Key West Food and Wine Festival, 2013

This is just a little bit of the fun we had last year!

It is the end of January (I know, I can hardly believe it myself), but you know what that means? The best event of the year in Key West is taking place this weekend. If you haven’t gotten tickets yet, get off your butt and get them now. Use code FKG for a discount. The Key West Food and Wine Festival is shaping up to be the best ever.

This festival is an absolute favorite for so many reasons. It is uncrowded. That does not mean it is poorly attended. Just the opposite. It is a very well attended event, but the organizers do a great job of selling the appropriate number of tickets. Another great thing about the festival is the unique events. (Seriously? Where else can you go bowling with coconuts?) Some of the events I am most looking forward to, include:

The kickoff Barefoot Beach Party on Thursday. OK, there is wine and food and it is on the beach. You really can’t go wrong. Immediately following the party are the neighborhood strolls. This year, a new one has been added to feature the Quieter Side of Duval, and I am really looking forward to it.  The food, the wine, the strolling and mingling – it can’t be beat.

Friday evening’s Grand Tasting at the Mallory Square Sculpture Garden is sure to be a great hit. This tasting is always in a unique setting, with good wines being poured. I have not left one of these thirsty yet. If you are hungry after the tasting, why not try out the beer pairing dinner at Old Town Manor bed and breakfast? It looks amazing.

Saturday morning starts with Bubbles and Madness, a brunch event at one of my favorite restaurants, Azur. Bubbly as far as the eye can see, combined with the best brunch on the island. It is a recipe for success. Later in the day is, hands down, my favorite event of the year, Duval Uncorked. This is a mile-long wine tasting. Stop in restaurants, galleries and shops to taste wine and nosh on some nibbles. It is the most fun you can have on Duval Street.

Sunday’s Outdoor Wine Market nicely wraps up the weekend. This is not a comprehensive list of all the events – that would take me weeks to post – but an overview of some of my personal favorites. Yes, you will see me there. If you want the full list, or to buy tickets (really… get off your butt and get them now!) visit the website.

Want to get even more excited about the event? Check out the 3 Loud Women video, featuring the Key West Food and Wine Festival.