FRI 3/12
A steelpan jamboree, a women's netball competition, bands performing on stilts, piles of jerk chicken... Sounds like a typical day at "Unite-A-Fest." The annual celebration of Caribbean culture returns to Lauderhill on Friday, March 12, through Sunday, March 14, promising its usual assemblage of colorful costumes, entertainment, and food. Musical performances take place Friday and Saturday in the parking lot of Lauderhill Mall (4257 NW 12th St., Lauderhill). Sunday's costume parade begins at 3 p.m. on NW 16th Street, west of State Road 7. Admission is free. Call 954-972-9628. -- Jason Budjinski
Lizards and Snakes, Oh My!
Caring for your critter
SUN 3/14
ogs are man's best friend, right? They're cute, lovable, and humorous, and they fetch the morning paper while your groggy ass lies in bed. But that's only when they behave. Don't forget the torn-up couch and the garbage scattered across the kitchen floor. You'd be hard-pressed to find a snake owner with this problem. But if you do own a snake or any other type of "alternative pet," then you should check out the "Florida Reptile and Alternative Pet Show" at Uncle Funny's Comedy Club (9160 State Rd. 84, Davie). Unlike a trip to the local pet store, the pet show offers a chance to speak to animal breeders, who can give you pointers on how to take care of your snake, ferret, Nile monitor, tarantula... or that albino jungle cat you've been hiding from your landlord. Plus, there's a mealworm-eating contest! Mmm... nothing says lovin' like a plate of fresh beetle larvae. Tas-ty! Call 561-457-9269. -- Jason Budjinski
Sax Drive
SUN 3/14
From session musician to headliner, saxophonist David Sanborn has earned himself quite a reputable place in the world of pop music. Not only has he shared the stage with a slew of top-of-the-line acts, from rockers like David Bowie and Bruce Springsteen to the "Godfather of Soul," James Brown, but Sanborn has won six Grammy Awards and has one platinum and six gold records. Despite his work with so many pop and R&B artists, Sanborn maintains his signature smooth jazz sound. This is evident on his latest album, Time Again, which features his familiar alto sax-playing throughout a collection of amorous yet funky songs. The album is a combination of originals and classic covers, and it captures the spontaneity of his live performances. Catch Sanborn as he takes the stage at Gulfstream Park (901 S. Federal Hwy., Hallandale Beach). The show starts at 12:30 p.m. Call 954-457-6210. -- Jason Budjinski