Jazz Melodies and Luminous Lights: Miami’s Top Events for Today

A Friday Night of Rhythms and Exhibits

As the sun sets on Friday, February 27, 2026, Miami comes alive with a sophisticated blend of world-class music festivals, community gatherings, and immersive art installations. Whether you are looking for soulful jazz on a museum plaza or a high-energy electronic dance experience on the beach, the city's cultural calendar for today is packed with verified local happenings.

Montreux Jazz Festival Miami

The legendary Swiss musical tradition continues its South Florida residency today. The 2026 edition of the Montreux Jazz Festival Miami officially kicks off its weekend programming this afternoon. Curated by Jon Batiste, the festival takes over the waterfront at The Hangar in Regatta Harbour. Attendees can expect a mix of headline performances and the festival’s signature jam sessions. The Friday lineup emphasizes genre-blending musicianship in an intimate setting that captures the spirit of its namesake European event.

Jazz at MOCA North Miami

For those seeking a community-focused evening, the Museum of Contemporary Art (MOCA) in North Miami hosts its popular outdoor concert series. As it is the last Friday of the month, the plaza will feature a free live performance starting at 7:00 p.m. Tonight's headliner is Lisanne Lyons, an acclaimed vocalist and the director of the jazz vocal program at Florida International University. This event is a staple for locals, offering a first-come, first-served seating arrangement that encourages neighbors to gather and enjoy the music under the stars.

Mostly Baroque at the Arsht Center

Classical music aficionados should head to the Adrienne Arsht Center for the Opening Night of the Mostly Baroque Music Festival. This specialized series celebrates the intricate and ornate compositions of the Baroque era, featuring masterworks performed by elite ensembles. The festival provides a refined alternative to the city's more contemporary music scenes, set within the stunning acoustics of the Knight Concert Hall.

Luminosa: A Festival of Lights

Public exhibitions today include Luminosa at Jungle Island. This immersive light festival features massive, handcrafted Chinese lanterns that transform the park into a glowing wonderland. The exhibition is open from 5:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. on Friday nights, offering family-friendly photo opportunities and themed food and drinks. It is a perfect way to experience a different side of Miami’s flora and fauna through a artistic, luminous lens.

We Belong Here: Miami

For fans of electronic music, We Belong Here begins its three-day boutique festival today at Historic Virginia Key Beach Park. Known for its immersive 360-degree stage design and curated lineup of world-class DJs, the event focuses on a community-driven atmosphere in a stunning oceanfront setting. Doors open in the late afternoon for those looking to dance the night away on the sand.