On Saturday morning, Fort Lauderdale came alive with the vibrant energy of its 46th annual Sistrunk Parade and Festival. The festivities kicked off at 8:45 a.m. along Sistrunk Boulevard, drawing in a crowd of approximately 5,000 attendees. This colorful celebration not only showcases local talent but also honors the rich diversity and significant contributions of the historic African American community in Fort Lauderdale. Among the parade’s highlights, Local 10 anchor Calvin Hughes took on the esteemed role as one of four grand marshals this year, adding to the event’s excitement and prestige. For more details on this lively occasion, check out the full coverage on Local 10 News.
As the Sistrunk Parade and Festival continues to grow, there’s even more in store for the community. On February 23, 2026, the inaugural “1st Annual Sistrunk Feud Edition” will take place at Smitty’s Wings Sistrunk. This exciting event will feature six teams, each consisting of five members, competing in a game show format that celebrates Black History and the culture of Historic Sistrunk. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m., with the competition starting at 6:00 p.m. Families, colleagues, and organizations are encouraged to join in on the fun – participants must be 18 years or older. To register, teams can send an email to sistrunk.festival@yahoo.com with their team name, captain’s contact info, names of all members, a brief team biography, and a group photo. The winning team will receive community recognition and bragging rights! For more information about this exciting addition to the Sistrunk festivities, visit Sistrunk Festival.
Celebrating Black History Month
February is a special month in Greater Fort Lauderdale, as it marks the celebration of Black History Month. The area is renowned for its diversity, representing over 170 countries, and offers a variety of events throughout the month. From tributes to legendary artists like Nat King Cole to engaging film nights at ArtsPark, the community embraces the rich tapestry of African American culture.
Some notable events include the “Sister Act, Broadway’s Divine Musical Comedy” from February 2-18, and the “MJ Live!” tribute on February 7. For those looking for something more interactive, the “Redlining: An Art Engagement Dialogue Reception” on February 5 offers a thought-provoking exploration of systemic issues within the community. Additionally, the Sistrunk Historical Festival & Parade on February 24 will feature a 5K run, live music, and family activities, promising a day filled with joy and cultural appreciation. For a complete list of events, visit Visit Lauderdale.
With events like the Sistrunk Parade and the upcoming Sistrunk Feud Edition, Fort Lauderdale continues to honor and celebrate its vibrant heritage, making February a month to remember!