The Islamorada Chamber of Commerce is gearing up for the 32nd annual Island Fest, which features a juried art show, live music, food, classic cars and more. The festivities take place Saturday and Sunday, March 23-24, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., at Founders Park, MM 87, Islamorada.
The arts and crafts show brings artists whose works span from paintings and sculptures to jewelry, fine crafts and even driftwood carvings. Local painter Carmen Sotolongo Kelley is this year’s poster artist. Kelley owns and operates the Key Largo Art Gallery.
Island Fest will once again feature the “Taste of Islamorada” competition on Sunday at noon. Top local restaurants will showcase their most mouthwatering dishes. Attendees will get to cast their ballot for the coveted People’s Choice Award. The awards ceremony will take place on the stage at 4 p.m. on Sunday. The smoked fish dip contest is being brought back by popular demand to the Saturday lineup. The winner receives a plaque, bragging rights and a good time.
Returning again this year is the All-American Road Vintage Cruisers Car Show, featuring antique cars, trucks, motorcycles and rat rods. The show will be visible from U.S. 1, encouraging passersby with an interest in antique and unique cars to stop for a look.
An array of popular musical acts appealing to music lovers of all genres will perform throughout the festival. Acts include southern rock, blues, reggae, beach tunes, Cuban folk and good old rock and roll.
Carmen Sotolongo Kelley is this year’s poster artist whose work, ‘Flamboyant Royals,’ captures the beauty of the beloved royal poinciana. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO 
Cool pups attend Island Fest. CONTRIBUTED 
A young Island Fest attendee paints a dolphin. CONTRIBUTED 
The Florida Keys Brewing Co. crew dishes out cold beers. KEYS WEEKLY FILE PHOTO 
Children and child-like adults can help paint a life-sized dolphin statue and compete in hula- hoop contests while giant kites fly high in the sky. In addition, teams will venture to the beach on Saturday, where they will compete to create the best sand sculpture inspired by this year’s theme of “Ocean Wonders.”
Also on the event’s first day is the “What Floats Your Boat?” homemade-boat race. Participants will create a “boat” to enter in the race on Saturday. The race is free to enter, and the Chamber of Commerce is seeking entries. The big winner will be presented with the Lucky Ducky Admiral Award. The first rule of the contest is “have fun.” There will be a “What Floaties Your Boat?” for participants 10 and under. Teams can enter with their favorite swimming pool float. Prizes include but are not limited to Duckiest Award, the Super Star and the Scallywag.
Admission to Island Fest is free and on-site parking is available for a $5 donation. The Islamorada Chamber of Commerce encourages the public to “keep the scene green” and bring a reusable drink container to reduce plastic use during the event. Events will take place rain or shine. Plan to bring your own lawn chairs and blankets. For more information, call the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce at 305-664-4503.
