Other Fun Stuff

The Coalition to Empower our Future (CEF) will host a Youth Mental Health Roundtable on Wednesday, October 8. Moderated by former U.S. Congressman Carlos Curbelo and CEF Executive Director Glen Weiner, the discussion will examine the complex factors driving the youth mental health crisis and explore comprehensive, collaborative solutions.

Join us for a virtual discussion with Cuban economist Carmelo Mesa-Lago to celebrate the publication of his new comparative study of economic reform programs implemented across three socialist economies in recent decades. “Comparing Socialist Approaches: Economics and Social Security in Cuba, China, and Vietnam” represents the 95th monograph of Mesa-Lago’s distinguished career, and it illuminates the consequences of Cuba’s inconsistent, tentative approach to economic liberalization. Mesa-Lago will give a short presentation followed by commentary from Mauricio de Miranda Parrondo and a Q&A with the audience. Presentations will be delivered in both English and Spanish.

The Deering Estate, in collaboration with the Antique Automotive Club of America – South Florida Region, will host the 13th annual Vintage Auto Show on Sunday, November 2, 2025, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Guests from the Miami area can enjoy a relaxing day outdoors as they stroll down memory lane. Car show enthusiasts of all ages can enjoy a variety of vintage cars, from 1965 and older, displayed on the historic grounds of the Deering Estate for Miami’s most exciting car show. As a salute to Charles Deering, first chairman of the International Harvester Company, our 1950 International Harvester Truck will also be on display. The Harvester Truck, which was donated to the Deering Estate Foundation, was purchased brand new in Chicago by Marion Deering McCormick, Charles Deering’s daughter. After Mrs. McCormick passed away in 1965, the truck passed to her son and was maintained by the McCormick family until they donated it to the Deering Estate Foundation. Please note that the historic house museums will be closed and not accessible at the car show.

Get ready for a night of family-friendly Halloween fun! This year, we're putting a spooky twist on our beloved campfires. After your spine-tingling journey, gather around a crackling campfire. Wear your most creative, spooky, or silly attire and sign up for our costume contest upon arrival at the park for a chance to win awesome prizes! Buy your experience online or call us at 305.247.5727 to purchase your ticket. No large coolers or pets allowed. Location: Fruit & Spice Park

Enjoy a night under the moon and stars in the Garden cozied up by a bonfire. Bring your telescopes to explore the night stars away from city lights. S'more kits and an assortment of drinks will be available while supplies last. Blankets, lawn chairs and small coolers are welcome. No large coolers or pets are allowed. Location: Fruit & Spice Park

Celebrate the magic of Fall with the whole family at Fruit & Spice Park! Enjoy a day filled with festive activities, from kids’ crafts and seasonal scavenger hunts to guided tours of what’s growing in the garden. Capture the season with cozy fall photo backdrops and make memories that will last all year! Special Highlights: The Homestead Cybrarium brings the joy of storytelling! Alan the Bubble Man fills the air with bubbly fun! Step inside SK Butterflies’ enchanting butterfly tent! Visit the Girl Scouts’ station to create your own binary bracelet! And of course, no fall celebration is complete without delicious bites—treat yourself to tasty food truck fare and savor a family picnic in the gardens!

The teachings on cultivating inner peace and serving others are heightened in the serene, one-of-a-kind atmosphere of Fruit & Spice Park. Surrounded by the energy of its rare and vibrant plant collection, meditation here is enriched by the park's tranquil character and its deep connection to the natural world. In collaboration with Kriya Yoga Institute, this session is guided by practitioners dedicated to love, compassion, cooperation, and service. Whether you are new to meditation or a seasoned practitioner, this event offers a unique opportunity to let the park's calming presence and the timeless practice of meditation support your journey —nurturing your body and soul while awakening your spirit. In the company of a welcoming community, you'll explore a deeper stillness within an inspiring setting unlike anywhere else. Bring comfortable clothing, a yoga mat, and an open heart for a day of discovery, peace, and spiritual growth in South Florida's most exotic garden. Meditation is open to all levels, with a special focus on beginners. Includes admission to Park. Location: Fruit and Spice Park

Saturdays, September 6—October 18, 2025 3:00 - 4:00PM EST | Public | Crowdcast Join us online for Speak Up, a creative writing program supporting the artistic and professional growth of teens. In this FREE virtual creative writing workshop mini-series, teens will partner with experienced teaching artists to empower the creative writing process, from drafting to performance to publishing, to boost literacy and empower youth in Miami through community-based writing activities. The program is open to all teens (ages 13-19) and is as free of charge as it is free of homework. No previous experience necessary! Saturdays, 3:00 - 4:00 p.m. EST via Crowdcast RSVP Link: https://www.crowdcast.io/c/speakupfall2025

Diaspora Explorer Pass: Second Saturday Youth Edition. This discounted youth ticket grants access to the Pots & Passages cultural tour on designated Second Saturdays. Designed for youth participants, this experience includes guided stops at key heritage landmarks, immersive storytelling moments, and culinary tastings (samples only NOT full meals). Youth attendees will explore Miami’s rich diasporic history through food, art, and interactive learning, with all activities tailored for young minds and curious palates. Valid only for Second Saturday tour dates. Adult accompaniment required for youth under 13. What’s Included: Roundtrip sightseeing tour through Miami’s cultural districts Food samples from diasporic chefs (please note: not a full meal) Guided stops at historic and artistic landmarks Cultural storytelling and interactive discussion Duration: Approx. 3 hours Departure Location: Little Haiti Cultural Complex Tour Runs: Saturdays & Sundays, August 2025 – July 2026 Spaces are limited, and each ride is different so come curious, come hungry, and come ready to explore.

Let’s Build It Youth Empowerment Program (YEP) is a week of fun and creativity that also addresses the critical need for life skills, self-awareness, and informed decision-making among youth. All attendees will receive community service hours. This program equips our youth with the tools to think critically, build healthy relationships, and develop leadership skills—using the arts as a foundational medium for self-expression and learning. Designed for youth ages 13-18, YEP is currently a 6 day program. Each session integrates expert-led discussions with artistic activities to reinforce key life lessons. • The Power of Image & Family: Exploring self-perception, media influence, and positive storytelling through photography, drawing, & Videography. • Community Relationship Building & Philanthropy: Strengthening connections at home and in the community through poetry. • Finance, Mental & Physical Health: Teaching financial literacy, wellness, and self-care through painting and drawing. • Leadership & Civic Engagement: Developing leadership skills and civic awareness through music and dance. • Education, Career, Entrepreneurship & AI: Exploring career paths and entrepreneurship through sculpting and graphic design. The program wraps up with a public art exhibition, where participants showcase their creative expressions, engage with family and community members, and celebrate their growth.