Greetings {name},

We hope you'll enjoy this weekly list of events and cultural opportunities in the community.

Please enjoy this image that reminds us of the beauty, bounty and serene nature of our countryside.

A healthy grove of coconut palms in the golden glow of a setting sun

Sunday, February 10 is Lunar New Year, also commonly known as Chinese New Year, is the most widely celebrated and most important holiday across Asia. It marks the start of the Year Of The Dragon.

Wednesday, February 14 is Valentine's Day, a time to celebrate the love of a spouse or partner, often a time to declare romantic inclinations.

Thursday, February 15 is Susan B. Anthony Day in Florida, celebrating women's rights and the origin of the women's suffrage movement in the United States.

Friday, February 16 is Do A Grouch A Favor Day, so make a grouch exceptionally miserable by helping him or her out with a favor and make the world a better place.

Thursday, February 8 at 9:30am
WPS Respirator Training
This class provides critical information for nursery growers and pesticide handlers to learn or refresh their knowledge of proper respirator use and maintenance. Training is mandated for employers and pesticide handlers before their initial use of respirators in their productions. Get details online.

Thursday, February 8 from 6 to 8pm
New Artist Reception – Zeal of Zafari Art
Etc, art gallery and antiques on Krome Avenue -- in commemoration of Black History Month -- will be hosting a new artist reception for Fitzgerald Allen, local muralist and sculptor at their downtown Homestead location. His art installations of Zafari Art in various locations throughout Homestead, Miami, and Miami Beach are familiar to locals. There will also be an exhibit of Haitian art in the gallery hall. Etc. is open from 11am to 5pm Tuesday through Saturday at 257 North Krome Avenue. No RSVP is necessary. Call 305-951-5128 or email etc.homestead@yahoo.com for details.

Thursday, February 8 at 6pm
Susan Sorrentino's Paint Party
The Woman's Club of Homestead is sponsoring a special fundraiser with local artist Susan Sorrentino leading a painting event. The club is located at 17905 SW 292nd Street in Homestead. Call 305-248-8001. Get details online.

Friday, February 9 from 9am to 5pm
Miami 500 - Season Premiere Race
Prepare for a sensational revival as Formula FARA - "FF" - makes its triumphant return to the Homestead-Miami Speedway, brought to you by the acclaimed racing force, Formula and Automobile Racing Association (FARA USA). Bring the family to experience the heart-pounding action of professional automobile racing in South Florida. Get details online.

Friday, February 9 at 6pm
Art and Jazz Under The Stars
Attend the 10th Annual Art and Jazz Under The Stars at the Seminole Theatre. As trailblazers in the community, Le Jardin Community Center is proud to generate awareness of the importance and impact of the Arts in education through creative interpretations. Get details online.

Friday, February 9 from 7 to 10pm
A Night in New Orleans at the Zoo
While the Zoo animals are asleep, attend A Night in New Orleans -- Zoo Miami's adults only event that opens a limited footprint of the zoo. Adults can mingle and buy tasty food and drinks in a fun atmosphere and potentially make some new friends. Get details online.

Saturday, February 10 at 9am
Community Fest: Growing Together
Florida Organic Growers is inviting those interested in the Florida Local Food Project to a special event at Regener8 Farm and Retreat on Krome. This event is offered to attendees at no cost, an excellent opportunity to network, learn from experts, and foster meaningful connections with others who are passionate about local food. Enter the property from the SW 172 Street Gate. Get details online.

Saturday, February 10 at 10:30am
Lighthouses Of Biscayne Bay Cruise
Departing from the Deering Estate on a comfortable riding 45 foot Corinthian catamaran, this four hour tour will allow you to experience Biscayne National Park -- see the iconic Cape Florida, Fowey Rocks, and Boca Chita lighthouses and learn about the history that surrounds them. You cut through the alluring Stiltsville and go to Boca Chita Key to get up close to Biscayne National Park’s iconic Boca Chita Lighthouse with a chance of climbing to the top of Boca Chita Lighthouse for a panoramic view of the Bay. You may also have the opportunity to see wildlife including, dolphins, sea turtles, and many shore birds. Get details online.

February 10–17
Book Giveaway at Cybrarium
Indulge your love of books and build your home or classroom library with free books from the Cybrarium. Thanks to a generous donation, there are hundreds of textbooks, cookbooks, novels, children's books, and more to give away. New books will be presented each day, so visit more than once. Give a book a new home and fall in love with reading all over again. Get details online.

Saturday, February 10 from 1 to 4pm
Sip and Savor Sangria Creations in the Park
Meet up with friends to enjoy three different types of tropical Sangrias, served with fruit and finger snacks to compliment these tropical delights. Learn the history of Sangria and how it was prepared, then head out for a tour of the Garden to see some of the fruit you tasted. Each guest will take home a souvenir at the end of the experience. Get details online.

