Florida Travel Calendar for February
Feb. 1-2: Grillin’ and Chillin’ on Main, Wauchula. Sponsored by Main Street Wauchula Inc. 863-767-0330. www.flbbq.org/contest.htm
Feb. 1-3: Everglades Seafood Festival, Everglades City. Enjoy fresh stone crab, shrimp, grouper and much more, along with arts and crafts, live music, and carnival rides. Downtown. Free. 239-695-4100. www.evergladesseafood.com/
Feb. 1-3: 43rd Annual Broward Shell Show, Pompano Beach. Annual show on the first weekend in February. Thousands of unusual shells from Florida, the Caribbean and all over the world. Shell dealers, shell arts and crafts, educational shell books and shell jewelry. At Civic Center. Free admission, free parking. 954-296-5633 or 257-8701. http://www.mypompanobeach.org/events/index.html
Feb. 1-3: Mardi Gras Fiesta Tropicale, Hollywood. Music and food festival featuring Friday costume parade and Saturday float parade. Taste of New Orleans, Krewe Balls, live music. Downtown. Free. 954-926-3377. www.sunny.org/calendar
Feb. 1-10: Palm Beach 1 - America’s International Fine Art and Antique Fair, West Palm Beach. America’s #1 fine art fair. Features fully vetted works of art from 100 of the world’s leading international dealers representing more than five millennia of museum quality arts of the world. At Palm Beach County Convention Center. Admission. 561-209-1300. www.palmbeachfl.com/ConventionCenter
Feb. 1-10: Charlotte County Fair, Port Charlotte. Rides, antique tractor show, agricultural exhibits, concerts. At Charlotte County Fairgrounds. Admission. 941-629-4252. http://www.florida-agriculture.com/consumers/fairs/charlottecounty_fair.htm
Feb. 1-24: Circus Sarasota, Sarasota. Eleventh season of performances, this year entitled “Soaring to New Heights,” with eight performances per week. More than half the acts have never been seen in the U.S., and its Ringmaster is the renowned Joseph Bauer, Jr., a star of Bauer’s Circus Maximus and a 15th generation member of one of Switzerland’s oldest circus families. His father was personally signed by John Ringling and came to the United States to perform with Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus in 1954. At Ed Smith Stadium. Admission. 941-355-9805. www.circussarasota.org
Feb. 1-25: Edison Festival of Light, Fort Myers. Tribute to Thomas Edison, who made his winter home here. Includes Strolling Flower Show,
Feb. 1-2, honoring Edison’s interest in botanical science, free, 239-334-2999; Mrs. Edison’s Hymn Sing, Feb. 6, a sing-along of traditional spiritual, gospel and patriotic music like the inventor’s wife led in Fort Myers, at First Presbyterian Church, free, 239-936-2193; Light Up the Town Party, Feb. 8-9, with musical entertainment, food, beverages, rides and games, at downtown river district, admission, 239-334-2999; Thomas Edison Birthday Celebration, Feb. 9, observing the inventor’s 161st birthday with cake and student entertainment, at Edison Ford Winter Estate, free, 239-334-7419; Junior Events, Feb. 10, including Junior Run for fifth-graders and younger, the Junior Parade with more than 140 floats, bands and costumed troupes, and Junior King and Queen coronation, 239-334-2999; Crafts on the River, Feb. 15-17, one of Florida’s largest crafts events, at Centennial Park, 239-334-2999; Grand Parade, Feb. 16, a two-hour extravaganza in downtown river district, free; Stadium and Fireworks Show, Feb. 17, with music, fireworks, grand parade and a chance to win a trip, at Edison Stadium, admission, 239-278-4422; Antique Car Show, Feb. 17, with some 100 cars on display at Edison Ford Winter Estate, admission, 239-334-7419; and Fort Myers-Cape Coral Doll Show, Feb. 25, an annual doll, teddy bear and miniatures sale at Araba Shrine Temple, admission, 239-542-3246. www.edisonfestival.org
