MIAMI VICE
4OTH ANNIVERSARY
As we gear up for the 40th anniversary of Miami Vice, the Washington Avenue Business Improvement District is bringing the '80s back to life with live music at 12 locations and 12 signature cocktails that capture the essence of the era. Plus, don’t miss the chance to meet cast members from the iconic show as we celebrate this milestone in true '80s style!
Get ready to take a trip down memory lane—dig out your '80s clothes and join us as we relive the magic of this unforgettable decade. Expect breakdancers, roller skaters, mullets, big hair, iconic songs, and classic cars all along Washington Avenue.
Let’s take a nostalgic journey through the unforgettable highlights that made the '80s so iconic. From President Ronald Reagan signing Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day into law to the cultural phenomenon of Miami Vice, the '80s had a flair all its own.
Teen Movies
The 1980s were a golden era for teen movies, where the genre truly came of age. From the outrageous humor of *Porky's* to the heartfelt stories of John Hughes classics like *Pretty in Pink* and *The Breakfast Club*, these films beautifully captured the essence of being a teenager. Even darker gems like *Heathers* found a way to resonate with audiences, delivering poignant stories wrapped in iconic '80s style.
Mixtapes
Sure, they said home taping was killing music, but that didn’t stop us from creating mixtapes for every special occasion. Anyone who has read or seen *High Fidelity* understands the personal significance of these compilations. Crafting the perfect playlist, recording it on a tape deck, and designing a custom cover with a heartfelt message—there’s just nothing like it. Spotify playlists? They can't quite compare.
Super Mario Bros.
Remember when video games were simpler? Back then, the biggest challenge was helping two pixelated plumbers dodge dangerous mushrooms. *Super Mario Bros.* epitomized the joy of early gaming—no insane learning curves or complex narratives, just pure, unadulterated fun.
The Cosby Show
"The Cosby Show" centers on the lives of the Huxtables: obstetrician Cliff and his lawyer wife Claire, their daughters Sondra, Denise, Vanessa and Rudy, and son Theo. Based on the standup comedy of Bill Cosby, the show focused on his observations of family life. Although based on comedy, the series also addresses some more serious topics, such as learning disabilities and teen pregnancy.
Ludicrous Escapist TV
In the '80s, TV was all about outrageous escapism. Soaps like *Dynasty* and *Dallas* dominated the airwaves, where billionaires engaged in scandalous affairs, and entire seasons could be written off as nothing more than a dream. It was ridiculous, it was glamorous, and it was impossible not to watch.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​
Weird Toys
The '80s gave us some truly bizarre toys. From the slightly creepy Cabbage Patch Kids to the talking bear Teddy Ruxpin, these playthings captured the imagination—and sometimes the nightmares—of an entire generation. No wonder the decade also birthed horror icons like Chucky from *Child’s Play*.
Spielberg!
Steven Spielberg owned the '80s, with one blockbuster after another. *Indiana Jones*, *The Goonies*, *Poltergeist*, and, of course, *E.T.*—these films defined the era. Spielberg's movies created a world where aliens, treasure hunts, and supernatural forces felt like the best kind of adventure.
Amazing Comedy Films
The early '80s were a comedy goldmine, launching the careers of Eddie Murphy, Bill Murray, and other comedy legends. Movies like *Airplane!* redefined the one-liner, paving the way for classics like *The Naked Gun* series, proving that humor can be both clever and delightfully absurd.
Michael Jackson “Billie Jean”
With the moonwalk, the iconic glove, and an unforgettable beat, *Billie Jean* was a defining moment of the '80s. Michael Jackson’s *Thriller* album became the best-selling album of all time, with its music video taking over MTV and everyone trying to master the legendary dance moves.
Shoulder Pads
Power dressing defined '80s fashion, and nothing symbolized this more than shoulder pads. They weren’t just in suits; they were everywhere—from jackets to dresses, giving women a bold, authoritative appearance that matched their growing presence in the workforce.
