The Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce is preparing for a busy holiday season, with its 40th annual Island Art Festival scheduled for Saturday, November 28.
Steve Miller, executive director of the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce, joined Good Morning Keys on Keys Talk 96.9/102.5FM this morning to talk about events.
The Island Art Festival will run from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Small Business Saturday, the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Miller said the festival focuses primarily on local artisans who create handmade items, giving shoppers an opportunity to find unique gifts ahead of the Christmas holiday.
“This is mainly artisans, folks that are making things at their own homes,” Miller said. “This is mainly handcrafted things, just in time for the Christmas holidays when you’re going out to get those presents.”
The festival will also feature food vendors and live music from local musicians.
Miller said the event is one of several major activities planned by the chamber over the coming months.
The chamber’s Holiday Gala and Awards Installation Dinner is scheduled for the following week. Tickets are expected to cost $85, and the event will take place at My New Joint, located above The Square Grouper on Cudjoe Key.
The gala will recognize businesses and individuals through awards honoring the best large business, small business and new business, along with a Community Spirit Award.
The chamber also purchases artwork from participating artists at the Island Art Festival to give away as prizes during the gala.
Reservations are required for the dinner. Those interested in attending can contact the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce at 305-872-2411.
Another major event on the chamber’s calendar is the Nautical Expo, scheduled for January 23 and 24. Miller described it as one of the area’s larger flea-market-style events, featuring nautical-themed merchandise and exhibitors.
The two-day event is expected to attract thousands of visitors and feature more than 100 vendors. The chamber is still seeking food vendors for the expo.
Miller also highlighted the chamber’s monthly mixers, which provide additional opportunities for local businesses and community members to connect.
More information about upcoming events and chamber activities is available at LowerKeysChamber.com.
Outside of chamber events, Miller encouraged residents to enjoy the community’s entertainment offerings, including upcoming productions at Marathon Community Theatre. The theater is preparing to stage Annie, and Miller said he will appear as Uncle Teddy in Arsenic and Old Lace.
Miller said the many activities planned for the coming months reflect the lively season ahead in the Florida Keys. He also encouraged people to take time to appreciate the area’s natural beauty and enjoy life.
“People take life way, way, way too seriously,” Miller said. “So enjoy some of the beauty that goes on around here all the time.”