Feb. 2: Just Because Festival, Madison. Come out for a day in the country, just because. Annual almost-spring gathering at O’Toole’s Herb Farm. Workshops, vendors, food, herbs, fused and stained glass, and Golden Acres Farm’s famous Tennessee fainting goats. Admission. 850-973-3629. http://www.otoolesherbfarm.com/festival.htm
Feb. 2: Snow Fest 2008, Titusville. Tons of snow and fun for all ages. Also includes rock climbing, face painting, a Make and Take Craft, and a Crafts Fair. Fee for participatory activities. At Fox Lake Park. 321-264-5105. www.space-coast.com/Calendar
Feb. 2: Bacardi Presents The Chillounge Night, Sarasota. A Brazillian Samba Parade, Opera, Flamenco Dancers, Smooth Jazz, a Fashion Show, eight cash bars, food vendors, a helicopter ride, VIP sponsor lounge, a chance to win an Audi Convertible for the weekend, and much more. On Palm Avenue downtown. Admission; minimum age 21 years. 941-448-0995. www.chilloungenight.com
Feb. 2: Pirates on the Run 10K, Fernandina Beach. A unique race that shows Fernandina Beach at its best – with a route through the historic downtown area, and a 10K course that also includes a trip to the beach. 904-277-0050. www.ameliaislandrunners.com
Feb. 2: Art in the Park, Naples. Juried outdoor art festival on the first Saturday each month November-April. At Cambier Park. Free. 239-262-6517. www.naplesart.org/artspark.htm
Feb. 2-3: 33rd Annual Mount Dora Art Festival, Mount Dora. Nationally ranked festival featuring 285 artists displaying their work and vying for more than $22,000 in prizes. Held downtown, among the lovely shops of this quaint historic community. Free. 352-383-0880. www.mountdoracenterforthearts.org
Feb. 2-3: ArtFest, Fort Myers. Browse among the works of some 200 artists, displayed along the river on Edwards Drive. Also entertainment and children’s art activities. Free. 239-768-3602. www.artfestfortmyers.com
Feb. 2-3: Siesta Fiesta, Siesta Key. Casual arts and crafts festival with food and music. On Ocean Boulevard. 941-349-3800. www.siestakeyvillage.org
Feb. 2-3: South Florida Depression Show, Fort Lauderdale. At War Memorial Auditorium. 954-828-5380. www.sunny.org/calendar
Feb. 2-9: Lemon Bay Festival, Englewood. Annual history week celebration. Includes arts and crafts festival, panel discussions and more. Along Dearborn Street. Free. 941-474-5511. www.oldenglewood.com
Feb. 2-10: Finlandia Days 2008, Lake Worth. Come experience Finnish heritage at its best. Includes a variety of activities including entertainers and celebrities from Finland, traditional Finnish cuisine, folk dances, Finnish movies, and culminates with the Midnight Sun Festival
Feb. 9-10 at Bryant Park. 561-506-0949. www.finweek.com
Feb. 3, 10, 24: Lincoln Road Outdoor Antiques and Collectibles Market, Miami Beach. Vendors display antiques including jewelry, china, vintage clothing, furniture, and more between the 400 and 500 blocks of Lincoln Road and Drexel. 305-673-4991. www.antiquecollectiblemarket.com
Feb. 3-9: Cedar Key Star Party, Cedar Key. A week of astronomical happenings including lectures, star and sun gazing through an amazing variety of telescopes, and nature trips. Events will take place at the Cedar Key State Museum, the FWC field station and the Cedar Key scrubs state reserve. http://www.cedarkey.org/events.html
Feb. 5: Fat Tuesday on Hollywood Beach, Hollywood Beach. Sixth annual event will feature Louisiana-flavored food and music on two stages, including free concerts by Allen Toussaint and the Toussaint Band and the Dirty Dozen Brass Band, plus children’s entertainment, costumed revelers and much more. On Broadwalk Main Stage on ocean just north of Hollywood Boulevard. Free. 954-926-3377. www.mardigrasfiesta.com
