Did you know May 2nd is National Truffle Day? If you're as obsessed with truffles as I am, it's the perfect excuse to indulge. From rooftop Italian gems to glamorous supper clubs and French brasseries, these Miami spots are serving up rich, truffle-packed dishes that are totally worth the splurge. The Miami Beach EDITION Image courtesy of The Miami Beach EDITION. This National Truffle Day, elevate your celebration at Matador Room , at The Miami Beach EDITION —where culinary sophistication meets Miami’s iconic glamour. At the heart of the experience: the Black Truffle and Fontina Cheese pizza, a decadent, wood-fired tribute to the luxurious simplicity of truffle season. Crafted with the earthy elegance of black truffles and the rich, melty depth of fontina cheese, this signature dish is both indulgent and impossibly light—echoing Matador Room’s signature blend of Latin flair and timeless charm. Whether you're toasting to truffle day with friends, or indulging in an elevated solo bite, there’s no better place to savor the moment than under the hanging gardens and vintage vibes of Jean-Georges Vongerichten’s reimagined supper club. Full menu here La Grande Boucherie Images courtesy of La Grande Boucherie Located in the vibrant South of Fifth neighborhood of Miami Beach, La Grande Boucherie is an immersive dining destination that combines the elegance of French culinary tradition with the lush, garden-inspired ambiance of Miami. Celebrate National Truffle Day by indulging in the Wagyu Burger, consisting of Wagyu blend, truffle dijonnaise, caramelized onions, gruyère and complemented with pommes frites. Offering a truly one-of-a-kind dining experience through blending timeless French sophistication with Miami’s dynamic energy, La Grande Boucherie captures the French essence for this delicious day. Guests can enjoy this delectable truffle dish in one of La Grande Boucherie’s dynamic spaces, whether in the enchanting garden with lush tropical foliage, the classic brasserie-style ground floor or the seductive, rouge upstairs atmosphere. Bellini at Mr. C Miami - Coconut Grove  Image courtesy of Mr. C Miami - Coconut Grove.  Bellini , the authentic Italian rooftop restaurant atop the iconic Mr. C Miami - Coconut Grove , invites you to indulge in a lineup of truffle-infused dishes in celebration of National Truffle Day on Friday, May 2nd. From the minds of Ignazio and Maggio Cipriani, a fourth-generation hotelier family, Bellini’s renowned authentic Italian cuisine brings a contemporary edge to much-loved traditional favorites, as well as features classic Cipriani dishes. To celebrate the occasion, guests can savor specialties like the Steak Tartare with Quail Egg & Shaved Black Truffle or the Baked Truffle Polenta with Stracchino & Mushrooms. With its elegant ambiance and signature La Dolce Vita charm, Bellini is the ultimate Coconut Grove destination for a luxurious National Truffle Day celebration. Full menu here Katsuya at SLS South Beach  Image courtesy of SLS South Beach For a truffle-forward celebration that’s equal parts luxe and delicious, visit Katsuya . Experience the unparalleled collaboration between master sushi chef Katsuya Uechi and design visionary Philippe Starck at Katsuya, located within the iconic SLS South Beach . Featuring specialty cocktails, unique rolls and spectacular sushi and sashimi platters, Chef Uechi skillfully translates Japanese flavors for the American palate. Indulge in signature truffle dishes such as the Truffle Ponzu Ceviche with assorted fish, tomato, avocado, and red onion; the Tuna Pizza topped with scallion pancake, cucumber, avocado, ponzu mayo, and black truffle; and the Scallop Truffle Furai, featuring Hokkaido scallop, daikon, shiso, truffle aioli, black truffle, and cilantro. For a more indulgent bite, try the Toro Tartare & Caviar with toro, truffle ponzu, crispy nori, kizami wasabi, and Osetra caviar. And for a lighter touch, the Vegetable Tempura with seasonal vegetables, soy dashi, and truffle dust offers a perfectly crisp and flavorful option. Full menu here LPM Restaurant & Bar, Miami Images courtesy of LPM Miami. This National Truffle Day, step into a world of refined elegance and transport yourself to the shores of the South of France at LPM Restaurant & Bar, Miami . A harmonious fusion of contemporary design and timeless rustic charm, LPM Miami offers more than just a meal — it is a captivating experience. Indulge in Pâte À La Truffe Noire, homemade pasta with black truffle or Burrata À La Truffe Noire, burrata with black truffle to truly celebrate the day. The French Riviera-inspired restaurant is renowned for its light, imaginative menu that showcases the freshest Mediterranean ingredients, paired with an effortlessly chic atmosphere. From the welcoming, laid-back service to the open, airy dining rooms adorned with striking art and Belle Époque influences, every detail at LPM Miami evokes a sense of sophistication and relaxed luxury. There is a joie de vivre to be found in LPM that is hard to find elsewhere. By ML Staff.

