Fantasy Fest is the keys version of Mardi Gras, but more hedonistic, Bike Week nearly rumbles the islands away from their moorings and the giant annual nautical flea market brings hundreds of visitors to check out the nautical antique dealers and artists. Check this site often as we post the upcoming noteworthy festivals and events.
Due to the Covid-19 Crisis… Events have been temporarily postponed. Check back with us frequently as new updates will available soon.
PAST EVENTS
October 5-7
ROBERT JAMES SALES BAYBONE CELEBRITY TOURNAMENT – Islamorada
The second tournament in the Redbone Trilogy targets permit and bonefish to raise money for cystic fibrosis research. Past participants include legendary angler Stu Apte, former Denver Bronco and Tampa Bay Buccaneer Mark Cooper and Major League Baseball Hall of Famer Wade Boggs.
www.redbone.org
October 5
FIRST FRIDAY MM 104 BLOCK PARTY – Key Largo
Join Key Largo’s new monthly, free-admission block party along the Overseas Highway at mile marker 104 in Key Largo, presented by the Upper Keys Merchants Association. Held the first Friday of each month, rain or shine, from 6-10 p.m., stroll among artists, street bites, gifts, eateries and more. Park at any of the MM104 businesses and walk along the bayside bike pathway.
www.keylargofirstfriday.com
October 12
SIRENS MASQUERADE BALL – Key West
Listen to the siren’s song and follow it to the BC, Too, host of an enchanted evening under the sea. Sultry sirens in glamorous gowns, salty captains looking distinguished, ‘mervelous’ entertainment, mind-blowing mermaids and an ocean full of unique masks will be sure to make you feel part of the undersea world. To be held at The BC, Too. Cost: $75 in advance, $85 at the door.
www.keywestmermaidfestival.com
October 13, 2018
CORAL COUNTRY ROAD FESTIVAL – Marathon
A full day charity event of live music is on tap for the Middle Keys. Lineup includes Zach Stone, Little Texas, The Carousers, Billy Rice, Jerrod Niemann. Gates open at 11 a.m., Marathon Community Park. Musical performances start 12 p.m. – 9 p.m. Proceeds benefit Keys nonprofits including the Florida Keys SPCA, Autism Society of the Florida Keys, Project Vet Relief, and more. Craft beers, food, wine and 50+ vendors are planned. Tickets $25 pp in advance, $35 at gate, purchase in advance at keystix.com.
www.coralheadmusicfest.com
October 19 – 20
GOOMBAY FESTIVAL
Held in Key West’s historic Bahama Village neighborhood, the lively Goombay is known for its island-style food, arts and crafts, nonstop live entertainment and dancing in the streets. Visitors can experience sights, sounds and flavors recalling Key West’s Bahamian heritage. FREE event, noon to midnight both days.
October 19-21
LADIES LET’S GO FISHING! Keys Saltwater Weekend Seminar & Fishing Fever Inshore/Offshore Tournament
Female fishing fans can learn or polish angling skills during the award-winning weekend seminar. More than 8,000 female graduates have immersed themselves in the annual lighthearted yet skill-heavy curriculum to learn and hone abilities in offshore, bottom, inshore and fly fishing.
www.ladiesletsgofishing.com
October 21
ZOMBIE BIKE RIDE – Key West
A pre-Halloween tradition for visiting and local families and groups, the ride typically draws several thousand men, women and children — and even a few pets. Garbed in ragged costumes and frightening face and body makeup, they pedal along the island city’s Atlantic Ocean shore in a deliciously scary spectacle. The wacky event is to begin at 2 p.m. when “Zombieland” opens at Fort East Martello Museum, a reputedly haunted historic site overlooking the Atlantic Ocean at 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd.