Feb. 7-10: Civil War Heritage Festival, Key West. Colorful Civil War reenactments and tours of Key West’s historic Civil War-era Fort Zachary Taylor highlight the journey into the island’s past. 305-292-6850. www.keywest.com/calendar/kwpevents.cfm
Feb. 7-10: Greek Glendi, Sarasota. Share the rich customs and traditions of Greek culture at the Greek Glendi Festival with authentic Greek food, Greek crafts, live Greek music and traditional folk dancing. At St. Barbara Greek Orthodox Church. 941-355-2616. Admission. www.stbarbarafestival.org
Feb. 7-17: Collier County Fair, Naples. Rides, livestock, agricultural exhibits, entertainment. At Collier County Fairgrounds. Admission. 239-455-1444. http://www.colliercountyfair.com/
Feb. 7-18: Florida State Fair, Tampa. Each year the Florida State Fair brings the fun and excitement of midway rides, food, stage shows, equestrian events, livestock and agricultural exhibits. At Florida State Fairgrounds. Admission. 800-345-FAIR, 813-621-7821. www.floridastatefair.com
Feb. 8: Garden Festival at Fanning Springs State Park, Fanning Springs. Enjoy the outdoors while listening to music and looking at a variety of plants. Plant and garden shop vendors sell wares and there are children’s activities, educational booths and food vendors. At Fanning Springs State Park. Admission. 352-463-3420. http://www.originalflorida.org/calendar_events/
Feb. 8-9: Central Florida Dulcimer and Autoharp Festival, Mount Dora. One and one-half days of workshops, jams and concerts. At First United Methodist Church. Admission. 352-735-4907. www.whattodoinmtdora.com/activities/festivals.html
Feb. 8-9: Citrus Center Boys and Girls Clubs Smoke on the Water BBQ, Winter Haven. BBQ cook-off contest with both Pro and Backyard divisions. Contest is a qualifier to represent the State of Florida in the Jack Daniel’s World Championship Invitational BBQ. 863-287-3075, 294-5400. http://boysandgirlsbbq.com/
Feb. 8-10: Garlic Festival, Delray Beach. Celebration of the most widely used and loved food in the world; ninth annual. Features the culinary talents of professional and amateur chefs, a garlic chef competition, garlic merchandise, garlic university and national act entertainment. At Old School Square. Admission. 561-279-0907. www.dbgarlicfest.com/
Feb. 8-10: Treasure Coast Wine Festival, Vero Beach. Weekend of preeminent wines from around the world paired with culinary treasures prepared by renowned chefs. Also live auctions at Vero Beach Museum of Art. Admission. 772-794-9386. www.treasurecoastwinefestival.com
Feb. 8-10: West Palm Beach Antique and Collectibles Show, West Palm Beach. Unique home décor, hard-to-find memorabilia, and more. At South Florida Expo Center. Admission. 561-640-3433. www.southfloridafair.com/
Feb. 8-16: Martin County Fair and Youth Livestock Show, Stuart. At Fairgrounds. Admission. 772-220-3247. www.martincountyfair.com
Feb. 8-16, Highlands County Fair, Sebring. At Fairgrounds. Admission. 863-385-3247. www.hcfair.net
Feb. 8-17, Osceola County Fair and Livestock Show, Kissimmee. At Fairgrounds. Admission. 321-697-3050. www.osceolacountyfair.com
Feb. 8-23: ArtExplosion 2008, Fort Lauderdale. One of the largest GLBT Art Festivals in the country. Two weeks of art, music, theatre, film, literature, cabaret, and comedy by local and national GLBT talent. The ArtExplosion Finale features comedy group The Gay Mafia with host Cashetta and musical group Lisp and Havana, at the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Feb. 23. 954-530-2723.
