Friday, July 17
The Lake Worth Playhouse presents “In the Heights” from today through August 2. This Tony Award–winning musical is bursting with energy, rhythm, and heart. “In the Heights” brings Washington Heights to life—a vibrant community where dreams are big, and culture runs deep. As change looms, its residents chase love, ambition, and identity, asking the timeless question: what do you hold onto, and what do you leave behind? Don’t miss this uplifting, music-filled celebration of community and hope. To purchase tickets, you can call the box office at 561.586.6410 (Monday – Friday 10am – 4pm) or go to Lakeworthplayhouse.org
Saturday, July 18
The Pet Project for Pets presents their annual Bowl-A-Thon at Manor Lanes (1517 NE 26th St, Wilton Manors) where registration begins at 9:30am and bowling starts at 10am. The after party for all participants is at Pub on the Drive. For more information, go to Thepetprojectfl.org
The Stonewall Museum, Library and Archives invites you to join President & CEO Robert Kesten at 11:30am for Donuts & Conversation, a casual community gathering where curiosity, connection, and good humor are always on the menu. Robert brings the donuts. Please bring your own coffee and an open mind. This is your space to speak freely, listen, and build community. Stay as long as you like, and don’t forget to explore our current exhibitions while you’re here. Sponsored by The Hollywood Donut Factory. Free to attend.
Arts United Gallery presents Provocative #2, a full-frontal visual art juried exhibition “To Be Seen In All It’s Glory” from 7 to 9pm. The event will feature auctions, raffles, and games and star Hotspots cover model Edwing, the incredible talents of Serge Airbush, and live art. This is a fundraiser event for the gallery, and tickets are $35 by scanning the QR code in the ad in this magazine.
The 4th Annual Riverwalk Tacos & Tequila Festival is back from 2 to 6pm at beautiful Esplanade Park in Downtown Fort Lauderdale. This exciting South Florida food festival brings together the area’s best tacos, refreshing margaritas, premium tequila selections, entertainment, and a lively waterfront atmosphere for an unforgettable afternoon of food, drinks, and fun. Explore a delicious variety of tacos prepared by local restaurants and vendors offering everything from authentic street-style favorites to innovative specialty creations. Whether you’re a fan of traditional carne asada, slow-cooked barbacoa, seafood tacos, or creative fusion flavors, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Perfect for food lovers, tequila enthusiasts, groups of friends, and anyone looking for fun things to do in Fort Lauderdale. The VIP Tasting Experience will open at 2pm, and feature complimentary samples of tequilas, margaritas and small bites from local restaurants such as Epazote Mexican Restaurant, La Mexicana Taco Bar, Senior Frogs, and more. Tickets for the VIP are $30 in advance, and $35 the day of the event. For more information, go to Goriverwalk.com
Scandals Saloon presents “Channel Surfing With Phoenix,” a nostalgic trip through your favorite TV shows from the 1950’s through today from 7:30 to 9:30. The event will also celebrate Phoenix Endora’s birthday and star Austin Summers, Bougie Big Foot, Doug Curaton, Jonathan Sanz, Mark Gracy, Eclipse B Childs, Jessica Channing and Salem Sanderson. The event will be a live TV variety show through the decades, and feature trivia, sing-a-longs, games and prizes. Speaking of Jessica, at 9:30pm she takes over to host her weekly “Scandalous Saturdays” show with special guests Verandah Lanai, Oscar A. Novva and Mindy Lenore. While you are there don’t forget to check out sexy Zac and James as they give country dance lessons on the dance floor. As always, there is no cover at Scandals!!
Sunday, July 19
321 Slammer presents “Interracial Meat,” NYC’s Men’s Interracial Play Party invades Fort Lauderdale from 3-7pm. Tickets are $30 in advance at Milkchocolatenyc.com, and $40 at the door.
The Miami Beach Botanical Garden presents “Miso at the Garden” from 5 to 6pm with a magical concert by members of the Miami Symphony Orchestra. Enjoy an enchanting evening of live music surrounded by nature. The event is open to all ages—families, couples, and music lovers alike are welcome. They recommend bringing a blanket or low lawn chair for comfortable seating on the garden lawn. Go early to explore the gardens and enjoy a relaxed, cultural experience under the Miami Beach sky! Free to attend.
Monday July 20
The Dania Improv presents Maurice Benard: State of Mind Tour. Join Maurice Benard, star of ABC’s “General Hospital”, New York Times best-selling author & host of YouTube’s “State of Mind” for an afternoon of inspiration & reflection as well as “General Hospital” fun and Q & A. Maurice celebrates over 30 years of portraying the iconic character of Sonny Corinthos on GH. Maurice has been nominated for several Daytime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor and has won in 2003, 2019 and 2021. He was cast as Sonny in 1993, playing the manic-depressive mobster for the ABC soap. Maurice has also been diagnosed with bipolar disorder and is an advocate for mental health. For tickets, there is a VIP option with a photo op and post-show meet and greet, go to Daniaimprov.com
Twist’s “Akasha Mondays” with a 12am showtime features special guests Tayanna Love and Taquoya Love Dupree along with VJ and Host Pasha.
