The Boat Show: Artwork Exhibition

If there is one think we love in the Keys, its boats! After all, it is the best way to explore our diverse chain of islands, go fishing and enjoy the waters. This Friday March 2 the Gato Building on Simonton Street is hosting a reception from 5-7 pm to celebrate the opening of a new art exhibit: The Boat Show: A Members' Exhibition. The artwork features the work of local artists and will boast a variety of different mediums and types of boats. The exhibition is part of the Art in Public Buildings Program and is designed ot offer an opportunity for local artists to exhibit their work beyond a traditional gallery space. Refreshments and parking are free and not only is it worth it to see the amazing diversity of artists and talent that Key West holds, but the Gato building itself is a national treasure. It was one of the great cigar making factories that supported the booming cigar making industry in the Keys and is a stunning architectural structure. After taking in the Art at The Gato, join in on the upper Duval Art Walk that begins at 6pm and enjoy a chilled glass of wine and the tropical breezes while you meander through the unique Key West galleries and boutiques of upper Duval Street. Start your weekend in style, see you there! And if you want to go back for more, or you miss the opening, The Boat Show Exhibit will be at the Gato Building until March 27th.

Old Island Days Art Festival

The 47th annual Old Island Days Art Festival is a juried fine art show set on lower Whitehead Street and Caroline Street in historic Old Town. The highly acclaimed show, open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, features oil paintings, watercolors, sculpture, photography and other offerings by artists from around the United States. Visitors can leisurely browse the beautiful displays of paintings from watercolor to oil and acrylic, decorative sculpture, photography and other fine arts from the selected artists. Tropical themes are abundant here, but contemporary and traditional styles make something for everyone! The weather is forecast to be fabulous so put your strolling shoes on and join in on the fun. The festival dates are February 25-26, 10am-5pm. For more information on artists and the Key West Art Center visit: http://www.keywestartcenter.com/festival.html. See you there!

Garden Fest 2012

Closer to Cuba than we are to the mainland, Key West is a tropical island bursting with tropical plants and flowers that you'll find nowhere in the US, except Hawaii. Maybe you didn't know that Key West is in Hardiness Zone 11 (you gardeners out there understand). Miami is in Hardiness Zone 10. The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden is hosting its annual Garden Fest, featuring a unique tropical plant show. It is a great way to mingle with locals, learn about the tropical eco-system and enjoy all the amazing plants! Orchids, banana trees, bamboo, various palms and other warm-loving tropical & native species will boast their individual colors and beauty. Of course it is not an island party without a beer garden! Take advantage of the glorious weather and after exploring the gardens relax and have lunch in the Beer Garden. Also featured at the Garden Fest will be local arts and crafts as well as eco-friendly products for sale, promoting a greener cleaner future. The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden is located at: 5210 College Road, Stock Island. The Garden Fest is open to the public February 18 & 19, 10am-4pm. $5 donation at door. For more information call 305-296-1504 visit http://www.kwbgs.org/events.asp