A dazzling tribute brings Celia Cruz’s legacy to life across Miami-Dade
Few voices have defined Latin music — or Miami’s cultural heartbeat — quite like Celia Cruz, the indomitable Queen of Salsa. This October, as fans around the world prepare to celebrate what would have been her 100th birthday, Leon Medical Centers and the Celia Cruz Estate are teaming up to honor her legacy in the most fitting way possible: through a traveling exhibit of rare artifacts that tell the story of a woman whose rhythm and joy transcended borders.
Celebrating a century of Celia
The exhibit, which opened on October 4 in Homestead, invites Miami residents and visitors alike to step into the colorful, glamorous, and passionate world of Celia Cruz — from her dazzling gowns and wigs to her handwritten notes and awards. The collection will move across Homestead, Flagler, and East Hialeah through December, giving fans throughout Miami-Dade County the opportunity to experience her life up close.
As Omer Pardillo-Cid, Executor of the Celia Cruz Estate, shared:
“This exhibit is a beautiful way to celebrate Celia’s centennial birthday and share her story with fans old and new. Her spirit continues to inspire generations of people around the world.”
A legacy that lives through music, fashion, and Miami pride
Celia Cruz wasn’t just a performer — she was a force. Her unmatched voice, radiant personality, and larger-than-life style made her an icon of Cuban pride and Latin joy. Her famous catchphrase, “¡Azúcar!”, became an anthem of resilience, love, and cultural identity — one that continues to echo through Miami’s streets, from Little Havana to Hialeah.
The exhibit — which includes personal treasures once displayed at the Smithsonian Institution — features:
- Celia’s legendary sequined gowns and signature wigs
- Her jewelry, purses, and stage accessories
- Awards, photos, and magazine covers celebrating her international fame
- A replica of her Hollywood Walk of Fame star and the Miami Beach Celia Cruz Way street sign
These mementos don’t just represent a career; they embody a story of migration, hope, and the power of music to unite communities. The partnership between Leon Medical Centers and the Celia Cruz Estate builds on previous initiatives, including the release of the Celia Cruz quarter in 2024 and a special video series available at CeliaCruzAtLeon.com.
Celia Cruz’s centennial celebration is more than a milestone — it’s a reminder of Miami’s vibrant connection to Latin culture, music, and history. As the traveling exhibit makes its way through the county, it offers a rare chance for locals to experience a piece of that magic firsthand.
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Because here in Miami — Celia’s rhythm still beats in all of us. ¡Azúcar!
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