www.artexplosiononline.org
Feb. 9: Voice of the Everglades: Marjory Stoneman Douglas, Lake Wales. Enjoy a living history performance at Historic Bok Sanctuary by actress Betty Jean Steinshouer as she portrays Marjory Stoneman Douglas, the South Florida matriarch whose book A River of Grass helped initiate efforts to save the Everglades. Preceded by a reception with heavy hors d’oeuvres and wine. Admission. 863-734-1221. www.boksanctuary.org
Feb. 9: Camellia Show and Plant Sale, Lakeland. Annual show of Lakeland Camellia Society. At Florida Southern College, Ordway Room 162. Free. 863-640-3381. www.ahs.org/publications/the_american_gardener/pdf/
Feb. 9-10: 14th Annual Pigeon Key Art Festival, Marathon. Artists and craftspeople exhibit tropically themed works at Marathon Community Park. Event includes live music and delicious food, and tours of historic Pigeon Key, a tiny island where Henry Flagler’s railroad workers once lived. 305-289-9555. www.fla-keys.com/calendarofevents/
Feb. 9-10: Sweethearts Arts and Crafts Festival, Islamorada. Artists and craftspeople show and sell original handmade goods including wall, table and floor art. At Holiday Isle Beach Resorts and Marina. 305-664-2321. www.fla-keys.com/newsletter/200502/
Feb. 9-10: Great Engines of the Past, St. Petersburg. Demonstrations of antique engines, tractor parade, hay rides and old-time music. At Pinellas Pioneer Settlement. 727-893-7326. http://cms.stpete.org/
Feb. 9-10: Gasparilla Distance Classic, Tampa. Attracts world-class athletes to compete in 5K, 15K, marathon and half marathon events on foot as well as a 15K course in wheelchairs. The majority of the race takes place along scenic Bayshore Boulevard. Consistently voted the best race in Florida by Florida Running Magazine and ranked among the Top Ten Races in the United States by Runner’s World, it has become one of the largest running events in Florida. In addition to the running events, there is the “8 On Your Side Health and Fitness Expo” at Tampa Convention Center, a free expo featuring health and fitness demonstrations and the latest in shoe and running apparel. 813-254-7866. www.tampabayrun.com
Feb. 9-10, 16-17, 23-24, Mar. 1-2, 8-9: Florida Renaissance Festival, Deerfield Beach. Knights jousting, birds of prey, 14 performance venues with continuous entertainment, educational demonstrations of period trades and crafts, delicacies of the middle ages to tempt the palate, over 100 artisans exhibiting and selling their wares and hundreds of costumed performers lending atmosphere and authenticity. At Quiet Waters Park. Admission. http://www.ren-fest.com/
Feb. 9-17: Daytona Speed Week Races, Daytona Beach. February racing fare at Daytona International Speedway includes the Budweiser Shootout on Feb. 9; Daytona Qualifying on Feb. 10; Gatorade Duel on Feb. 14; Chevy Silverado 250 on Feb. 15; and the 50th running of the famed Daytona 500 on Feb. 17, At Daytona International Speedway. Admission. For general information 386-253-7223; www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com
Feb. 9-17: International Tennis Championship, Delray Beach. The world’s top ranked male tennis players will kick off the 2008 ATP North American season at the Delray Beach International Tennis Championships. In addition to affording the opportunity to see some of the best tennis players in the world, the tournament will expand activities into a week-long festival. This year’s event will attract more than 40,000 attendees, will be seen on TV in more than 150 countries and is one of only 15 ATP Tour events in North America. At Delray Beach Tennis Center. Some sessions free; 561-330-6000; yellowtennisball.com.
Feb. 10: 14th Annual Florida Toy Soldier and Action Figure Show, Lake Worth. Military miniatures, action figures and collectibles, at the annual show of the South Florida Toy Soldier Club. At Scottish Rite Masonic Hall. 954-431-9295 or 561-968-5571. www.southfloridatoysoldier.com/
Feb. 11-13: Heritage Festival, Key West. A celebration featuring Civil War reenactments and tours of historic Fort Zachory Taylor. 305-292-6850. www.fla-keys.com/newsletter/200502/
Feb. 14-18: Miami International Boat Show and Strictly Sail, Miami Beach. One of the world’s largest shows of new boats, showcasing more than 2,000 exhibitors. The latest powerboats, sailboats, engines, electronics and accessories are exhibited at three different locations, all connected via courtesy shuttle bus. At Miami Beach Convention Center, Sea Isle Marina and Yachting Center, and Miamarina at Bayside. Admission. 954-441-3220. www.miamiboatshow.com/
Feb. 15: Wild Azalea Festival, White Springs. Celebrate the spring bloom of wild azaleas along the Suwannee River. Features musical performances, arts and crafts, trail hikes, and other outdoor recreation opportunities. At Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center. 386-397-2733. www.originalflorida.org/calendar_events
Feb. 15-16, Mar. 14-15: Old Island Days House and Garden Tours, Key West. Annual tours of the city’s unique architectural highlights, from cigar makers’ cottages to Victorian mansions. Each one showcases five homes chosen as significant historic buildings, outstanding renovations or examples of the Keys lifestyle. Old Island Restoration Foundation volunteers serve as guides at each tour stop, informing visitors about each featured house’s history, architecture, décor and garden. Admission. Visitors responsible for their own transportation. 305-294-9501. www.oirf.org