Tuesday, July 21
The Greater Fort Lauderdale gay and Lesbian Chamber of Commerce presents their monthly Networking event, today at the B Ocean Resort (1140 Seabreeze Blvd, Fort Laud) from 5:30 to 7pm. To register for events, go to GFLGLCC.org
Thursday, July 23
Wilton Art Works (1430 NE 26th Street) presents the opening reception for Anthony Ferrara from 5:30 to 8:30.
Friday, July 24
The Seminole Hardrock Hotel and Casino Hollwood presents Lionel Richie and Earth, Wind & Fire at the Hard Rock Live at 7:30pm as part of their North American Tour. International superstar Lionel Richie boasts a discography of albums and singles that is second to none. With more than 125 million albums sold worldwide, an Oscar, Golden Globe, and four GRAMMY Awards, Richie has been honored with distinctions including the 2016 MusiCares Person of the Year, and the 2017 Kennedy Center Honors. In March 2018, Richie cemented his iconic legacy as he imprinted his hand and footprints at Hollywood’s storied TCL Chinese Theatre. In 2022, he was both inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame and received the 2022 American Music Awards Icon Award, his 18th AMA award. He also received the 2022 Gershwin Prize for Popular Song by the Library of Congress. Earth, Wind & Fire charted a history that will live on forever. They’ve scored eight number one hits and have sold more than 100 million albums worldwide. They’ve released 23 albums; eight of those albums went Double Platinum and hit the Top 10, making them one of the best-selling artists of all time. They’ve won an impressive nine GRAMMY Awards, including one for Lifetime Achievement (2012). In 2000, Earth, Wind & Fire was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame, cementing their lasting impact on popular music. In 2019, their contributions to arts and culture were acknowledged in Washington DC with the prestigious Kennedy Center Honors. For tickets go to casino.hardrock.com/hollywood/events
Tonight, and tomorrow, The Dania Improv presents comedian Eddie Griffin. A popular comedian turned actor who started his career on-stage as a dare, funnyman Eddie Griffin has built an ever-growing fan base since jumping onto the comedy scene in 1990. He played The Pastor opposite Dave Chappelle, Lady Gaga and Bradley Cooper in 2018’s Academy Award Winning feature film A Star is Born. His Showtime Comedy Special Eddie Griffin: Undeniable debuted on Showtime in February 2018 to rave reviews. Comedy Central honored Eddie as one of the Top 100 Greatest Stand-Up Comedians of all time. He has conquered not only the stage, but the silver screen as well, appearing in over 50 films and numerous television shows. Griffin is a gifted actor, dancer, choreographer and singer in domestic and foreign territories around the world. Mr. Griffin is an accomplished philanthropist who has contributed significant resources to the community and the arts and entertainment industry. For tickets, go to Daniaimprov.com
Saturday, July 25
Galleria Fort Lauderdale will present “Arts from A to Z,” a new community-focused activation spotlighting Broward’s vibrant nonprofit arts and cultural organizations, from 10am to 5pm. This free special event will transform the mall into an interactive arts experience featuring live performances, art demonstrations, cultural showcases, and hands-on activities that connect guests with South Florida’s creative community. Confirmed participating organizations include South Florida Symphony Orchestra, Florida Children’s Theatre, Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Island City Stage, Flamingo Gardens, Young at Art Museum, History Fort Lauderdale, Hollywood Art and Culture Center, Stonewall National Museum, Archives, & Library, Museum of Discovery and Science, Wiener Museum of Decorative Arts, Old Davie School Museum & Event Venue, South Florida Pride Bands, and Business for the Arts Broward, with additional organizations to be announced.
The Palm Beach County Human Rights Council are hosting their biennial Summer Soirée from 7:30 to 10pm at National Croquet Center (700 Florida Mango Rd, West Palm Beach), and tickets are on sale now. Mix and mingle with elected officials and candidates for an evening of connection and community. Catering is by Sandy James Fine Food & Productions, with heavy hors d’oeuvres and an open bar. Attire is Palm Beach Summer Casual, so dress cool and comfortable. PBCHRC has been a champion for equality in Palm Beach County for decades. Register at Pbchrc.org.
“It Just Might Works” presents “Matt & Ben” at Empire Stage (1140 N. Flagler Dr, Ft. Lauderdale) written by Mindy Kaling & Brenda Withers and directed by Mila Sumrall & Dominique Palmer. “Matt & Ben” depicts its Hollywood golden boys – before J-Lo, before Gwyneth, before Jason Bourne, before Oscar… before anyone gave a damn. When the screenplay for Good Will Hunting drops mysteriously from the heavens, the boys realize they’re being tested by a Higher Power.” Playing tonight, July 26, Aug 1 & 2. 90 Minutes, No Intermission. Tickets are $30 at Empirestage.com.
Sunday, July 26
Compass and Mad Hatter Lounge (1532 N Dixie Highway, Lake Worth Beach) are back at it, with their annual fundraiser; Summertime Madness from 2 to 7pm, a Luau Themed party. If you’ve been before, you know what’s coming: the pig roast, the Jello shots, the patio bar, and a silent auction and raffles worth sticking around for. If you’re new, consider this your official welcome to the tradition. As always, every dollar raised helps get Compass to the Joy Ride FL.
Bottima Special
Bottima barbershop, where the blade meets craft, is offering a huge discount…20% off and service when you say you saw their ad in Hotspots Magazine!!! Check them out at 815 NE 13th Street, Fort Lauderdale; 954-399-2327; Bottima.com
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