The best Memorial Day events in Miami to do over the long weekend

Dozens of airplanes and watercraft swarm Miami Beach’s shoreline for the entertaining military showcase. Organized to honor first responders, the two-day event features civilian aerobatic acts, powerboat racing and extreme water sports. If you don’t mind the crowds, you’re in for a genuine spectacle right on the sand. Don’t miss popular country duo, Big & Rich (of “Save a Horse, Ride a Cowboy” fame), who will headline the Musical Explosion on Sunday. May 27–28

There’s no Memorial Day without good eats, and the Moxy South Beach has you covered this festive holiday. Enjoy pulled pork sammies, grilled dogs, burgers and more when you celebrate at the Moxy’s Memorial Day Weekend Air & Sea Show Rooftop Cookout & Watch Party. It’ll be one of the best seats in the house to catch eye-level views of jet flybys, skydiving teams and all the excitement. May 27–28

Get your vibes on Miami-style at this year’s Afro Nation festival, taking place at loanDepot Park. The best artists in Afrobeats, hip-hop, R&B, dancehall, Amapiano, Afro house and more are expected to take over two stages over two days — or four if you can snag a Golden Ticket, which includes pre-party and post-party access at Oasis in Wynwood. May 26–29

Kickoff (almost) summertime with a festival boasting 25-plus different rosé wines. Vinya Wine’s inaugural Rosé Island Palooza in Key Biscayne will have guests sipping endlessly from an array of classic pale pinks, new-wave coppers, decadent rubies, orange-hued styles and more. Treat yourself to oysters from the Lazy Oyster to round out this casual, walk-around tasting event highlighting the industry’s best rosés. May 28

If you prefer to celebrate with some culture, check out the mummified remains of 40 real humans and animals and 80 rare artifacts from across the globe with the Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science’s new exhibition, Mummies of the World: The Exhibition. Even better? The museum is extending its hours from 10am to 7pm on Memorial Day weekend, so you have more time to check out one of the most popular exhibitions traveling the world. May 27

Tired of sitting at your desk scrolling through your friends’ spring vacation IG posts, wondering why you’re not also sipping a waterfront spritz in the middle of the day? The Wharf has you covered with the return of its three-day festival, Wharf Around the World, where guests don’t need a plane ticket or even a three-hour car ride to Epcot in order to enjoy international foods, beverages and live music—all with picture-perfect views of Miami River and the downtown skyline. May 26–28

Take advantage of the long weekend with a stay at The Gabriel South Beach. It’ll be a relaxing way to soak up the sun, for sure. The boutique property is also hosting a watch party for the Hyundai Air & Sea Show all weekend long. Post up on the hotel’s hidden rooftop, where drinks will be flowing aplenty to keep you cool all day. May 27–28

Nothing says "America" quite like a cookout, and Smorgaburg is basically Miami’s largest one, going down every Saturday and Sunday in Wynwood. This Memorial Day weekend, the outdoor food market celebrates Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month with two days of delicious dining inspired by a melting pot of Asian street food. The weekend festivities will include authentic Polynesian performances, calligraphy classes, cooking demos, and themed decor like red lanterns, paper umbrellas, origami cranes, and Indian ornament. 2600 NW 2nd Ave

After a day of pool parties and cookouts (and fitting in that much-needed cat nap), head over to the open-air venue The Oasis in Wynwood for a night of serenading by Bryson Tiller. His blend of R&B, hip-hop and soul-infused soundscapes will keep you entertained all night long. May 28