Feb. 15-16: Black Prong Driving Event, Bronson. A unique 250-acre facility meticulously developed for the sport and art of all things equestrian, Black Prong is nestled in the heart of the 53,000-acre Goethe State Forest. 352-486-1234. www.blackprong.com/
Feb. 15-17: 32nd Annual Reenactment of the Battle of Olustee, Lake City. Largest Civil War re-enactment in the South. The festival in downtown Lake City includes arts, crafts, food, exhibits, entertainment, a parade and the annual Blue-Grey Square Dance. The battle reenactment — featuring infantry and cavalry drills, artillery demonstrations, colors ceremony and more than four dozen authentically dressed settlers demonstrating camp life — is fought at Olustee Battlefield State Park 13 miles east of Lake City. Admission. 386-758-0400. www.olusteefestival.com
Feb. 15-17: 31st Annual Restoration Foundation Antique Show and Sale, Fernandina Beach. Explore the treasures of old at this antique show, held at the Atlantic Avenue Recreation Center. 904-269-2431. www.ameliaisland.org/atAGlance/events/February08.php
Feb. 15-17: Renninger’s Antique Extravaganza, Mount Dora. One of the South’s largest gatherings of antique dealers with more than 1,500 dealers displaying indoors and outside. At Renninger’s Twin Markets. Admission. 352-8393 or 800-522-3555. www.renningers.com/jimkutz1.htm
Feb. 15-19: Palm Beach Jewelry and Antique Show 2008, West Palm Beach. The largest vetted art, antique and jewelry show in the United States, featuring more than 200 top-tier international antique exhibitors. Brings together fine art, jewelry, sculpture, porcelain, ceramics, textiles, and furniture from around the world for art lovers and collectors who take pleasure in investing in art and antiques of high value. At Palm Beach County Convention Center. 561-822-5440. http://www.palmbeachshow.com/
Feb. 16: Candlelight Tour of Fort Barrancas, Pensacola. Groups up to 20 people will depart the visitor center every 15 minutes for an hour tour. Call for reservations. Visitors should enter the Naval Air Station through the back gate on Blue Angel Parkway. The fort will be well lit with candles, but you can bring a flashlight. Free. 850-455-5167. www.nps.gov/guis
Feb. 16: Burrowing Owl Festival, Cape Coral. Cape Coral claims Florida’s largest population of the Burrowing Owl, a species of special concern. This sixth annual festival is designed to educate the public about the owl and its preservation. Events include a children’s corner, educational speakers, nature walks, van tours and exhibitors’ displays. At Rotary Park Environmental Center. Free. 239-574-6318. www.ccfriendsofwildlife.org
Feb. 16: Third Annual Wine, Food and Jazz Festival, Punta Gorda. Great day of excellent food, drink and entertainment. Local restaurants offer samplings of their fare, wine distributors pour wine from around the world, and the entertainment is provided by some of the best jazz performers available. Downtown. Admission. 941-639-3720. www.puntagorda-chamber.com
Feb. 16-17: Citrus Watercolor Club Show and Sale, Homosassa Springs. Annual exhibit and sale of the work of many area watercolor artists. At Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park, in the Florida Room. Free. 352-628-5343. www.floridastateparks.org/EventsDistAll.cfm?Dist=2
Feb. 16-17: Celebrate the Arts Festival, Marco Island. 100 artist tents line Winterberrry Drive and fill the grounds of the Art League. Event also includes a classic antique car show, live musical entertainment and street performances, a children’s art activity area, and festival food and cold beer tent. At Art League of Marco Island. 239-394-4221. www.marcoislandart.com/
Feb. 16-17: Butterfly Art and Craft Festival, Holmes Beach. Arts, crafts, food, music. At Marina Drive City Hall Field. Free admission, free parking. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Feb. 16-17: Jammin’ in the Hammock Bluegrass Festival, Naples. Friends of Collier-Seminole State Park, Inc. are delighted to present this first annual event, the largest fundraiser for the park. Featured performers will be the popular band ‘Carolina Rebels’ along with local bands such as Flat Mountain String Band, The Fleas, and others. Also includes vendor booths. Concert will be held rain or shine. At Collier Seminole State Park. Admission; free parking. 239-394-3397. www.paradisecoast.com/events/
Feb. 16-17: 38th Annual George Washington Birthday Regatta, Eustis. Sailing regatta featuring the following classes of craft: Flying Scot, C Scow, MC Scow, Melges 17, Wayfarer, Laser Full and Laser Radial, Club 420, Opti and several Hobie classes. On Lake Eustis. 407-660-2766. www.Lakeeustissailingclub.org
Feb. 16-17, 23-24: Covered Wagon Rides at Manatee Springs State Park, Chiefland. Experience the North End Trail to enjoy the natural and cultural resources in a replica covered wagon. Advance sign-in at ranger station. 352-493-6072. www.originalflorida.org/calendar_events/
Feb. 16-18: Coconut Grove Arts Festival, Coconut Grove. One of the nation’s premier outdoor fine arts festivals. A signature event on the South Florida cultural calendar, it offer visitors the opportunity to meet and talk with exhibiting artists, sample fine cuisine, enjoy live entertainment, stroll through history and, for the kids, create their own works of art. Along the streets of Coconut Grove. 305-447-0401. www.coconutgroveartsfest.com
Feb. 18-24, Pasco County Fair, Dade City. At Fairgrounds. Admission. 352-567-6678. www.pascocountyfair.com
Feb. 19-24, Hardee County Fair, Wauchula. At Fairgrounds. Admission. 863-773-4136. http://www.florida-agriculture.com/consumers/fairs
Feb. 21-24: Mount Dora Music Festival, Mount Dora. Four days of great music with 20 performances. 352-383-2627.
