November is one of the best times of year to be in Miami. Our winters are balmy with crisp blue skies, evenings are just the right amount of chilly, and there’s a bit of magic in the air with the holiday season right around the corner. For Thanksgiving, you’ll find that plenty of Miami restaurants are doing an incredible spread. We’ve also rounded up options to give back and practice giving thanks ahead of Turkey Day with yoga and food drives.

For your social calendar this month, there’s plenty to be grateful for. Miami Entertainment Months continue with great deals that can get you into holiday-themed events and the Gipsy Kings concert at a discount. 

The best plant-based food and wellness festival, Seed Food & Wine is back in town. Rum Renaissance makes a comeback. You can dip your toes into Art Week with a VIP preview at the tail-end of the month. Most holiday-themed attractions such as Santa’s Enchanted Forest, Night Garden at Fairchild, Deering’s Gilded décor, and Zoo Lights Miami kick off in November. And, movie buffs have quite a few film festivals to choose from.

Read on for the full list of the Top Things to Do in Miami this November below:

Things to Do in Miami - November Events at a Glance

• Special: Thanksgiving 2021 Events

November 2021: Miami In-person Events

• Miami Entertainment Months: Throughout November
• Seed Food & Wine Week: November 3-7
• Mantra & Cacao - Celebrating Together Diwali: November 4
• Santa’s Enchanted Forest: November 4 – January 2
• Chucho Valdés - The Creation x Knight Concert Hall: November 5
• PAWS Yappy Hour + Day in the Dirt at The Underline: November 6
• Vintage Auto Show x Deering Estate: November 7
• Stitchin’ Crochet Flowers: November 7
• National Pet Adoption Week: November 8-14
• Vizcaya Late x Art Edition: November 10
• Candlelight Open Air Concert: From Bach to the Beatles: November 10 & 17
• PAMM's Calm Before the (Art Week) Storm Celebration: November 11
• 20th Short Film Festival Opening Night Gala: November 12
• Miami Short Film Festival: November 12-14
• Miami Rum Renaissance: November 14
• Miami Book Fair 2021 | Downtown + Online: November 14-21
• Mini-Me Science - Autumn Leaves: November 14
• Full Moon Meditation with Ewa Joseffson: November 18
• Miami-Dade County Youth Fair & Expo: November 18 – December 5
• Gipsy Kings x Arsht Center: November 19
• Marc Anthony x FTX Arena: November 19-20
• Miami Dragon Boat Festival: November 20
• Graffiti Artists in TRAINing with ABSTRK x Adrienne Arsht: November 20
• Fugees “The Score” 25th Anniversary Tour x FTX Arena: November 21
• MUVE Volunteer Workday x Frost Museum of Science: November 21
• Shamanic Family Constellations: November 23
• Historic Holiday Décor: Gilded Age: November 26 – January 6
• Zoo Lights Miami: November 26 – December 30 (select nights)
• Art Week Miami Beach | Live + Online: November 30 – December 4
• Events at the Fairchild Gardens: Throughout October

November 2021: Miami Virtual Events

• S.T.E.M. Saturday: November 20
• American Black Film Festival: November 3-28
  
  

Things to Do in Miami - November Events at a Glance

Special: Thanksgiving 2021 Events in Miami

Photo by Alfred Schrock on Unsplash

Whether you’re celebrating a Friendsgiving or with family, keeping it traditional or wish to start a brand-new tradition of your own, look below for how to make the most of this gastronomical holiday reminding you to give thanks:

• Give back before you receive as you participate in YWCA’s “We’re Talkin’ Turkey Food Drive” on the 6th.
• Kick-off Thanksgiving week with beachfront yoga and a hearty brunch on the 20th, hosted at 1 Hotel South Beach.
• Head to the Caribbean for a sun-kissed Thanksgiving with this 7-day cruise starting Nov. 21. Hop aboard the Norwegian Joy for a mini-vacation taking you around Puerto Plata, Tortola, and the Bahamas.
• Try a Yogi’s Thanksgiving with a Satsang (holistic congregation) and 4-course Indian vegan dinner on the 24th, hosted by the SKYLIGHT YOGA Ashram in Miami Beach.
• Let your little ones blow off some steam as they head to the Edgewater FC Soccer Camp for a special Thanksgiving training session on the 24th.
• Looking for a good pre-Thanksgiving Happy Hour? Head out to The Wharf Miami for their Thanksgiving Eve Bash with $1 lager pints and $3 wine by the glass on the 24th.
• Practice giving thanks ahead of the evening with a Gratitude Meditation & Sound session hosted by 1 Hotel South Beach on the 25th.
• Celebrating at home? Participate in the Gobble Til You Wobble Virtual 5K, 10K, 13.1, & 26.2 taking place Nov. 25-30.
• Want to keep it musical? Choose from the likes of a Ruben Blades concert or Karol G x Bichota Tour performance.
• No mood to cook? No problem! Simply book yourself a table at one of these Miami restaurants serving a hearty spread. The Fontainebleau and Faena Hotel are hosting special dinners too. Or, you could look into these fine Ocean Drive restaurants that will be open so you don’t have to worry about that Turkey turning up dry.
  
