South Florida Food & Drink Events This Weekend: Fort Lauderdale Bus Loop, Derby Watching, and More

Spring -- or, for us, the beginning of wet season -- if officially here. And just like the weather, the South Florida food and drink scene is heating up this weekend. Whether you're into laid-back gardening, big-bet horseracing, or getting your drink on, there is something to keep you occupied on this week's days off. We have the five best food- and drink-related activities after the jump.

See also:

- Ten Best Burgers in Broward and Palm Beach Counties

Sushi & Stroll Summer Walks

With the summer heat comes the summer humidity -- and probably the worst climate for heavy, cooked food. Have some raw fish. For the tenth year in a row, the Morikami Museum and Garden's is hosting its Sushi & Stroll Summer Walks. Guests are invited to explore the gardens to the sounds of Fushu Daiko and the tastes of the Japanese -- and non-Japanese -- cuisine of the Museum's Cornell Cafe. Friday's theme is the Beauty of Bonsai, which will highlight its newly expanded bonsai display and shop. The event begins at 5:30 p.m. at Morkami. The address is 4000 Morikami Park Road in Delray Beach. Visit morikami.org.

Local Foods--Local Gardens

Local and sustainable are the new in buzzwords. But just like any trend, a lot of it is talk rather than action. Well, this Sunday is the perfect opportunity to get involved. The Urban Growers Community Farm along with the Gray Mockingbird Community Garden are cohosting Local Foods -- Local Gardens at the Gray Mockingbird Community Garden in Lake Worth. The day's events kick off at 1 p.m. and include authors, local gardeners, and farmers such as authors Ginny Stibolt and Melissa Contreras, JoJo Milano of Goodness Gracious Acres/Delilah's Dairy, John Zahina of Just One Backyard, and Michael Madfis of Fort Lauderdale Vegetables. Experts in all fields will be on-site to answer questions on everything ranging from beekeeping and goat-farming to raw foods and community gardens. The Gray Mockingbird Community Garden is located at the Scottish Rite Center 2000 N "D" St. in Lake Worth.

Get Down & Derby

Ladies and Gentlemen: For those of you looking to bust out the fancy hats and bow-ties -- but don't have the flight to Kentucky -- Tap 42 is bringing the festivities of the Kentucky Derby to Fort Lauderdale. The bar is hosting a derby of an affair starting at 2 p.m. In addition to the $5 Maker's 46 Mint Juleps, the spot will be hosting a best derby attire contest with prizes for first, second, and third places. The address is 1411 S. Andrews Ave. in Fort Lauderdale. Call 954-463-4900, or visit tap42.com.

Fort Lauderdale Bus Loop

Generally, the only thing keeping you from getting wasted and touring around town is the designated driver. On Friday night, that problem has been solved. The Fort Lauderdale Bus Loop is making its way back around town. Starting off at either Lauderdale Grill or Beach Place, the loop takes you on a drinking tour of the city with drinks and snacks at every venue. Admission is $35 at the door. Call 954-574-6000, or visit busloop.org.