Pembroke Pines turns 66 this year. What to know about the city’s birthday bash
If there’s any place that knows how to throw a birthday bash, it’s Pembroke Pines.
The southwest Broward city celebrates its 66th anniversary this April, and there’s no shortage of fanfare residents can expect, including free food, libations, retro rides and nonstop entertainment.
But first, a short history.
Though Pembroke Pines was officially established in 1960, its roots can be traced to pre-1940s agricultural land and the Waldrep Dairy Farm, which occupied much of the eastern portion of the city.
Pembroke Pines’ first of several population booms came shortly after World War II, welcoming veterans who had trained in South Florida and wanted to call the area home after the war.
In 1959, the region amassed enough residents and housing developments to incorporate itself into the “Village of Pembroke Pines,” and a year later, into an official city, with Dr. Walter Smith Kipnis as its first mayor.
To celebrate the last six decades of the city’s growth, the city is inviting residents to its annual Pines Day from 5 to 9 p.m. on Saturday, April 25, at the Charles F. Dodge City Center.
This theme for this year’s event — Route 66: The Road to 250 — also celebrates another major milestone, the United States’ 250th anniversary since its independence in 1776.
Headlining the citywide birthday party: the Generation of Wheels Car Show, featuring retro rides and toy cars, and a free roller rink soundtracked by DJ Felix Sama.
Local talent will shine in live stage performances and young attendees can enjoy arts and crafts, character meet-and-greets and face painting.
What’s on the menu? Food trucks and “refueling” stations — bars — will have drinks and fare for puchase. Complimentary popcorn and cotton candy will also be available.
And no birthday celebration is complete without cake, and there will be plenty to enjoy at “Route 66: The Road to 250.”
A ceremonial cake cutting for the City of Pembroke Pines will be held, and over 1,000 cupcakes will be rolled out so that all residents can enjoy the sweet milestone.
All festivities are sponsored by South Florida businesses, including the Charles F. Dodge City Center, Memorial Healthcare System, Naidu Orthodontics and American Pediatric Dental Group.
For more infortamtion, call the city’s Special Events Office at 954-392-2116.
