Parade on Ocean

Just when you thought South Beach was only for Eurotrash tourists and low-rent hip-hop clubs, culture comes to town: Art Deco Weekend is here, still running strong after 31 years. The weekend celebrating architectural history kicks off tonight with the Light Up the Night parade at 7:30 on Ocean Drive, and continues through Sunday. Live music hits the stage at 13th Street, and there’ll be food all over the place, historic films screened at various venues, and a street fair lined with booths selling the same tchotchkes you have seen every single year.

But there are some new events this go-’round, including the first annual Little Miss Broadway Deco pageant -- with a $250 prize! And in case there aren’t enough reasons for gay men to flock here, there’s the Arf Deco Dog Promenade, where attendees are invited to dress their pooches in Broadway-theme costumes. Do ruby slippers come in dog sizes? All that aside, people really come to Art Deco Weekend for two reasons: First you buy the limited-edition souvenir poster, and then you take one of the fascinating history tours through the city. There’s so much going on it’s best if you just call 305-672-2014, or go to www.artdecoweekend.com to look at the schedule yourself.
Jan. 18-20, 2008