www.zombiebikeride.com
October 22
MATECUMBE HISTORICAL TRUST PRESENTS: INTERNATIONAL ARCHEOLOGY DAY, TASTE OF HISTORY DINING EVENT – Islamorada
Ryan Harke, professional archaeologist will present “The Southernmost Pre-Columbian Site” Stock Island’s Connection with the Upper Florida Keys and South Florida” The Stock Island Site is large and an important archaeological site which was excavated by Irving Eyster and Robert Carr in the late 20th century. In this presentation, Ryan will discuss his ongoing dissertation research into the state collections from those excavations. His goal is to reconstruct the season(s) the site was inhabited from zoo archaeological (animal/food) remains, and thereby, determine if a year-round village was present there. In addition, he will discuss how the Stock Island peoples may relate to those of the Upper Keys and mainland Florida.” Ryan’s current research focuses on the Native Americans and the past environments of the Florida Keys. Dinner is $50.00 per person all inclusive of tax and gratuity. at the Islamorada Moose Lodge at 6:30 p.m. RSVP at 305-393-0940
October 24
KEYS HISTORY & DISCOVERY CENTER PRESENTS: HOW TALL TALES RESHAPE LOCAL HISTORY
This month’s lecture series features guest speaker Brad Bertelli, Historian and Author. Lectures are held at Keys History & Discovery Center, MM 82 on the property of the Islander Resort. Doors to the Discovery Center open at 5 p.m., one hour before the presentation to allow guests to view exhibits. Light appetizers and a cash bar are available. Cost is $10. Reservations advised. 210-922-2237
October 24
FANTASY FEST PET MASQUERADE – Key West
The eccentric competition is likely to include canine, feline and avian critters strutting their stuff on an oceanfront stage. “Party animals” can compete for costume prizes and glory. You will see a magic carousel of frisky pets and playful owners, all delightfully disguised, stroll, dance and even skateboard across a stage in a fun frolic for fame and fortune! Think you and your furry, feathered or slithery friend have the perfect outfit? Four categories to enter, $25 each entry; benefits the Lower Keys Friends of Animals.
www.fantasyfest.com
October 25
36TH ANNUAL HEADDRESS BALL
The Key West Business Guild presents this premier gay and lesbian event of the Fantasy Fest celebration, proudly opens the new Key West Amphitheater at the Truman Waterfront Park. Tom Luna returns as the outrageous EmCee, with Rude Girl rocking out our sound. Randy Roberts opens the show and is joined by some of the best of Key West local talent throughout the contest. Over twenty five contestants will parade their Headdress creations on the amphitheater stage to vie for the $3,000 first prize.
www.fantasyfest.com
October 26
FALL BACKCOUNTRY FLY CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
Tournament anglers are to compete to catch the most inches of snook and redfish on fly in a challenge where one inch equals one point. Awards are to be given to the grand champion and runner-up, and to the anglers who catch the largest snook and redfish. The field is limited to 30 boats.
www.bfctournament.com
October 26
FANTASY FEST MASQUERADE MARCH – Key West
Famed as “the locals’ parade,” the march typically draws high-spirited revelers wearing everything from elaborate masks and costumes to offbeat creations inspired by the festival theme. Begins at the Key West Cemetery at Frances Street entrance but revelers can join the mad march anywhere along the two routes. Start marching at 5:30 p.m.; all are welcome; free admission.
www.fantasyfest.com
October 27
BUD LIGHT FANTASY FEST PARADE
The madcap merriment of Fantasy Fest is to culminate during the Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade through Key West’s historic downtown. Tens of thousands of spectators converge to cheer the parade’s elaborately costumed marching groups, dancers in bright feathered costumes and dazzling motorized floats. Join thousands of exuberant partygoers! It doesn’t get any wilder than this! Parade steps off at 7 p.m.; free to spectate.
www.fantasyfest.com
PAST EVENTS
August 3-5
Special Museums and Attractions Weekend
Organized by WLRN, South Florida’s National Public Radio affiliate, in partnership with the Florida Keys tourism council, the sixth annual Florida Keys & Key West Museum and Attractions Weekend event provides free or value-added admission passes to participating museums and attractions in the island chain. The program is essentially a cultural pass for South Florida residents and visitors to discover the history of the Florida Keys by offering free- or reduced-admission incentives to experience more than 20 participating museums and attractions. Register free online, download and print your pass.
August 9-12
22nd Annual Key West Lobsterfest: A Crustacean Celebration!
