Free & Paid Things to Do in Miami This Week (August 11-17)

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Mid-August already? If you’re trying to squeeze every bit of summer out of these days, you’ll need this list of things to do in Miami this week (August 11–17). There’s a bit of everything, from keeping it easy and free to spending a little to make a random weeknight feel special.

And if the usual Miami spots feel a bit too familiar, you’ve got options. I’ve dropped in a few picks just outside the city, too. Summer’s not gone yet—might as well enjoy every warm, random, unexpected bit of it.

Always verify event details on official websites or social media, as plans are subject to change.

Fun Things to Do in Miami This Week (August 11-17)

Free Fun Events 

Climate and Culture Symposium 

Photo via The Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami

Want to stretch your brain a little this week? Swing by the ICA Miami for this free afternoon symposium exploring how art tackles climate change.

  • When: August 14, 2025
  • Where: ICA Miami Expansion (23 NE 41st St., Miami)
  • Tickets: Free. RSVP here.
  • Website: https://icamiami.org
  • Best for: Artists and deep thinkers.

Tertulia Nights 

Art, memory, and rescued flowers? That’s possible at this month’s Tertulia Nights with multidisciplinary artist Clone Dahlia. Her interactive art blurs the line between what’s real and what’s reimagined.

  • When: August 14, 2025
  • Where: Patricia & Phillip Frost Art Museum FIU (10975 SW 17th St., Miami)
  • Tickets: Free. More info here.
  • Best for: Creative souls and art lovers.

Queer Crafts

Photo via @queercrafts.mia / Instagram 

No pressure, just creativity. Queer Crafts is a chill evening in South Beach where you can sketch, knit, jam, or just hang out. Come as you are, bring what you love (or nothing at all), and vibe with the community.

  • When: August 14, 2025
  • Where: Flamingo Park (1000 12th St., Miami Beach)
  • Tickets: Free. More info here.
  • Instagram: @queercrafts.mia 
  • Best for: LGBTQ+ creatives, hobby enthusiasts, and anyone craving a low-key connection.

Vizcaya Village Farmers Market 

Photo via @vizcaya_museum / Instagram 

This isn’t your typical grocery run. Spend your Sunday wandering through fresh produce, handmade goods, and small-batch snacks in Vizcaya’s historic garden space.

  • When: August 17, 2025
  • Where: Vizcaya Museum & Gardens (3250 South Miami Avenue, Miami)
  • Tickets: Free admission. More info here
  • Website: https://vizcaya.org
  • Best for: Slow Sundays, local shoppers, and fans of fresh everything.

Giurfa-Romero Duo 

Wrap your weekend with global grooves at Lummus Park. You’ll enjoy Latin rhythms, jazz loops, and sunset feels from this genre-blending duo. Bring a picnic blanket as you’ll want to stay a while.

  • When: August 17, 2025
  • Where: Lummus Park (Between 14th Street and 14th Place, Miami Beach)
  • Tickets: Free admission 
  • Website: https://www.facebook.com/events/10022507564506528  
  • Best for: Sunday chillers, music fans, and anyone looking for a laid-back cultural night.

Watercolor Recipe Cards: A Hands-On Workshop 

Got a go-to dish that deserves a little spotlight? This hands-on workshop mixes a little art, a little writing, and a whole lot of creativity—all supplies included.

  • When: August 17, 2025
  • Where: Vizcaya Village (3250 S Miami Ave, Miami)
  • Tickets: Free admission. More info here.
  • Website: https://vizcaya.org 
  • Best for: Artsy food lovers, scrapbookers, and sentimental home cooks.

Viernes Culturales 

Every third Friday, Calle Ocho lights up with music, art, and dancing. You can stroll the artisan market, catch some live beats, and get into that Little Havana rhythm.

  • When: August 16, 2025
  • Where: 8th Street from 12th to 22nd Ave., Miami
  • Tickets: Free admission 
  • Website: https://viernesculturales.org 
  • Best for: Culture seekers and locals.

Mango Season at Bodega 

Bring a mango, get a drink—simple as that. Bodega’s celebrating peak mango season with free tropical cocktails for anyone who brings a fresh one to the bar.

