Release Archive
Food and wine enthusiasts can savor sunshine, stellar cuisine and superior vintages during the fourth annual Key West Food and Wine Festival, set for Thursday through Sunday, Jan. 24-27. Scheduled events showcase local chefs' culinary flair, indigenous Florida Keys ingredients, premium wines from around the world and food-related adventures including tasting strolls in unique Key West neighborhoods.
Friday, December 21, 2012
Two renowned American writers who live in Key West are to display their talent for visual art during a Jan. 12-20 exhibit at The Gallery on Greene, 606 Greene St. in the island's Historic Seaport district.
Friday, December 21, 2012
Attendees can sample culinary masterpieces prepared by leading local chefs at Key West's 19th annual Master Chefs Classic cuisine competition. The popular event is scheduled 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 27, overlooking Key West Harbor at the Westin Key West Resort and Marina Pier, 245 Front St.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
The island that has nurtured creative artists from John James Audubon to Mario Sanchez is to host approximately 100 national and regional artisans Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 26-27, during the 28th annual Key West Craft Show.
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
As many as 1,500 runners are expected to race through Key West's historic Old Town and scenic waterfront Sunday, Jan. 20, during the 15th annual Key West Half Marathon. Slated for 7 a.m., the challenge takes place on a flat, fast 13.1-mile course.
Monday, December 17, 2012
Restored cigar-makers' cottages and gingerbread-trimmed Victorian mansions stand side by side on Key West's narrow streets, creating an intriguing architectural fusion in the historic Old Town district. Visitors can explore houses exemplifying that architectural heritage - and contemporary island design - during weekend house and garden tours set for January, February and March 2013.
Friday, December 14, 2012
The fresh seafood that has been a highlight of Keys cuisine for nearly two centuries and the commercial fishermen who devote their careers to harvesting it are to be celebrated Saturday, Jan. 19, in a flavorful Key West festival. The eighth annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival is set for 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. at the island city's Bayview Park, located at Truman Avenue and Jose Marti Drive. Admission to the family-friendly event is free.
Thursday, December 13, 2012
An exhibition of 39 original painted woodcarvings and four sketches by the late Key West folk artist Mario Sanchez is to debut at the official reopening of New York City's South Street Seaport Museum. The exhibit opening is set for Friday, Dec. 14, following the museum's recovery from Hurricane Sandy damage.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
A performance by Russian-born pianist Natasha Paremski is to highlight the South Florida Symphony's Key West concert set for 8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 11. Titled Epic Heroes and Their Goddesses, the concert is part of the symphony's 15th anniversary season and takes place at the Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Road.
Wednesday, December 12, 2012
The 13th annual No Name Race 5k Walk/Run is set to take place in the Lower Keys Saturday, Jan. 12, benefiting the Domestic Abuse Shelter of Monroe County, Fla. The 3.1-mile race begins at 8 a.m., presented by the shelter and coordinated by the Key West Southernmost Runners Club.
Tuesday, December 11, 2012
In a unique event to promote nature-based tourism on Florida's waterways, up to 100 nature-loving kayakers are to embark on a four-day Florida Keys Challenge set for Friday through Monday, Jan. 18-21, 2013.
Wednesday, December 5, 2012
A hallmark lecture series exploring the Florida Keys' history, archaeology and fragile environment has attracted residents and visitors to Key Largo's John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for 22 years. Sponsored by Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock State Park, the free-admission "Delicate Balance of Nature" talks are presented by field experts in aquaculture, marine and geological sciences, ornithology, ecology and biology.
Tuesday, December 4, 2012
America's southernmost island just might go to the dogs Monday, Dec. 31, when around 200 short-legged, long-bodied canines and their owners gather for the eighth annual Key West Dachshund Walk. An offbeat New Year's Eve tradition, the procession of pooches begins at noon at the corner of Whitehead and Fleming streets in Key West's historic downtown.
Monday, December 3, 2012
Aficionados of boating, fishing and diving in the Florida Keys' ocean realm can take their pick of maritime merchandise at the Big Pine Nautical Flea Market set for Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 19-20. The ninth annual maritime showcase is to be held from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. both days on the grounds of the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce, mile marker 31 oceanside on Big Pine Key.