Leaders, advocates, and allies came together at the Loews Miami Beach Hotel for SAVE’s 2025 Champions of Equality Gala , a powerful evening dedicated to advancing LGBTQ+ rights across South Florida and beyond. SAVE Executive Director Todd Delmay, Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, and Joe Falk Guests were welcomed with a spirited cocktail reception featuring transgender model and activist Carmen Carrera , followed by an inspiring program emceed by local activist Josue Santiago . The gala recognized four outstanding honorees for their unwavering commitment to equality: Mayor Daniella Levine Cava , drag icon Latrice Royale , Congressman Chris Pappas , and community leader Rosemary Wilder . Carlos Gardinet, perfomer Maya Azucena, and Carlos' husband. Carmen Carrera, Miami-Dade Mayor Daniella Levine Cava, Commissioners Alex Fernandez, Laura Dominguez, Kristen Rosen Gonzalez, Tanya K. Bhatt, and Save Executive Director Todd Delmay. Honoree New Hampshire Congressman Chris Pappas Honoree Latrice Royale From heartfelt speeches to joyful celebration, the gala brought together elected officials, cultural figures, and community members united in their shared mission to build a more inclusive future. The event also served as a vibrant reminder of SAVE’s continued work in political advocacy, outreach, education, and support for the LGBTQ+ community. SAVE Board Chair Joe Pena, Honoree Rosemary Wilder, and SAVE Executive Director Todd Delmay Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava Greater Miami LGBTQ Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Lisette Garcia, and SAVE Board Member Daniel H.C. Chapman Founded in 1993, SAVE is South Florida’s longest-serving organization focused on LGBTQ+ equality. Learn more at one.bidpal.net/coe25/welcome and follow @savelgbt for updates By ML Staff. Images courtesy of Photos/Champions of Equality Gala

The Star Path, in partnership with Southside Cultural Arts Center (SSCAC), is set to launch the Superior Performing Arts and Creative Excellence workshop series, a groundbreaking program designed to elevate local talent and expand professional opportunities for performing artists in South Florida. The series will begin in May 2025, with an exciting Insider Brunch: Talent Meet & Greet event on Saturday, April 12, 2025, from 11:00 AM – 1:00 PM, at SSCAC (701 S. Andrews Avenue). This new program is designed to enhance both singing and dancing abilities, using a tier-based system that starts with karaoke and progresses to advanced performance techniques. The goal is to equip aspiring artists with the skills needed to shine on stage, rather than just admiring icons like Beyoncé and Chris Brown. The workshop will spotlight diverse talent from South Florida, including Franser from La Voz Kids, Paxton Ingram from The Voice, rising star Gigi Vega, and choreographer Justin of Roc Nation. The initiative not only fosters artistic development but also provides professional avenues for performers to sustain careers in the entertainment industry. The Insider Brunch will offer attendees a live performance, light bites, and a chance to network with top industry professionals and local arts celebrities. A special Q&A session will allow guests to engage with artists and learn about their journeys. Founded in 2010 by Yolanda Harrold (Omega Brown), The Star Path has been a driving force in nurturing artistic talent. The Superior Performing Arts and Creative Excellence program marks a major milestone in its mission to support performers and transform South Florida’s creative landscape. By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Robert Collins

