Greater Fort Lauderdale is a melting pot of culture and diversity, boasting more than 170 countries and 147 languages spoken in the county. With such a rich cultural tapestry, it’s no wonder that Visit Lauderdale is celebrating National Diversity Month by curating a list of the sights, sounds, and savoury spots that embody the area’s unique heritage.

From attractions and festivals to restaurants and tours, there is no shortage of activities to immerse yourself in during National Diversity Month. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something new to discover in Greater Fort Lauderdale.

Attractions

Greater Fort Lauderdale is home to a range of attractions that offer fascinating insights into the area’s cultural heritage. The Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum, nestled in the heart of the Everglades on the Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation, is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the Seminole people and their rich cultural and historical ties to the Southeast and Florida.

The African American Research Library and Cultural Centre is a focal point in Fort Lauderdale’s historically Black Sistrunk neighbourhood. The library is extraordinary for the quantity and rarity of books on Black history and culture, as well as for the books written by authors of African American descent.

For those interested in exploring the area’s Black heritage, customized tours offer fascinating insights and anecdotes. The Blanche Ely House Museum, located in the former home of renowned educators Blanche and Joseph Ely, showcases the significant social and cultural milestones of Pompano Beach’s Northwest Community. The Historic Ali Cultural Centre is a must-visit destination for those passionate about public visual art exhibits and performances reflecting the heritage of Pompano’s African American community.

The Stonewall National Museum, Archives & Library is one of the largest gay archives and libraries in the United States, collecting, preserving, interpreting, and sharing the culture of the LGBTQ+ community. It also serves as an epicentre of enlightenment to build bridges of cultural understanding in the LGBTQ+ community and beyond.

Festivals & Special Events

Greater Fort Lauderdale is known for its year-round line-up of festivals and special events that highlight the area’s diverse culture. From the Rhythms of Africa: Love Will Always Be There concert to the International Day Festival, there’s always something to celebrate.

The Fourth Annual FLoatarama LGBT+ flotilla returns as an official event of the Stonewall Pride Festival, celebrating the historic Stonewall Riots and the start of the LGBTQ+ human rights movement and how it has shaped our community. The Stonewall Pride Parade & Street Festival is an annual LGBTQ+ celebration in Wilton Manors, featuring live music and vendors, followed by a parade and street party.

Where to Eat

Greater Fort Lauderdale is a foodie’s paradise, with a diverse array of restaurants and eateries featuring mouth-watering international cuisines. Whether you’re in the mood for authentic Indian cuisine, Peruvian dishes made with fresh ingredients, organic Jamaican fare, old-fashioned ice cream, modern Cuban cuisine, heaping servings of Jamaican goodness, or sushi with a modern flair, there’s something for everyone.

If you’re looking for comfort cuisines without all the guilt, The Rabbit Hole in Pompano Beach is entirely plant-based and offers dishes like vegan meatloaf, Southern barbecue platter, loaded quesadilla, and classic comfort sides like cornbread and macaroni and cheese. Chef and owner Samuel Woods and his business partner, Emmanuel George, also pair their meatless menu with an atmosphere dedicated to showcasing Black history and artists.

Written by: Matthew Thomas

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