The best times of year to call Fort Lauderdale Fl home

Whenever I am traveling or working there is always two times per year I get homesick for tradition. Growing up on the ocean never seeing snow, surrounded by 24-7 sunshine makes for some interesting traditions. The two festivities I just cant miss are the Christmas boat parade and the 4th of July fireworks on the beach. Two years ago while living in corporate housing in south Alabama, I drove 11 hours one way just to see the Christmas boat Show. The boats parade up and down the intercostal waterway in front of my apartment, decked out in Christmas lights. Something only a south Floridian can truly appreciate. Fort Lauderdale, Fl is known as the Venice of America due to all of its intercostal waterways. Houses on the intercostal decorate their backyards along the water as well. Pretty much the only Christmas festivity we have. The other time of year is the 4th of July fireworks on the beach. Every town along the water has their own professional show on the beach. No matter where you sit you have an awesome view of at least 2 different shows. Just north, Deerfield Beach has the best show and atmosphere. However the public beach is small and the roads are closed off early making for a very crowded long evening. The restaurants and night life are better in fort Lauderdale so that is where I decided to spend this years festivities. A few times we have gotten hotel rooms on the beach making for an awesome weekend. however hotels are expensive and usually require a three night minimum. Even locals get hotel rooms regularly this time of year. When a hotel is not in your budget the next best thing is the water taxi. This year they had a special for $5.00 they would give you a ride to the beach from downtown by way of boat down the intercostal. It took about a half hour to do a 10 minute drive but it was well worth it. awesome scenery and awesome atmosphere. The fireworks did not disappoint and the bars were hopping. A do over for next year for sure.