305-744-9804
Events include a Thursday night lobster boil, Friday night Duval Crawl, Saturday street fair with lobster-inspired culinary creations and a free concert, and a luscious lobster brunch Sunday. The festive feast celebrates the start of the Florida Keys lobster season.
August 15
Tropical Heat
305-294-4603
The Key West Business Guild presents this all-male celebration that typically includes pool and dance parties, on-the-water adventures and a fashion show that raises money for a local non-profit organization.
August 18
Support the Nationwide Annual Clear The Shelters Event!
Key West 305-294-4857; Marathon 305-743-4800
The nationwide Clear the Shelters event is from 10am-6pm where we will be extending our hours to host an Adoption Event at BOTH our Key West and Marathon Campus. Adoption fees will be completely waived this day! Current adoption procedures & policies still apply. There will also be games, kids activities, a face painter, door prizes, food, a “Kissing” booth and fun for the whole family. Stop by either the Key West or Marathon shelter to meet some amazing animals and support the Florida Keys SPCA.
PAST EVENTS
May 9-13
THE KEY WEST SONGWRITER’S FESTIVAL
The annual showcase of musical magic features America’s foremost performing songwriters, with concerts staged in intimate, audience-friendly island settings. The largest festival of its kind in the world celebrates its 23 years as both a tourist attraction and favorite of island locals. The festival revolves around five days and nights of big stars in intimate settings, introducing audiences to the faces, voices and stories behind the songs.
www.keywestsongwritersfestival.com
May 17
STYX AND BLUE OYSTER CULT AT KEY WEST AMPHITHEATER – Key West
Styx draws from over four decades of barnburning chart hits, joyous singalongs, and hard-driving deep cuts. “Blue Collar Man,” “Lady,” “Miss America,” “Man in the Wilderness,” “Crystal Ball,” “Come Sail Away” to the grainy all-in gallop of that rugged “Renegade,” immerse yourself in their signature sound. Blue öyster Cult has been thrilling fans of intelligent hard rock worldwide with powerful albums loaded with classic songs, including “(Don’t Fear) The Reaper,” “Godzilla” the hypnotically melodic “Burnin’ for You,” and “Buck Dharma.”
www.thekeywesttheater.com
May 17
KEY LARGO’S ORIGINAL MUSIC FESTIVAL– Key Largo
Enjoy the food, entertainment and ambiance of Key Largo during this singers and songwriters event. Multiple “on the water” venues feature Nashville’s hit songwriters and musicians as well as unique local entertainers. Presented by the Upper Keys Business Group.
www.keylargooriginalmusicfest.com
May 26
HOWIE MANDELL AT THE KEY WEST THEATER – Key West
Howie Mandel has remained a constant force in show business for over 30 years. Mandel is executive producer of many shows through his production company ALEVY PRODUCTIONS, which has produced the series Take It All and Howie Do It for NBC, Deal With It for TBS and Mobbed for FOX, among others. He currently serves as a judge on NBC’s hit summer talent competition series, America’s Got Talent, now in its 11th season with this being Mandel’s seventh season on the series. Shows at 6:30 p.m. & 9:30 p.m.
www.thekeywesttheater.com
April 8
BAY JAM – Islamorada
An all-day music and art festival at Founders Park from 11am – 8pm. This year’s musical acts include Coconut Cowboys, Matt Phillips, Felix with Baga Tricks, Lady A, Dave Feder, Bill Todd, The usual Suspects, Pasta & The Lower Mat Rats and Scott Youngberg. Admission is free, no coolers please.
www.facebook.com/keyiceFL/
April 14
THE SHRIMP ROAD SEAFOOD & CRAFT BEER FESTIVAL – Stock Island
This festival takes place from noon until 5pm at the pier on Stock Island. Taste seafood prepared by chefs from Stock Island, Key West and the lower keys. Also sample craft beer popular Florida breweries. Enjoy live entertainment from local musicians and join them at the after-party at the Salty Oyster Raw Bar until 8pm.
www.shrimproadseafoodfest.com
April 14
MOTE MARINE LABORATORY’S EIGHTH ANNUAL OCEANFEST – Key West
Mote Marine Laboratory is pleased to announce its 8th annual Ocean Fest from 10 a.m. – 6 p.m. at NOAA’s Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center and newly remodeled Truman Waterfront. Underwater and outdoor enthusiasts, eco-travelers and families are encouraged to celebrate the marine environment as we explore conservation exhibits, view and purchase wares from local artists and vendors, experience touch tanks, and listen to live music all while raising funds for coral reef research and restoration. Art activities to be led by renowned marine artist Wyland.
