Florida Keys Ocean Fest to Celebrate Marine World March 28

Green Scene
This Green Scene story spotlights an environmentally focused attraction, event, person or place that enriches the Florida Keys

KEY WEST, Fla. — The vibrant marine environment of the continental United States’ southernmost island chain is to be celebrated Saturday, March 28, with live music, art, activities for kids, educational exhibits and more during Mote Marine Laboratory’s Ocean Fest Key West: A Community Celebration.

Now in its 10th year, the event is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Key West’s Truman Waterfront Park, located past the end of Southard Street near the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center.

Ocean Fest attendees can explore conservation and environmental exhibits from a variety of organizations, meet live marine animals and experience touch tanks, view and purchase wares from local artisans and enjoy taste treats from on-site food trucks.

The event’s daylong musical “soundtrack” is to be provided by Joal Rush, Cultivation Reggae and other talents.

Thirsty attendees can find numerous craft brews at the event’s beer garden. Offerings include Florida Keys Brewing Company’s “The Resistant Strain,” whose sales benefit Mote’s coral reef restoration and research efforts.

Marine life artist Wyland, internationally acclaimed for his work to preserve and protect the ocean realm, is to be a special guest at the festival. Plans call for Wyland to paint with attending children, present live demonstrations of artistry and auction his creations for charity.

Scientists and researchers from Mote and other organizations are to be on hand, providing insights on ways people can help preserve the marine environment.

Scheduled “kids’ zone” activities include fishing clinics presented by the Boy Scouts of America.

Proceeds and donations from the festival support Mote Marine Laboratory’s coral reef restoration and research programs. Founded in 1955, Mote is an independent nonprofit research organization based in Sarasota, Florida. Its Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration is located on Summerland Key in the Florida Keys.

Event information: moteoceanfest.org

Images: Mote Marine Laboratory

Images: Mote Marine Laboratory

Marine life artist Wyland (left), internationally acclaimed for his work to preserve and protect the ocean realm, is to be a special guest at the festival.

Marine life artist Wyland (left), internationally acclaimed for his work to preserve and protect the ocean realm, is to be a special guest at the festival.

In its 10th year, the event is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Key West’s Truman Waterfront Park.

In its 10th year, the event is set for 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Key West’s Truman Waterfront Park.

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