The red-hot sounds of Latin jazz will float across the Seven Mile Bridge and surrounding waters tomorrow, Sat., April 1. Little Palm Island and the Pigeon Key Foundation will present the first "Hot Island Salsa and Latin Jazz" Festival. Here's what's planned:
• Othello Molineaux and his nationally acclaimed touring band;
• Orquesta Celestial, an 11-piece salsa band;
• World Percussion Ensemble, Inner Revolution, Havana Son, surprise acts!
• Salsa dance contest with prizes, judged by the Cuban American Heritage Festival;
• Food available/selected recipes by Little Palm Island;
• Non-stop beverage bar available.
The action begins at 4 p.m. with a conga line and live percussion on the Old Seven Mile Bridge. The first 500 conga dancers to enter the island will receive salsa keepsakes and a cold drink.
Bring a blanket and chair and plan to spend time dancing, grooving to the jazzy music, eating, drinking, and relaxing.
For Key Westers, there will be special service provided by the Old Town Trolley/Bone Island Shuttle. The shuttle will leave from the Key West Welcome Center at 3840 N. Roosevelt at 4:30 p.m. and go directly to Pigeon Key. The round-trip fare, including Festival admission, will be $45 per person. Make reservations directly to Pigeon Key at 305-289-0025.
If you plan to drive from Key West, park at the Visitors Center at MM 47. Trolley transportation to the island provided. Tickets available at the Welcome Center for $20.
Proceeds from the festival will go to the restoration and preservation fund for Pigeon Key, which functioned as living quarters for workers on Flagler's railway. Today, the Pigeon Key Foundation administers the historic site and maintains the buildings and grounds. Info: 305-289-0025.