The Coconut Grove Seafood Festival is this Sunday, October 20, from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. at Peacock Park. The festival is part celebration of the start of stone crab season, part celebration of the Grove itself.
The small tropical village, established in 1873, is celebrating its 140th anniversary -- and there's no better way to pay homage than to honor the bounty that comes from the Grove's waters.
Event director Tony Albelo (who is also spearheading Grovetoberfest the day before) says that Coconut Grove is the perfect location for a seafood festival. "It's hard to believe that something seafood related did not exist in Coconut Grove. This historical piece of Miami us known for its seaside location and close ties to boating."
See also: Coconut Grove Seafood Festival Announced
Albelo says that he planned the event to coincide with stone crab season, but that's all seafood lovers can expect. "Of course we'll have fresh stone crabs, but there's also fresh lobster and fresh fish. We'll have dishes with Caribbean, Bahamian, and Latin incluences. We'll also have New England specialities -- including a company that specializes in lobster rolls and clam chowder."
In addition to plenty of fishies in the sea, the festival will have live music including Jimmy Buffet cover band Jimmy Stowe and the Stowe Aways that act as the backup band for the celebrity when he does promotions for Landshark beer.
Chefs from Monty's, Oceanaire, Casablanca and more will demonstrate how to properly filet fish, and cook fresh seafood. There's also a family fun zone for kids, and Casablanca Seafood Market will be selling fresh fish to take home.
Tickets to the Coconut Grove Seafood Festival are $15 in advance, $25 at the door. VIP tickets are $50 advance purchase and includes private entrance (no lines), access to VIP lounge, VIP badge, complimentary beer and refreshments inside VIP lounge, and air-conditioned private VIP bathrooms. Purchase tickets at coconutgroveseafoodfestival.eventbrite.com.
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