Spring into the season with a variety of events this April. Before summer sets in and the mercury climbs any higher, take this opportunity to explore Fort Lauderdale’s world-class beaches, grand outdoors, and fabulous mix of events.
This month, we have a basket of family-friendly Easter events and food fetes. There are four decadent food festivals to choose from – the Las Olas Wine and Food Festival, the Orange Bowl Food & Wine Celebration, the Pompano Beach Seafood Festival, plus Savor SoFlo.
And jazz lovers will be delighted to find Kenny G in concert along with three whole days of Jazz at Pompano Beach. Sports fans will find it hard to resist the excitement of the International T20 Night Cricket Tournament. There are also plenty of do-good/feel-good events to keep you occupied with grounded entertainment through the month of April.
Read below to see our complete list of Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale this April 2022:
Things to Do in Fort Lauderdale - April Events at a Glance
Special: Easter 2022 Events
April 2022: Fort Lauderdale In-person Events
- International Orchid & Garden Festival: April 2-3
- CATS – The Musical: April 5-7
- Abandoned Pet Rescue’s Yappy Hour at Dune by LT: April 6
- Pups and Pints Happy Hour: April 7
- Portrait Sculpture Workshop with Leda Almar: April 9
- Harbor Lights Gala – Havana Nights: April 9
- Kenny G Concert: April 10
- A Taste of Jazz: April 14
- Networking on the River with FLITE Center: April 14
- Chris Rock - Ego Death World Tour 2022: April 14-15
- Jazz Fest Pompano Beach: April 15-16
- Bon Jovi Concert: April 16
- 40th International Orchid & Bromeliad Show: April 16-17
- Resin Tray Workshop: April 21
- Las Olas Wine and Food Festival: April 22
- Pompano Beach Seafood Festival: April 22-24
- Florida Taco Festival: April 23-24
- Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida - Spring Gala: April 24
- Sensory-Friendly Sundays: April 24 - September 25
- 5th Annual SOS Ocean Conservation Day by Tortuga Music Festival: April 24
- Orange Bowl Food & Wine Celebration: April 29
- Savor SoFlo: April 30 - May 1
- ArtsPark LIVE - Hollywood Brazilian Carnaval: April 30
- International T20 Night Cricket Tournament: Throughout April – May 14
April 2022: Fort Lauderdale Virtual Events
- Stonewall’s ZOOM Conversation with Author Aaron Lecklider: April 6
- Montage – A Virtual Film Series: April 28
Special: Easter 2022 Events in Fort Lauderdale
Hop, skip, and jump into Easter with our curation of egg-cellent events around Fort Lauderdale:
- Head to LOOP’s Annual Spring Fling EGGstravaganza on the 16th for a retro-inspired day of fun-filled yoga, a brunch with the bunny, live entertainment, and more.
- The Museum of Discovery and Science has you covered with grand Egg-splorations on the 17th. This space-themed egg hunt will make for an egg-citing morning adventure for children aged 2-10.
- It’s going to be a Royal Egg Hunt, so have your little one dress up as a prince or princess or favorite knight. Children aged 2-12 are invited to the Sunrise Sportsplex, on the 9th, for a day of egg hunts, crafts, rides, and photo-ops.
- This free, community Spring Fest takes place at Hagen Park in Wilton Manors on the 9th. Venture out for pony rides, concessions, music, magic, and loads of family-friendly fun.
- Coral Springs residents can go Hoppin’ into Spring’s Egg Hunt at this free community event on the 9th. Kids aged 3-8 only can participate and are expected to carry their own bags or baskets.
- The annual Spring Festival EGG-stravaganza takes place at the Willie Webb Sr. Park on the 9th - complete with candy-filled eggs, games, a kids’ art zone, music, and great food.
- Another Royal Egg Hunt; this time in Plantation at the Pop Travers Field on the 16th. Bring along your 3-10 year-old to go egg hunting and take photos with the Royal Easter Bunny.
April 2022: In-Person Events in Fort Lauderdale
International Orchid & Garden Festival: April 2-3
Bonnet House Museum & Gardens, 900 North Birch Road, Fort Lauderdale
Orchid lovers can’t afford to miss this vivid, two-day experience. More than 25 vendors from the far reaches of Ecuador to Thailand will be selling a huge variety of tropicals to bamboos and orchids to herbs. There will also be edible bites, garden art, gardening lectures, bloody Marys, and mimosas to enjoy over a fragrant weekend.
CATS – The Musical: April 5-7
Au-Rene Theater at Broward Center for Performing Arts, 201 SW 5th Ave, Fort Lauderdale
Enjoy this record-breaking, Andrew Lloyd Webber production closer to home. Reserve a spot to experience what has captivated audiences in over 30 countries and 15 languages since 1982.
