My friend Loretta and I drove up to Cedar Key this past weekend for the inaugural C-Key Tiki Fest. Though we were there for the music, with the wide open spaces, it was easy to see why it’s called Florida’s Nature Coast.

The festival featured Trop Rock singer-songwriters (the Jimmy Buffett inspired genre) from all over Florida as well as Nashville and points further north. I love these small, laid-back gatherings; the music is fun and there’s plenty of time to socialize and dance with fellow attendees (and musicians).

Turned out there were quite a few of us from the Tampa area and I look forward to seeing my new phriends at upcoming events. It was Loretta’s first introduction to the Parrothead lifestyle and I’m certain it won’t be her last.

The dog-bird boats, bushel baskets, and other tackle (evidence of the area’s famous fishing, clams, and oysters industries) scattered throughout the quaint village piqued my curiosity. After this brief stay, I know I’ll be back up to explore the various parks and preserves and to delve into the area’s history.