Little Havana Sizzles to a Beat All Its Own

Miami is where you’ll find a vibrant neighborhood known as “Little Havana” or “La Pequena Habana.” Within this area, there’s a variable plethora of Cuban cuisine, music, art, and culture. Named after the capital city of Cuba, Little Havana is the place where Cuban immigrants have fashioned a unique and highly festive “home away from home.”

The distinctly Latin influence of Little Havana is a place where it is easy to keep one foot in the past, while having one foot firmly in the future. Noted for its festivals and parades, visitors of all ages revel in the colorful influence of both Spanish and Floridian history. Shops, cafes and boutiques add to the enjoyment.

Don’t miss the festivals that line the streets of Little Havana. Here you’ll have a chance to watch from a streetwise vantage point or participate by jumping into the action. Either way, the fun is completely free and plentiful for all.

Calle Ocho Festival

The Calle Ocho Festival began in 1978 as a way for the Cuban community of Miami to teach their American neighbors more about the culture of their Cuban homeland. Over the years, the festival has grown to include the enticing influences of Latin American nations upon Florida and the United States as a whole.

Walking Tours

It is always easy to enjoy a walking tour of Little Havana, whether you wish to join an organized tour or simply stroll on your own. A free formal walking tour leaves from the Tower Theater every evening during the Calle Ocho Festival. However feel free to simply walk along the avenues of Little Havana, stopping into a cafe for some strong Cuban coffee or sitting down at a restaurant for an amazing meal.

Viernes Culturales or Cultural Fridays

The third Friday of every month is known as Cultural Friday and is easily reachable with no-cost trolley rides that arrive at fifteen-minute intervals. This free event is presented to local residents and visitors of all ages. Families are particularly welcome, as each Cultural Friday is home to a “Children’s Village” where kids are the center of the attention. Activities geared to the young ones include musical performances, group dances and art instruction.

Three Kings Parade

The Three Kings Parade arrives in Miami every January. As celebrated in Latin American countries, the event celebrates the three Kings bringing gifts to the Baby Jesus. Not only are streets closed for this annual parade, but the parade venue is lined with local merchants selling a wide variety of souvenirs and snacks.

Little Havana Walk of Fame

No need to travel to Hollywood, when Miami Florida has a Walk of Fame all it’s own. This Walk of Fame is where you’ll see sidewalk stars dedicated to famous residents of Miami and the world’s Latin music community. Among the stars immortalized on this walk are Grammy award-winning personalities like the late Celia Cruz and current songstress Gloria Estefan.

For those who want to experience Cuba, no-passport required, come stay in one of our vacation rentals in Miami and venture out to explore Little Havana.