Key Largo Market Pairs Local Makers With Free Dolphin Education

The Key Largo Artisans Market returned to Dolphins Plus Bayside at 101900 Overseas Highway on November 26, bringing together dozens of artists, bakers and other vendors alongside a free dolphin educational performance at sunset. Now in its second year at the waterfront venue, the market is scheduled on the first Tuesday of the month from now through April, offering both locals and visitors a chance to shop for handmade goods while attending an animal education demonstration.

“It’s fun for the public to come watch the dolphins and it’s also great for them to learn a little bit about what we do with the animals,” said Marylou Wright, Dolphins Plus director of education. “We’ve just had really great feedback from the general public, they enjoy the demonstrations that we do.” The program provides a structured opportunity for residents to learn about marine mammals and the work of a local institution without an admission fee for the demonstration portion.

Vendors described the arrangement as valuable for expanding customer reach and building community ties. Paula Wittke, who with her husband Jeff Wingate operates Pirate Hat Apiary and markets Florida Keys Honey, said the venue offers special access for families. “I love that it’s here and they’re opening their doors,” said Wittke. “I think it’s very gracious for them to do that, I think it’s very important for the kids to get the opportunity to see that.” Linking the Keys owner Kimberly Smith, who started her business at markets and now has a physical studio, credited events like this with enabling growth. “This is how I started or I wouldn’t have a studio now,” said Smith. “It really is a great venue. I used to be a dolphin trainer here so I’m pretty familiar with the facility as well,” she added.

The market presents both economic and civic value for Monroe County by creating direct sales opportunities for small enterprises and by offering free, place based educational programming that can foster stewardship among young residents. Attendees can expect a range of products from jewelry and food to original art, and community members like Key Largo resident Kristel Frimpter noted the market as a place to discover one of a kind pieces.

The next market is scheduled for Tuesday, December 2 from 5 to 8 p.m. and will be billed as a Holiday Sunset Soirée with live music, a free ornament painting station, food, craft beer and wine, a holiday photo opportunity with Santa Claus, and a special dolphin presentation at sunset. Verify event times and updates on the Dolphins Plus and Key Largo Artisans Facebook pages.