Pinecrest to Host World Happiness Fest as First US City of Happiness
Published on February 26, 2025
The Village of Pinecrest, recently designated as the first U.S. City of Happiness, will welcome visitors to Pinecrest Gardens on March 20-21, 2025, for the World Happiness Fest. This global celebration of joy, well-being, and connection coincides with the International Day of Happiness and brings together thought leaders, wellness advocates, and community changemakers from around the world.
"Our commitment to becoming a City of Happiness reflects our dedication to enhancing the quality of life for all residents and serving as a model for communities worldwide," said Mayor Joseph M. Corradino. "The Village of Pinecrest connects happiness with core priorities like economic vitality and personal well-being, proving that when we prioritize our residents' happiness, our community thrives."
With the theme "The Magic of Transformation and Success," the two-day festival features an impressive lineup of events including keynote speeches from global thought leaders on happiness, longevity, and social well-being; interactive "JoyShops" spanning arts, movement, and mindfulness; a family pickleball tournament; seniors' and men's health sessions; intergenerational tech workshops connecting seniors and youth; and a special live music performance by artist Nilo de Monte.
Featured Speakers and Schedule
The festival will host several renowned speakers including Luis Miguel Gallardo, founder and president of the World Happiness Foundation; Dr. Mavis Tsai, clinical psychologist and senior research scientist at the University of Washington; and Dr. Edith Shiro, renowned clinical psychologist specializing in Post-Traumatic Growth.
Day 1: Thursday, March 20, 2025 (10 am.- 9 pm) will feature an opening ceremony, keynote speeches, interactive workshops on forest therapy and conscious breathing, a gala luncheon, and wine tasting with a live auction.
Day 2: Friday, March 21, 2025 (10 am - 6 pm) includes panel discussions on Blue Zone discoveries and longevity, interactive sessions like yoga and sound baths, a solo musical performance by Nilo de Monte, and a reflective closing ceremony.
The Happy Pinecrest People Initiative
The event is part of the Happy Pinecrest People Initiative (HaPPi), a Village of Pinecrest initiative in partnership with the World Happiness Foundation, that recognizes the strategic and ethical importance of prioritizing well-being for improved health outcomes, economic growth, and stronger community bonds. Since launching in 2024, Pinecrest has conducted workshops, surveys, and gathered community feedback to identify key areas for promoting mental and economic thriving as a City of Happiness.
"As we celebrate International Day of Happiness, it's inspiring to see the Village of Pinecrest placing well-being at the core of city management," said Gallardo. "Through this festival, we bring together global leaders and local changemakers to advance the mission of creating happier, healthier communities."
Ticket Information
General admission tickets are priced at $15 for youth and seniors, $20 for adults, with family packages available for $40. The Happiness Ticket, which includes full two-day access, is available at $159.
The celebration continues with Family Garden Day on April 5 at Pinecrest Gardens, featuring hands-on gardening activities, arts and crafts, and interactive workshops for all ages.
For 2025 World Happiness Fest tickets, visitwww.worldhappinessfest.com/miami. For more information about Pinecrest's happiness initiatives, visit pinecrest-fl.gov.