This annual celebration of sugar cane-based spirits has become the largest event of its kind to be held in the U.S. Each year the festival spotlights hard-to-find, and hard-to-resist, rums from around the world. 

Attendees will enjoy specially prepared rum-flavored foods, opportunities to learn more about the origins and subtleties of this popular spirit and sampling represented rums at events held throughout the Tampa Bay area over a three-day period.

The 2008 International Rum Festival kicks-off Thursday, March 27, with a cocktail reception, five-course dinner and rum tasting at the Island Way Grill, featuring the acclaimed cuisine of Chef Tom Pritchard.  Each course will be paired or infused with rum.  

All proceeds from the silent auction, which features rare and collectable bottles of rum, with some signed by the Master Distiller, benefit the Abilities Foundation. To purchase tickets online, or for more information, go to www.polishedpalate.com or contact info@polishedpalate.com.