RUTH BUROTTE: Part of unprecedented youth participation in free interactive art exhibit Thursday, April 11, 5:30 – 7 p.m. PHOTOS COURTESY OF STAR

Fort Lauderdale, Fla. – In its fourth year, the annual Street Art Regatta (StAR) has grown in popularity – as well as the diverse youth artists and sailors it features.

Witness Ruth Burotte (instagram @rutamfi), a talented young African American street artist/illustrator who recently did work for Nike’s new location at the Aventura Mall, and will have a sail in the 2024 regatta.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Intracoastal Waterway in Fort Lauderdale, the 2024 event, Thursday, April 11, 5:30 – 7 p.m., promises an unprecedented celebration of athleticism of youth sailing and coastal parks, including its largest gathering of sailing teams to date, accompanied by a stunning array of painted sails.

The general public can join in the free activities, produced by the nonprofit South Florida arts advocacy organization Grace Arts Center,, by entering the Hugh Taylor Birch State Park off East Sunrise Boulevard, and driving around the park to the westernmost section along the Intracoastal Waterway.

Guests can bring blankets, chairs and picnic along the grassy area near the sea wall to enjoy the hourlong interactive art exhibition on the water. A small required entrance fee helps to maintain the parks’ many amenities.

Guests also can enjoy the park restaurant along the ocean within a short drive. Register at graceartscenter.org.