β™Ώ Miami-Dade Disability & Autism Newsletter 🧩 Monday October 12


β™Ώ Miami-Dade Disability & Autism Newsletter 🧩

Good morning, my fellow Miamians 🦩

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month, and Miami took the assignment. Paratransit riders get a public meeting with the county on Tuesday, Miami Lighthouse takes over Calle Ocho on Thursday for White Cane Day, and that same afternoon employers in Dadeland sit down over lunch to learn how to hire and support neurodivergent workers. Even the gifted and twice-exceptional crowd gets a national conference, 2 full days of it, right in Kendall.

Then the weekend remembers we have kids. Saturday stacks free 3rd Saturday museums, a walk for breast cancer research, and a trunk or treat in Homestead built for special needs guests, haunted house and trackless train included. Sunday winds down at the Freedom Tower with sensory-friendly art and movement, a quiet resting area, and the rarest Miami amenity of all: free parking.

Have a Magical Miami Week! 🦩

Victor Antunez | 305.401.6224

Real Estate Professional πŸ”‘ Autism Dadvocate


Today's Edition Includes

  1. This Week’s Events Calendar
  2. Limited Time Only Events
  3. October's Events Calendar
  4. Ongoing Weekly & Monthly Events Calendar
  5. Events Further Out to Plan Ahead For

🫢🏼 This Week's Events

MONDAY

​Mini Mondays at Miami Children’s Museum, 10am - 6pm: Play-based activities designed for children from birth to 5, with an adult. Ticketed. 980 MacArthur Causeway


TUESDAY

​Special Transportation Service (STS) Quarterly Meeting at Overtown Transit Village North, 2pm - 3pm: Public meeting, in person and virtually, for riders of Special Transportation Service to raise concerns and share feedback. Teams Meeting ID 299 722 795 927 23, passcode iu7ZZ9SW; or dial 1-888-408-9943, access code 2174951. 701 NW 1st Court

​FREE, ServSafe Training for Adults with Special Needs at No Limits Coffee Shop, 4pm: ServSafe class for the special needs community. Every participant earns the official ServSafe Food Handler certification for food service employment. 18+. 13920 SW 47th St

CARD Just for Moms Support Group, 6:30pm: For Moms raising children with autism and related disabilities. Must be registered with CARD. 5665 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Room 502. RSVP Daniela Chaparro at dchaparro@miami.edu

​Ghost Tour at Deering Estate, 7:30pm - 9:30pm: Night tour of the estate's history and the paranormal activity reported by visitors and staff. Ghost-hunting equipment welcome. Ticketed. Recommended for ages 9+. 16701 SW 72nd Ave


WEDNESDAY

​FREE, Run and Walk with a Cop at BOXR Gym, 6:30pm: 5K run & walk with Miami Police Department officers, DJ spinning from the BOXR truck. 1310 NE 1st Ave

Sensory Experience at No Limits Coffee Shop, 10am - 11am: Play-based sensory session with exploration, music, movement, and open-ended creating. RSVP required; register by DM @madgabblankpage or mmtxinc@madgabblankpage.com, 13920 SW 47th Street

​FREE, Sensory Friendly Playtime at North Shore Branch Library, 11am - 12pm: Calming play session built around the 5 senses for children with sensory integration challenges, with an adult. 7501 Collins Ave, Miami Beach

​Friendship Circle Band, 4pm - 6pm: Music program for people with special needs at Friendship Circle Miami: children and teens 4pm - 5pm, adults 5pm - 6pm. Chabad Friendship Campus, 8700 SW 112th St

​Autism Moms’ Night Off: Halloween Party at No Limits Coffee Shop, 7:30pm - 11pm: Halloween-themed night off for moms of neurodivergent children, with karaoke, refreshments, and drinks. Ticketed. RSVP required. 13920 SW 47th St

​My Squad, 6-9pm: Social gathering for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism. Ruth Bryan Owen Waterway Park, 3940 Granada Blvd

​AMC Sensory-Friendly Screenings: Adult audiences at participating locations


THURSDAY

​Miami Lighthouse White Cane Day Walk, 8:30am: Fundraiser. Blind & visually impaired participants walk from the Miami Lighthouse campus down SW 8th St and back, escorted by City of Miami Police & Fire. 601 SW 8th Ave

​FREE, Miami-Dade Public Library Inclusive Programs: 3 programs across the system: a Center for Independent Living of South Florida resource day at Westchester Regional (9:30am - 4pm), a Nurturing Parenting session for parents of children with special needs at Coral Reef Branch (9:30am - 12:30pm), and inclusive Toddler Play & Funtime at Bay Harbor Islands Branch (10am - 11am).