www.mountdoramusicfest.com
Feb. 21-24: Food Network South Beach Wine and Food Festival, Miami Beach. Join your favorite Food Network hosts including Rachael Ray, Emeril Lagasse, Paula Deen, Giada De Laurentiis, Bobby Flay, Tyler Florence and many others for cooking demonstrations, book signings and other activities. Also scheduled are wine seminars, gourmet dinners, the Amstel Light Burger Bash, and more. At various locations throughout South Beach. Admission. 877-762-3933. www.sobewineandfoodfest.com
Feb. 22-23: South Fort Myers/Naples Antique Show, Estero. Sixty quality dealers from Naples to Fort Myers will be featured at this inaugural event. At Three Oaks Banquet and Conference Center. 941-408-3576. www.antiqueshowsofflorida.com/
Feb. 22-24: Big Cypress Shootout, Big Cypress Seminole Reservation. Battle reenactments from the Second Seminole War, authentic weapons, soldier and warrior attire, music, Seminole food, Seminole and pioneer artisans, alligator wrestling and Seminole and soldier camps. At Billie Swamp Safari. Admission. 800-467-2327.
www.seminoletribe.com/calendar/
Feb. 22-24: GeorgeFest 2008, Eustis. The 106th Annual George Washington’s Birthday Festival. Includes Grand Parade, bed race, dog jog, classic car cruise-in fireworks, Citrus Squeeze Contest, and carnival with food and entertainment, in Ferran Park. 352-357-3434. www.eustischamber.org
Feb. 22-24: Sarasota Winter Antiques Show, Sarasota. The show features over 50 select local and out-of-state dealers offering a wide range of quality antique furniture, silver, crystal, porcelain and estate jewelry. At Municipal Auditorium. Admission. 941-954-4165. www.sarasotaantiquesshow.com
Feb. 22-24: Winefest XVIII, Clermont. Wine, food, arts and crafts, live music. At Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards. Donation. 800-768-WINE. www.lakeridgewinery.com
Feb. 22-Mar. 1, Southeastern Youth Fair, Ocala. 352-629-1255. www.seyfair.com
Feb. 22-Mar. 2, St. Lucie County Fair, Fort Pierce. At Fairgrounds. Admission. 772-464-2910. www.stluciecountyfair.org
Feb. 23: Fiesta Day, Ybor City. Began as the official day of rest and celebration for the immigrants settled in Ybor City, working in the cigar factories. Today, the event offers a full day of exciting activities along Seventh Avenue. Local and regional food vendors will serve up Spanish, Jamaican, Italian, Mexican, and Asian fare, and multi-cultural entertainment abounds. Festival also showcases unique arts and crafts from local and national vendors, and Ybor City Fresh Market in Centennial Park offers plants, herbs and jewelry in addition to a flan cooking contest. In addition to all these events, out-of-town visitors receive free Spanish bean soup, cafe con leche and Cuban bread. Returning again in 2008 is the Black Bean Blowout, a fun and unique contest from Ybor’s past. Free. 813-248-0721. www.cc-events.org
Feb. 23: Acoustic Eidolon in Concert at Historic Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Performing a rich blend of Celtic, folk, bluegrass and Latin music, guitarist Joe Scott and cellist Hanna Alkire combine talents to create musical poetry. From the Vancouver Island MusicFest to the Kerrville Folk Festival, the Kennedy Center in D.C., St. Paul’s Cathedral in London, the Spandau Theatre in Berlin, Germany and recently in Australia, Acoustic Eldolon wows audiences worldwide and returns for their third performance in here. Seating at Visitor Center is limited. Admission. 863-734-1221. www.boksanctuary.org
Feb. 23: Third Annual Crescent Cuisine, High Springs. Fundraiser for the High Springs Farmers Market. Guests will be provided a delicious dinner, served by waiters including local officials, city commissioner, police chief and others, while enjoying the sounds of live, soulful music. West of I-75. Admission. 386-454-3950. www.city.highsprings.com
