The Original Marathon Seafood Festival is back! Who would have thought that this 39 year old tradition, with its humble beginnings as a simple, commercial fishermen, family event would still be going strong with over 20,000 anticipated participants this year?
It must be the juicy lobster, succulent oysters, and crispy fish sticks that are all coming straight from commercial fishermen boats, right? Then, there is the diverse line-up of amazing music acts performing Rock, Reggae, Country, and Ska music, promising a lively event. The rock climbing wall sounds exciting for the kids and the adults who have retained their sense of adventure. This spirited seafood community will also have an Art and Boat Show. Plenty of booths will be showcasing art, jewelry, clothing, sculptures, fishermen gear, and everything else under the Sun that has to do with seawater.
Well, it is true that seafood has never been fresher than at the Original Seafood Marathon, and there’s plenty of entertainment and over 200 vendors to pass the time, but what is it that makes this event so important to the Keys community? That is the answer, right there: community. It brings everyone together to celebrate the best the Keys have to offer.
In addition, thousands of locals volunteer to be a part of this cherished tradition, and the two-day festival shows its appreciation by offering volunteers free T-shirts and free admission for the day they volunteer.
Mark your calendar, folks. Admission is only $5. March 14th & 15th will be fun-packed days of food, culture, art, and community. Conch fritters, stone crab, and fried Mahi Mahi fillets, or as the locals call it, Dolphin (fish, not the mammal), will delight everyone’s taste buds and unite a large family of island seafood lovers. Bring folding chairs or blankets for a savory picnic on the grass so you can lounge around and vibe to the music when the food coma hits.
Of course, thanks to the Organized Fishermen of Florida Marathon Chapter and the Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce, we cannot forget about the $75,000+ in proceeds that will be reinvested in the Keys community through charitable contributions and scholarships for local Middle School students.
The Original Marathon Seafood Festival is the culmination of the Keys spirit the island community holds dear. Join in this joyful, once a year occasion that serves as the perfect family excursion, romantic weekend, or social gathering in celebration of the fresh seafood catches wrangled in by commercial fishermen boats.
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