Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Lightning is one of several pro and semipro ice-hockey teams in the state, including the
Miami-based Florida Panthers.
Major-league baseball's spring training creates a frenzy of excitement from February
each year, when 15 pro teams practice across southern Florida. The stadiums then host
minor-league teams, while two pro teams are based here: the Miami Marlins and the
Tampa Bay Rays (in St Petersburg). The Minnesota Twins and Boston Red Sox both have
their training facilities in Fort Myers.
NASCAR originated among liquor bootleggers who needed fast cars to escape the law -
and who later raced against each other. Fast outgrowing its Southern redneck roots to be-
come popular across the US, NASCAR is near and dear to Floridians and hosts regular
events in Daytona.
Imported sports also flourish in Florida. One is the dangerous Basque game of jai alai,
which is popular with Miami's cigar-smoking wagering types. Another is cricket, thanks to
the Miami region's large Jamaican and West Indian population.
CELEBRATING FLORIDA HERITAGE & CULTURE
Florida's diversity really comes alive in its many cultural festivals. Here are a handful
worth planning a trip around.
Zora Neale Hurston Festival of the Arts & Humanities
(
www.zorafestival.org
; Eaton-
ville) For 20 years, Zora Neale Hurston's hometown has honored her with this African
American cultural festival, culminating in a lively three-day street fair. Runs for one week
in late January-early February.
Carnaval Miami
(
www.carnaval-miami.org
)
The Calle Ocho festival in Little Havana,
which runs for 10 days in early March, is the USA's biggest Hispanic street fair. There are
domino tournaments, cooking contests, Latin-music concerts and more.
Foster State Folk Cultural Center has held this enormous heritage festival, with hundreds
of Florida musicians - from gospel singers to banjo pickers - plus storytellers and Semin-
ole craft demonstrations. Held on Memorial Day weekend.
Goombay Festival
(
www.goombayfestivalcoconutgrove.com
;
Miami) One of the nation's
largest multicultural festivals celebrates Miami's Bahamian immigrants with tons of
Caribbean music, dancing and food. Held over four days in early June.
ber, the Pioneer Settlement for the Creative Arts hosts Florida's best pioneer-heritage
festival, with folk music and authentic demonstrations of Cracker life.