April 14
THE 37th ANNUAL SEVEN MILE BRIDGE RUN – Marathon
Over 1,500 runners will participate in the annual foot race across the longest of the 43 bridges that help comprise the Florida Keys Overseas Highway. Sponsored by the Marathon Runners Club. Bridge is to be closed from 6:45 a.m. to 9 a.m.
www.7mbrun.com
April 16
THE 23rd ANNUAL TASTE OF KEY WEST – Key West
Taste samples of foods from Key West restaurants at this event that benefits AIDS Help Inc. The celebration takes place at Mallory Square.
www.ahmonroe.org
April 17
THE FINAL SAIL
This four-day challenge is the ‘grand finale’ of the 4-leg Quest for the Crest Sailfish Series. Team cash prizes include up to $50,000 for first place and $18,000 and $10,000 to second- and third-place anglers, plus trophies, respectively. Early entry fee is available.
www.bluewatermovements.com
April 19
TREASURES IF NOAA ARK KICK OFF EVENT – Islamorada
Treasures of NOAA’s Ark opening at the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center in Islamorada, FL, explores the history of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and how the agency, part of the U.S. Department of Commerce, has impacted people across the nation and world. Artifacts like 18th-century maps and early scientific instruments highlight NOAA’s legacy of science, service, and stewardship. Join the Florida Keys History & Discovery Center at The Islander Resort, 82100 Overseas Highway, from 5-8 p.m. Free admission. Open to the public. Treasures of NOAA’s Ark will be on display through February 2019, Thursday-Sunday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Admission is $12, $10 for seniors. Children 13 and under are free.
April19
TOM’S HARBOR BRIDGE CLEANUP AND EARTH DAY CELEBRATION – Marathon
Dolphin Research Center, MM 59 bayside on Grassy Key, is sponsoring a bridge cleanup for any interested volunteers who want to enjoy some time outdoors while giving back to the environment. Participants are to meet at Tom’s Harbor Bridge, mile marker 60.6, from 4:30 – 6 p.m. The cleanup will begin at the parking area on the west end of the bridge on the ocean side. Volunteers are encouraged to wear clothes, hats and shoes that can get wet or dirty and bring a bug repellent, sunscreen and a cutting tool.
April 20
THE 36TH ANNUAL CONCH REPUBLIC INDEPENDENCE CELEBRATION – Key West
With activities ranging from wacky bed race to a lighthearted sea battle featuring tall ships, the Conch Republic’s 10-day birthday party showcases the independent and eccentric spirit that characterizes the Florida Keys.
www.conch-republic.com
April 21
FIRST DAY OF NATIONAL PARK WEEK: FREE ADMISSION TO DRY TORTUGAS NATIONAL PARK
National Park Service is offering free entrance in celebration of National Park Week. At Dry Tortugas National Park, please check in with our official providers of transportation to the park for schedules, prices, and reservations. (All transportation departs from Key West.) Ferries and seaplanes leaving from Key West will waive park entrance fees.
www.nps.gov
March 2-4
12th ANNUAL SOMBRERO BEACH RUN
A weekend full of running food, drinks, music and entertainment. This event takes place at mile marker 50 at Sombrero Beach. There are several races – a 10k run, 5k run and 5k walk.
www.sombrerobeachrun.com
March 3
CONCH SHELL BLOWING CONTEST
An island tradition! This unique contest celebrates the historic importance of the conch in the keys. The contest will be held at the garden of the “Oldest House” in Key West at 322 Duval street. Registration begins at 10am and the contest starts at noon.
www.oirf.org
March 4
THE 61st ANNUAL KEY COLONY BEACH DAYS
This event features vendors, food, live music and more. A Shriner’s pancake breakfast starts at 8am, a parade begins at 11:30am. Admission is FREE.
www.kcbca.org
March 7
THE KEY WEST CELEBRATION
Enjoy rum tasting, cigars live entertainment, island history, a silent auction and the unveiling of the restored, world’s largest cigar sculpture. The event takes place from 5-8pm at Gato Village Pocket Park.
