MARATHON, Florida Keys — Marathon is known as the boating center of the Florida Keys, but the Original Marathon Seafood Festival takes delectable aim at the tummy. This much-anticipated feast is set for Saturday and Sunday, March 13-14, at Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49 oceanside.
The annual munch-a-thon features local delicacies like Florida lobster, succulent stone crab claws, plump pink shrimp and a special recipe of smoked fish. Keys chefs are to offer conch in chowders, salad and fritters, as well as fresh oysters, clams and fried local fish. Hungry customers also can indulge in old-fashioned landlubber favorites like hamburgers and hot dogs.
Sweets, including fresh Key lime pie, cakes and ice treats should provide a fine finish to the seafood extravaganza. In addition, cold beer and soft drinks are to be available.
Other attractions include a nautical flea market, boat show, arts and crafts booths, children’s games and scheduled entertainers including country favorite Amber Leigh, Mojito, Island Vibe and the return of many favorite local musicians.
Festival hours are 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday and 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.
Admission is $5 per adult. Children under 12 are admitted free when accompanied by a paying adult. The festival is co-sponsored by the Marathon Chapter of the Organized Fishermen of Florida and the Marathon Chamber of Commerce.
For more information, contact the Marathon Chamber of Commerce at 305-743-5417 or 800-262-7284, or visit www.floridakeysmarathon.com.
To find out about area accommodations, call the chamber, e-mail visitus@floridakeysmarathon.com or visit the Florida Keys & Key West Web site at www.fla-keys.com.
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