KEY WEST, Florida Keys — The unique marine environment of the Keys island chain, which includes the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef, is to be celebrated Saturday, March 26, during the second annual Florida Keys Ocean Festival.

Presented by Florida-based Mote Marine Laboratory, the family-friendly free-admission event is set for noon to 6 p.m. Scheduled attractions include live music, artistry, kids’ activities, educational exhibits and more.

The festivities take place at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, located on Key West’s Truman Waterfront past the end of Southard Street. The visitor center for the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, the facility houses exhibits that showcase the region’s unique ecosystem including a living reef exhibit created by Mote Marine.

Attendees at the lively daylong festival can explore conservation and environmental exhibits including live animals and touch tanks, view the work of marine artists and craftspeople, rock to the sounds of favorite local musicians and vie for silent auction items and prizes.

A fishing seminar for kids is planned at 1:30 p.m. To participate, youngsters must register online at www.keysoceanfest.org. Free rods and reels await the first 75 registrants.

Food and beverages are to be available for purchase throughout the festival. Foodies also can enjoy a Gulf Coast seafood cooking demonstration and cookbook signing featuring restaurateur and author Lucy Buffett.

Proceeds and donations from the Florida Keys Ocean Festival are to support Mote Marine Laboratory’s coral reef restoration and research programs.

Event information: www.keysoceanfest.org

Key West visitor information: www.fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY

Social: www.facebook.com/floridakeysandkeywest • twitter.com/thefloridakeys • www.youtube.com/FloridaKeysTV

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