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Book Florida holidays to see 'world's strangest' music contest
Those embarking on Florida villa holidays will have the chance to attend Key West's Conch Shell Blowing Contest.
Referred to as one of the world's "strangest" musical competitions, the 48th annual contest involves participants trying to make music by blowing into the mollusc shells.
Taking place on March 6th at Key West's oldest residency, 322 Duval Street, the competition is supposed to highlight Florida's seafaring heritage, although participants don't take the contest too seriously.
Sailors used to blow into mollusc shells to send signals back to shore in the 19th century before the days of radio and digital communications.
The conch is somewhat of a delicacy in Florida. Noted for its flavour, it is commonplace on Key West restaurant menus. Their popularity is highlighted by the fact that the Florida Keys are often referred to as the Conch Republic.
Also paying tribute to Florida's seafaring history are two pirate festivals - one in Key Largo and one in Key West - which take place in the state every year.
Posted by Amit Patel
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