​Walk a Mile in My Shoes at Miami Dade College North Campus, 10am - 1pm: The ACCESS Department marks Disability Awareness Month with an educational celebration in the Building 3 Atrium. Accommodations available; contact naccess@mdc.edu or 305-237-1272. 11380 NW 27th Ave

​Understanding and Empowering Your Neurodiverse Employees, 12pm - 1:30pm: Panel discussion and luncheon for National Disability Employment Awareness Month, hosted by Think Twice 2E with experts from FIU's Center for Children & Families and the Miami-Dade Mayor's office. Ticketed. At AC Hotel Miami Dadeland, 7695 North Kendall Drive

​Woody Golf Classic at Topgolf Miami Doral, 3:30pm - 7pm: Fundraiser benefiting Shake-A-Leg Miami, serving people living with paralysis. No golf experience needed, practice, tournament play, awards, and an open bar. Registration from $300 per player, plus team and sponsorship levels. 11850 NW 22nd Street

​Breathwork & Sound Healing at Superblue Miami, 7pm: Breathwork and movement session, closing with gong, bowls, and handpan. Ticket includes Superblue’s immersive art experiences. 1101 NW 23rd Street

​Ghost Tour at Deering Estate, 7:30pm - 9:30pm: Night tour of the estate's history and the paranormal activity reported by visitors and staff. Ghost-hunting equipment welcome. Ticketed. Recommended for ages 9+. 16701 SW 72nd Ave

​FREE, The Bass Museum, 6-9pm: 2100 Collins Ave, Miami Beach

​Veterans Adaptive Fishing at Shake-A-Leg Miami: 2620 S Bayshore Dr, Coconut Grove


FRIDAY

​Great Heights Academy's Fall Harvest Festival, 5pm: Games, hay rides, face painting, food, a mechanical bull, petting zoo, bounce house, and a pie eating contest. Ticketed. 13920 SW 47 Street

Home Court Advantage Basketball Skills + Drills Clinic, 7pm - 8:30pm: The Reese Wood Foundation and Citrus Family Care Network host a basketball skills & drills clinic. IDD friendly. 12970 SW 89th Ave

​FREE, Miami Children's Museum, 3pm - 8pm: Free admission on the third Friday of the month. 980 MacArthur Causeway

​Laser Evening: Halloween Edition at Frost Planetarium, 7pm - 11pm: Halloween laser shows set to K-Pop Demon Hunters, Stranger Things, and spooky season favorites. Ticketed. 1101 Biscayne Blvd

FRIDAY - SATURDAY

​Gifted, Talented & Creative Conference at AC Hotel Miami Dadeland: The Association for the Gifted (Council for Exceptional Children) brings its national conference to Miami, in person and hybrid. 7695 N Kendall Dr

​Best Buddies Family Forever Conference: For parents and caregivers of individuals with IDD. Workshops, wellness sessions, expo, and a welcome reception to help families connect, learn, and recharge. $249 registration covers meals, workshops, and materials. Columbus, Ohio

FRIDAY - SUNDAY

​Redland International Orchid Festival at Fruit & Spice Park, 10am - 5pm: Orchids, expert growers, local vendors, and tropical gardens. 24801 SW 187th Avenue


SATURDAY

​Susan G. Komen Miami MORE THAN PINK Walk, 7am: Walk supporting breast cancer research, patient support, and access to screening and treatment. Doors open 7am, walk begins 9am. Registration required. Miami-Dade County Fair & Exposition, 10901 Coral Way

​Miami-Dade Tax Collector Neuro-Inclusive Service Day 8:30am - 4:30pm: Connect with county services: disability parking permit and autism decal, Florida ID cards, voter registration, disability tax exemption assistance, and disabilities sunflower lanyards, 200 NW 2 Ave

​Sensory Friendly Session at Superblue Miami, 9am - 10am: Quiet morning for neurodiverse guests and those with sensory sensitivities, or other physical, cognitive, and developmental disabilities. Created in partnership with UM-NSU CARD. Ticketed. 1101 NW 23rd Street

​Parents & Educators Conference for 2E GT Neurodiversity, 9am - 1pm: With experts from The Association for the Gifted Council for Exceptional Children. Continental breakfast included. Ticketed. AC Hotel Miami Dadeland, 7695 N Kendall Drive

​Breakfast Club at No Limits Coffee Shop, 9:30am - 11:30am: Samantha’s Purpose hosts a morning of breakfast, games, arts & crafts, and making new friends for kids with special needs. 13450 SW 128th Street

​FREE, Frost Museum of Science 'JUST FOR ME' ​10am-11:30am: Sensory-friendly experience for kids with disabilities, 1101 Biscayne Blvd (limited number of FREE admissions)

​We Can Sail at Shake-A-Leg Miami, 10am - 1pm: Ages 7-22, inclusive sailing and waterfront activities. No experience needed. Ticketed. 2620 S Bayshore Dr

​FREE, Coral Gables Museum Family Day 10am-6pm: Family Day, 285 Aragon Ave

​Hanging with Heroes at Key Point Academy, 11am - 2pm: Family event with superhero characters. RSVP required. 1501 Biscayne Blvd, Suite 100

​Trunk or Treat car registration with Very Important Purpose, 4pm - 8pm: VIP's Halloween event for its volunteers and special-needs guests, with decorated trunks, activities, a haunted house, and a trackless train. Register a decorated vehicle; cars arrive 3:30pm, special guests attend 5pm - 8pm, up to 2 volunteers per vehicle. $50 per vehicle; earns 6 community service hours. 12300 SW 240th Street, Homestead, FL 33032

