An Upper Keys favorite, the 34th annual Island Fest held at Founders Park held on March 28-29 brought thousands together for a weekend of art, sand sculpting, antique cars, homemade boats, youth entrepreneurship and a feast of local flavors.
Island Fest featured sunny, breezy weather, setting the stage for a perfect weekend in the park. Food trucks offered everything from fresh seafood and smoky BBQ to brick oven pizza, Mediterranean specialties, authentic Mexican dishes and tropical treats, creating a true celebration of local and international flavors.
Back this year was the Keys Kids Business Fair, a vibrant showcase of youth entrepreneurship held under the theme “Launch. Learn. Lead.” The fair emphasized creativity, leadership and real-world learning, adding a heartwarming feature to Island Fest.
Island Fest saw the exciting return of the highly anticipated Smoked Fish Dip Contest, with six participants competing for top honors. Casey Zero’s Zero Smoked Fish Dip earned the Best Smoked Fish Dip title, selected through a blind tasting by a panel of five local judges, while Titus Rennie’s Island Smoked Fish Dip by the Island Peppers Company captured the People’s Choice Award.
About 80 artists and artisans participated in the Plantation Yacht Harbor Arts & Crafts Show. Taking Best of Show was Richard Auger, a Florida nature photographer from Hobe Sound whose work captured the attention of both judges and attendees. The Most Creative Artisan Award went to Tamara Broker of Naples, Florida, whose vibrant sea life artwork is painted on natural seed pods — an inventive concept that has become a signature of her work as she travels the region showcasing her creations.
The competition at “What Floats Your Boat?” was spirited and full of creativity, with 10 homemade boat entries from local nonprofits, businesses and organizations. Taking top honors and the Lucky Ducky Admiral Award was Rivers, captained by Ella and Avery Rivers. The “What Floaties Your Boat?” inflatable float race featured seven young competitors, with 10-year-old William Miller earning the Golden Ducky Award.
The “Flamingos & Fairies” sand sculpting contest featured teams bringing this year’s whimsical theme to life. The creativity was on full display as festivalgoers enjoyed watching the sculptures take shape. Plantation Key Fitness took top honors, earning a commemorative photo plaque and Island Fest T-shirts.
Throughout the weekend, the event offered something for everyone, with kids painting a life-sized dolphin statue, flying kites and joining hula-hoop and dance contests. Mermaid Mariah delighted families with real-life mermaid experiences. Meanwhile, the All-American Road Vintage Cruisers Show brought classic cars to the park, and live music kept the crowd energized both days.
Hosted by the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce, Island Fest continues to shine as a community tradition, blending music, art, food, and island living into an unforgettable Keys experience.
