Miami Beach families can grab free ride wristbands and watch local kids perform at the city's annual Hispanic Heritage Festival on Friday, Sept. 18.

Miami Beach Parks and Recreation hosts the free event at North Shore Park & Youth Center, 501 72nd St., from 6 to 9 p.m. The festival features cultural performances by children in the department's after-school programs, plus rides, bounce houses, food vendors and music, according to a city press release.

The city described the festival as its annual celebration honoring the diverse cultures and traditions of Hispanic and Latino Americans.

Families who preregister through the Miami Beach Parks registration page can claim a free unlimited ride and bounce-house wristband. Refreshments will be available for purchase.

The North Beach event is one of several free celebrations the city planned for Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs Sept. 15 through Oct. 15. Mayor Steven Meiner said in the Sept. 1 press release that the city is "proud to honor this heritage with free events that bring neighbors together."

The Hispanic Heritage Month lineup kicked off Thursday, Sept. 17, with the OnStage! ¡Baila! Miami Beach event at Normandy Fountain Plaza, 7802 Rue Vendome, from 7 to 9 p.m. That event features Peruvian dance by Sumaj Tusuy, live Andean music by Los Hermanos Sulca and a textile-weaving workshop.

Additional free events on the city's Hispanic Heritage Month calendar include:

  • Saturday, Sept. 26 — Library celebration at Miami Beach Regional Library, 227 22nd St., 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., with story performances and Alebrije mask decorating for children.
  • Wednesday, Oct. 7 — SoundScape Cinema screening of "Selena" at SoundScape Park, 500 17th St., 8 to 10 p.m.
  • Saturday, Oct. 10 — OnStage! Live En La Playa at Lummus Park, 6th St. and Ocean Drive, 6 to 10 p.m., featuring Spam Allstars and Afro-Caribbean jazz by Tony & The Kings.
  • Sunday, Oct. 11 — Miami Beach Salsa Fest at Miami Beach Bandshell, 7275 Collins Ave., 5 p.m., hosted by singer Melina Almodóvar with free salsa lessons and live performances.