Leo Messi  has scored over 800 goals throughout his career—the most recent just a few days ago against Minnesota in MLS. Many of them have defined legendary moments and sealed major titles; some are remembered for their beauty, others for their brilliance. Some were scored while representing Argentina; others with FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, or Inter Miami CF. Each one holds a special place in the hearts of fans around the world.  For years, fans and pundits alike have debated which of those goals stand out the most—for their significance or aesthetic perfection. But now, for the very first time, Messi himself will select his personal favorite, giving rise to a never-before-seen fusion of art and football.   The chosen goal will be revealed globally on  Inter Miami CF Foundation ’s official social media channels on  May 22 at 11:00 AM ET , and will be immortalized through a groundbreaking collaboration with  Refik Anadol —a key figure in 21st-century art whose data-sculpted creations have redefined the boundaries of art and technology.   Proceeds from this historic initiative—expected to break fundraising records—will be donated to charitable projects. Among them is an education-focused partnership between  Inter Miami CF Foundation  (IMCFF) and  UNICEF , which supports access to quality education programmes for children in five countries across Latin America and the Caribbean.   The final piece, to be officially unveiled in New York  by world's leading auction house  Christie’s  on  June 11 , will bear the signature of both artists and will consist of two interconnected elements: the purest visual representation of the goal chosen by Messi, and Anadol’s artistic interpretation generated from the millions of data points linked to that moment.   “Choosing just one goal out of them all is very difficult—each one is special in its own way, and some are really important or bring back incredible memories. But highlighting one as a favorite for the first time, to make this unique project possible is worth it. There's a strong purpose behind it, and I'm really happy to be part of it,” stated  Leo Messi.   In addition,  Refik Anadol  remarked: “It’s an extraordinary honor to join forces with Leo Messi—one of the greatest athletes of our time—on a project that supports non-profit organizations, including UNICEF, and bridges the emotional legacy of sport with the future of art. At Refik Anadol Studio, we’ve always believed in the power of data to tell deeply human stories. Using AI to visualize the memory of Messi’s favorite goal is both a creative and ethical endeavor: to celebrate emotion, memory, and excellence.”   “An education is the fuel of dreams. That is why Inter Miami is committed to supporting programs that provide access to education for all,” said  Jorge Mas , Inter Miami CF Managing Owner. “We are excited to see the beauty of Leo’s favorite goal through the artistic lens of Refik. This innovative collaboration brings together the world’s greatest soccer player and renowned artist to create a one-of-a-kind piece to benefit our educational initiatives. It will truly be a work of art like no other.”   Led by the Inter Miami CF Foundation, the project  A Goal in Life  —for which the Foundation invited Leo Messi and Refik Anadol to participate— is under the creative direction of  Xavier Roca,  with artistic curation by acclaimed art expert  Ximena Caminos . The auction will close on  July 25 at Christie’s New York .   A unique and powerful story begins today—and one of the most iconic voices in film will take us there.  Mr. Morgan Freeman , we’re all ears. By ML Staff. Photo/Inter Miami CF Foundation

Conceived by curator Florence Müller with scenography by architect Shohei Shigematsu (OMA), this new chapter celebrates over 75 years of creative effervescence, offering a fresh perspective of themes dear to the House:  Christian Dior ’s love of flowers and gardens, the excellence of the Ateliers, and a fascination with balls and exceptional parties.   Haute couture creations and archival documents dialogue with works by prominent Korean artists, including HyunJoo Kim, Soo Sunny Park and Zadie Xa, resonating with the powerful ties forged between Dior and this captivating country. For the first time, the space dedicated to the Lady Dior display features reinterpretations of this object of desire by leading figures in the Korean art scene – nine for the Dior Lady Art project and 17 for the Lady Dior As Seen By concept .   The founding couturier's passion for the art of perfume also figures prominently throughout the exhibition. Rare bottles and portraits are joined by dresses worn by the ambassadors of the House’s iconic fragrances – Rihanna for J’adore and Natalie Portman for Miss Dior – retracing the olfactory history of Dior with emotion and refinement.   ML Staff. Content/images courtesy of Dior

