Art Deco Weekend Miami Beach 2026: Celebrating 100 Years of History and Style
From January 9-11, 2026, Ocean Drive transformed into a time machine. The 49th Annual Art Deco Weekendwelcomed over 50,000 visitors to celebrate one of Florida’s most iconic cultural festivals and commemorate 100 years of the Art Deco style that defines Miami Beach’s visual identity.
Under the theme “Celebrating Air, Land and Sea”, the festival explored how transportation innovations of the 1920s and 1930s revolutionized travel and allowed Art Deco style to spread around the world, ultimately reaching the iconic streets of South Beach.
What is Art Deco Weekend?
Art Deco Weekend is a free, three-day festival organized by the Miami Design Preservation League (MDPL), the organization that saved South Beach’s historic buildings from demolition in the 1970s. This annual event celebrates the architecture, design, music, and culture of the golden Art Deco era.
The festival transforms Ocean Drive—from 5th Street to 14th Place—into an open-air museum where pastel buildings with their geometric patterns and streamlined shapes come alive with music, art, and family-friendly activities.
Art Deco Weekend 2026 Highlights
Architecture Tours
MDPL-guided tours took visitors to discover the stories behind the 800+ Art Deco buildings in the Historic District. The nighttime neon tours were especially popular, showcasing how Ocean Drive glows after sunset.
Live Jazz Music
The Jazz Age Stage at Lummus Park featured live music throughout the weekend, transporting attendees to the swing era with local bands and jazz artists paying tribute to the sounds of the 1920s and 1930s.
Swing Dance Classes
International dance champions including Nathalie Gomes Adams, Yuval Hod, Minn Vo, and Lily Matini offered free swing and shag lessons. DJ Didier Jean-Francois kept the dance floor packed with the best rhythms of the era.
Classic Car Show
The Classic Car Show presented by the Antique Automobile Club of America showcased beautifully restored vehicles from the 1920s through 1950s. From elegant Packards to sporty Auburns, the classic cars perfectly complemented the era’s architecture.
Lectures at The Wolfsonian-FIU
The Wolfsonian-FIU museum offered specialized lectures exploring how Art Deco transformed travel, transportation, and modern life. Attendees also viewed the exhibition of 1930s Japanese prints by Koizumi Kishio.
An Art Deco Taste of Ocean Drive
NEW in 2026! The festival’s first-ever culinary series let visitors enjoy prix-fixe menus at Ocean Drive restaurants: $35 for lunch and $45 for dinner—a delicious way to experience local cuisine while enjoying the architecture.
More Activities
- Sketchwalks with Urban Sketchers: Interactive artist tours for drawing the architecture
- Artisan Market: Over 150 vendors with antiques, vintage clothing, and art
- Deco Kids Zone: Special activities for the little ones
- Official 2026 Poster: Created by artist Woody Vondracek
100 Years of Art Deco in Miami Beach
2026 marks a special milestone: 100 years since Art Deco style began defining Miami Beach. What started as vacation buildings for northern tourists became the world’s largest Art Deco district, with more than 800 historic structures.
The special exhibition “100 Years of Art Deco: A World Celebration in Miami Beach” at Galeria Ocean Drive (open through January 31) traces the global influence of the Art Deco movement while highlighting Miami Beach’s unique tropical style.
Practical Information for Future Visitors
📍 Location: Ocean Drive, from 5th Street to 14th Place, Miami Beach
💰 Cost: FREE (some specialty tours have fees)
🚗 Parking: Municipal garages on Collins Ave. Public transit or rideshare recommended
📅 Next event: 50th Art Deco Weekend – January 2027 (dates TBA)
Protect Your Treasures: Insurance for Collectors
If you own a classic car, collect Art Deco art, or possess vintage pieces, you know these treasures require special protection. Standard insurance may not adequately cover the collectible value of your possessions.
🚗 Classic Car Insurance
Classic vehicles need specialized coverage that recognizes their appreciating value—not depreciation. A 1930 Packard is worth more today than 10 years ago, and your insurance should reflect that.
🏠 Collections Insurance
Standard homeowner policies have low limits for art, antiques, and collectibles. If you collect Art Deco pieces—furniture, lamps, original posters—consider a scheduled personal property endorsement.
🎪 Event Insurance
If you’re a vendor or artist participating in festivals like Art Deco Weekend, event liability insurance protects your business and pieces during the festival.
💡 Own a classic car or collection worth protecting? At Bet On You, we help you find the right coverage for your treasures. Our bilingual agents understand the unique needs of Florida collectors.
📞 Contact us today for a free quote.
A Legacy That Continues
Art Deco Weekend 2026 reminded us why Miami Beach is unique. It’s not just a beach—it’s a living museum where every building tells a story of glamour, innovation, and cultural preservation.
Thanks to the work of MDPL and the community, future generations will continue enjoying these architectural treasures. If you missed this year’s festival, mark your calendar for January 2027 and get ready to celebrate the 50th anniversary of this unique South Florida tradition.