  • When: Until August 31, 2025
  • Where: Bodega Taqueria y Tequila (South Beach, Coconut Grove, or Coral Gables)
  • Tickets: Free admission 
  • Website: https://www.bodegataqueria.com
  • Best for: Cocktail fans, mango lovers, and anyone who likes fruity deals.

Miami Food Trucks

Photo via @miamifoodtrucksevents / Instagram 

Turn your usual park day into a foodie adventure. You have to check out the rotating lineup of food trucks offering everything from savory bites to sweet treats.

  • Tuesday: Haulover Park 
  • Wednesday: Pelican Harbor
  • Friday: Tropical Park
  • Saturday: Amelia Earhart Park 
  • Tickets: Free admission. Food and drinks available for purchase.
  • Website: https://miamifoodtrucksevents.com
  • Best for: Food lovers, families, and anyone craving a fun day out.

100 Years of Art Deco 

Photo via @miamibeachnews and @visitmiami / Instagram 

This open-air exhibition in Lummus Park shows how the design movement took the world by storm, with a special focus on Miami Beach’s own Tropical Deco style.

  • When: Until February 2026
  • Where: Lummus Park (between 11 and 12 streets along Ocean Drive, Miami Beach)
  • Tickets: Free admission 
  • Website: https://www.miamibeachfl.gov 
  • Best for: Art lovers, architecture buffs, and anyone who appreciates a stylish stroll.

Pinecrest Gardens Farmers Market 

Photo via @pinecrest_gardens / Instagram 

Looking for fresh, local produce and unique artisanal goods? Head to Pinecrest Gardens Farmers Market every Sunday and discover a variety of fresh fruits, veggies, meats, cheeses, and more.

  • When: Every Sunday
  • Where: 11000 Red Road, Pinecrest
  • Tickets: Free. More info here.
  • Website: https://www.pinecrestgardens.org
  • Best for: Foodies, local shoppers, and anyone looking for fresh, farm-to-table goodness.

Food, Music, Culture & More

Beer Tasting at Fontainebleau Miami Beach

Beer enthusiasts, it’s your last chance to enjoy this guided beer tasting. Sip on five unique brews, from light lagers to rich stouts, and learn about flavor profiles, brewing styles, and tasting techniques.

  • When: Every Monday, Until August 18, 2025
  • Where: Arkadia Grill (4441 Collins Ave., Miami Beach)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://www.fontainebleau.com
  • Best for: Beer lovers and those looking to expand their brew knowledge.

Carmen at Faena Theater

This August, prepare for a bold, reimagined version of the classic Carmen at Faena Theater. Flamenco, cabaret, and fire artistry combine in this passionate tale of love, rivalry, and drama.

  • When: Thursdays & Saturdays, Until August 30, 2025
  • Where: Faena Theater (3201 Collins Ave, Miami Beach)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://www.faena.com
  • Best for: Theater fans and date nights.

Immersive Space Symphony 

The Immersive Space Symphony takes you on a multisensory journey with a live orchestra performing iconic cinematic scores like Interstellar, Dune, and Inception. Plus, it’s paired with 360-degree projections.

  • When: Until August 30, 2025
  • Where: Temple Emanu-El Ballroom (1723 Washington Ave., Miami Beach)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://feverup.com
  • Best for: Music lovers and space enthusiasts.

AI: More Than Human 

Photo via @frostscience / Instagram 

This exhibition takes you from ancient myths to modern-day AI, showing how technology has evolved and what it means for our future.

  • When: Until September 1, 2025
  • Where: Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science (1101 Biscayne Blvd., Miami)
  • Tickets: Included with museum admission
  • Website: https://www.frostscience.org
  • Best for: Tech enthusiasts, curious minds, and anyone fascinated by the future of AI.

Dinos Among Us 

Photo via @zoomiami / Instagram 

This educational exhibit at Zoo Miami lets you enter the prehistoric world, with roaring T. rex and other giants that feel eerily lifelike. It’s a fun mix of learning and fun for the whole family.

  • When: Until September 14, 2025
  • Where: Zoo Miami (12400 SW 152nd St., Miami)
  • Tickets: Included with zoo admission 
  • Website: https://www.zoomiami.org
  • Best for: Dinosaur lovers, families, and anyone who loves an educational adventure.