​Trunk or Treat volunteer support with Very Important Purpose, 5pm - 9pm: VIP's Halloween event for its volunteers and special-needs guests, with decorated trunks, activities, a haunted house, and a trackless train. Volunteer support role; arrive 5pm, special guests attend 5pm - 8pm. $35; earns 5 community service hours. 12300 SW 240th Street, Homestead, FL 33032

​Pinecrest Zombie Run at Evelyn Greer Park, 6pm: Family 2-mile run with zombies along the route, a 40-foot zombie maze, photo booth, music, and games. Costumes encouraged; check-in opens 4:30pm. Ticketed. 8200 SW 124th Street, Pinecrest

​FREE, Halloween Crafts at Miami-Dade Public Libraries: 4 branches run Halloween programs: a DIY craft station at Miami Beach Regional (9:30am - 11am), mini pumpkin decorating at Lakes of the Meadow (11:30am - 12:30pm), mini cake decorating at Country Walk (2pm - 4pm), and a Winnie-the-Pooh 100th anniversary celebration at California Club (2pm - 4pm).

SATURDAY - SUNDAY

​Not-So-Scary Halloween at Miami Children’s Museum: Mad Scientist Lab, a not-so-scary haunted house, mini pumpkin decorating, a Creepy Pair of Underwear performance, and a ghost scavenger hunt, Saturday and Sunday. Ticketed. 980 MacArthur Causeway


SUNDAY

​Dog Dates at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 8am - 10am: Bring your dog to explore the garden's tropical grounds. Enter through the Lowlands gate. Ticketed. 10901 Old Cutler Road

​Social Program at Shake-A-Leg Miami, 10am - 2pm: Water activities, socialization, and professional training for students & young adults with IDD in a safe and supportive environment. 2620 S Bayshore Dr

​FREE, Bowlero Doral Family Fest, 11am - 2pm: Family fun day with bowling, games, and activities. 11401 NW 12th St, Doral

​FREE, MOAD + Kinetic Kickoff at the Freedom Tower, 11am - 2pm: Family event with sensory-friendly art and movement. A quiet resting area will be available; Open to the public with light refreshments. Free parking in MDC's Lot 1. 600 Biscayne Boulevard

​OctoBirthFest Benefiting MACtown, 6pm - 9pm: Live blues from Albert Castiglia, with proceeds supporting MACtown’s programs for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Ticketed. Bay 13 Brewery and Kitchen, 65 Alhambra Plaza, Coral Gables


Days & Times May Change πŸ”¦ Confirm Before Going

πŸ“Œ Do you know of inclusive, sensory-friendly, or family events in Miami-Dade that belong here? Hit reply and I'll add them.

⏳ Limited Time Only Events

​Now through Saturday October 31st, Raven’s Quest at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden: Follow Seven Ravens through the garden, solve the final mystery, and claim a prize from The Raven’s Chest. 10901 Old Cutler Road

​Now through October 31st, Bugtopia at Zoo Miami: Giant animatronic insects, with bug-detective microscope stations where kids earn a junior entomologist certificate. Included with zoo admission. 12400 SW 152 St, Miami

​Now through Sunday November 8th, Pinto's Farm Pumpkin Patch: Pumpkin patch with animal encounters. Rides close at 7pm. 14890 SW 216th St

​Now through November 15th, Harvest Festival at The Berry Farm, 10am: Corn maze, pumpkin patch, hayrides, and farm animals. 13720 SW 216th St

​Now through November 29th, Fall at the Farm at Tinez Farms: Pony rides, horse rides, train rides, and animal feeding. Live music every weekend, wild animal adventure show. Tuesday - Sunday 10am - 6pm. 16405 SW 177th Ave


Days & Times May Change πŸ”¦ Confirm Before Going

πŸ“Œ Do you know of events or programs in Miami-Dade that belong here? Hit reply and I'll add them.

πŸ—“ October's Events Calendar

Tuesday October 20th, CARD Just for Dads Support Group, 6:30pm: For Dads raising children with autism and related disabilities. Must be registered with CARD. 5665 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Room 502. RSVP Dr. Alessandri at malessandri@miami.edu

​Tuesday October 20th, Ghost Tour at Deering Estate, 7:30pm - 9:30pm: Night tour of the estate's history and the paranormal activity reported by visitors and staff. Ghost-hunting equipment welcome. Ticketed. Recommended for ages 9+. 16701 SW 72nd Avenue

​Thursday October 22nd, Ghost Tour at Deering Estate, 7:30pm - 9:30pm: Guided night tour of the estate's history and the paranormal activity reported by visitors and staff. Ghost-hunting equipment welcome. Ticketed. Recommended for ages 9+. 16701 SW 72nd Avenue

Thursday October 22nd, Domestic Violence Awareness Walk at Hialeah City Hall, 9:30am: The Hialeah Police Department hosts a community walk to raise awareness about domestic violence and support survivors, with a resource fair of community support booths. Event starts 9:30am, walk begins 10:30am; wear purple. Park at the garage at 20 E 6th St. 501 Palm Ave, Hialeah

