Jerk Your Way into Fantasy Fest

Your eyes tear and nostrils sear as you coolly attempt to mask your intolerance for pain, having boasted about your affinity for “real” jerk chicken only moments ago. As the scent of Caribbean spices and the blur of pastel colors jolt you back to reality, you find yourself chowing down in Bahama Village in Key West for the 27th annual Goombay Festival.

Though it seems every town in South Florida has a Goombay festival these days, Key West's -- like everything else on that heavenly rock -- is truly special. Caribbean music, delectable dishes, and the key’s famous street performers will provide a colorful kickoff to the crazy week ahead: Fantasy Fest. This evening at 6:00, the Junkanoo rush of musicians will start streaming toward the main stage, where locals can display their talents during open-mike sessions. Goombay centers around Petronia Street in Bahama Village, just off Duval Street, and is scheduled to run from noon to 11:00 p.m.
Sat., Oct. 20, 2007