Wild Tales with Ron Magill 

Photo via Zoo Miami

Feel like traveling to Australia for landscapes and wildlife without leaving the city? Ron Magill shares fun stories, epic photos, and fun facts from his latest trip Down Under.

  • When: August 14, 2025
  • Where: Zoo Miami (12400 SW 152nd St, Miami)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://www.zoomiami.org
  • Best for: Wildlife fans and animal lovers.

Cirque Du Soleil: OVO 

Photo via @ovo.cirquedusoleil and @xl_center / Instagram 

Bugs never looked this graceful. OVO transforms the Kaseya Center into a world of acrobatic ants, flying scarabs, and jumping spiders.

  • When: August 14-17, 2025
  • Where: Kaseya Center (601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://www.kaseyacenter.com
  • Best for: Families, date nights, and circus lovers.

$5 Yoga | Sunday Wellness Classes 

Photo via @vizcaya_museum / Instagram

Wrap up the week with some movement and mellow energy. These $5 sessions mix yoga, music, sound healing, and more in a laid-back, no-judgment setting.

  • When: August 17, 2025
  • Where: Vizcaya Village Farmers Market (3250 South Miami Avenue, Miami)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://vizcaya.org
  • Best for: Budget yogis, wellness newbies, and anyone looking to reset.

Grand Classical Gala 

Ballet fans, this Saturday is your red carpet moment. Ten countries, top-tier dancers, and a full night of iconic classical works—all under one roof for the International Ballet Festival.

  • When: August 16, 2025
  • Where: The Fillmore Miami Beach at The Jackie Gleason Theater (1700 Washington Ave., Miami Beach)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://www.internationalballetfestival.org
  • Best for: Ballet enthusiasts, culture lovers, and anyone craving some serious artistry.

Alma Nica: Cultura y Tradición 

Celebrate Nicaraguan culture with traditional dance, local eats, and a community bazaar that kicks off before the main performance. This two-part event mixes folklore and fundraising in one evening.

  • When: August 16, 2025
  • Where: Manuel Artime Community Center (900 SW 1st St., Miami)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Best for: Culture seekers, families, and anyone looking to support a good cause.

Fat Joe 

What’s better than a night out at E11EVEN? One with Fat Joe celebrating his birthday on stage. The Bronx legend is bringing the heat, and yes, we’re fully expecting Lean Back to hit extra hard.

  • When: August 16, 2025
  • Where: E11EVEN Miami (29 NE 11th St., Miami)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://www.11miami.com
  • Best for: Hip-hop heads, clubgoers, and friends.

Closing Gala of the Stars 

The International Ballet Festival ends on a high note this Sunday, with top dancers from across the globe performing iconic pieces. If you’ve missed the earlier shows, this one’s your last chance, and it’s a showstopper.

  • When: August 17, 2025
  • Where: The Fillmore Miami Beach at The Jackie Gleason Theater (1700 Washington Ave., Miami Beach)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://www.internationalballetfestival.org
  • Best for: Dance enthusiasts and artsy dates.

Drag Brunch at R House 

Brunch here isn’t just a meal—it’s a full-blown show. You’ll encounter bold queens, bottomless drinks, and dishes with serious Latin flair. The $60 gets you food, drinks, and incredible shows, but premium seating ($85) puts you closer to the action.

  • When: Every Saturday and Sunday
  • Where: R House Wynwood (2727 NW 2nd Ave, Miami)
  • Reservations: Book here.
  • Website: https://www.rhousewynwood.com
  • Best for: Bachelorette parties, birthday brunches, and anyone craving mimosas with a side of sparkle.

Jazz Nights at Michael’s Genuine 

Live jazz in a leafy courtyard with great cocktails and seasonal eats? Every Wednesday night, this Design District fave hosts rotating local trios that set the perfect midweek atmosphere.

  • When: Every Wednesday 
  • Where: Michael’s Genuine Food & Drink (130 NE 40th St, Miami)
  • Reservations: Book here.
  • Website: https://michaelsgenuine.com
  • Best for: Jazz fans, low-key date nights, and people-watching with a drink in hand.

