Foodies to Flock to Florida Keys for Annual November ‘Tastes’

MARATHON, Florida Keys — Each November, food lovers are drawn to the delicious Florida Keys prior to the popular Thanksgiving weekend.

The 22nd Annual Taste of the Islands on Sunday, Nov. 10, and Taste of the Upper Keys – 38th Key Largo Chamber of Commerce Cook-Off on Thursday, Nov. 21 — are must-do events for locals and visitors alike.

Marathon is known for its tasty fresh seafood and as an authentically family-friendly destination. Taste of the Islands at Marathon Community Park, 200 36th St. oceanside, is to feature a new farmer’s market with local wares such as jams and honey, as well as women-led live entertainment throughout the day.

Acts include Rita Beauchamp backed by the Hurricane Open Mic House Band, The Lady A Band, and Karen Weber and The Funkin’ Conchs.

The event showcases local food, craft beers, wine and frozen drinks, vendors and artists. Other attractions include raffles, a silent auction and kids’ activities.

Scheduled for 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., the event is sponsored by Business & Professional Women/Marathon. Ticket sales support local scholarships.

Admission is $5 per adult and free for kids under 12 and veterans with government identification. Visit facebook.com/BPWMarathonTaste/ or call 305-942-9214.

Just in time to get food lovers in eating shape for Thanksgiving Day is the Taste of the Upper Keys – 38th Annual Key Largo Cook-Off, set for 6-9 p.m. Thursday, Nov. 21, at Holiday Inn Key Largo, mile marker 100.

Sponsored by the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce and Florida Keys Visitor Center, the culinary competition is open to cooks, chefs and those aspiring to be. Attendees can compete or simply enjoy tasty nibbles.

Categories include soups and chowders, appetizers, main dishes, sides and salads, and desserts.

More than $3,000 in cash prizes and gift certificates is to be awarded. Limited sampling tickets are sold.

Participants include Baker’s Cay Resort, Bungalows Key Largo, Buzzards Roost Key Largo, Key Largo Bay Marriott Beach Resort, Key Largo Chocolates, Key Largo Conch House, Lazy Lobster Seafood Restaurant, The Catch Restaurant & Bar and Skippers Dockside Bar.

Destination Network, affiliated with Key TV in the Keys, is scheduled to showcase the event. Visit facebook.com/events/366629550716940/ or call 305-451-1414.

Key Largo visitor information: fla-keys.com/keylargo or 800-822-1088

Marathon visitor information:.fla-keys.com/marathon or 1-800-262-7284