​Friday October 23rd, Employment Pathways for Adults with IDD, 9am - noon: Connecting businesses with employers that create job opportunities for adults with IDD. Meet employment-service organizations, learn about job coaching and supports, explore federal and state tax incentives, and access paid training programs. 2801 Salzedo Street

Friday October 23rd, Edgewater Trunk or Treat at Margaret Pace Park, 5pm - 8pm: The City of Miami, Omni CRA, Mayor Eileen Higgins and Commissioner Damian Pardo host a night of candy, popcorn and a kid-friendly Halloween movie under the stars. 1745 N Bayshore Dr

​Saturday October 24th, Making Strides Against Breast Cancer of Miami-Dade, 7am: Walk celebrating survivors and raising funds for breast cancer research and patient services. All participants register for the walk. Registration required. loanDepot park West Plaza, 501 Marlins Way

Saturday October 24th, Fall Into Community at Naranja Community Resource Center, 10am - 2pm: Miami-Dade’s Community Services Department hosts a resource fair with job training, medical and mental health, legal, literacy, parental, substance abuse and emergency resources, plus music, first-come first-served food distribution, children’s entertainment and barber services. Info: 786-469-4640. 13955 SW 264th St, Naranja

​Saturday October 24th, Zoo Boo at Zoo Miami, 10am - 3pm: Kid-friendly trick-or-treating, costume contest, inflatables, live DJ, and magic shows. Included with zoo admission. 12400 SW 152nd Street

​Saturday October 24th, Children’s Halloween Party at Miami Design District’s Jungle Plaza, 11am - 3pm: The Little Lighthouse Foundation's annual Halloween party for underserved children, partners including Hoop Miami and Books For You Miami. Sponsor a child or volunteer at thelittlelighthouse.org. 3801 NE 1st Ave

​Saturday October 24th, Gentle Trick-or-Treat at Ruth Bryan Owen Waterway Park, 1pm - 3pm: Sensory-friendly Halloween, with trick-or-treating. Nothing scary, no masked adults. Registration required; capacity limited. 3940 Granada Boulevard, Coral Gables

​Saturday October 24th, Bill Baggs Haunted Hike and Superhero Hour at Cape Florida State Park, 6pm: Halloween trail hike through the park supporting Bill Baggs State Park. Ticketed. 1200 Crandon Blvd, Key Biscayne

​Saturday October 24th, Halloween Trick or Treat & Movie Night at Coral Reef Park, 6pm - 9pm: Trick-or-treating at 6pm and a 7pm screening of Minions & Monsters. Contact events@palmettobay-fl.gov. 7895 SW 152nd St, Palmetto Bay

​Saturday October 24th, Stargazing Night - Hunter's Moon at Fruit & Spice Park, 7:30pm - 10:30pm: Under the moon and stars in the Garden by a bonfire. Children 5 and under free, members free. 24801 SW 187 Ave

​Sunday October 25th, Dog Dates at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 8am - 10am: Bring your dog to explore the garden's tropical grounds. Enter through the Lowlands gate. Ticketed. 10901 Old Cutler Road

​Sunday October 25th, Puptoberfest at Tropical Park, 10am - 5pm: Miami-Dade Animal Services hosts a family fall festival with free pet adoptions. 7900 SW 40th St

​Sunday October 25th, Zoo Boo at Zoo Miami, 10am - 3pm: Kid-friendly trick-or-treating, costume contest, inflatables, live DJ, and magic shows. Included with zoo admission. 12400 SW 152nd Street

​FREE, Sunday October 25th, Fall Festival at Key Biscayne Civic Center, 12pm - 5pm: Bouncers, petting zoo, food, face painting, pumpkin decorating and jewelry making (limited supplies, 1 pumpkin per child). A 12 - 1pm Superhero Hour is reserved for families of children with disabilities before doors open to the public at 1pm. Contact Richard: rperez@keybiscayne.fl.gov. 530 Crandon Blvd

​Tuesday October 27th, Ghost Tour at Deering Estate, 7:30pm - 9:30pm: Night tour of the estate's history and the paranormal activity reported by visitors and staff. Ghost-hunting equipment welcome. Ticketed. Recommended for ages 9+. 16701 SW 72nd Avenue

​Wednesday October 28th, Food and Meals at Pinecrest Community Center, 10:30am: Parenting Workshop on food and mealtime for kids ages 1-3. 5855 Killian Drive

​Wednesday October 28th, Trunk or Treat at Miami-Dade Schools Police Department, 6pm: Hosted by the Miami-Dade Schools Police Department, with candy, costumes, and safe family fun. 3300 NW 27 Avenue

​Thursday October 29th, Ghost Tour at Deering Estate, 7:30pm - 9:30pm: Night tour of the estate's history and the paranormal activity reported by visitors and staff. Ghost-hunting equipment welcome. Ticketed. Recommended for ages 9+. 16701 SW 72nd Avenue

​Friday October 30th, Halloween Party at No Limits Coffee Shop, 7pm - 10pm: Halloween party for the neurodivergent community ages 15+, DJ, dancing, and food. Ticketed. 13920 SW 47th Street