Set to become the world’s most exclusive residential community at sea, ULYSSIA is a state-of-the-art yacht transforming our concept of discovery and home. Featuring 133 exceptional residences and 22 guest suites, ULYSSIA is designed for a life without boundaries. Offering curated, authentic experiences and best-in-class amenities that few have dreamed of, ULYSSIA will be your home and the world, your backyard. With its European headquarters in Monaco along with a Swiss base, the Ulyssia Residences team is also strengthening its ties with the community in Florida. CEO of Ulyssia Residences, Alain Gruber is based in Miami and the team will be opening their United States headquarters in Fort Lauderdale later this year. “We are thrilled to be opening our U.S. headquarters in Fort Lauderdale soon. With its rich history in yachting, Fort Lauderdale is the perfect American base for the Ulyssia Residences team. We’ve been delighted by the incredibly positive response to ULYSSIA we’ve received in Florida so far, and we can’t wait to strengthen our connections even further with the local community as our office takes shape.” – Alain Gruber, CEO of Ulyssia Residences 2025 marks a milestone year for ULYSSIA, with the build process set to commence later this year in partnership with MEYER YACHTS in Papenburg, Germany, as officially announced at Seatrade earlier this month. By ML Staff. Photos/ULYSSIA

We are so excited for the upcoming event, Miami Swim Week The Shows benefiting The Little Lighthouse Foundation on Wednesday, May 28th from 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM at the Mondrian South Beach, featuring designs by internationally renowned designer Ema Savahl! Guests will enjoy 3 hours of complimentary cocktails under the stars as we kick off Swim Week The Shows in style! A minimum $85 donation is required to attend in advance, a $125 donation is required at the door. VIP runway seating is available for those who make a $225 donation. 100% of proceeds benefit LLF’s Back to School Program on Tuesday, July 29th! RSVP Now! Date:  Wednesday, May 28th Time:  7:00 PM-10:00 PM Location:  Mondrian South Beach By ML Staff. Image courtesy of LLF

From the breezy charm of Elia on the River, where guests can dock and dine with serene North Miami River views, to the lively energy of American Social Bar & Kitchen along the Miami River, South Florida is home to standout waterfront restaurants serving up great food, cocktails, and views that define the season. Here are some of our favorites! Avra Estiatorio Miami   North Miami River Elia on the River Elia on the River offers an unparalleled dining experience on the Miami River, combining stunning views with a carefully curated menu showcasing a harmonious blend of coastal Italian flavors with a flair and locally sourced ingredients. Guests can look forward to enjoying meals surrounded by luxurious imported marbles and a stunning hand-painted mural masterpiece, all while taking in panoramic views of passing yachts and breathtaking sunsets. For those looking to arrive by boat, dockage fees are waived with a minimum spend of $500 per table. Elia on the River Downtown Miami  Bayside Marketplace   Bayside Marketplace, set along Biscayne Bay in Downtown Miami, offers a variety of outdoor dining options with stunning views. Visitors can enjoy tropical vibes at LandShark Bar & Grill, savor grilled meats at The Knife Argentine Steakhouse, or indulge in Cuban-inspired cuisine at La Cañita, all with ample outdoor seating. As one of Miami’s most visited attractions, Bayside combines international dining, live music, and unique shopping experiences, making it the perfect destination for both locals and tourists looking to experience