March 10
FOOD TRUCKS IN PARADISE
The Key West Art & Historical Society presents the 3rd annual Key West Food Truck Festival at the Fort East Martello parade grounds. This family-friendly event includes tons of food trucks and lots of live entertainment.
www.kwahs.org/event/music-at-martello-food-trucks-in-paradise-2017
March 10-17
THE ORIGINAL MARATHON SEAFOOD FESTIVAL
Enjoy seafood delicacies from the surrounding waters. This event taks place at mile marker 4- at the Marathon Community Park. This event is sponsored by the Organized Fisherman of Florida and the Marathon Chamber or Commerce.
www.marathonseafoodfestival.com
March 16
THE 58th ANNUAL KEY WEST HOUSE & GARDEN TOUR
Tour a series of elegant homes and gardens in Key West.
www.oirf.org
March 18
THE THIRD ANNUAL ISLAMORADA SEAFOOD FESTICAL AND ART SHOW
This festival benefits the Moose charities. The event features delicious seafood form local chefs plus cocktails and beers along with entertainment and fun for the kids. This event takes place at the Islamorada Moose Lodge from 11am – 5pm.
www.facebook.com/IslamoradaMoose
THE 24TH ANNUAL PIGEON KEY FESTIVAL
February 2-3 –Marathon
Artists and craftspeople will exhibit their work at this festival located at the Marathon Community Park. The festival always includes plenty of art, music and good food. This year marine artist Wyland will visit the festival and create paintings that will auctioned off as part of the festival. Proceeds from the festival benefit the Pigeon Key Foundation.
www.pigeonkeyartfestival.com
THE SECOND ANNUAL ISLAMORADA MARATHON/ HALF MARATHON AND 10K
February 3
Runners, come join the fun and participate in the Marathon, Half Marathon or 10K races. Non-Runners can partake in the 4 Beer – 1 mile Walk, Friday night. There are cash prizes for the top 3 male/female finishers in each race. Registration for all events is online.
www.islamoradahalfmarathon.com
THE MILE 0 FEST KEY WEST
Feb 7 – 10 – Key West
Come one, come all to the inaugural Key West Mile 0 Fest! This is a music fest celebrating the burgeoning Red Dirt & Americana music scene. Watch shows at the Truman Waterfront Park Amphitheatre and at local participating bars along Duval street. Participate in a charity golf outing or fishing derby as well.
www.mile0fest.com
THE FOURTH ANNUAL PARADE OF PAWS
February 10 – Key West
Bring your furry friends to the Shopping Bazaar inside the dog park at Higgs beach and enjoy entertainment, food vendors and arts and crafts. This event benefits the Florida Keys SPCA.
www.fkspca.org/calendar-of-events/
THE 58TH ANNUAL KEY WEST HOME & GARDEN TOUR
February 16 – 17 – Key West
Tour elegant homes and gardens in Key West ranging from exquisite restorations to unique renovations. Marvel at interesting and engaging interior design. The tours are offered from 10am – 4pm each day. Transportation is not provided. Proceeds benefit the Oldest House Museum.
www.oirf.org
THE 38th ANNUAL KEY LARGO GARDEN WALK
February 17 – Key Largo
www.gardenclubupperkeys.org/
GARDENFEST: THE GREEN MARKET PLACE
February 17 – Key West
This giant plant sale features a variety of native and non-native tropical plants, earth-based art and healthy living vendors. Enjoy food trucks serving healthy fare, and beer and wine in the Courtyard.
keywest.garden
THE 2ND ANNUAL ALR CORAL HEAD MUSICFEST
February 17 –Marathon
Nationally recognized bands and local favorites are set to perform at this 2 day, all-day music fest. This event is being held at the Marathon Community Park Amphitheater and benefits several local charities.
www.coralheadmusicfest.com
KEY WEST GARDEN TOURS
February 23 – Key West
Explore the oceanfront site at 1100 Atlantic Blvd. that has been the garden club’s headquarters for more than 50 years. See spectacular plants like orchids, bromeliads, and more.
