You can’t beat the Miami heat

No, not that Heat, the other kind!

Miami is hot.

Filled with palm trees and supermodels, this Florida paradise is flashy and fierce. Miami restaurants and hotels are some of the best in the world, and the entertainment is second to none. From the infamous stretch of coast known as South Beach to the Bugattis and bling that blind tourists on Ocean Boulevard, Miami heat is about more than just the mercury.

To see Miami at its best, visit one of the city's many festivals. From hosting some of the most famous players in electronic music to honoring its Art Deco past, Miami does festivals better than anyone. Here are some of the city's very best.

Ultra Music Festival

Every March, the Electronic Dance Music (EDM) scene gathers to put on the preeminent rave, dance, and party in the world. Performing on outdoor stages at Bayfront Park in central Miami, Ultra Music Festival is a singular experience for electronic music fans.

The week-long event celebrates the culture and the music of the electronic music movement and draws the most famous names in the game ranging from DJs to dancers to performers.

Art Deco Weekend

While Ultra may represent all things musical and modern, the Art Deco Weekend pays homage to South Beach's style-savvy past.

Taking place in what was once a neglected collection of Art Deco buildings left from the 20s, 30s, and 40s is now home to one of the most impressive grassroots architectural festivals in the world. Art Deco Weekend has been such a success it now boasts a variety of programming including musical performances, film screenings, and walking tours of the city's historical highlights.

The Miami International Boat Show

Miami culture is showy, there are no two ways about it. Boats -really big ones – are what truly draw a crowd in this modern metropolis. The Miami International Boat show has grown so popular in recent years that it has expanded and now extends to three separate locations throughout the city.

Whether you're actually shopping for a new boat or are just curious to see the types of floating palaces that the modern boating industry can build these days, the boat show is a trip, even if you never make it out on the water.

The Food Network South Beach Wine and Food Festival

[My favorite!] For foodies, the Food Network South Beach Wine and Food Festival is not to be missed. Hosting some of the most well-known names in culinary culture, this insatiable festival features wine tastings, gourmet dinners, seminars, and cooking demonstrations.

The Festival benefits the School of Hospitality and Tourism Management at Florida International University and it has raised over $18 million over the years for them. A good cause and great food are unbeatable pairings.

Miami is more than just bright colors and bikinis. Filled with history, culture, music, and food, the city comes alive throughout the year at any number of its fantastic festivals. For a once in a lifetime getaway to a one-of-a-kind destination, you just can't beat the heat of Miami.

How about you? What's your favorite thing about Miami?

If you are looking for food tips, check out my Ultimate Miami Food Guide Wanderlist on AFAR. In addition, AFAR has a great Miami Travel Guide should you choose to head there to see any of these festivals.