Miami’s lively waterfront atmosphere. Bayside Marketplace Edgewater/Brickell Casadonna   Casadonna is a coastal Italian-inspired restaurant developed in partnership between Groot Hospitality and Tao Group Hospitality. Located in Edgewater alongside Biscayne Bay, Casadonna boasts expansive al fresco dining areas and bar seating with waterfront views that span the length of the bay-facing terrace. The menu features the freshest local and imported-from-Italy ingredients, a comprehensive crudo bar, bespoke cocktails, and spritzes, and an extensively curated wine cellar to complete the spirit of seaside  dolce vita . Guests can also now experience docking and dining, from day to night, with any size vessel. To reserve a slip and arrive by boat, contact Casadonna's dock master at 786-869-0158 or  marina@casadonnamiami.com . Casadonna & Ngoc Minh Ngo American Social Bar & Kitchen Description:  Overlooking the Miami River in Brickell, American Social Bar & Kitchen offers an expansive outdoor patio, the perfect place to wave to passing boats with a drink in hand. With television screens both inside and outside, guests never have to miss out on a game day no matter where they sit. American Social’s upscale, yet casual dining experience includes reimagined American classics with modern twists, unique cocktails, local beer and a high-energy atmosphere with live entertainment.   American Social Bar & Restaurant TULUM Rooftop Bar & Restaurant at W Miami W Miami, an urban oasis located in Miami's trendy Brickell District, recently opened TULUM Rooftop Bar & Restaurant, a new modern American dining concept on the hotel's 15th floor. Drawing inspiration from Tulum, Mexico, TULUM offers panoramic views of Biscayne Bay and the Miami skyline through its floor-to-ceiling windows and al fresco dining areas. The indoor-outdoor restaurant features an organic aesthetic with earthy hues, ample greenery, warm wood accents, and a harmonious blend of natural elements and contemporary allure. The menu includes modern American cuisine with Caribbean influences through dishes.  W Miami Coconut Grove Bayshore Club Coconut Grove’s favorite waterfront dining destination offers sweeping views of Biscayne Bay accompanied by an extensive menu. With three levels of “stadium-style” seating, all guests can enjoy the best seat in the house while enjoying the nice waterfront breeze along with the restaurant’s fabulous seafood fare like the iconic Island Conch Fritters and “Yankee Style” Lobster Roll.  Grove Bay Hospitality Group North Miami/Aventura/Sunny Isles  Avra Estiatorio Miami Transport to the whitewashed islands of Greece at Avra Miami, the acclaimed Greek restaurant at the glamorous Acqualina Resort & Residences. The wildly popular estiatorio is best known for a menu that focuses on Mediterranean-sourced seafood and traditional platter-style entrées made with imported ingredients. The menu offers iterations of fresh fish with familiar favorites such as branzino, red snapper and wild Dover sole, as well as rarer Mediterranean gems like fagri and lithrini. The wine program at Avra is as impressive as the food with a list that includes more than 1,200 varieties and spans the globe. Greek spirits are part of the mix with ouzos and mastichas, and the cocktails are creative and a nod to Greece. The spacious, custom-designed restaurant spans 12,000 square feet and has a 330-seat main dining room. The airy space is chic yet inviting with its floor-to-ceiling windows, high ceilings, white color tones and brass finishes. Diners will be able to hear the waves crashing while they eat al fresco and savor oceanfront views.  The Avra Group South Beach/Miami Beach Mirabella ,  located at the Fontainebleau Miami Beach offers redefined coastal Italian dining, helmed by award-winning Chef Michael White. Guests can enjoy the fresh flavors of land and sea while taking in beautiful Miami views while enjoying outdoor dining. The diverse menu reflects the rich heritage of Italian coastal cuisine with dining on the terrace which offers ocean views.  