Saturday, February 10 at 2pm
Celebrating Black History Month Through Stories
Visit the Naranja Branch Library for a celebration of Black history and culture with interactive stories, songs, dances, and more. Presented by the Miami-Dade Public Library System Story Troupe and other special guests. Call 305-242-2290 or email: gonzalezmi@mdpls.org. All ages are welcome to this free event. Get details online.

Saturday, February 10 at 5pm
Regenerative Farming Theme Dinner
Patch of Heaven welcomes Peter Fedele and the Lion Fruit Farms chefs and farmers team for a delightful Farm To Table Dinner fundraiser with a menu that's as nourishing as it is delicious. At the core of Lion Fruit Farms' philosophy is regenerative organic farming. This approach goes beyond traditional organic methods, focusing on restoring and enhancing the health of the soil, water, and ecosystems. Imagine a 100 foot table down the length of Patch of Heaven's majestic, nearly cathedral-like horse stables, supporting Sanctuary’s mission of regeneration, conservation and mindful education. Get details and RSVP online.

Saturday, February 10 from 6 to 10pm
Homestead Black History Celebration
The City of Homestead is proud to announce Black History Celebration in Losner Park in downtown Homestead. This community-centric celebration is open and free to the public, welcoming all residents and visitors to join in commemorating the rich heritage and contributions of the Black community. Get details online.

Sunday, February 11 at 10am
Hummingbird Walk and Talk at Castellow Hammock
Meet at Castellow Hammock, where every fall transforms into a hummingbird paradise. Embark on a leisurely stroll through this vibrant pollinator garden, guided by knowledgeable naturalists eager to share fascinating insights about these extraordinary creatures. Prepare to be amazed as you witness hummingbirds darting around, gracefully feeding on nectar-filled flowers. Get details online.

Sunday, February 11 at 11am or 2pm
Valentines Biscayne Bay Cruise
Enjoy a relaxing two-hour Valentine's daytime cruise on Biscayne Bay that departs from Deering Estate on the Pelican Skipper, a comfortable riding 45 foot Corinthian catamaran. Enjoy a glass of complimentary champagne (ages 21+) as you disembark and explore the Deering Estate grounds. The cost is $50. Departures at 11am and 2pm. Get details online.

Sunday, February 11 from 2 to 5pm
Free Ribs on Sunday
You heard it right. Head over to Miami's Ribs at 25750 SW 177th Ave -- next to Soroa Orchids -- to taste the genuine smoked goodness of Miami's Ribs smokehouse with a free portion of ribs for every new customer. And you might find the best smoked brisket you've ever tasted, plus a big menu full of smoked meat specialties, with great side dishes and drinks. Bring the whole family along, and meet up with friends at Miami's Ribs on Sunday from 2 to 5pm. Call 305-800-7427. Get details online. 

Sunday, February 11 at 6pm
Ultimate Big Game Viewing Experience
Head over to the City Hall Bistro at Redland Hotel for the Ultimate Big Game Viewing Experience. Step into the lively parking lot party, where the excitement is sky-high with a massive 20 ft inflatable screen, unlimited drinks flowing all night long, and delicious food that will satisfy your cravings. Indulge in unlimited beer, wine, or well liquor, and savor mouthwatering burgers, wings, and hot dogs. It's a family-friendly event with free entry for kids under 8. Tickets are $75 for adults and $25 for older kids. Get details and purchase tickets online.

Sunday, February 11 at 6:30pm
Big Game Watch Party in the Tap Room
Score big at Miami Brewing Company with Super Bowl LVIII, as the Kansas City Chiefs face off against the San Francisco 49ers. Get ready for a night packed with beers, cheers, and the thrill of the big game at the Miami Brewing Company Tap Room. Get details and RSVP online.

Tuesday, February 13 at 6pm
Tai Chi at the Library
Enjoy a gentle and graceful movement class designed to improve balance, coordination, focus and overall mental health at the South Dade Regional Library. Please wear loose, comfortable clothing. Registration is required. Call 305-233-8140 or email: crespim@mdpls.org. Ages 12 years and older. Get details online.

Wednesday, February 14 at 5:30pm
Make Your Own Candy Jar
Decorate and personalize your own candy jar for yourself or as a sweet gift at the Cybrarium. This is an event for adults. Get details and register online.

Wednesday, February 14 at 6pm
Bob Marley: One Love
Jamaican singer-songwriter Bob Marley overcomes adversity to become the most famous reggae musician in the world. Get details online.