Abandoned Pet Rescue’s Yappy Hour at Dune by LT: April 6
Dune at Auberge Beach Residences, 2200 North Ocean Blvd, Fort Lauderdale
With a signature drink called “The Spay Breeze,” this evening event will be celebrating Abandoned Pet Rescue’s efforts for improving the lives of countless rescues. Come over to enjoy a luxurious mid-week Happy Hour on the beach and hopefully take home an adorable pet from Ft. Lauderdale's No-Kill Animal Shelter.
Pups and Pints Happy Hour: April 7
Gulf Stream Brewing Company, 1105 NE 13th St, Fort Lauderdale
Drop by this puptacular happy hour to celebrate craft beer and adorable pets. Unwind with a pint and find your furever friend in an abandoned or rescued pet to have a fuzzy buddy for life by your side.
Portrait Sculpture Workshop with Leda Almar: April 9
Coral Springs Museum of Art, 2855A Coral Springs Dr, Coral Springs
Watch your concept go from sketch to full-blown sculpture at this day-long workshop. Led by Leda Almar, you’ll get to learn the basics of modeling a figure, head, and bust. Simply leave your painted sculpture behind and come back a week later to pick up the final, fired version for your display.
Harbor Lights Gala – Havana Nights: April 9
Conrad Fort Lauderdale Beach, 551 N Fort Lauderdale Beach Blvd, Fort Lauderdale
Dine, dance, and toast to celebrating 25 years of Children’s Harbor’s achievements at Conrad’s rooftop lounge. The organization has been tirelessly working to heal and improve the lives of child abuse victims for over two decades. With .88 cents of every dollar going straight to the organization’s kids, feel good and dance the night away at this evening of cocktails, followed by an explosive after-party.
Kenny G in Concert: April 10
Lillian S. Wells Hall at The Parker, 707 Northeast 8th St, Fort Lauderdale
Treat yourself to an evening of great melodies by the king of smooth jazz, Kenny G. With a career spanning 3 decades and 23 albums, this is your opportunity to enjoy the Grammy Award-winning saxophonist’s timeless tunes, in person.
A Taste of Jazz: April 14
Bailey Contemporary Arts Center, 41 NE 1st St, Pompano Beach
You simply can’t go wrong when you combine Jazz tunes with wine tastings. Head to the Bailey Contemporary Arts Center for this entertaining and educational weekend encounter with some of Gold Coast Jazz Society’s most talented musicians, and walk out knowing and feeling better than ever.
Networking on the River with FLITE Center: April 14
The Wharf Fort Lauderdale, 20 W Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale
Sponsored by SouthState Bank and The Wharf Fort Lauderdale, this networking event will be one to remember. Register to mingle with a complimentary specialty cocktail, and donate some before leaving to support FLITE’s mission to help those aging out of foster care plus other vulnerable youth.
Chris Rock - Ego Death World Tour 2022: April 14-15
Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino, 1 Seminole Way, Hollywood
Catch the legendary comedian, Chris Rock as he brings his finest stand-up act to the Hard Rock Hotel and Casino right after that infamous night at the Oscars.
Jazz Fest Pompano Beach: April 15-16
Pompano Beach Cultural Center, 50 W Atlantic Blvd, Pompano Beach
Enjoy two days of world-class jazz, courtesy of the Pompano Beach Cultural Center. Head to The Great Lawn at the Beach on the 15th to be serenaded by the Master of Ceremonies and Grammy Award-winner Nestor Torres with his special guest from NYC, Ashley Pezzotti for opening night.
On the 16th, head over to the Pompano Beach Cultural Center for a jazz extravaganza culminating with Cécile McLorin Salvant taking over the stage.
Bon Jovi in Concert: April 16
FLA Live Arena, 1 Panther Pkwy, Sunrise
It’ll be a rockin’ night! Get ready to rock and roll to “It’s My Life” and other greatest hits by the legendary Hall of Famer, Bon Jovi, and his band on their 2022 tour.
40th International Orchid & Bromeliad Show: April 16-17
Flamingo Gardens & Wildlife Sanctuary, 3750 S Flamingo Rd, Davie
Surround yourself with the exotic beauty and divine fragrance of orchids and bromeliads as you visit this 40th annual showcase. Simply watch in awe or buy some to take home, either way, this stunning display of rare and exotic finds is worth venturing out of town for.
Las Olas Wine and Food Festival: April 22
Las Olas Boulevard between SE 6th Ave – SE 11th Ave, Fort Lauderdale
Spend a weekend of indulgence as you head to this 4-block takeover of Las Olas Boulevard. Savor drinks and culinary delights from the leading talents of South Florida – all while raising funds to benefit the South Florida American Lung Association. Sample the latest in international wines, brews, and dishes from the area’s award-winning chefs and restaurants plus loads of photo-ops for your social media stories.