Donna Farrow 410-544-2379
FITNESS FOR A CAUSE: PAWS IN THE PARK
February 24 – Marathon
Get fit and have fun for a cause. Join others at Key Colony Beach for a mile walk benefitting the animals of the SPCA. Be sure to bring your four-legged friend along too. Resister at city at 9am. A $10 donation is suggested.
http://fkspca.org/
ROTARY GIANT NAUTICAL FLEA MARKET
February 24-25 – Islamorada
It finally Here Again! The event bargain hunters look forward to all year long. Join thousands of hunters in search of nautical treasures like fishing gear, rods, reels, tools, dive gear, art and more. The event takes place at Founders Park from 8am – 3pm each day. Parking is FREE. Overflow parking and a free shuttle to the park is available at Coral Shores High School. Admisssion to the event is $5.
www.facebook.com/Upper-Keys-Rotary-Nautical-Flea-Market-123141536974/
2017 EVENTS
THE KEY LARGO HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE
Key Largo – December 9th
To help Santa navigate his stopover in the Florida Keys, large and small boats are lighted and decorated to illuminate the waterways and enliven the Keys’ holiday season.
Boat parades are planned throughout the island chain, featuring vessel decorations that range from traditional lights and greenery to offbeat salutes to the season.
GIGANTIC NAUTICAL FLEA MARKET
February 25 – 26
Browse and buy secondhand and wholesale boating accessories, electronics, fishing and scuba gear, nautical antiques, and coastal art. There are hundreds of vendors including lots of food trucks. To learn more about this event visit www.fla-keys.com/news/article/8638/
KEY LARGO’S ORIGINAL MUSIC FESTIVAL
May 18 – 21
Key Largo’s Original Music Festival takes place at multiple venues in Key Largo
Enjoy the food, entertainment and ambiance of Key Largo during this singers and songwriters event.
Multiple “on the water” venues feature Nashville’s hit songwriters and musicians as well as unique local entertainers.
For more information on this event please call 305-394-3736
FIFTH ANNUAL KEY LIME FESTIVAL
July 1 – 4
A wacky talent show, pie-eating and cooking contests and other tasty temptations await Key West visitors during the fourth annual Key Lime Festival. A Key Lime martini Sip and Stroll, Key lime rum sampling and distillery tour as well as a new Key Lime Pie Hop are among events to kickoff the four-day tasty fest.
9TH FOURTH OF JULY HARBOR WALK
July 4 Key West
Join the Bar Stroll in Red White and Blue, honoring local active military and Key West’s penchant for fun. Starts at noon; come early, meet and greet, enjoy the scenic Key West Harbor, and enjoy the entertainment. A $25 entry fee includes a commemorative t-shirt and a ticket to present at nine local establishments along the Harbor Walk for a free beverage or food item. Bar Stroll will begin at Lagerheads Beach Bar and Grill, 1 Simonton St, on the beach. Tickets sold there, or pre-register via email.
Contact: Rick Dostal 305-766-0239
Email: captrick@earthlink.net
MEL FISHER DAYS
July 13-15 Key West
Come commemorate the anniversary of Mel Fisher’s famous 16-year search for the Spanish galleon Atocha and the discovery of the Atocha Mother Load . Annual Dock Party at Schooner Wharf Bar on Saturday, July 15th, with tours of salvaging vessels, raffle, silent and live auctions and live entertainment. Private tours of the Fisher Family Conservation Laboratory July 13 & 15. Contest: Enter to win an Atocha Coin July 13-15. Laboratory July 13 & 15. Contest: Enter to win an Atocha Coin July 13-15! Proceeds from these events are to benefit Wesley House Family Services, Inc.