Moris Moreno Tala Beach   The tropical beachside venue, formerly known as 1 Beach Club, has transformed into Tala Beach, a 50,000-square-foot outdoor oasis focusing on Spanish-inspired shared plates, precisely crafted cocktails and curated entertainment. This new concept features sprawling daybeds, overstuffed pillows, time-tested textures, an outdoor bar and restaurant serving a new menu and thoughtfully crafted cocktails, and a VIP lounge for those in search of an over-the-top experience. Hidden beneath the swaying palms and ample umbrella shading, Tala Beach will transport guests to paradise as they enjoy live beats and exciting entertainment while capturing 1 Hotel’s signature ethos of mindfulness and wellness. The truly 1-of-a-kind experience in South Beach will act as a gathering place for spiritual seekers, daydreamers and unconventional thinkers. Hotel South Beach  Joia Beach Joia Beach Restaurant & Beach Club is a vibrant day-to-night oasis located near downtown Miami in a hidden enclave on Watson Island. Serving as both an outdoor restaurant and a beach club, Joia Beach is the only private beachfront location in Miami where guests can dine with their toes in the sand and offers a European-inspired menu with freshly sourced seasonal ingredients. Experience Miami’s calming waters just a few feet away from your table, and embrace the sun setting on the city’s skyline while enjoying their handcrafted cocktails and dishes. The goal is to feel Miami’s music, vivid culture, and breathtaking scenic views in one place, and an evening at Joia Beach is the perfect way to do it.  Joia Beach WATR at 1 Hotel South Beach   Located at cloud level, WATR at 1 Rooftop offers unobstructed views of the Atlantic Ocean. The floating oasis offers guests Japanese-inspired lunch and dinner menus and an elevated nightlife experience. Open to the public for lunch and dinner, at night, WATR is set to transform into a lively dinner scene complete with a DJ and live performances.  1 Hotel South Beach Fort Lauderdale  El Vez El Vez, the celebrated Mexican restaurant at W Fort Lauderdale, offers a vibrant atmosphere where every detail enhances your dining experience. The eclectic vibe sets the stage for a fun and casual outing, whether you're enjoying snacks and tropical drinks or indulging in a delightful multi-course Mexican feast. The restaurant features raw industrial elements and panoramic ocean views, complemented by warm, inviting furnishings. This perfect blend of comfort and beach-chic design creates an ultimate retreat for guests to relax and savor every moment. STARR Restaurants  Steak 954 Steak 954, located at W Fort Lauderdale, offers a fresh twist on the traditional steakhouse experience. With luxurious ocean views, the menu features an extensive raw bar, a stellar selection of dry-aged beef sourced from handpicked ranches, locally caught seafood, and decadent desserts. This dining destination combines exquisite cuisine with a stunning backdrop, making it the perfect spot for an unforgettable meal. STARR Restaurants Boca Raton Kasumi Description:  Kasumi brings a new level of sophistication to Boca Raton’s waterfront dining scene — a contemporary Japanese restaurant from James Beard Award-winning chef Takashi Yagihashi and renowned chef/restaurateur Jonathan Fox. With over 60 years of combined culinary expertise, the Chicago-based duo brings a refined yet modernized take on traditional Japanese cuisine. Located within the Waterstone Resort & Marina, Kasumi offers sweeping waterfront views that serve as a serene backdrop for its meticulously crafted dishes. The menu features a refined selection of sushi and sashimi, crafted with a mix of locally sourced seafood and prized cuts flown in from Japan’s top markets. Each dish is prepared with the precision and care that reflects the spirit of  omotenashi , the Japanese philosophy of wholehearted hospitality and attention to detail. The experience is complemented by an extensive cocktail program, curated selection of Japanese whiskeys, and premium sake offerings. By ML Staff. Images courtesy of their respective restaurants.

