Amidst Miami's familiar neighborhood niches, there's a new game in town: the Arts and Entertainment (A&E) District. The newly designated district connects Wynwood and the Design District to downtown.
A&E is more than just a catchy name — it's a community-wide effort complete with programming including bonfires under the stars, outdoor movie nights, workshops, farmer's markets, and more, all curated by area creative Isabella Acker. Tonight, the group is hosting a screening of Café de Flore by Jean-Marc Vallée.
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Acker, culture curator of the Prism Music Group, is creative whizkid behind the neighborhood's many events, and she's worked to tailor the lineup to a Miami audience.
"As someone who is not from Miami (originally from Atlanta), I had a really hard time finding that sense of community when I first moved here," Acker explains.
NR Investments is the company behind the branding of the A&E District, and they've supported the effort to nurture local culture, Acker says. "The events are catered to satisfy an eclectic audience and our programming is reflective of the diversity we're working to cultivate."
Most of the events take place in the Canvas lot, located at 90 NE 17 St. or the Filling Station Lofts at 1657 N. Miami Ave.
Ongoing events include the Bonfire Under the Moonlight series with live music, s'mores, PBR, and food trucks; the Movies Under the Stars series with wine, popcorn, and refreshments; a newly launched farmer's market; 305 Cafecito community round-ups and more.
"We wanted to create an exciting neighborhood with a variety of events that encompass all of the genres of culture, says Acker. "Our goal is to transform Miami into a city of not just beautiful beaches and tourism, but one of culture as well. Our events reflect that goal."
In addition to the cultural events, they're also incorporating other elements in partnership with local businesses and leaders.
"We will continue to program events for the film, art, music, and fitness community, however, we will also begin hosting exciting content talks and workshops," Acker adds. Earlier this week, Jupiter Circle, a marketing agency, held its first social media workshop.
"We strive to be a platform for all the sub-communities, so we want to continue showcasing the best local, emerging, and soon the best International talent, and to match each event with great local partners."
A&E District's next event is a film screening, tonight, February 26. The screening of Café de Flore begins at 7 p.m. at 90 NE 17th St. Admission is free, but attendees should RSVP to [email protected]. Check out the full lineup of events at aedistrictmiami.com.
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