Contact: 305-296-6533
HEMINGWAY DAYS
July 18-23 Key West
The 37th annual celebration of the legendary author’s work and lifestyle features literary readings, the Running of the Bulls, a short story competition, fishing tournament, 5k Run and Paddleboard Race, Sloppy Joe’s Look-Alike Contest and a birthday “party” commemorating Ernest’s July 21st birthday.
Contact: (305) 296-2388 (Look-Alike); 797-0579 (literary)
21ST ANNUAL KEY WEST LOBSTERFEST
August 10 – 13 Key West
Events include a Thursday night lobster boil, Friday night Duval Crawl, Saturday street fair with lobster-inspired culinary creations and a free concert, and a luscious lobster brunch Sunday. The festive feast celebrates the start of the Florida Keys lobster season.
Contact: 305-744-9804
THE GRAND PRIX OF THE SEA
August 19-20
Don’t miss this exciting weekend of powerboat and jetski racing. Islamorada will be bustling as over 400 contestants descend on these isles for a weekend of racing and revelry. The format of these races is simple: competitors are divided into two categories – ENDURO or SPRINT depending on what type personal watercraft they ride and the style of riding they enjoy. Then, depending on the quality of the field, the category is divided by ability into Pro or Amateur.
To learn more visit www.www.p1aquax.com
NATIONAL PARKS BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION: FREE PARK ADMISSION
August 25
Get out and explore the keys National Parks-Everglades National Park and Dry Tortugas National Park. Ferries and seaplanes leaving from Key West for the Dry Tortugas will waive park entrance fees of $10 per visitor. Car entrance fee for Everglades National park is normally $20 per car. During fee-free days, the 124 national parks that charge entrance fees waive them for all visitors. The entrance fee waiver for the fee-free days does not cover amenity or user fees for things such as camping, boat launches, transportation, or special tours.
To learn more visit their website at www.nps.gov
BIKE WEEK KEY WEST
September 14th -17th
Come to ride all over the beautiful Keys on the scenic US Highway 1 and enjoy many of the activities that are available for you aside from the all-night parties on Duval Street – snorkeling, fishing, dive trips, para-sailing, jet skiing, and of course enjoying food, drinks and shopping central to the area.
There are many events that make this bike-week worth attending, like live entertainment, bar crawls, bike shows, street parties, vendors, tattoo contests, cash prizes, demo rides and more! Then there’s the infamous Poker Run, which is a ride that hits several restaurants and bars so you can draw cards that could win you thousands of dollars at the end of the day.
The more hands you purchase, the greater chance you have of winning Best Hand and going on to a game of Texas Hold-em, where you’ll then have the opportunity to win the new Harley-Davidson Sportster 883 Iron or $6,000 cash.
www.bikeweekevents.com/motorcycle-rallies/key-west-poker-run/
THE FOURTH ANNUAL HUMPHREY BOGART FILM FESTIVAL
October 18-22
Celebrate legendary actor Humphrey Bogart’s life, his films and the golden era of cinema. Attendees can enjoy attractions including cocktail parties, Bogart film screenings and canal cruises on the African Queen, the original vessel from the 1951 film that starred Bogie himself. Celebrating Bogart’s life, his films and the golden era of cinema, the 2017 festival honors the 75th anniversary of “Casablanca,” set against the backdrop of Key Largo’s luxurious new Playa Largo Resort & Spa at mile marker (MM) 97. Returning to co-host events and film screenings is Stephen Bogart, son of Humphrey Bogart and actress Lauren Bacall. He is to be joined by his sister Leslie Bogart, making this the first festival to feature both children of Bogart and Bacall.
For additional information visit www.bogartfilmfestival.com
HURRICANE IRMA BENEFIT – FREE CONCERT BY THE SOUTH FLORIDA SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA
October 13th
The South Florida Symphony String Quartet will perform Bedřich Smetana’s String Quartet No. 1 in e minor, “From my life,” and Antonín Dvořák’s “American” String Quartet No. 12, Op. 96. The concert takes place at 7:30 in Key west at The Studios of Key West at 533 Eaton Street.
