Florida Keys Seafood Festival Jan 17
January 3rd, 2009
Key West, Florida Keys – Fresh seafood has been an integral part of Keys cuisine since settlers first fished the island chain’s waters nearly two centuries ago. Today, chefs create signature dishes around the prized harvest of the region’s commercial fishermen — from clawless Florida lobster to sweet pink shrimp and stone crab claws.
This indigenous seafood, and the fishermen who devote their careers to seeking it, are to be celebrated Saturday, Jan. 17, during the fourth annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival.
Presented by the Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen’s Association and the University of Florida/Monroe County Extension Service, the family-friendly festival is to take place from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Key West’s Bayview Park, located at Truman Avenue and Eisenhower Drive. Admission is free.
The seafood festival’s menu typically features fresh Florida lobster, grouper, stone crab claws, deepwater golden crab, Key West pink shrimp and more — including favorite dishes such as savory conch chowder, sweet flan and Key lime pie. All seafood offerings are to be caught, cooked and served by fishermen and their families.
Soft drinks, beer and wine also are to be available for purchase.
In addition, plans call for attractions including games for children, entertainment by local musicians and an appearance by the Key West High School band. The ZZ Top tribute band ZZ Not is scheduled as the musical headliner during the evening hours.
Vendor booths are to offer arts and crafts portraying the fishing community and marine life, as well as other items handcrafted by local artisans. Information booths and educational exhibits also will be found on-site.
Proceeds from the festival are to benefit the Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen’s Association and scholarships for college-bound children of commercial fishermen.
For more information, call (305) 872-9026 or visit www.fkcfa.org or monroe.ifas.ufl.edu.
For lodging information in Key West, contact the Key West Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-LAST-KEY (800-527-8539) or visit the Keys Web site at www.fla-keys.com.