  

November 2021: In-Person Events in Miami

Miami Entertainment Months: Throughout November

Multiple locations across Miami

Miami Entertainment Months has you covered for sorts of fall entertainment at great discounts. Through the month of November, listen to the latest in world music or opera, explore visual art, enjoy top-notch performances, and do more around Miami, as attractive discounts, BOGO savings, and more deals to sample and save.

Seed Food & Wine Week: November 3-7

Multiple locations across Miami

Calling all vegans, vegetarians, yogis and wellness enthusiasts! The “best plant-based food & wine festival in the country” is back to tease your tastebuds. It’s going to be five full days of wholesome, plant-based bites, sips, and tons of wellness-focused fun. Join to indulge in some guilt-free treats, wine and spirit tastings, a signature plant-based Burger Battle, celebrity chef dinners, cooking demos, wellness workshops, yoga, urban gardening classes, and much more. Visit and be grateful for one more thing this Thanksgiving as you learn how to eat, drink, and live well using sustainable, plant-based practices.

Mantra & Cacao - Celebrating Together Diwali: November 4

Synergy Yoga Center, 844 Alton Road, 2nd Floor, South Beach

Photo by Udayaditya Barua on Unsplash

The Hindu festival of lights, Diwali falls on November 4 this year. On this auspicious day, the Synergy Yoga Center, one of Miami’s longstanding yoga centers, invites you to celebrate the light within with a bright and positive session including soul-nourishing mantras, music, and the sacred sweet “food of the Gods,” cacao.

Santa’s Enchanted Forest: November 4 – January 2

3100 E 4th Ave, Hialeah

You can spot this one from miles away! With its 92-foot Christmas tree and 3-million-strong light display, the world’s largest holiday-themed park and free carnival are back with a bang this year. Regulars will find the usual 100+ joy rides, interactive fun, carnival attractions, family-friendly shows, and exclusive Santa time at this winter wonderland. There will also be tons of new games, adventure experiences, and delicious carnival treats to indulge in.

Chucho Valdés - The Creation x Knight Concert Hall: November 5

1300 Biscayne Blvd, Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, Arts & Entertainment District

True percussion enthusiasts will love this one. Claiming it as his greatest masterpiece, the famous Cuban pianist and composer Jesús “Chucho” Valdés will be presenting his new works at Knight Concert Hall. Performed with the Yoruban Orchestra, Valdés’ latest work is a mature take on big band, Afro-Cuban percussion, and vocals – an “accumulation of all my experiences” in his words.

PAWS Yappy Hour + Day in the Dirt at The Underline: November 6

Brickell Backyard Sound Stage, SW 8th Street - SW 1st Ave, Underline Promenade, Brickell

Workout your green thumb and perhaps stay awhile to take home a furry friend. Starting 9 a.m., block captains and volunteers will gather to weed and plant in some precious life into the Underline. After two hours of “dirt time”, you can join their “Yappy Hour” pet adoption drive to give an adorable cat or dog their new, loving home. There will be lots of fun, laughter, photo-ops, floof and gourmet doggy treats too.

Vintage Auto Show x Deering Estate: November 7

Deering Estate, 16701 SW 72nd Avenue, Palmetto Bay

Photo by Johannes Giez on Unsplash

Spend a leisurely Sunday afternoon strolling through legendary estate grounds, ogling at stunning vintage automobiles. In addition to a variety of vintage autos, including a 1950 International Harvester Truck, there will be a scavenger hunt, craft show for children, nature preserve tours, kayak rentals, access to the estate’s award-winning film, and lots of great food and beverage options from Sports Grill.