​Saturday October 31st, Moving Day Miami at Tropical Park, 9am - 12pm, FREE: 1-mile walk for the Parkinson's Foundation. Activities start at 9am and the walk begins at 10:30am. 7900 SW 40th Street

​Saturday October 31st, Boo in Bloom at Fruit & Spice Park, 10am - 5pm: Halloween. Come in costume & receive a free seed pack; costume contest at 2pm. Children 5 & under free, members free. 24801 SW 187 Ave, Homestead

​Saturday October 31st, Spooky Science Monster Mash at Frost Museum of Science, 11am - 3pm: Halloween science day with chemistry reactions, experiments in the Mad Science Lab, and scientists from local universities celebrating National Chemistry Week. Included with regular admission. 1101 Biscayne Boulevard

FREE, Saturday October 31st, Safe Streets Halloween Circus on Sunset Drive, 4pm - 7pm: The City of South Miami and Miami Kids Magazine present a circus-themed street Halloween with games, prizes, music, food, and allergy-friendly candy station. All ages. Sunset Dr (72nd St) from US-1 to SW 57th Ave, South Miami

​Saturday October 31st, City of Miami Gardens Fall Festival at Rolling Oaks Park, 5pm - 9pm: Rides, carnival attractions, and family activities. 18701 NW 17th Ave

Saturday October 31st, Pucho and Pals Halloween Party at Dancing in XS, 7pm - 9pm: Pucho and Pals hosts its annual Halloween party. Ticketed. 3750 NW 114th Ave #8, Doral


Days & Times May Change πŸ”¦ Confirm Before Going

πŸ“Œ Do you know of events or programs in Miami-Dade that belong here? Hit reply and I'll add them.

Ongoing Weekly & Monthly Events ✈️

EVERY MONDAY

​Mini Mondays at Miami Children’s Museum, 10am - 6pm: Play-based activities designed for children from birth to 5, with an adult. Ticketed. 980 MacArthur Causeway

EVERY WEDNESDAY

​Friendship Circle Band, 4pm - 6pm: Music program for people with special needs at Friendship Circle Miami: children and teens 4pm - 5pm, adults 5pm - 6pm. Chabad Friendship Campus, 8700 SW 112th St

​My Squad, 6-9pm: Social gathering for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and autism. Ruth Bryan Owen Waterway Park, 3940 Granada Blvd

2nd & 4th WEDNESDAY

​AMC Sensory-Friendly Screenings: Adult audiences at participating locations

EVERY THURSDAY

​Veterans Adaptive Fishing at Shake-A-Leg Miami: 2620 S Bayshore Dr, Coconut Grove

3rd THURSDAY

​FREE, The Bass Museum, 6-9pm: 2100 Collins Ave, Miami Beach

1st FRIDAY

​FREE, Coral Gables Museum Gallery Night, 6-10pm: 285 Aragon Ave

3rd FRIDAY

​FREE, Miami Children's Museum, 3pm - 8pm: Free admission on the third Friday of the month. 980 MacArthur Causeway

EVERY SATURDAY

​We Can Sail at Shake-A-Leg Miami, 10am - 1pm: Ages 7-22, inclusive sailing and waterfront activities. No experience needed. Ticketed. 2620 S Bayshore Dr

1st SATURDAY

​FREE, Gold Coast Railroad Museum, 10am-4pm: Free admission with train rides available for purchase. 12450 SW 152 St, next to Zoo Miami

​FREE, The Home Depot Kids Workshop 9am: Activities & crafts

2nd SATURDAY

​AMC Sensory-Friendly Screenings: At participating locations

​FREE with RSVP, Miami Children’s Museum, 9-11am: Sensory Friendly Activities for Kids, 980 MacArthur Cswy

​FREE, Museum of Miami 12-5pm: Family Fun Day, 101 W Flagler Street

​FREE, Perez Art Museum (PAMM) 11am-3pm: Activities for children and adults, guided tours, guest artists, films, and performances. 1103 Biscayne Blvd

​FREE, The Sensory Lab: Ages 3-12, for details text Elton: 305.878.9654, 5825 SW 68 Street, Suite 2

​Paradox Museum Sensory Friendly Sessions, 9 - 11am: Ticketed with 50% of proceeds benefiting The Dan Marino Foundation, 2301 N Miami Ave

3rd SATURDAY

​FREE, Coral Gables Museum Family Day 10am-6pm: Family Day, 285 Aragon Ave

​FREE, Frost Museum of Science 'JUST FOR ME' ​10am-11:30am: Sensory-friendly experience for kids with disabilities, 1101 Biscayne Blvd (limited number of FREE admissions)

​Miami-Dade Tax Collector Neuro-Inclusive Service Day 8:30am - 4:30pm: Connect with county services: disability parking permit and autism decal, Florida ID cards, voter registration, disability tax exemption assistance, and disabilities sunflower lanyards, 200 NW 2 Ave

4th SATURDAY

​AMC Sensory-Friendly Screenings: At participating locations

EVERY SUNDAY

​​Social Program at Shake-A-Leg Miami, 10am - 2pm: Water activities, socialization, and professional training for students & young adults with IDD in a safe and supportive environment, 2620 S Bayshore Dr

