The Key Biscayne community came out in record numbers to celebrate the 46th Annual Lighthouse Run in Bill Baggs Park, showcasing years of experience that ensured another successful event.
And just a few hours later and a few miles away, the Miami Marine Stadium on Rickenbacker Causeway hosted its first-ever Country Bay Music Festival. And boy, did Miami show its love for country music! Who knew Country Music was so popular around here?
Some featured stars were Thomas Rhett, Christ Young, Lainey Wilson, Sam Hunt and Lee Brice! Security was on point; the grounds were spotless, and a small carnival with fun rides and games with great prizes added a playful touch! Essentials like free water and plenty of porta-Johns were in generous supply.
Buying tickets was a breeze online, and well-managed lockers with rechargeable outlets and rental chairs made for a comfortable experience! And, yes, there were traffic delays, and the situation is seriously being studied right now. Efficient Key Biscayne updates helped plan transportation to avoid peak times if possible. Well-placed ride drop-off and pick-up zones were conveniently located.
The food was a multicultural feast! The bars were bustling. Festival merch was available, and I went home with a bag full of actually useful complimentary goodies. But it wasn’t just the great music that made this so extraordinary. It was the respectful crowd, the meticulous event staff, the cleanliness, and the warmth and professionalism of our police and fire departments. The yummy food was just the cherry on top of one of the best weekends in Miami ever!
And as a Miami native of 73 years, I’ve experienced some pretty great weekends! The dancing space was ample, and I loved the great people watching and seeing all the creative country music outfits and an array of colorful cowboy hats and boots. People were there to have fun, and they did!!!
For me, it was a weekend of true community spirit! It felt good to randomly bump into the same Key Biscayne faces, Jennifer Santiesteban and Richard Perez from the morning race later in the day at the festival. The Country Bay Music Festival vibe was vibrant and fresh!
Miami’s definitely gone country,” and I’m thrilled to have been a part of this welcoming, safe, and well-organized fun event!
Abby Ross
