The art season kicks into gear in October but it truly heats up in early December when Miami’s streets are overrun with art collectors in town to catch the latest cutting edge art that Art Basel has to offer.

It’s just four days — December 5-8 — but the whirlwind and mayhem that surrounds the event is simultaneously exhilarating and exhausting. The best advice is to map out a schedule way in advance in order to hit all the highlights.

The satellite fairs on Miami Beach, in Wynwood, the Design District and countless other neighborhoods are as much the place to see and be seen than the actual Art Basel event at the Miami Beach Convention Center.

And truly, just driving around the city provides a taste of Basel madness. Past years have featured giant neon alligators climbing the Freedom Tower, oversized neon pink shells strategically placed throughout the city and beachfront containers that serve as exhibition space. Public sculptures dotted the streets and were an unexpected surprise, a way for Basel to reach the masses.

For a complete rundown of events, fairs and parties, visit www.artbasel.com/en/miami-beach.