Leg Warmers
Thanks to the rise of workout VHS tapes, leg warmers became a major fashion trend. Worn with everything from spandex to jeans, they went beyond the gym, becoming a staple of casual wear for many.
Acid-Washed Jeans
Acid-washed denim was everywhere in the '80s, and the high-waisted style that’s back in vogue today had its heyday during this decade as well. Supermodels and celebrities made these jeans a must-have.
Big Hair
Big hair wasn’t just a trend—it was a phenomenon. Whether it was teased, sprayed, or permed, everyone from rock bands like Motley Crue to everyday teens embraced the bigger-is-better ethos when it came to their locks.
Neon Colors
Bright, vivid, and in-your-face—neon colors were the hallmark of '80s fashion. From hot pinks to electric blues, these bold hues dominated not just clothing but the entire pop culture landscape.
Members-Only Jackets
These racer jackets, introduced to the U.S. in 1980, became a symbol of preppy style in the '80s. Worn with pastels, miniskirts, and fanny packs, they were a staple of the era’s fashion scene.
Boomboxes
The boombox wasn’t just a music player; it was a cultural icon. A defining part of early Hip Hop culture, boomboxes are making a nostalgic comeback today, as are other 1980s tech staples like cassette tapes, Walkmans, and classic cameras.
Cabbage Patch Kids
The chubby-cheeked Cabbage Patch Kids were a massive craze in the '80s, sparking shopping riots as parents scrambled to get the perfect doll for Christmas in 1983. Today, they’re still cherished collectibles.
Dr MLK Day
On November 2, 1983, President Ronald Reagan signed the King Holiday Bill into law, designating the third Monday in January a federal holiday in observance of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
‘Like A Virgin’
Madonna’s *Like A Virgin* was more than a hit; it was a cultural moment. Her infamous MTV performance in a wedding dress sent shockwaves through the music world, solidifying her transition from pop newcomer to global superstar.
‘Sweet Child O’Mine’
Guns N’ Roses wasn’t your typical hair metal band. With their gritty image and raw sound, they brought a new edge to rock. *Sweet Child O’Mine* became an anthem, driven by one of the most legendary riffs in rock history.
Walk This Way’
Run DMC and Aerosmith’s collaboration on *Walk This Way* was a groundbreaking moment, blending rap and rock in a way that brought both genres to new audiences. The track became a landmark in music history.
Boy George and Culture Club
Boy George and Culture Club defined a unique fusion of pop, new wave, and even reggae, with hits like *Karma Chameleon*. Their androgynous style and catchy tunes made them one of the decade’s most memorable acts.
Prince
*Little Red Corvette* catapulted Prince into the spotlight, leading to the release of his magnum opus, *Purple Rain*. With his flamboyant style and genre-blending music, Prince became an icon of the era.
Whitney Houston
Whitney Houston’s powerful voice made her one of the top female artists of the 1980s. Songs like *How Will I Know* and *Saving All My Love for You* became instant classics, securing her place in music history.
Guns N' Roses
Guns N’ Roses were one of the biggest rock bands of the '80s, known for their distinctive sound, with Axl Rose’s powerful voice and Slash’s iconic guitar riffs. They became legends of the glam rock scene.
Bruce Springsteen
“The Boss” dominated the '80s with his album *Born in the U.S.A.*, featuring hits like *I’m On Fire* and *Glory Days*. Springsteen’s music captured the spirit of the decade, earning him a permanent place in rock history.
Cyndi Lauper
Cyndi Lauper’s quirky style and catchy songs like *Girls Just Wanna Have Fun* and *Time After Time* made her one of the defining figures of '80s pop culture, influencing fashion and music alike.
Queen
Already a household name, Queen continued to rock the '80s with unforgettable hits like *Under Pressure* and *Another One Bites the Dust*. Their music remains as iconic today as it was then.
Duran Duran
Duran Duran’s synthpop sound was the soundtrack of the '80s. With five studio albums during the decade, their music was a constant presence on MTV, defining the sound of the era.
