Hep Cats Can Barhop Too

In the 1980s, Fort Lauderdale was infamous for its raunchy spring break festivities until city commissioners tamed the hedonistic revelry years later. This Saturday, Fort Lauderdale-based not-for-profit jazz preservation group the Gold Coast Jazz Society looks to bring the fling back in Fort Lauderdale’s spring. Do not get the wrong idea; occurring along North Beach Arts District’s more upscale taprooms and galleries, this organization’s Spring Fling Pub Crawl is set to be a decidedly classier affair than the wet-T-shirt orgy of 30 years prior. But for jazz enthusiasts — who enjoy their share of libations — this night of jazz music, barhopping, and art appreciation will be as enjoyable as beer-chugging contests were to the multitudes of college coeds of yore. Most of the ten participating venues (Red Trombone, Sharay’s Yesterday’s, In Sight Optics, Mohr TLC, Blue Jean Blues, 33rd St. Wine Bar, Fishtales, A1A Dive Bar, Mimosa, and Il Lugano) will offer a glass of wine and a snack. Also, expect a few live acts at some venues and stellar jazz tunes at others. One hundred percent of the proceeds benefit the jazz education and jazz scholarship programs offered by the Gold Coast Jazz Society. The spring fling fun happens on Friday from 6 to 8 p.m. at the North Beach Arts District, with check-in at the Red Trombone Gallery, located at 313 NE 33rd St. in Fort Lauderdale. Admission is $20 in advance and $25 (cash only) at the door. Visit goldcoastjazz.org, or call 954-524-0805.
Fri., May 10, 6-8 p.m., 2013