While the rest of the country (except for maybe the folks in Alabama) might be suffering from cold weather and holiday hangovers this time of year, the sun never stops in South Florida. Winter is when our events move outside.
Considering our good fortune with the weather, we've gathered a few noteworthy events that we are looking forward to for this weekend. Whether you're in the mood for a smooth and soulful serenade just after dark, channeling your inner Superman, or a literary festival in Key West for a day trip--we have you covered.
Sure beats hibernating for the rest of winter, huh?
1. Allen West Headlines DWNTWN Concert Series
Friday, January 11 at 7:00 p.m. at Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=z4Hy6kp5kIs&feature=player_embedded
Just a few days after the soulful indie rocker was named as VH1's You Outta Know Artist for January, Allen West is slated to play a free concert at Bayfront Park in Downtown Miami. Local singer-songwriters-turned-New Yorkers the Jacob Jeffries Band are back in town, and will open the show.
2. Key West Literary Seminar
Thursday, January 10 through January 13th (Session One)
Even in the strange, strange state of Florida, Key West stands apart. Over the years, and centuries, this weird little paradise has become a home to some of modern literature's greatest writers. Authors like Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams and Truman Capote have all added to this robust literary tradition.
The topic of this year's seminar? Writers on writers.
From their website: “The mission of the Key West Literary Seminar is to promote the understanding and discussion of important literary works and their authors; to recognize and support new voices in American literature; and to preserve and promote Key West’s literary heritage while providing resources that strengthen literary culture.”
WLRN will be attending the seminar, and bringing some interactive elements to it starting this Friday through Sunday. We will be holding another Tweet Us A Story event next Tuesday in conjunction with the seminar, along with coverage online and on-air through next weekend. Look out for it!
3. Superhero Scramble
Saturday, January 12 at 8:45 a.m. at Amelia Earhart Park in Hialeah
It's not just a race; it's an adventure! That's the tagline to this quirky race that encourages participants to get their 'superhero on' and dress up as their favorite caped crusader as they maneuver through the rugged 3.5 mile terrain. The race boasts that it has 'SUPERSLIME' for added realism. Don't think it's all fun and games, though--the terrain really is rough.
Make sure your superpowers and razor-sharp instincts are intact for this one.
Weird Florida Bonus: The Tap N' Run 4K Beer Race in Fort Lauderdale
Saturday, January 12 from 2:00-7:00 p.m. in front of America's Back Yard
Yes, you read the title correctly. Participants will be running a 4K, and will have to drink 4oz. beers at four 'chug' stations along the way. Upon completion of the race, runners will have to drink a full beer. Some might call that a drinking problem, but these guys are calling it 'unbelievable athleticism.'
We just call it a viral video in the making.
All proceeds from beer sales will be going to the Little Warriors Project, a nonprofit with the goal of providing military children with the tools they need to improve morale, welfare and overall quality of life.
