"This is one of the most important events
in Fort Lauderdale. It brings the people together."
Addison Lane, Miami Herald

About Sistrunk Historical Festival, Inc. of Fort Lauderdale, FL

Our Beginnings

Sistrunk Historical Festival, Inc. (“Sistrunk”) was founded in 1979 by the City of  Fort  Lauderdale and the Northwest Business Association in an effort to initiate economic redevelopment in a low socio-economic community. The event began as a two-day festival and, within the first twelve years, the event had attracted over 350,000 people.

Cultural Enrichment

Sistrunk provides year-round cultural programming in the City of Fort Lauderdale, promoting Broward County and the South Florida region. The organization's targeted audience includes families wishing to educate and entertain their youth, local residents of other ethnic origins, and tourists who wish to learn about the diversity within our communities. The organization has taken arts-in-centers in low socio-economic communities, and collaborations with other ethnic organizations continue to be a focus of this organization.
Sistrunk has provided programming has providing programming that has furthered an awareness of the contributions of people of African descent. The organization's annual programming currently includes the following activities:
  • An elegant Gala that recognizes noteworthy Broward County citizens and funds the Sistrunk Scholarship Program;
  • A parade along the Sistrunk corridor;
  • A street festival showcasing national and local entertainers;
  • Concerts involving both jazz talent and gospel talent;
Seminars and workshops addressing philanthropy, culture, historical figures, and institutions that assisted in developing Broward County's rich diversity.
Sistrunk invites all interested parties to get involved with us. Please visit our website at www.sistrunkfestival.org or contact us via telephone at 754-779-4376 for more information.