ATTENDANT ENGAGEMENTS No. 1, a one-night pop-up exhibition showcasing ten new digital artworks created through two community initiatives developed during the run of The Kaleidoscope (...BIGGER) House by Laurie Simmons and Peter M. Wheelwright. The original exhibition, presented by DMINTI and ICA Miami, has been on view in the Melin Atrium in the Miami Design District since December 2024. Each new artwork was created in dialogue with Laurie Simmons’ artistic practice. This special presentation, produced with support from ICA Miami, the Miami Design District, Florida International University, and MUD Foundation, celebrates the closing of The Kaleidoscope (...BIGGER) House on May 31, 2025, by foregrounding new works generated in response to the exhibition. DATE: Tuesday, May 20, 2025 TIME: 7PM - 9PM ADDRESS: Melin Atrium , 3930 NE 2nd Ave. ML Staff. Content/images courtesy of MDD

This Memorial Day weekend, the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) invites visitors and locals to experience a patriotic, sun-drenched escape filled with unforgettable events and meaningful tributes across the entire destination. “Memorial Day weekend in Miami and Miami Beach is more than a getaway — it’s a powerful blend of celebration and reflection,” said David Whitaker, president and CEO of the Greater Miami Convention & Visitors Bureau. “From meaningful tributes honoring our nation’s heroes to the unmistakable rhythm of our cultural and culinary scenes, the destination offers an unforgettable start to summer.” See the non-exhaustive list of special events and activations taking place May 24-26, 2025: Hyundai Air & Sea Show (May 24-25): Witness Miami Beach’s marquee Memorial Day event featuring choreographed military demonstrations, powerboat racing, skydiving and high-speed flyovers by all six branches of the U.S. military. With soaring views directly off the sand, “The Greatest Show Above the Earth” will break Miami’s sound barrier with appearances by F-16 Fighting Falcons, F-15 Eagles, an A-10 Thunderbolt II, the U.S. Army Golden Knights Parachute Team and more. In addition, Florida Power & Light Company will host the FPL Patriot Display Village , an interactive hub with simulations, extreme sports demos, the Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Kids Zone and a rest area. To dine with a view of the show, grab a bite at LT Steak & Seafood , which features cuisine by award-winning Chef Laurent Tourondel. Air & Sea Show Rooftop Cookout & Watch Party (May 24-25): Catch aerial action from 80 feet above at Moxy Miami South Beach’s rooftop, paired with all-American barbecue fare, DJ sets and unbeatable views from 4-10 p.m. $10 tickets available on Eventbrite; free for hotel guests. Complimentary Pool Party for Veterans (May 24-26): Splash into high-energy South Beach vibes at The Goodtime Hotel , presenting its signature weekend pool parties at Strawberry Moon Pool Club. The Instagram-ready pool deck and bar perched above South Beach’s busy streets showcases top-tier DJs, handcrafted cocktails and exclusive VIP cabana and bottle service opportunities. Non-hotel guests who present a valid military ID receive free access to the parties to swim and dance all weekend long. Vegan Memorial Day (May 24): Head to Doral for a plant-powered community celebration hosted by Vegan Street Party at Tripping Animals Brewing Co. Expect vegan vendors, craft beer, live music and a dog-friendly vibe. Free with RSVP . Memorial Day Freedom Run (May 24): Lace up your running shoes for a community fun run for all ages at Playita in Key Biscayne, offering a meaningful way to honor military service members in a scenic waterfront setting. Homestead Art in the Park (May 24): Immerse your kiddos in this eight-annual family-friendly outdoor arts festival at Harris Field with live entertainment, a pop-up gallery, crafts, dance lessons, food vendors and hands-on activities for all ages, including a designated toddler zone. Saideira Social with Miamibloco (May 24): Feel the rhythm at the Miami Beach Bandshell in North Beach. Starting at 7 p.m., attendees can dance to the largest samba percussion orchestra in the U.S., where Afro-Brazilian, Caribbean and Latin musical influences blend in a high-energy performance. Best of the Best Music Fest (May 25): Dive into North America’s premier Caribbean music festival as it returns to Bayfront Park with family-friendly entertainment, food and a vibrant lineup representing the best in reggae, soca, hip-hop and more. Memorial Day Boots on the Ground Concert (May 26): Close the weekend with a lively evening at NoMI Village in North Miami from 6 p.m. to midnight with local DJs, live music, mechanical bull rides, a cowboy/cowgirl contest, and festive food and drink vendors. Ages 25+. For those unable to attend specific events, Greater Miami and Miami Beach still offer plenty to enjoy, from relaxing beach days to state-of-the-art museums, scenic neighborhoods, public art and iconic cultural landmarks, making the holiday weekend a memorable escape even without a set itinerary. For more information, visit miamiandbeaches.com/events/memorial-day-guide . By ML Staff. Photos/GMCVB