1st SUNDAY

​Chuck E. Cheese, 9-11am: Opens early exclusively for Sensory Sensitive Sunday (Kendall, Hialeah, Aventura)

​LEGO Club, 10am: All supplies provided. Designed for people with disabilities, all welcome. Ruth Bryan Owen Waterway Park, 3940 Granada Blvd

LAST SUNDAY

​Sensory Friendly Play at Urban Air Adventure Park Kendall, 9am - 11am: A calmer atmosphere for children with autism and sensory processing difficulty. May not be offered during school holidays. 15625 SW 88th Street

​FREE, The Bass Museum Family Day, 12-5pm: Hands-on art making from 2-4pm, a scavenger-hunt art explorer guide through the galleries. 2100 Collins Ave, Miami Beach


MONTHLY, DATES VARY

​Miami-Dade Public Library Inclusive Programs: For kids & teens with IDD, featuring movies, crafts, and gaming in an environment where jumping, dancing, singing, and shouting are welcome, plus inclusive social meetup groups for special needs children and teens with their families.

​The Social Cog: Social club that helps independently functioning adults with autism and other developmental and social challenges build friendships through an accepting peer group, one-on-one coaching from trained clinicians, and monthly group outings. 305-501-2333


Days & Times May Change πŸ”¦ Confirm Before Going

πŸ“Œ Do you know of events or programs in Miami-Dade that belong here? Hit reply and I'll add them.

⏳ Events Further Out to Plan Ahead For

​Sunday November 1st, Autism Society of Miami-Dade 5K Run/Walk at Zoo Miami: Check-in opens at 6:30am, race begins at 8am

​Sunday November 1st, Dog Dates at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 8am - 10am: Bring your dog to explore the garden's tropical grounds. Enter through the Lowlands gate. Ticketed. 10901 Old Cutler Road

​Sunday November 1st, Spooky Symphony at New World Center, 11:30am: Family concert of Halloween classics by the New World Symphony for ages 4 - 9. Come in costume and arrive early for hands-on activities and a spooky soiree. Ticketed. 500 17th Street, Miami Beach

​FREE, Monday November 3rd, Family Discovery Day at Easterseals South Florida Civic Center, 9am - 1pm: Resource fair bringing families and community partners together to share resources and connect with services for the children and families they serve. On-site parking available. Vendor participation is FREE; organizations can register by emailing nmamaghani@sfl.easterseals.com by October 20. 1475 NW 14th Ave

​Wednesday November 4th, Ability Allies: Fun Without Limits, 5-6pm: Social meetup for special needs teens 16+ and their families, with sensory-friendly activities and creative play. Caregiver participation encouraged. Coral Reef Branch Library, 9211 Coral Reef Dr

​Thursday November 5th, Special Needs Guardianship and Special Needs Trust at CARD Miami Lakes, 6pm: Open to parents and caregivers in the special needs community, with attorneys Stephanie Cruz & Lorenzo Cobiellas on guardianship and special needs trusts for young adults turning 18, hosted with the Hope for Autism Community Team and the Miami Lakes Special Needs Advisory Board. 5801 NW 151st Street, Suite 201

​Saturday November 7th, Beacon of Hope Camp at Key Biscayne Community Center, 12:30pm - 3:30pm: Drop-off Saturday camp for children ages 6-12 with unique abilities, with music, sports, games, arts, crafts, and team building led by experienced counselors.

​Saturday November 7th, A Night in Paradise 2026 Journey of Dreams Gala, ​7pm: Hosted by Parent to Parent of Miami at the JW Marriott Marquis Miami, fundraiser supporting families of children with disabilities and special healthcare needs. 255 Biscayne Blvd Way

​Saturday November 7th, Amigos Night 2026, 8pm-1am: Programs empowering families through after-school enrichment, parent education, and wrap-around support. The Hangar at Regatta Harbour, 3385 Pan American Drive

​Saturday November 7th, Harmony Hugs Music Exploration Day at Coral Reef Branch Library: Music for children with disabilities from Harmony Hugs, a South Florida nonprofit providing music education that builds acceptance and connection, with the Miami-Dade Public Library System. 9211 Coral Reef Drive, Palmetto Bay

​Sunday November 8th, Miracle Walk & 5K Run for the Down Syndrome Association of Miami: 1-mile Miracle Walk and a 5K Miracle Run supporting its programs for the Down syndrome community. Registration required​

Tuesday November 10th, CARD Just for Moms Support Group, 6:30pm: For Moms raising children with autism and related disabilities. Must be registered with CARD. 5665 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Room 502. RSVP Daniela Chaparro at dchaparro@miami.edu

​Friday November 13th, Auxadi Charity Football Tournament at Soctainer, 5pm - 9pm: Companies compete in a 5-a-side tournament benefiting Advocacy Network on Disabilities. $500 per team, minimum 5 players. 820 SW 20th Avenue

