Blog

Fall looks a little different in Fort Lauderdale. Instead of crisp air and falling leaves, you’ll find warm breezes, golden sunsets, and palm trees swaying against the ocean backdrop. It’s the kind of “endless summer” setting that makes autumn here just as lively as peak season—only with fewer crowds and plenty of room to enjoy the city at your own pace.

 

For visitors planning a fall getaway, Fort Lauderdale offers the best of both worlds: comfortable weather, unique seasonal events, and endless ways to enjoy the outdoors. And for locals, the season brings its own set of perks—from family-friendly festivals to once-a-year traditions like the International Boat Show.

 

Fall Events in Fort Lauderdale

Fall in Fort Lauderdale is packed with festivals, shows, and cultural celebrations that give both visitors and locals plenty to look forward to. Here are some of the highlights:

 

Dine Out Lauderdale (Aug 1 – Sep 30, 2025)

Foodies can kick off the season with Dine Out Lauderdale, a two-month program where restaurants across the city offer special prix-fixe menus and dining deals. It’s a perfect way to sample Fort Lauderdale’s culinary scene at a great value.

 

Fort Lauderdale Home Design & Remodeling Show (Aug 29 – Sep 1, 2025)

Held at the Broward County Convention Center, this long-running event is a must for anyone interested in home improvement or design. Expect hundreds of exhibitors, expert speakers, and hands-on inspiration for everything from décor to renovations.

 

Las Olas Art Fair (Oct 18–19, 2025)

One of the city’s most beloved traditions, the Las Olas Art Fair turns the boulevard into an open-air gallery. Artists from around the country showcase fine art, photography, jewelry, and crafts, drawing both serious collectors and casual browsers.

 

Riverwalk Fall Festival (Oct 18, 2025)

This family-friendly festival at Esplanade Park brings together food vendors, live entertainment, and kids’ activities. It’s a local favorite and a great way to enjoy the cooler fall weather along the New River.

 

LauderBOO (Oct 18, 2025)

For families with young children, LauderBOO at Snyder Park offers a safe and fun Halloween celebration. Think trick-or-treat stations, games, crafts, and costumes—all set in one of the city’s prettiest green spaces.

 

Pumpkins & Palm Trees (Late October, 2025)

Fort Lauderdale gives fall a tropical twist at The LOOP on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Families can pick out pumpkins, enjoy live music, and take part in seasonal activities—against a backdrop of sand and surf. The exact date hasn’t been announced, so stay tuned!

 

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show (Oct 29 – Nov 2, 2025)

The city’s biggest annual event, the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show attracts marine enthusiasts from all over the world. With luxury yachts, marine gear, and entertainment spread across multiple waterfront locations, it’s both a global showcase and a community celebration.

 

Fort Lauderdale Fall Outdoor Activities

With sunny skies and lower humidity, fall is one of the best times to enjoy Fort Lauderdale’s outdoor lifestyle. The season offers the chance to explore beyond the beach while still soaking up everything the city is known for.

1. Plan the perfect beach day.

The beaches are a little quieter in fall, making it easy to find your own spot on the sand. Spend the day swimming, lounging, or renting jet skis and paddleboards without the summer crowds.

 

2. Explore the waterways.

Fort Lauderdale’s canals are perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, or hopping aboard the Water Taxi. Visitors can use it as a fun way to sightsee, while locals might enjoy discovering a new favorite stop along the route.

 

3. Go on an Everglades excursion.

Just a short drive away, the Everglades are much more comfortable to explore in fall than during peak summer heat. Airboat tours, wildlife spotting, and boardwalk trails are all at their best this time of year.

 

4. Bike, walk, and wander. 

Cooler evenings make fall a great time for exploring on foot or by bike. The Riverwalk offers scenic views along the New River, while the beachfront promenade is ideal for a leisurely stroll, people-watching, or a sunset ride.

 

Visit Fort Lauderdale This Fall

Fall in Fort Lauderdale is the perfect blend of laid-back vibes and lively events. From family-friendly festivals and art fairs to unforgettable days on the water, the season offers plenty for both visitors and locals to enjoy. Add in sunny weather, smaller crowds, and a calendar full of can’t-miss celebrations, and it’s easy to see why autumn might be the city’s most underrated season.

If you’re planning a trip—or want a local staycation—Yacht Haven Park & Marina makes the best place to start. Nestled right on the water, it offers spacious RV sites, three RVBnbs, a full-service marina, and amenities perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring. Whether you’re here for the boat show, a family festival, or just a weekend by the water, Yacht Haven gives you comfort, convenience, and a true Fort Lauderdale fall experience.