Underwater and outdoor enthusiasts, eco­travelers and families are encouraged to celebrate the marine environment at Mote Marine Laboratory's annual event, Mote’s Ocean Fest: A Community Celebration. Proceeds and donations from the festival support Mote Marine Laboratory’s coral reef restoration and research programs. The family ­friendly fun will take place Saturday, April 14, 2018 at Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary’s Eco-Discovery Center and Truman Waterfront Park (35 E Quay Rd, Key West, FL 33040) from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

It has been said to be one of the best events in the Keys for all ages.

Join us for a day of fun, crafts, games, music, food, and shopping as we showcase our treasured marine environment while raising money for coral reef research and restoration. Mote’s Ocean Fest: A Community Celebration attendees can explore conservation and environmental exhibits, meet live animals and experience touch tanks, view and purchase wares from local marine artists and vendors, enjoy music, try their skill at active amusements and bid on silent auction items. Meet Mote scientists and researchers, along with other conservation and environmental organizations from around Florida to learn about the work they are doing and how you can help.

Renowned marine artist Wyland will be participating again in this year’s event with a live painting auction! Proceeds will benefit both the Wyland Foundation and Mote Marine Laboratory’s coral reef research and restoration programs.

• Children’s open painting activity 1 – 3 p.m.
• Wyland live painting auction 4:15 – 5:15 p.m.

Please stay tuned for a full list of participating vendors & exhibitors, and silent auction items.

During the event, Boy Scouts of America Florida Sea Base, will host two fishing clinics for children ages 7 – 12:

• Session 1 from 11am - 1pm
• Session 2 from 2 - 4pm

The first 100 registrants will receive a fishing rod to keep and an aquatic apparel goodie bag. These items will be distributed on a first-come, first-served basis from advance registration. Limit one rod and bag per child.

A special Thank You to Coastal Conservation Association Florida for donating the rods.

A special Thank You to Tunaskin Aquatic Apparel for donating the aquatic apparel swag bags.

• 10 a.m. - 1 p.m. Live Radio Broadcasting with Pirate Radio
• 1 - 2:30 p.m. Emily Springsteen
• 2:30 – 4 p.m. Gerd Rube
• 4 – 6 p.m. Howard Livingston & the Mile Marker 24 Band

Mote will be working with local restaurants, food trucks, breweries, and pubs to have a variety of food, soda, and alcohol available for sale during the event. Please stay tuned for a list of participating vendors!

• Ice-cold beer available for purchase from Islamorada Beer Company
• Rum tastings and Nautical-themed event drink available for purchase from Hemingway Rum Co – makers of Papa’s Pilar RUM.