​Saturday November 14th, Fresh A.I.R. Slime, 3 - 5pm: Monthly series for neurodiverse families to explore nature. Ruth Bryan Owen Waterway Park, 3940 Granada Blvd. Questions: PlayForAll@CoralGables.com

​Saturday November 14th, Jelly & Jam Making Class at Fruit & Spice Park, 11am - 12:30pm: Learn to transform tropical fruits into preserves. Children 5 and under free, members free. 24801 SW 187th Avenue, Homestead

​Saturday November 14th, Downtown Doral Arts Festival, 10am - 6pm: 2-day arts festival with 60+ artists, food, drinks, family activities, and shopping. Pet friendly. Northwest 53rd Street, Doral

​Saturday November 14th, STARS Fall Festival at Evelyn Greer Park, 10am - 12:30pm: Inclusive fall festival presented by Commissioner Raquel Regalado, with face painting, slime making, petting zoo, photo booth, sensory play, outdoor games, free refreshments, and community resources. 8200 SW 124th Street, Pinecrest

​FREE, Saturday November 14th, Out of the Darkness Walk Miami at Tropical Park, 9am: The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention's walk supporting suicide prevention and mental health. Check-in opens at 8am. 7900 SW 40th Street

​Sunday November 15th, Downtown Doral Arts Festival, 10am - 6pm: 2-day arts festival with food, drinks, family activities, and shopping. Pet friendly. NW 53rd Str

​Sunday November 15th, Give Miami 5K Race, 8am: 100% of registration fee goes to the Give Miami Day nonprofit of your choice. Post-race Festival with activities, live entertainment, food, wellness, prizes, and a 305-meter Kids' Dash. Maurice A. FerrΓ© Park, 1075 Biscayne Blvd

​Sunday November 15th, Join Team Casa Familia at Give Miami 5K, 8am: Every dollar raised goes to Casa Familia to build Exceptional Housing for Exceptional People, supporting adults with IDD. Runners and walkers welcome. 1075 Biscayne Blvd

​Sunday November 15th, Join Branches at Give Miami 5K, 8am: Every dollar raised goes to Casa Familia to build Exceptional Housing for Exceptional People, supporting adults with IDD. Runners and walkers welcome. 1075 Biscayne Blvd

​Sunday November 15th, Dog Dates at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 8am - 10am: Bring your dog to explore the garden's tropical grounds. Enter through the Lowlands gate. Ticketed. 10901 Old Cutler Road

​FREE, Monday November 16th, Reading Reboot Movie Screening at Coral Gables Art Cinema, 6 - 8:30pm: The Lucy Project and WLRN present: The Reading Reboot, a documentary following teachers, parents, and students, including children with dyslexia, as they take on Science of Reading instruction. A panel discussion with local educators and literacy experts follows. RSVP required. 260 Aragon Ave, Coral Gables

Tuesday November 17th, CARD Just for Dads Support Group, 6:30pm: For Dads raising children with autism and related disabilities. Must be registered with CARD. 5665 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Room 502. RSVP Dr. Alessandri at malessandri@miami.edu

​Wednesday November 18th, Ability Allies: Fun Without Limits, 5-6pm: Social meetup for special needs teens 16+ and their families, with sensory-friendly activities and creative play. Caregiver participation encouraged. Coral Reef Branch Library, 9211 Coral Reef Dr

​Thursday November 19th, Give Miami Day: The Miami Foundation's largest annual initiative, a 24-hour online fundraising event powering over 1,400 nonprofits across Miami-Dade. Early Giving opens November 14.

​FREE, Saturday November 21st, Walk to End Alzheimer's at loanDepot park, 8am - 11am: Event opens 8am, ceremony 9am, walk 9:30am. Fundraising encouraged. 501 Marlins Way

​Saturday November 21st, Miami Book Fair at Miami Dade College Wolfson Campus, 10am: Author talks, book sales and appraisals, kids & teen programming, art, and entertainment. All ages. 300 NE 2nd Ave

​Saturday November 21st, Beacon of Hope Camp at Key Biscayne Community Center, 12:30pm - 3:30pm: Drop-off Saturday camp for children ages 6-12 with unique abilities, with music, sports, games, arts, crafts, and team building led by experienced counselors.

​Sunday November 22nd, ​Miami Book Fair at Miami Dade College Wolfson Campus, 10am: Author presentations, book sales and appraisals, kids & teen programming, art, and entertainment. All ages. 300 NE 2nd Ave

​Sunday November 22nd, Dog Dates at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 8am - 10am: Bring your dog to explore the garden's tropical grounds. Enter through the Lowlands gate. Ticketed. 10901 Old Cutler Road

​Saturday November 28th, Fireside Nights at Fruit & Spice Park, 6pm - 10pm: Fireside evening as the garden transforms into a holiday wonderland with Christmas cheer. 24801 SW 187th Avenue, Homestead

​Sunday November 29th, Dog Dates at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 8am - 10am: Bring your dog to explore the garden's tropical grounds. Enter through the Lowlands gate. Ticketed. 10901 Old Cutler Road

​Wednesday December 2nd, Parent Club: Storytelling at Pinecrest Community Center, 10:30am: Workshop for parents and caregivers of children ages 3-5, focused on early literacy through storytelling. 5855 Killian Drive

​Wednesday December 2nd, Ability Allies: Fun Without Limits, 5-6pm: Social meetup for special needs teens 16+ and their families, with sensory-friendly activities and creative play. Caregiver participation encouraged. Coral Reef Branch Library, 9211 Coral Reef Dr

​Saturday December 5th, Beacon of Hope Camp at Key Biscayne Community Center, 12:30pm - 3:30pm: Drop-off Saturday camp for children ages 6-12 with unique abilities, with music, sports, games, arts, crafts, and team building led by experienced counselors.