THE 6TH ANNUAL STANDUP PADDLE INVITATIONAL
October 13-15
This is a inclusive paddleboard event benefiting the Special Olympics. The event begins Friday night from 4 – 7pm with the Athletes Reception at Lucy’s Retired Surfer Bar on Grinnell street in Key West. Athletes can register for the race and pick up packets. There will be a Taco bar buffet available. Saturday, October 14 the races have been cancelled. Instead participants are encouraged to sign up for a work crew that will help with hurricane Irma clean-up. Please bring water, sunscreen, bug spray and your muscles. After the day of clean-up, a Luau Dinner and Dance will take place from 4-7pm at the New York Pasta Garden Restaurant at 1075 Duval Street. Sunday, October 15 the races will take place. Check in begins at 7am. The Special Olympics races start at 8am and the Open race 2 mile paddle with beach obstacle course takes place at 11:30am.
FANTASY FEST KEY WEST
October 20 – 28th
Fantasy Fest is an annual 10-day party in paradise for grown-ups. Started in 1979 by a small group of Key West locals, the party was created to bring visitors to the island in what was a typically quiet, but beautiful season. It worked. Fantasy Fest has grown every year since its inception and is now the wildest extravaganza around! Fun-loving revelers from around the globe bring their creativity and imaginations as they descend upon Key West each year in October for 10 days filled with costuming, parades, libations, and excitement!
There are a myriad of events to attend, some family friendly, some not so much. There are drag shows, masquerade balls, burlesque shows, A 5K race/walk, a glow-in-the dark dance party, Bahamian Goombay festival, a headress ball, an ABC (anything but clothes) party, Sloppy Joes toga party, a white party, Duval street block party, street fair and much more.
The event culminates in the Fantasy Fest parade on Saturday, October 28th. A mardi gras style affair that draws almost 100,000 revelers.
For more info visit www.fantasyfest.com
THE ISLAND DOLPHIN CARE “I DO CARE” FUNDRAISER
Key Largo – November 18
Enjoy an evening of cocktails, dinner, dancing, entertainment and silent and live auctions to benefit Island Dolphin Care’s inhabitants and therapy programs.
For more information visit the website: www.islanddolphincare.org
THE LIGHTING OF KEY WEST – THE HARBOR WALK OF LIGHTS
Key West – November 22
This is an eagerly awaited annual event that kicks off the Christmas Season. The event takes place at the intersection of Greene and Elizabeth streets at 6pm. Witness the historic Key West Seaport come alive in this dazzling spectacle of lights.
THE BIG PINE AND LOWER KEYS ISLAND ART FESTIVAL
Big Pine – November 25
The lower keys Chamber of Commerce will once again host and day of live music by local entertainers, great food and exhibits by local artisans. This event takes place at the lower keys Chamber of Commerce located at MM 31.
THE KEYS HOLIDAY BOAT PARADES
Key Largo – December 9th
To help Santa navigate his stopover in the Florida Keys, large and small boats are lighted and decorated to illuminate the waterways and enliven the Keys’ holiday season.
Boat parades are planned throughout the island chain, featuring vessel decorations that range from traditional lights and greenery to offbeat salutes to the season.
THE 36TH ANNUAL KEY WEST WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP RACES
Key West – November 5-12
The Super Boat International concludes in Key West where high-speed offshore powerboats compete in an annual race in the waters surrounding Key West. An amazing spectator sport as boats race at speeds over 100 miles per hour.
THE 20TH ANNUAL TASTE OF THE ISLANDS
Marathon – November 12
Sample foods from Florida Keys restaurants as you enjoy a day of food, fun, music and art at the Marathon Community Park. This event takes place from 11am -5pm. For additional information visit the Facebook page: BPWMarathonTaste.
THE KEY WEST FILM FESTIVAL
Key West – November 15 – 19
This year’s film festival will feature several films and special events at landmark venues in Key West. Watch feature length films, short films and documentaries by established and aspiring film makers. Attend Kick-off and cocktail parties wit great food, drinks and entertainment. For more information visit the website: www.kwfilmfest.com