Feb. 23: NE Florida Scottish Games and Festival, Green Cove Springs. See and experience all things Scottish: Clans, athletics, music and dancing, parade of tartans, bagpipes, reenactments, food and more. Includes Kilted Golf Tournament at the King and The Bear at World Golf Village. At Clay County Agricultural Fairgrounds. 904-725-5744. www.jaxcvb.com/visiting_jax/calendar_events.asp
Feb. 23: Sistrunk Parade and Festival, Fort Lauderdale. 28th annual. Parade travels down historic Sistrunk Boulevard and ends with a big celebration at Delevoe Park, including vendors, music and food. 954-419-1877. http://www.sistrunkfestival.org/
Feb. 23-24: Old Island Days Art Festival, Key West. The 43rd annual juried fine art show is set on lower Whitehead Street in historic Old Town. 305-294-1241. www.keywest.com/calendar/kwpevents.cfm
Feb. 23-24: Grant Seafood Festival, Grant. A scrumptious menu of succulent seafood, bolstered by free admission, free parking and more than 100 craft exhibitors, makes this a weekend not to miss. What sets this seafood festival apart is that it is 100% volunteer effort. All preparation , whether on the grounds or with purchasing, cooking or serving of various menu items, is accomplished by community volunteers alone. No food vendors are on site. All booths are run by volunteers, and many booths are made up of family members, often several generations working side by side. At Grant Community Center. 321-723-8687. www.grantseafoodfestival.com/
Feb. 23-24: Street Painting Festival, Lake Worth. Watch as more than 400 artists use the pavement as canvas to transform downtown Lake Worth into a temporary outdoor museum of original art and masterpiece reproductions. The annual events takes place the last weekend of February each year. Festival also will include strolling minstrels, jazz, classical music, dance, theatre, improvisation, and an array of street side cafes. The Young Artist Studio features the street paintings of Palm Beach County elementary, middle, and high school students. Free, 561-514-DRAW or 582-4401. www.palmbeachfl.com/visitors/events/
Feb. 23-24: Naples National Art Festival, Naples. Juried show ranked in top 20 art festivals nationwide for the past two years. Last year featured 275 artists from more than 35 states and four nations, displaying and selling fine arts, fine crafts, prints, lithographs, photography, sculpture, glass, jewelry and other original works. At Cambier Park. Free. 239-262-6517. www.naplesartcenter.org/nnartfestival.htm
Feb. 23-24: Upper Keys Gigantic Nautical Flea Market, Islamorada. Hundreds of marine- and watersports-related vendors offer wares to thousands of buyers seeking deals on new and used boats, marine equipment, electronics, fishing tackle, dive gear, nautical arts and crafts, and more. 305-453-3802. www.fla-keys.com/calendarofevents/
Feb. 23-24: Second Annual Knology Sea Blues Festival, Clearwater. Get the best of both worlds – a seafood festival and great blues music. Two days of concerts featuring national recording acts, plus exhibitors and food concessions. At Coachman Park. 727-562-4839. www.floridasgulfislands.com/events/
Feb. 23-24: 71st Annual Orange Blossom Festival, Parade and Rodeo, Davie. This festival focuses on city’s unique heritage and rural roots as an agricultural community. Dating back to the early ’50s, the festival has grown to include a heritage parade, Battle of the Marching Bands, arts and crafts fair, fine arts show, antique stagecoach and wagon display, livestock fair, Orange Blossom Cook-off, Strawberry Festival, Pancake Breakfast, interactive children’s area, country barbecue, live entertainment and a two-day rodeo. Festival admission is free but there is a parking donation. 954-797-1166. www.davie-fl.gov