Stitchin’ Crochet Flowers: November 7

Miami Beach Botanical Garden, 2000 Convention Center Dr, South Beach

Get some fall crafts going ahead of the holiday season at this fun afternoon class. The Interknit fiber artist and owner of Krelwear, Karelle Levy will be guiding children and adults of all skill levels on how to stitch charming crochet flowers. Your ticket will include a crochet needle and yarn, light snacks, a glass of wine for adults, and iced tea for the kids.

National Pet Adoption Week: November 8-14

Multiple locations across Miami

If you’re in need of some love and a reason to feel grateful every day, maybe it’s time to bring a four-legged friend into the family! This is a sign to find yourself a furry soulmate! Join PetSmart Charities’ National Adoption Week and give a pet the loving home they deserve. With over 1,600 locations, you can browse to find the best match for you here.

Vizcaya Late x Art Edition: November 10

Vizcaya Museum & Gardens, 3251 S Miami Ave, Coconut Grove

Come experience a perfectly low-key, fall night out at the sprawling 10-acre Vizcaya gardens. Enjoy extended hours at the museum with a leisurely stroll through the Main House’s art and antique collection, live music on the waterfront terrace, and a choice of interesting add-on experiences. As part of the special art edition, you could add on a free life drawing session or behind-the-scenes at the swimming pool grotto – both equally fun and engaging.

Candlelight Open Air Concert: From Bach to the Beatles: November 10 & 17

Miami Beach Botanical Garden, 2000 Convention Center Dr, South Beach

Enjoy a fine evening of music by candlelight, under the stars, on the sprawling lawns of the Miami Beach Botanical Garden. The orchestra will be playing some of history’s most cherished masterpieces – aptly from “Bach to the Beatles.” Whether you’re looking for a romantic date night or a relaxing fall evening, this open-air concert will not disappoint. Down to its final two evenings, you can choose to attend the presentation on November 10 or the 17th.

PAMM's Calm Before the (Art Week) Storm Celebration: November 11

1103 Biscayne Blvd, Verde at Pérez Art Museum, Downtown Miami

Photo by Zach Key on Unsplash

Head over to Pérez Art Museum for a fine little treat before Miami Art Week takes over. Indulge your senses in a calming symphony of live classical music paired with the best of art on display, making for a harmonious fall evening.

20th Short Film Festival Opening Night Gala: November 12

Deering Estate, 16701 SW 72nd Avenue, Palmetto Bay

Complete with a cocktail reception, live music and red carpet, “Strong Hearted or Strong Minded...” will kick off Miami’s three-day Short Film Festival at the Deering Estate. As the estate has been hosting Shorts Under the Stars nights over the past few months, it is only fitting that opening night takes place in the estate’s historic courtyard. The special screening will also be followed by an interesting filmmaker Q & A session.

Miami Short Film Festival: November 12-14

Regal Cinemas South Beach, 1120 Lincoln Road Mall, South Beach

They’re quick, they’re entertaining, and they make excellent conversation starters. The world of short films is expanding and Miami’s Short Film Festival is geared up to introduce you to the finest. With a rich selection this year, the three-day festival will be screening over 55 short films from across the globe. Celebrating the world’s best independent up-and-coming short filmmakers, there will also be a concluding awards night at the festival.

Miami Rum Renaissance: November 14

Coral Gables Woman's Club, 1001 East Ponce de Leon Blvd, Coral Gables

Photo by Ash Edmonds on Unsplash

If you think rum is yum, you can’t afford to miss this one! Miami Rum Renaissance is back to deliver the best rum-tasting experience in the world. Letting you savor old favorites to hot new releases and luxury limited editions, this diverse sensory experience will feature a delicious variety of local and international rums.

Miami Book Fair 2021 | Downtown + Online: November 14-21

MDC Wolfson campus, 300 NE 2nd Ave, Downtown Miami

After more than a year of virtual-only events, the Miami Book Fair is back in person to let you mingle with fellow readers, book collectors, and savor a wide range of fiction to poetry and children’s books, and best of all, listen to your favorite author discuss their creative process. The ultimate literary event celebrating everything books; visit the street fair from November 19-21 for live author readings, workshops, and fringe events. Their online live stream starts November 14, ahead of the in-person event, bringing you exclusive author conversations, content, and insights.