The Breakfast Club
*The Breakfast Club* gave us characters every '80s teen could relate to, from the jock to the weirdo. With its blend of drama and humor, plus a classic soundtrack, it’s an enduring symbol of '80s youth culture.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial
E.T. Phone Home.” Spielberg’s *E.T.* wasn’t just a movie; it was a cultural phenomenon. Its heartwarming story, unforgettable characters, and groundbreaking special effects made it a classic that still resonates today.
Back to the Future
Back to the Future* and its sequels weren’t just hit movies—they were cultural touchstones. From hoverboards to time-traveling DeLoreans, these films captured the imagination of a generation.
Ghostbusters
With its perfect mix of humor, action, and supernatural fun, *Ghostbusters* became a beloved '80s classic. Its iconic theme song and all-star cast made it an instant favorite.
Dirty Dancing
Patrick Swayze’s role in *Dirty Dancing* helped popularize the mullet, and the film itself became one of the most beloved movies of the '80s. Its dance scenes and memorable lines continue to be celebrated today.
Miami Vice
*Miami Vice* was more than just a TV show—it was a trendsetter. From fashion to music, it influenced everything from hairstyles to the iconic blazers and Hawaiian shirts that defined the decade.
The A-Team
*The A-Team* was pure '80s fun. With Mr. T and a cast of colorful characters, this action-packed show delivered entertainment with a side of humor,
The 1980s were a golden era for both music and movies, bringing us some of the most iconic and entertaining films of all time. Here's a look at some of the standout films from that unforgettable decade:
Raiders of the Lost Ark (1981)**
*Raiders of the Lost Ark* introduced the world to the adventurous archaeologist Indiana Jones, played by Harrison Ford. Directed by Steven Spielberg and produced by George Lucas, this film set the standard for action-adventure movies. It follows Jones as he races against Nazis to recover the lost Ark of the Covenant. With its thrilling action sequences, memorable characters, and a perfect blend of humor and suspense, *Raiders* remains a classic.
Coming to America (1988)**
*Coming to America* is a comedy masterpiece starring Eddie Murphy as Prince Akeem, a royal from a fictional African nation who travels to Queens, New York, in search of true love. The film is a humorous and heartwarming exploration of cultural differences, with Murphy delivering an iconic performance, often playing multiple characters. Its witty dialogue, memorable scenes, and strong supporting cast have made it a beloved classic.
Back to the Future (1985)**
*Back to the Future* is a sci-fi adventure that became an instant hit. Directed by Robert Zemeckis and starring Michael J. Fox as Marty McFly, the film follows a teenager who accidentally travels back in time to 1955 in a DeLorean turned time machine. There, he encounters his young parents and must ensure they fall in love, or risk altering his future. With its clever plot, charming performances, and a perfect mix of humor and excitement, *Back to the Future* is one of the most beloved films of the decade.
The Empire Strikes Back (1980)**
The second installment of the original *Star Wars* trilogy, *The Empire Strikes Back* is widely regarded as one of the greatest sequels in film history. Directed by Irvin Kershner, the film continues the saga of Luke Skywalker, Han Solo, and Princess Leia as they battle the sinister Darth Vader and the Galactic Empire. Known for its darker tone, dramatic twists, and the iconic revelation of Darth Vader as Luke’s father, this film has left an indelible mark on pop culture.
The Terminator (1984)**
*The Terminator* is a groundbreaking sci-fi thriller directed by James Cameron and starring Arnold Schwarzenegger as the titular character, a cyborg assassin sent from the future to kill Sarah Connor, played by Linda Hamilton. The film’s relentless pace, innovative special effects, and Schwarzenegger’s unforgettable performance made it a classic, launching a franchise that would span decades.
Die Hard (1988)**
*Die Hard* redefined the action genre with its tale of John McClane, a New York cop played by Bruce Willis, who takes on a group of terrorists holding hostages in a Los Angeles skyscraper on Christmas Eve. Directed by John McTiernan, the film is known for its intense action scenes, sharp dialogue, and Willis’s charismatic performance. It has since become a holiday favorite and one of the greatest action movies of all time.
