Prelude Events

Events > November

This month’s roundup of cultural events across the country.

Imperial Rome

Atlanta, until January 3

The Fernbank Museum of Natural History presents 350 years of history with a world premiere of a special exhibition exploring the legacy of the Roman Empire. Explore life as it was for both powerful emperors and common citizens during the era, with over 450 artifacts ranging from coins to larger-than-life statues and an Education Alley for kids. www.fernbankmuseum.org

Miami Book Fair

Miami, November 17–19

This is one of the largest literary events in the US with more than 200 authors—this year including Frank McCourt and Edward P. Jones—stopping by to give lectures and read extracts from their books. The massive street fair, which aims to promote reading and heighten appreciation of literature, also incorporates kids’ activities such as book-inspired theater and storytelling. www.miamibookfair.com

Magnificent Mile Lights Festival

Chicago, November 19–20

Chicago’s famed “Magnificent Mile,” home to upscale bars and high end shops, is transformed into a winter wonderland with elaborate window displays, a festival parade and spectacular fireworks. The official start of the holiday season is marked on the 19th with the illuminating of the trees on North Michigan Avenue. www.themagni.#64257;centmile.com

Lumenarium

Detroit, recently opened

The huge New Science Center presents a one-of-a-kind exhibit dedicated to all things light and bright. The 6,000 iridescent spikes of light along with lasers, prisms and mirrors help visitors get a better understanding of the properties and applications of light. Afterwards, pop into the center’s IMAX theater or the Space Laboratory for more educational entertainment. www.sciencedetroit.org

Fort Lauderdale International Film Festival

Fort Lauderdale, until November 12

This huge event is now in its 21st year and continues to draw thousands of industry bigwigs and film fans. It’s the longest film festival in the world, and its final weeks in November are always a highlight, as directors and actors show up for awards and premieres. Catch more than 125 independent films from around the globe as well as a mini festival for the kids. www.fliff.com

San Francisco Hip-Hop Dance Fest

San Francisco, November 17–19

Celebrating the history and growth of hip-hop dance and culture, this festival constitutes a weekend full of performances, including shows from W.H.A.T., an award-winning youth group, and Funkanometry, a San Francisco-based nonprofit dance company. Visiting professionals will also give master classes to those who are brave enough. www.sfhiphopdancefest.com

Courbet and the Modern Landscape

Baltimore, until January 7

The Walters Art Museum is presenting this major exhibition devoted to the landscape paintings of celebrated 19th-century painter Gustave Courbet. Many of the paintings have never been on view in the US, and the experimental installation, incorporating music and lighting effects, aims to draw visitors deeper into his art. www.thewalters.org