Vote Like It Matters. It’s the season for the most important vote of the year — and no, it’s not political. Every year, Miami New Times holds a citywide poll to crown the very best of the best: food, art, music, culture, community spots. Hopefully, the Spotlight has helped you discover a few worthy candidates. Now’s your chance to weigh in. Cast your vote in the Best of Miami poll and show some love to your favorite local venues, artists, and events. Online voting is open now — no ID required, just good taste.
Grove Roots, Camera Ready. History’s getting the spotlight — and you’re invited to step inside the frame. Documenting Goombay and Little Bahamas in Coconut Grove highlights the neighborhood’s Bahamian heritage with a display of images captured by volunteer photographers. Catch the first leg of the show — complete with live music from G.W. Carver students and story gathering with HistoryMiami Museum — at Sanctuary of the Arts at St. Mary’s, 136 Frow Ave., on Sunday 6/1 from 1:00 to 5:00 p.m. (with programming from 2:00 to 5:00 p.m.). The show then moves to the MDC Gibson Education Center, 3629 Grand Avenue, during the Goombay Festival on Saturday 6/7 and Sunday 6/8. Free and open to the public.
Ever wish you could talk to dolphins? Now’s your chance to hear from someone who (almost) can. Join LIVE@Frost Science: Deciphering Dolphin Conversations, where Dr. Denise Herzing — founder of the Wild Dolphin Project — is diving deep into how artificial intelligence is helping decode dolphin chatter. With 40 years of underwater research on Atlantic spotted dolphins, Herzing’s team is using machine learning to map out patterns in clicks, whistles, and body language that might reveal a kind of dolphin syntax. Frost Science Museum, 1101 Biscayne Boulevard. Wednesday 6/4. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the program starts at 7:00 p.m. Seating is first-come, first-served. The dolphin program is free but regular museum admission is a prerequisite.
Pride and Palaces. Vizcaya Late – Pride Edition celebrates Miami’s LGBTQIA+ community with artmaking, storytelling, and historical deep dives into the legacy of Vizcaya itself. Join artists from the Buen Provecho Collective and meet the folks behind Walls Down, a conversation-starting card game that’s sure to break the ice. Vizcaya Museum and Gardens, 3251 South Miami Ave. Wednesday 6/4 from 6:00 to 9:00 p.m. Tickets to the museum grounds are required.
Save Me a Seat
The 2025 Goombay Festival takes over Grand Avenue from Douglas Road (SW 37th Avenue) to Elizabeth Street next weekend. The Junkanoo – a centuries-old Bahamian tradition marked by rhythmic drumming, elaborate costumes and street processions – is the centerpiece of the celebration. Friday 6/6 at Armbrister Park and Saturday 6/7 and Sunday 6/8 on Grand Avenue. Free.
Plant One On Me. Rainy season’s here — Mother Nature’s in full watering mode. Make the most of it at the Go-Native Plant Sale from the Tropical Audubon Society and Galloway Farm Nursery. Held at the lush Steinberg Nature Center, this annual event features expert advice from master gardeners, regionally tailored landscaping tips, and free “Bird-Friendly Gardening Guides” for the taking. 5530 Sunset Drive. Saturday 6/7 from 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Admission is free, and the greenery’s glorious.
Opera on Miracle Mile. What if, for just one afternoon, you could step into a world where every note tells a story, every voice carries centuries of passion, and every moment stirs something deep within you? The Alhambra Orchestra invites you to a sweeping musical journey — one filled with soaring arias and heart-stopping beauty from opera. Featuring the rising stars of the Manny Perez Vocal Studio and a full live orchestra, this is your chance to experience opera up close in a setting as grand as the music itself. Actors’ Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre, 280 Miracle Mile, Coral Gables. Sunday 6/15 at 3:00 p.m. Modestly priced tickets save you a seat, so reserve early and let opera move you.