Aliens (1986)**
James Cameron’s *Aliens* is the high-octane sequel to Ridley Scott’s *Alien* (1979), bringing back Sigourney Weaver as Ellen Ripley. This time, Ripley returns to the planet where her crew first encountered the deadly alien species, leading a group of space marines into battle. Blending intense action with horror, *Aliens* is celebrated for its strong female lead, groundbreaking special effects, and its status as one of the best sequels ever made.
Blade Runner (1982)**
*Blade Runner,* directed by Ridley Scott, is a visionary sci-fi film set in a dystopian future where bioengineered beings called replicants are hunted by special police operatives known as Blade Runners. Harrison Ford stars as Rick Deckard, a Blade Runner tasked with "retiring" rogue replicants. The film’s stunning visuals, complex themes about humanity and identity, and its atmospheric soundtrack by Vangelis have made it a cult classic and a landmark in science fiction cinema.
Ghostbusters (1984)**
*Ghostbusters* is a supernatural comedy that became a cultural phenomenon. Directed by Ivan Reitman and starring Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd, and Harold Ramis, the film follows a group of eccentric parapsychologists who start a ghost-catching business in New York City. With its blend of humor, special effects, and an unforgettable theme song, *Ghostbusters* remains a beloved classic that continues to entertain audiences of all ages.
E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial (1982)**
Steven Spielberg’s *E.T.* is a heartwarming tale of friendship between a young boy, Elliott, and a stranded alien, E.T. The film captures the innocence and wonder of childhood, as Elliott and his siblings help E.T. return home while avoiding government agents. With its emotional depth, iconic imagery, and a score by John Williams that tugs at the heartstrings, *E.T.* became one of the most beloved films of all time.
The Shining (1980)**
Stanley Kubrick’s adaptation of Stephen King’s novel *The Shining* is a chilling psychological horror film. Jack Nicholson delivers a terrifying performance as Jack Torrance, a writer who descends into madness while serving as the caretaker of a remote hotel during the winter. The film’s haunting visuals, unsettling atmosphere, and Nicholson’s iconic “Here’s Johnny!” scene have cemented *The Shining* as a horror classic.
Ferris Bueller's Day Off (1986)**
*Ferris Bueller's Day Off* is a quintessential ’80s teen comedy directed by John Hughes. Matthew Broderick stars as Ferris Bueller, a high school student who fakes illness to enjoy a day of adventures in Chicago with his friends. The film is a joyous celebration of youth, freedom, and rebellion, with Ferris’s charismatic personality and breaking of the fourth wall making it an enduring favorite.
The Breakfast Club (1985)**
Another John Hughes classic, *The Breakfast Club* is a coming-of-age film that brings together five high school students from different cliques for a Saturday detention. Over the course of the day, they bond and reveal their insecurities, fears, and hopes. The film’s exploration of teen angst, identity, and social pressure, along with its memorable soundtrack, has made it a defining movie of the '80s.
Scarface (1983)**
Directed by Brian De Palma and written by Oliver Stone, *Scarface* is a gritty crime drama that chronicles the rise and fall of Tony Montana, a Cuban immigrant who becomes a powerful drug lord in Miami. Al Pacino’s larger-than-life performance as Montana, the film’s depiction of the American Dream gone wrong, and its unforgettable lines have made *Scarface* a cultural touchstone.
Airplane! (1980)**
*Airplane!* is a zany comedy that parodies the disaster film genre with absurd humor and sight gags. Directed by Jim Abrahams and the Zucker brothers, the film follows a former fighter pilot who must land a passenger plane after the crew falls ill. With its rapid-fire jokes, slapstick comedy, and deadpan delivery, *Airplane!* remains one of the funniest films of all time.
Fatal Attraction (1987)**
*Fatal Attraction* is a psychological thriller that explores the consequences of infidelity. Directed by Adrian Lyne, the film stars Michael Douglas as a married man who has a brief affair with a woman, played by Glenn Close, who becomes dangerously obsessed with him. The film’s intense performances, suspenseful plot, and exploration of dark desires made it a box office hit and a cultural phenomenon.