Feb. 23-24: Hatsume Fair at Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens, Delray Beach. Celebrating the “first bud of spring.” A unique Japanese spring festival, Hatsume features taiko drummers, a Japanese tea ceremony, flower arranging, martial art and bonsai demonstrations, and more. Admission. 561-495-0233. www.morikami.org/
Feb. 24: 17th Annual Space Coast Wine and Beer Festival, Melbourne. An evening filled with flavor – fine wines, delicious foods and beautiful music. At Maxwell C. King Center for the Performing Arts. 321-433-4470. www.space-coast.com
Feb. 24-Mar. 2: Chalo Nitka Festival, Glades County Youth and Livestock Show, and Frontier Days Rodeo, Moore Haven. 863-946-0244. http://www.florida-agriculture.com/consumers/fairs/gladescounty_fair.htm
Feb. 26-27: Old Island Days Art Festival, Key West. Fine art takes center stage in Key West during this festival, going strong for 43 years. Whitehead and Caroline Streets. 305-294-0431. www.keywestartcenter.com/festival.html
Feb. 26-27: Upper Keys Rotary Gigantic Nautical Flea Market, Islamorada. Food, fun and fantastic bargains on boating, fishing and diving equipment as well as marine-related artwork. At Founder’s Park on Plantation Key. 305-453-3802. http://www.giganticnauticalfleamarket.org/
Feb. 26-Mar. 1: Marjory Stoneman Douglas Festival, Everglades City. This fourth annual festival celebrates the beauty and majesty of the Florida Everglades. Organized by the Museum of the Everglades, daily events include swamp walks, a guided boat tour, informational talks, and more. At Museum of the Everglades. Some programs free; various charges for excursions. 239-695-0008. www.paradisecoast.com/events/events.php?date=02_2008
Feb. 27-Mar. 2: Gasparilla Film Festival, Tampa. The Gasparilla Film Festival and its parent organization, Tampa Film Institute, announce an exclusive partnership with Global Film Initiative. GFI promotes cross-cultural understanding and diversity by presenting developing world feature films in major US cities, through its series entitled “Global Lens 2008 Film Series.” Films from Argentina, China, Croatia, India, Indonesia, Iran, Lebanon, Philippines and South Africa will headline this year’s entries. 813-514-9962. www.gasparillafilmfestival.com/
Feb. 28-Mar. 1: Community Affairs Fine Arts and Crafts Show, Punta Gorda. Fine arts and crafts of Punta Gorda. At Fishermen’s Village. Free. 941-639-8721. www.charlotteharbortravel.com/events/
Feb. 29-Mar. 2: 2008 Florida’s Beach Gasparilla Classic, St. Petersburg. Hosted by Lightning City Gymnastics, the 20th annual Gasparilla Classic is one of the largest gymnastics meets in the United States. At Tropicana Field. Admission. 813-558-0035. http://www.lightningcity.com/gasparilla.html
Feb. 29-Mar. 2: Palm Beach Fine Craft Show, West Palm Beach. Juried show bringing together more than 120 outstanding artists representing the best in fine crafts including basketry, ceramics, glass, decorative and wearable textiles, furniture, jewelry, leather, paper, wood and mixed media. Prices range from under $1,000 to more than $30,000. At Palm Beach County Convention Center. Admission. 203-254-0486. www.craftsamericashows.com/PALM_main.htm
Feb. 28-Mar. 9: Florida Strawberry Festival, Plant City. Celebration of strawberries that dates back to 1930. The festival features daily entertainment by some of music’s biggest stars, plus agriculture shows, clogging, livestock, a baby contest, and the Midway. Competitions range from cook offs to strawberry shortcake-eating contests. At Plant City Festival Grounds. Admission. 813-752-9194. www.flstrawberryfestival.com
Feb. 29-Mar. 9: Southwest Florida and Lee County Fair, Fort Myers. At Fairgrounds. Admission. 239-543-8368. www.leeciviccenter.com
Feb. 29-Mar. 9: Bike Week 2008, Daytona Beach. 67th anniversary of what is billed as “the world’s largest motorcycle event,” with a wide range of activities and events. 386-255-0981. www.officialbikeweek.com
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