of the adrenaline-filled “National Treasure.”
Celebrate Independence Day on July 4 with music and festivities in South Beach and North Beach as the city lights up both ends of its shoreline for the Fourth of July. Celebrations will be held in North Beach at Altos Del Mar Park and in South Beach on Ocean Drive.
Finally, join the city for its 18th annual Veterans Day Parade at 11:11 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 11. The largest parade of the day in South Florida takes route on Ocean Drive from 5 to 15 streets featuring veteran and military groups, marching bands, musical and dance performances, local businesses and community organizations
For additional details on these events and more, visit www.miamibeachfl.gov/america250.
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