Mini-Me Science - Autumn Leaves: November 14

Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science, 1101 Biscayne Blvd

Photo by olena ivanova on Unsplash

Let your little one “fall” for nature as they discover the colorful world of trees and leaves at this month’s Mini-me Science. The monthly program hosted by the Frost Museum of Science features a 60-minute themed session, followed by 30 minutes of hands-on activity, and a 30-minute guided museum exploration. This month, both you and the kids will have the chance to identify how trees survive, conduct cool experiments on leaf capillary action, and then take home your scientific art.

Full Moon Meditation with Ewa Joseffson: November 18

Tierra Santa Healing House, Faena Hotel, 3201 Collins Ave, Mid-Beach

Channel the full moon’s immense energy with a special evening at the Faena Hotel. Join Ewa Joseffson’s guided meditation and hypnosis healing experience, for a session that will help calm your mind, detox negative emotions, and activate the chakras.

Miami-Dade County Youth Fair & Expo: November 18 – December 5

Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition, 10901 Coral Way, University Park

Photo by Jake Weirick on Unsplash

Miami’s annual youth fair is back with more entertainment, improved interactive experiences, new foods, and a whole range of family-friendly fun. With an all-new Holiday Park, you get to enjoy nightly snowfall, live music, and more themed fun at the fair. Also new this year is the BMX stunt show, circus, kids’ tractor pull, and pig races.

Gipsy Kings x Arsht Center: November 19

Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, 1300 Biscayne Blvd, Arts & Entertainment District

One to check off your bucket list, don’t miss the Grammy-winning, chart-topping Gipsy Kings performing live at the Arsht Center this November. With a musical legacy spanning 30 years, expect to dance all night to evergreen hits such as “Volare,” "Bamboléo," "Djobi Djoba," and more at this electrifying concert. Suitable for all ages, bring along friends and family to enjoy a medley of Flamenco, Latin rhythms, and Western pop music. Use code GMCVB for special ticket discounts as part of the Miami Entertainment Months promotions.

Marc Anthony x FTX Arena: November 19-20

FTX Arena (formerly AmericanAirlines Arena), 601 Biscayne Blvd, Downtown Miami

Grammy-winning, Latin music icon Marc Anthony is all geared up to set the stage on fire this November. Performing live at the FTX Arena (formerly American Airlines Arena), on a custom-designed circular stage to get closer to his fans, the icon will come “Full Circle” dedicating his biggest hits to the audience.

Miami Dragon Boat Festival: November 20

Miami Marine Stadium, 3501 Rickenbacker Causeway, Key Biscayne

Boat to support Save Our Sisters Miami - a group dedicated to helping breast cancer survivors. This is the perfect opportunity for solo paddlers and small teams to compete in the inaugural Miami Dragon Boat Festival. Allowing you to form your own group and go against the best dragon boating teams in Florida, you’ll be participating in a 500-meter race. Top teams will then progress onto a 2K pursuit, fighting for the trophy, medals, and free entry to the Orlando International Dragon Boat Festival. There will also be a wellness village, an artisan village, beer garden, food truck bazaar, and marketplace to keep your cheer team entertained.

Graffiti Artists in TRAINing with ABSTRK x Adrienne Arsht: November 20

1300 Biscayne Blvd, Adrienne Arsht Center for the Performing Arts, Arts & Entertainment District

Photo by Daniel Clay on Unsplash

This month, the Arsht Center’s “Pour Your Art Out” program lets you practice hands-on graffiti with help from professional artist Abstrk. The hour-long session will have Abstrk help participants personalize their own cars with spray paints, while guiding them through a curated, graffitied train collection from Antar Fierce of Steel Wheels.

Fugees “The Score” 25th Anniversary Tour x FTX Arena: November 21

FTX Arena (formerly AmericanAirlines Arena), 601 Biscayne Blvd, Downtown Miami

After a 15-year hiatus, the Fugees are reuniting for their first tour, celebrating their 25th anniversary. Lauryn Hill, Wyclef Jean, and Pras Michel will be belting out their greatest hits such as “Killing Me Softly” and “Blunted on Reality,” taking you back in time with smooth vocals and timeless beats.

MUVE Volunteer Workday x Frost Museum of Science: November 21

Virginia Key North Point, Arthur Lamb Jr Rd, Virginia Key

Give back by helping restore critical coastal habitats under the expert guidance of captains from the Frost Museum of Science. This month, as a MUVE volunteer, you get to remove non-native vegetation and debris from Virginia Key Beach Park, helping it thrive. Join early, as spaces are limited.