Top Gun (1986)**
*Top Gun* is an action-packed film that became a cultural phenomenon in the 1980s. Directed by Tony Scott, it stars Tom Cruise as Maverick, a talented but reckless Navy pilot who competes for the top spot at an elite flight school. With its high-octane aerial dogfights, iconic soundtrack, and Cruise’s star-making performance, *Top Gun* is a quintessential '80s film that continues to be celebrated.
**Miami Beach in the 1980s: A Decade of Transformation and Cultural Impact**
The 1980s were a transformative decade for Miami Beach, a time when the city emerged as a vibrant cultural hub and a symbol of both glamour and grit. The era saw the city’s skyline rise with luxury hotels and condos, while South Beach, with its iconic Art Deco architecture, became the backdrop for one of the most influential TV shows of the time, *Miami Vice*. The show not only put Miami Beach on the map but also shaped the fashion, music, and lifestyle trends of the decade, with its pastel colors, fast cars, and slick style becoming synonymous with the city.
**Miami in the 1980s: A Melting Pot of Culture and Change**
Beyond Miami Beach, the entire city of Miami experienced significant change in the 1980s. The decade was marked by a cultural boom, driven by an influx of Latin American immigrants who brought their music, cuisine, and vibrant traditions to the city. This cultural fusion transformed Miami into a true melting pot, where salsa rhythms and Cuban coffee became as much a part of the city’s identity as its sunny beaches. However, the city also faced challenges, including the drug wars that brought violence and a notorious reputation, later immortalized in films like *Scarface*. Despite these struggles, Miami in the 1980s laid the foundation for the dynamic, diverse city it is today.
**Washington State Mass Choir: A Harmonious Force in Gospel Music**
During the 1989s, the Washington State Mass Choir emerged as a powerful voice in the gospel music scene. Known for their soulful harmonies and uplifting performances, the choir became a beacon of hope and faith, spreading their message through music across the country. Their performances were not just concerts but spiritual experiences that resonated with audiences of all backgrounds, solidifying their place as one of the most influential gospel choirs of the era. WSMC was the first choir in Washington State history to reach Billboard Top 40.
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**Michael Jordan: The Rise of a Basketball Legend**
The 1980s were the beginning of the legend that is Michael Jordan. Drafted by the Chicago Bulls in 1984, Jordan quickly became a household name, captivating fans with his extraordinary athleticism, competitive spirit, and unmatched skill on the court. By the end of the decade, Jordan had not only transformed the Bulls into a formidable team but had also begun to reshape the entire sport of basketball. His influence extended beyond the court, as he became a global icon and one of the most marketable athletes in history, setting the stage for his dominance in the 1990s.
LIVE MUSIC SERIES
GET 12 DRINKS AT 12 DIFFERENT VENUES FOR ONLY $25
Are you ready to experience the ultimate “Vibration” in South Florida? Spanning 12 vibrant locations, Vibration offers an unforgettable blend of pulsating beats, live bands, and the electrifying energy of Miami's nightlife. Each venue features a diverse lineup of musical acts, ensuring there’s something for everyone—from sultry jazz and soulful R&B to electrifying rock and infectious pop.
Join us on the second Saturday of each month as we showcase an array of genres, including Latin, jazz, rock, pop, hip-hop, reggae, blues, classical, and funk. This event is designed to unite people in a one-of-a-kind atmosphere where you can dance, relax, and fully immerse yourself in the rhythm of Washington Avenue.
Secure your tickets now and be part of the best night out in South Florida!
LATIN
R&B
MIXTURE
ROCK
JAZZ
Come and enjoy a night of fun with us! Try different flavors cocktails, meet new people, and have a great time. It's the perfect way to relax. Be a part of a night of live music and cocktail tasting! Experience a range of cocktails as you enjoy the great tunes. Must be 21+ to enjoy the great experience.