Jona Cerwinske: Dog Ate My Homework 

Photo via @museumofgraffiti and @jonacerwinske  / Instagram 

The Miami graffiti icon reclaims excuses with bold black-and-white works that reimagine classroom disasters as street art gold. It’s cheeky, detailed, and curated to make you pause and maybe laugh.

  • When: Until September 30, 2025
  • Where: Museum of Graffiti (276 NW 26th St, Miami)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://museumofgraffiti.com
  • Best for: Art lovers, Wynwood wanderers, and anyone who’s blamed the dog at least once.

Nude Nite

Photo via @nudenite / Instagram 

Nude Nite is part art show, part body-positive celebration, and part performance. Expect bold visuals, interactive installations, and live acts from burlesque to body painting.

  • When: August 14-16, 2025
  • Where: 555 Entertainment (555 Northwest 29th Street, Miami)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://www.nudenite.com
  • Best for: Bold art fans, open-minded couples, and fans of the human form.

Concerts 

Clipse 

Photo via @clipse, @malice, and @colorsxstudios / Instagram 

Hip-hop fans, it’s happening. Clipse is back together after 15 years, and they’re stopping by The Fillmore this Tuesday. Pusha T and No Malice are hitting the stage with new music, old-school fire, and Pharrell-produced heat.

  • When: August 12, 2025
  • Where: The Fillmore Miami Beach at The Jackie Gleason Theater (1700 Washington Ave., Miami Beach)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://www.fillmore-miami.com
  • Best for: Hip-hop fans, 2000s rap lovers, and anyone who’s been waiting on this reunion.

The Endless Summer Concert 

Local talent, DJs, and a packed lineup of rising artists take over The Katz Restaurant & Lounge this Friday. Expect raw energy and a full night of music that doesn’t feel corporate.

  • When: August 15, 2025
  • Where: The Katz Restaurant and Lounge (738 NE 125th St., North Miami)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Best for: Indie music lovers, live-show goers, and people who want a fun night out.

The Weeknd: After Hours Til Dawn Tour 

Photo via @theweeknd / Instagram 

The Weeknd is landing in Miami this August with a setlist stacked with hits and heartbreak. From Dawn FM to Hurry Up Tomorrow, he’s serving drama, synths, and that alternative R&B sound, plus Playboi Carti and Mike Dean in the mix.

  • When: August 15-16, 2025
  • Where: Hard Rock Stadium (347 Don Shula Drive, Miami Gardens)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://www.theweeknd.com
  • Best for: Music lovers and concert date nights.

The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra

This weekend, you’ll get a brass-filled joyride at The Moss Center. The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra is putting a jazzy spin on Hey Jude and Can’t Buy Me Love with full-on Mardi Gras energy.

  • When: August 16, 2025
  • Where: The Moss Center (10950 SW 211th St., Miami)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://www.mosscenter.org
  • Best for: Music lovers of all ages and jazz fans.

Fiddlehead, Rival Schools, Bad Beat & Collateral 

Photo via @breakevenbooking / Instagram 

Gramps is the place for a sweaty, shout-along atmosphere this Saturday. Boston’s Fiddlehead brings the emotion, Rival Schools adds the edge, and local bands round out the noise.

  • When: August 16, 2025
  • Where: Gramps Wynwood (176 NW 24th St., Miami)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://www.livenation.com
  • Best for: Alt rock fans, mosh pit veterans, and 2000s scene kids (then or now).

Bag Raiders + Daste. 

Photo via Shotgun

Saturday night, ZeyZey is going full Aussie. Bag Raiders team up with indie-pop trio daste. for a dreamy, synthy, dance-heavy set.

  • When: August 16, 2025
  • Where: ZeyZey Miami (353 NE 61st St., Miami)
  • Tickets: Click here.
  • Website: https://zeyzeymiami.com
  • Best for: Indie pop and electronic lovers, and couples on a groove date.

Candlelight Concerts at Scottish Rite Temple 

Photo via Feverup

It’s classical, it’s candlelit, and it’s giving all the mood. These candlelit concerts pair iconic music with moody lighting inside a historic venue.

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