Shamanic Family Constellations: November 23

Tierra Santa Healing House, Faena Hotel, 3201 Collins Ave, Mid-Beach

Another great program from the Tierra Santa Healing House at Faena Hotel, join the certified leader and shamanic practitioner Eric Lopez for a powerful session helping you break free of destructive family patterns. Developed using renowned psychotherapist Bert Hellinger’s techniques and ancient shamanic practices, this three-hour workshop is designed to convert emotional trauma into profound release and enlightenment that can help you move forward with greater understanding and acceptance.

Historic Holiday Décor: Gilded Age: November 26 – January 6

Deering Estate, 16701 SW 72nd Avenue, Palmetto Bay

Starting the day after Thanksgiving, Deering Estate’s holiday décor will be on display through New Year’s to January 6. Each room at this historical estate will be decked in glittering decorations, representing the ‘The Gilded Age’ of American history from the 1870s through the early 1900s. A sight to behold, there will be plenty of photo-ops to add to your Instagram story and historic vibes to add to your memories.

Zoo Lights Miami: November 26 – December 30 (select nights)

Zoo Miami, 12400 SW 152nd St, South Miami

With a dazzling display for the holiday season, Zoo Lights Miami is opening with a pajama party and tree lighting ceremony on November 26. Featuring special themed nights such as “Ugly Sweater,” “Santa & Elf Look-A-Like,” “Superhero” and more, it’s one of the best times to visit the zoo. While you’re at it, make sure to keep an eye out for limited edition add-ons, including hot chocolate and cookies, arts and crafts, letters to Santa, and Snowman’s River boat rides.

Art Week Miami Beach | Live + Online: November 30 – December 4

Multiple locations in Miami Beach

It is BACK! The most highly anticipated art event of the year will be back in town this December. Although general admission starts December 1, it’s highly recommended to get in on the VIP experience if you like to be the first to get your hands on the latest art. Apply for your VIP status here to preview and gain priority access to Art Miami, CONTEXT Art, Art Basel Miami Beach, Design Miami, NADA, and more. Get more information here.

Events at the Fairchild Gardens: Throughout October

10901 Old Cutler Road, Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, Coral Gables

And the holiday tradition continues! Taking over Fairchild from November 12 – January 2 is the Night Garden, complete with its special effects, stunning illumination, and surprises for the entire family. Besides their annual highlight event, here’s what else you can expect this November:

• To Draw | Plein Aire in The Garden: From Drawing to Painting throughout Nov. to Dec. 13, Open Studio Art with Marcelle Zanetti from Nov. 12 to Dec. 17, Soft Pastels In The Garden With Dan Bondroff from Nov. 30 to Dec. 14
• To Cook | Pizza! With Short Chef on the 5th, Thanksgiving Dinner Prep on the 20th
• To Create |  Littlebits Circuits For Kids on the 5th, Laser Etched Wood Art For Adults on the 20th
• To Photograph | Saturday Sunrise Photography on the 6th and 13th, The Native Butterfly Garden on the 11th, The Art Of iPhone Photography on the 13th, Dog Portrait Photography on the 14th,
• To Grow | South Florida Palm Society Palm Show & Sale on the 6th & 7th, Botany In Your Backyard on the 6th, Growing Amorphophallus At Home on the 20th
• To Celebrate | Cocktails by Design Alfresco on the 11th
  
  

November 2021: Virtual Events in Miami

S.T.E.M. Saturday: November 20

Photo by Robo Wunderkind on Unsplash

Want to make Math and Science fun for the kids? Register them for this entertaining online class, led by FIU undergraduates and medical students, to help your kids (aged 5 to 15) master both subjects with fun, hands-on activities. The class takes place on the third Saturday of each month.

American Black Film Festival: November 3-28

Taking their 25th-anniversary celebrations online, the American Black Film Festival is playing throughout November. Showcasing new voices, storytellers, and amazing talent from the black community, this month-long festival will also feature a short film competition and virtual talks. Register here to watch the festival at ABFFPlay.com.

We love our community and we want you to love us back! Start Thanksgiving on a caring note and tell us what’s your favorite way to celebrate the holiday? We’re all ears on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.

Photo by Niklas Ohlrogge on Unsplash