​Saturday December 5th, ABC Testing Services Grand Opening, 2pm - 5pm: ABC Testing Services celebrates its new office with a ribbon cutting, testing-room tours, giveaways, face painting; plus hot dogs, popcorn, cotton candy and ice cream. ABC offers academic, behavioral, cognitive and developmental evaluations for autism, ADHD, dyslexia and learning disabilities. 4812 SW 74 Court, Unit 3

​Saturday December 5th, Spectrum Stars Autism Talent Show, 3pm: FREE all-ages autism talent show. Cash prizes and every performer receives a trophy. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach

​Saturday December 5th, Fireside Nights at Fruit & Spice Park, 6pm - 10pm: Fireside evening as the garden transforms into a holiday wonderland with Christmas cheer. 24801 SW 187th Avenue, Homestead

​Sunday December 6th, Dog Dates at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 8am - 10am: Bring your dog to explore the garden's tropical grounds. Enter through the Lowlands gate. Ticketed. 10901 Old Cutler Road

Tuesday December 8th, CARD Just for Moms Support Group, 6:30pm: For Moms raising children with autism and related disabilities. Must be registered with CARD. 5665 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Room 502. RSVP Daniela Chaparro at dchaparro@miami.edu

​Wednesday December 9th, Ability Allies: Fun Without Limits, 5-6pm: Social meetup for special needs teens 16+ and their families, with sensory-friendly activities and creative play. Caregiver participation encouraged. Coral Reef Branch Library, 9211 Coral Reef Dr

​Saturday December 12th, 5K Race for Champions at Maurice A. FerrΓ© Park, 9am: Benefiting Special Olympics Florida athletes, with music, booths, special guests, and giveaways. 1075 Biscayne Boulevard

​Saturday December 12th, Fresh A.I.R. Snow Magical, 2 - 4pm: Monthly series for neurodiverse families to explore nature. Ruth Bryan Owen Waterway Park, 3940 Granada Blvd. Questions: PlayForAll@CoralGables.com

​Saturday December 12th, Fireside Nights at Fruit & Spice Park, 6pm - 10pm: Fireside evening as the garden transforms into a holiday wonderland with Christmas cheer. 24801 SW 187th Avenue, Homestead

​Sunday December 13th, Dog Dates at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 8am - 10am: Bring your dog to explore the garden's tropical grounds. Enter through the Lowlands gate. Ticketed. 10901 Old Cutler Road

Tuesday December 15th, CARD Just for Dads Support Group, 6:30pm: For Dads raising children with autism and related disabilities. Must be registered with CARD. 5665 Ponce de Leon Blvd, Room 502. RSVP Dr. Alessandri at malessandri@miami.edu

​Saturday December 19th, Beacon of Hope Camp at Key Biscayne Community Center, 12:30pm - 3:30pm: Drop-off Saturday camp for kids ages 6-12 with unique abilities, with music, sports, games, arts, crafts, and team building led by experienced counselors.

​Saturday December 19th, Fireside Nights at Fruit & Spice Park, 6pm - 10pm: Fireside evening as the garden transforms into a holiday wonderland with Christmas cheer. 24801 SW 187th Avenue, Homestead

​Sunday December 20th, Dog Dates at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 8am - 10am: Bring your dog to explore the garden's tropical grounds. Enter through the Lowlands gate. Ticketed. 10901 Old Cutler Road

​Saturday December 26th, Fireside Nights at Fruit & Spice Park, 6pm - 10pm: Fireside evening as the garden transforms into a holiday wonderland with Christmas cheer. 24801 SW 187th Avenue, Homestead

​Sunday December 27th, Dog Dates at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, 8am - 10am: Bring your dog to explore the garden's tropical grounds. Enter through the Lowlands gate. Ticketed. 10901 Old Cutler Road


2027

​Friday January 15th - Sunday January 17th, Statewide Autism Conference: CARD's 3-day statewide conference with over 50 sessions from experts in education, social services, mental health, medicine, and research, plus speakers sharing lived experience. 1500 Sand Lake Road, Orlando

​FREE, Saturday February 13th, Fun Day for Adult CARD Clients at University of Miami, 10am - 2pm: Superhero-themed fun day for adults with IDD, with karaoke, fair, arts, crafts, and a BBQ lunch with UM students. Only 24 spots. Contact mxh1833@miami.edu. UM Campus, Coral Gables


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Victor Antunez

This weekly newsletter is for parents, advocates, educators, and anyone serious about better outcomes for special needs kids.

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