Bahamian Heritage Festival in Marathon Jan 30 – Feb 1
January 24th, 2009
Marathon, Florida Keys – Authentic soul food, junkanoo bands and historical re-enactors are to star at Crane Point Hammock and Museum’s fourth annual Bahamian Heritage Festival Friday through Sunday, Jan. 30 through Feb. 1, at mile marker 50 bayside in Marathon.
The opening night fish-fry dinner is set to begin Friday at 5:30 p.m., with a yet-to-be-announced keynote speaker. Seating is limited to 50 and reservations are required.
Saturday is family day, with two parades featuring the Caribbean Queen Junkanoos. Spectator participation is typical in the Bahamas and, while it’s not required at the festival, it may be hard to resist.
The day’s other attractions are to include children’s crafts and educational activities, historical demonstrations, guest speakers and Bahamian-style arts, crafts and food from vendor booths.
In addition to music by the Key West Caribbean All Star Band, Sunday’s highlight is to be a Taste of the Bahamas with Henrietta Relaford McIntosh Weaver, renowned guiding spirit behind The Art of Baking in Key West. Demonstrations are to include making delectable delights with coconut, and visitors can sample and buy delicious Bahamian-style food.
The area’s Bahamian heritage is a strong one, and keeping the cultural and historical significance of the Florida Keys alive is an important mission at Crane Point.
In the 1890s, George and Olivia Adderley and a small group of Bahamians sailed to the Keys from the Bahamas. After a few years living in the Upper Keys, the Adderleys bought 32 acres on Key Vaca at what is now Crane Point Hammock. The home that George Adderley built by hand — the Keys’ oldest house outside of Key West — still stands and is to be open for self-guided exploration during the festival.
Admission is $10 per adult for a one-day ticket for Saturday or Sunday, and $15 per adult for a two-day weekend ticket. Price for the Friday fish fry is still to be determined. Children ages 6-12 will be admitted for $5 per child per day, with children younger than 6 admitted free.
For event schedules and information, contact Crane Point Hammock at (305) 743-3900.
To find out about area accommodations, call the Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce at (305) 743-5417 or (800) 262-7284 or visit the Florida Keys & Key West Web site at www.fla-keys.com.
