Visitors can expect loads of fresh seafood served with a side of breathtaking views and rich history at the 17th Annual Deering Seafood Festival. The picturesque bayfront grounds of the historic Deering Estate in South Dade will host this family-friendly day where kids can run free on the sprawling lawn, music floats through the air and everyone can devour delicious seafood.

The historic 400-acre estate and nature preserve was owned by industrialist Charles Deering in the 1920s. Today, guests are treated to lush surroundings, majestic palm-lined walkways that lead to sparkling Biscayne Bay, and regular wildlife sightings of everything from birds to manatees.

Seafood Sensations

Arrive early and make a beeline for Seafood Alley, where you’ll find an array of seafood served raw, fried, sauteed and in other imaginative preparations. Check out Golden Rule Seafood for fresh-off-the-boat fish, pink Key West shrimp, crawdads and Miami’s coveted stone crabs, and then move on to Popo’s Seafood for kicked-up conch and shrimp salad. Dig into tasty paella brimming with seafood, rice and veggies from Paella Party. Other vendors include Sports Grill, Catering by Les and Chill-N Nitrogen Ice Cream.

Some of the best chefs in Greater Miami & Miami Beach will also offer cooking demonstrations throughout the day in the courtyard, so don’t miss the chance to watch them in action and take home the recipes.

Music, Art and Boat Rides

Music that represents Miami’s diverse cultural makeup will grab your attention as you stroll the festival. It’ll be hard not to break out in dance when Bahamian Junkanoo bands weave through the crowds or you hear the sounds of the steel drum from such bands as the Caribbean Crew that will transport you to a tropical island. Hometown cover band Cutler Stew will also raise the energy with their high-octane rock and pop tunes.

When you’re not eating or dancing, peruse the Artist Village, where local artisans will sell their handcrafted goods. You’ll find vibrant paintings, fragrant soaps and candles, and artistic woodworking pieces.

Kids can burn off pent-up energy at The Discovery Cove and the Kids’ Zone by Kiddos magazine, where there will be a mix of fun and educational activities ranging from an art station to music and a magic show.

Another special activity is the scenic pontoon boat rides offered throughout the day at the Deering Estate. The 45-minute boat rides whisk guests across Biscayne Bay toward Key Biscayne and back. (Note: this is a separate ticketed activity and not included in the festival entry fee.)

Tips for Enjoying the Event

Arrive early to get prime parking and buzz through the food lines. You’ll be doing a lot of walking and eating outside, so wear comfortable and cool clothing. Don’t forget your sunscreen, hat and sunglasses so you can enjoy the day in the sun. With so much beauty and nature in one place, bring along your camera to capture the memories – and those food pictures that’ll make everyone on your social media feed hungry.

Tickets

Advance tickets are $25 for adults ($30 the day of the event). Tickets for children ages 4-14 are $7 in advance and $10 the day of the event. If you’re a member of the Deering Estate Foundation, entrance is free.

Your ticket includes park entrance, but food, drinks and certain activities are not included. You can buy tickets online or at the event.

By: Angela Caraway-Carlton

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