Wednesday, February 14 starting at 6:30pm
Valentine’s Day at Schnebly Winery
Love is in the air, and so is the aroma of fine wine when you attend an enchanting Valentine’s Day at Schnebly Winery. Get details and RSVP online.

Wednesday, February 14 at 8pm
Valentines Day Concert at Deering
The “Moonlight & Music” Valentine’s Day Concert at the Deering Estate offers couples and friends the opportunity to celebrate their love at an outdoor concert under the stars. Pack a picnic, preorder food or purchase food when you arrive, then settle into your lawn chair or cozy up on a blanket and enjoy the sounds of this year’s featured artist, Melina Soochan (Jazz, Pop & Soul), with an opening performance by Samantha Natalie. Get details online.

Wednesday, February 14 at 9pm
Madame Web - IMAX
Cassandra Webb is a New York City paramedic who starts to show signs of clairvoyance. Forced to confront revelations about her past, she must protect three young women from a mysterious adversary who wants them dead. Get details online.

Thursday, February 15 at 8am
59th Annual Ag/Farm Tour and Luncheon
Experience an exciting opportunity to discover and learn about South Florida's agriculture and horticulture -- and its economic importance for Miami-Dade County and the State of Florida. The 59th Annual Ag/Farm Tour stops at different agricultural operations to showcase the diversity and uniqueness of farming in the subtropical climate of South Florida. This event is organized by the Dade County AGRICouncil in collaboration with UF/IFAS Extension in Miami-Dade County, Miami-Dade County Agricultural Manager, Dade County Farm Bureau, Florida Nursery, Growers and Landscape Association, and other partners. Get details online.

Friday, February 16 at 4pm
Kids Fun Fit Camp every Third Friday of the Month
South Dade Park -- Meet Me at the Park is an opportunity for kids to experience Kids Fun Fit Camp every third Friday of the month at South Dade Park, 28151 SW 164th Ave. Get details online.

Saturday, February 17 from 10am to 4pm
The Annual Garden Walk of the Upper Keys
Garden enthusiasts are invited to participate in the annual Upper Keys Garden Walk, starting with a fabulous selection of hand-made arts and crafts, orchid accessories and more at the Francis Tracy Garden Center in Islamorada at mile marker 94 Bayside. Tickets for the self-guided tours of these enchanting private gardens are $30. Get details online. 

Saturday, February 17 at 3pm and 7pm
Circus On Ice at Seminole Theatre
The great Circus On Ice is a marvelous frozen adventure for the whole family with all your favorite characters and amazing circus acts. Enjoy the performances of jugglers, equilibrist, clowns and sensational ice-skaters performing on synthetic ice surfaces. Get details online.

Saturday, February 17 at 8pm
Schnebly Latin Night Saturday
Enjoy a night of dancing, music, and wine at Schnebly Winery. General admission $15, VIP seating $20. Get details and RSVP online.

Sunday, February 18 from 8am to 5pm
City Bikes - Gravel Miami
Gear up for the ultimate thrill at City Bikes Gravel Miami -- plus the best post-gravel party of the year at Miami Brewing Company. Get ready to ride, celebrate, and create unforgettable memories. Get details and RSVP online.

Friday, February 23 at 6pm
Winter Stargazing at the Park - Snow Moon
Enjoy a night under the moon and stars in the Fruit and Spice Park 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. Get details online.

Shop four locations in Downtown Homestead -- all within walking distance

Etc, located at 257 North Krome Avenue is open Tuesday-Saturday 11am to 5pm with antiques and vintage furniture, china, crystal and collectibles, used book exchange, with coffee and tea service. Call 786-283-2437.

Renaissance Antiques is at 61 NW 4th Street, open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday 11am to 5pm with Furniture, art, rugs, jewelry, china & glassware. Call 305-244-5807.

Jacobsen's Antique Mall at 144 N. Krome Avenue is Open Tuesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday, Sunday 12 pm to 5 pm with art, antiques, collectibles, furniture and accessories. Call 305-247-4745.

Skin Candy at 118 N. Krome Ave with natural soaps, body butters, bath bombs, sugar scrubs, natural deodorants, body oils and more. Call 470-920-5007.

Florida Native Plant Shop
Florida Butterfly Botanicals on Redland Road
Discover wildlife-friendly plants for vibrant landscapes at Florida Butterfly Botanicals, 22585 SW 187th Ave. You'll find a variety of Florida native pollinator host, nectar, and habitat plants cultivated with a lot of love from seed and stem cuttings. Planting native is a small but meaningful step you can take to positively impact our local ecosystems and contribute to larger global efforts in biodiversity conservation. Call 786-496-3350. Get details online.