Tranquil to Trendy in 34 Years Flat

This weekend the normally tranquil North Beach will be taken over by trendy art collectors, talented artists, and an eye-popping array of paintings, sculptures, and photography. The 34th annual Miami Beach Festival of the Arts has come a long way from its humble beginnings as a local street fair, and this year promises to be a free two-day multicultural feast for the senses.

Just in time for Valentine’s Day, traipse along Ocean Terrace and find the perfect piece to complete your husband’s photography collection, or snag that exquisitely handcrafted necklace for your girlfriend. Browse through artwork from more than 150 national artists, take in some of the fabulous performances (from Cezar Santana to Raffa & Rainer), grab a few margaritas, and wait for the sun to set. There’s even a slew of tents with children’s activities so your tots can have a go at expressing themselves on something other than your 500-thread-count bed sheets. Slap on some sunscreen and stop by the jam-packed stretch between 73rd Street and Collins Avenue in North Miami Beach today from 10 to 6. Visit www.miamibeachfl.gov.
Feb. 9-10, 10 a.m.-6 p.m., 2008