Inter Miami CF II (3W-5L-1D, 10 points) is set for the second Florida Derby of the season when visiting in-state rivals Orlando City B (3W-4L-1D, 11 points) on Saturday, May 17. Kick-off at Osceola Heritage Park is slated for 7 p.m. ET. Where to Watch This match will be available for fans to stream at MLSNEXTPro.com , or by subscribing to the MLS NEXT Pro Season Pass on Apple TV by clicking HERE . Previous Meetings Inter Miami II and Orlando City B have met on 12 occasions, more times than any other opponent for the Herons. The last meeting between the two ended in a dominant 3-2 victory for Inter Miami II when they faced off earlier this season at IMG Academy. The match was highlighted by a Man of the Match performance from goalkeeper Ivan Schmid , as well as goals from Tyler Hall, Mateo Saja, and Idoh Zeltzer-Zubida Inter Miami II holds the historical edge in the series, boasting six wins in regulation, two draws (including one shootout victory), and three losses. Scouting Report Orlando City B enters this matchup sitting in the ninth place of the Eastern Conference standings , winless their last three matches. The visitors will be led by dynamic winger Shak Mohammed, who tops their scoring chart with five goals and remains a key threat in the final third. By ML Staff. Content/Image courtesy of Inter Miami CF

The American housing market is undergoing a significant transformation. As demographics shift and economic pressures reshape consumer behavior, traditional patterns of homeownership are giving way to new trends. Understanding how these changes affect mortgage preferences and access is critical for anyone trying to make sense of the current real estate landscape. Lenders, buyers, and policymakers are paying closer attention to the emerging dynamics behind who is buying homes and how they are financing them. Millennials  Millennials now make up the largest share of homebuyers in the United States. Their entry into the market has been slower than previous generations due to student loan debt, high housing costs, and delayed life milestones. However, recent data shows an uptick in millennial homeownership, especially among older millennials in their late 30s and early 40s. These buyers tend to be highly educated, more tech-savvy, and eager to find mortgage processes that are flexible and efficient. Their preferences are influencing how lenders structure mortgage offerings. Online applications, fast pre-approvals, and digital documentation have become more standard. Many are also exploring options like adjustable-rate mortgages or longer loan terms to cope with higher property prices. First-time homebuyer assistance programs have also gained popularity with this group, providing a critical bridge to homeownership. Gen Z  While Gen Z is still emerging as a home-buying force, early indicators suggest they are entering the market earlier than millennials did. This group values financial education and often approaches real estate with cautious optimism. They are more likely to research loan options extensively and use digital tools to compare lenders. The importance of affordability, especially in suburban or secondary markets, is shaping how Gen Z views long-term investments in property. As more Gen Z buyers enter the market, lenders will likely need to offer products with transparency and customization, as well as education-driven outreach that supports informed decision-making. This trend could drive innovation in digital lending platforms and increase demand for nontraditional financing arrangements. Baby Boomers At the other end of the spectrum, baby boomers are influencing the market in a different way. Many are downsizing from larger homes, seeking properties that are easier to manage and maintain. Some are also choosing to relocate to more affordable areas, driving up demand in markets that previously saw slower growth. This trend has led to an increase in cash buyers and lower loan amounts in certain segments, which shifts how mortgage lenders manage risk and pricing. Retirees and near-retirees often look for simplified approval processes, favorable interest rates, and short-term mortgage products. Their financial stability and existing home equity often give them more options than younger buyers. Changing Household Structures  Modern household compositions are more diverse than in previous decades. Multi-generational living arrangements and co-buying among friends or family members are becoming more common. These shifts demand greater flexibility from lenders, who must consider multiple income sources, shared ownership responsibilities, and unique credit profiles. The rise of remote work has also played a role, encouraging more people to buy in areas that were previously overlooked.  Location-Specific Trends  Regional differences continue to play a significant role in shaping mortgage trends. Cities and towns experiencing population growth are seeing increased competition among lenders, with more personalized loan offerings and expanded customer service channels. For example, mortgage solutions in Fayetteville  are adapting to meet rising demand from younger families and out-of-state buyers seeking a mix of affordability and lifestyle benefits. Borrowers are also taking a more proactive role in shaping their mortgage experience. As the housing market continues to evolve, those who stay informed and flexible will have a clear advantage in securing the best financial outcomes. To learn more, check out the infographic below.  By ML Staff. Image courtesy of Microsoft Stock Images