Pompano Beach Seafood Festival: April 22-24
Pompano Beach Community Park, 1660 NE 10th St, Pompano Beach
Head over to this three-day seafood festival to enjoy the freshest seafood in town! Nosh on fresh-caught crab cakes to crawfish and conch fritters to shrimp, along with enjoying a boat and car display, community events, plus supporting local charities.
Florida Taco Festival: April 23-24
Miramar Regional Park, 16801 Miramar Parkway, Miramar
Foodies will find it worth their while to head out of town for this two-day taco festival. Find over 25 taco and food vendors, a giant margarita bar, a tequila sampling expo, a hot chili pepper eating contest, ax throwing, a kids’ fun zone, Lucha Libre wrestling, live entertainment, and more for a weekend well-spent.
Arts Ballet Theatre of Florida - Spring Gala: April 24
Amaturo Theater at The Broward Center for Performing Arts, 581 W Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale
Catch the season finale of this fantastic ballet showcase performed by some of the company’s finest dancers. Under the direction of Vladimir Issaev, the troupe will be performing some of the most popular classical Pas de Deux and neo-classical pieces by the Ballet Master.
Sensory-Friendly Sundays: April 24 – September 25
Museum of Discovery and Science, 401 SW 2nd St, Fort Lauderdale
Helping children with special needs explore the museum, indulge in educational activities, and watch movies without worrying about complaints, MODS will be running their Sensory-Friendly Sunday program from April 24 to September 25. During these pre-opening hours, the museum’s lights will be turned up, sounds turned down, and all films will be presented in 2D to include and suit those on the autism spectrum.
5th Annual SOS Ocean Conservation Day by Tortuga Music Festival: April 24
The LOOP - Las Olas Oceanside Park, 3000 E Las Olas Blvd, Fort Lauderdale
Raising awareness for oceans and their eco-systems, this free, one-day, outdoor event will feature fun, educational programs to be enjoyed by the entire family. Rolling with the theme “Lettuce Give Thanks,” proceeds from the sponsored event’s silent auction will benefit sea turtle feedings. Kickstarting the day with a shoreline cleanup and raffle, expect turtle tattoos, a shark cage photo booth, live lionfish demos, a pelican release on the beach, biodegradable giveaways, and many more eco-friendly activities at this day-long special event.
Orange Bowl Food & Wine Celebration: April 29
Broward County Convention Center, 1950 Eisenhower Blvd, Fort Lauderdale
Calling all foodies! Head over to the Broward County Convention Center for a sampling of amazing food and drink from more than 30 of South Florida’s top restaurants and chefs. With all proceeds benefiting Make-A-Wish South Florida, Special Olympics Florida, and the Orange Bowl Leadership Academy, this is one indulgence you won’t guilty about.
Savor SoFlo: April 30 – May 1
Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, 101 S. Broadwalk, 3501 N Broadwalk, Hollywood
Gather ‘round one of America’s Best Beach Boardwalks (by Travel + Leisure magazine) for two days of tastes and sips that can please every appetite. One of the most highly anticipated events on South Florida’s culinary calendar, you get to enjoy food, wine, craft beer, and spirits from local as well as national gastronomy rock stars.
ArtsPark LIVE - Hollywood Brazilian Carnaval: April 30
ArtsPark at Young Circle, 1 N Young Cir, Hollywood
If you love the high-energy beats of Samba, then you can’t miss experiencing this joyous Brazilian Carnaval. Come celebrate the spirit of Rio in Miami with this free, family-friendly event featuring an 11-piece Brazilian big band led by Latin GRAMMY winner Diogo Brown called Gafieira Rio Miami.
International T20 Night Cricket Tournament: Throughout April – May 14
Lauderhill Sports Park, 7500 W. Oakland Park Blvd, Lauderhill
With T20 matches taking place every week, watch some of the finest cricketing talent battles it out for the Championship Trophy and bragging rights. The eight teams competing for top honors include Team USA, Combined Islands, India, Trinidad & Tobago, Jamaica, World XI, Pakistan, and Guyana.
April 2022: Virtual Events in Fort Lauderdale
Stonewall’s ZOOM Conversation with Author Aaron Lecklider: April 6
This month, author Aaron Lecklider takes over Stonewall’s Zoom room to talk about his book “Love’s Next Meeting: The Forgotten History of Homosexuality and the Left in American Culture.” The cultural historian will explore topics like how class inequality was exacerbated by the Great Depression, the relationship between homosexuality and the Left in American culture between 1920 and 1960, and more.
Montage – A Virtual Film Series: April 28
Bringing you a new indie film each month, the Pompano Beach Cultural Center hopes to unite aspiring filmmakers, film lovers, and the general public. This month, “Las Llaves, El Gato, Y Un Pez Negro (The Keys, A Cat, and A Black Fish)” by filmmaker Gonzalo Mejia will be showcased – RSVP to watch.
What are you doing for this April before summer sets in? Want us to cover a special event? Drop us a comment - we’d love to hear about it on Instagram, Facebook, or YouTube.