Friday, November 30, 2012
The Florida Keys & Key West provide year-round entertainment for visitors, from festivals focusing on the area's colorful history, artistic culture and quirky ambiance to events that celebrate the Keys' underwater paradise and culinary cuisine.
Thursday, November 29, 2012
After five years, a signature summer wine tasting and culinary event is expanding to become the 10-day wintertime Uncorked: the Key Largo & Islamorada Food & Wine Festival, scheduled Thursday through Saturday, Jan. 10-19. Presented by the Upper Keys Business Group, the tasty food, wine and spirits celebration features more than 30 planned eclectic and palate-pleasing pairing events to suit every taste and budget.
Thursday, November 29, 2012
Leading contemporary writers are to offer insights into the lives and work of literary icons including Jack Kerouac, Sylvia Plath, Emily Dickinson, Gore Vidal, Ernest Hemingway and Walt Whitman during the 31st annual Key West Literary Seminar.
Wednesday, November 28, 2012
The southernmost city in the continental United States is to host one of the most prestigious regattas on the international sailing circuit Sunday through Friday, Jan. 20-25. Quantum Key West 2013 features five days of competitive racing and surrounding activities. Yachting teams from more than 12 countries and 20 American states are registered so far.
Tuesday, November 27, 2012
New Year's Eve partiers unwilling to endure cold-weather festivities, such as the traditional "ball drop" in New York's Times Square, can find exuberant celebrations and far warmer temperatures in the Florida Keys. Key West revelers can choose from three lighthearted takeoffs on the Times Square gala as midnight approaches Monday, Dec. 31.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
The southernmost city in the continental United States is to host one of the most prestigious regattas on the international sailing circuit Sunday through Friday, Jan. 20-25. Quantam Key West 2013 features five days of competitive racing and surrounding activities. Yachting teams from more than 12 countries and 20 American states are registered so far.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Despite being located on Florida's subtropical southernmost island, inns in Key West are decorated for the holidays as enthusiastically as if they were Santa's own hostelries. Visitors can discover the holiday spirit - and Key West's unique architecture and heritage - during lighted inn tours beginning at 6 p.m. on two consecutive Fridays, Dec. 7 and 14.
Monday, November 19, 2012
The historic harbor walk linking colorful seaport restaurants, bars and businesses at the Key West Bight Marina area is to come alive with holiday lights, decorated Christmas trees and unique gifts displayed in shops and galleries during the Key West Bight Before Christmas Holiday Celebration that runs Nov. 21 through Dec. 31.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Collegiate swimmers and future Olympians are set to compete in the Orange Bowl Swimming Classic Thursday, Jan. 3, at the Jacobs Aquatic Center, mile marker 99.6 oceanside in Key Largo. Part of a monthlong Orange Bowl training session held each year in the Keys, the classic hosts some of the nation's finest competitors.
Thursday, November 15, 2012
Although subtropical air temperatures are forecast to be in the 70s, a 20-ton snow mountain is expected to delight moms, dads and mitten-clad children during the annual Florida Keys Holiday Festival Friday, Dec. 7, at Islamorada's Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside.
Tuesday, November 13, 2012
Two Civil War-era forts on Key West's Atlantic Ocean shore are to become the backdrop for unique artwork during Sculpture Key West, set for Dec. 1 through March 23 in the island city. The open-air exhibition features pieces by renowned and emerging international, national and local artists. Highlights include performance art involving a unicycle tour along the Florida Keys' Overseas Heritage Trail.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
The spirit of the holiday season comes alive in the Florida Keys & Key West with holiday happenings and festive functions spreading cheer in a subtropical climate. From Key Largo to Key West the calendar is packed with events designed to celebrate the holiday spirit - including festive lighted boat parades featuring vessels whose decorations range from traditional greenery to offbeat salutes to the season.
Thursday, November 8, 2012
Whether arriving by land or sea, Florida Keys visitors can relax while Santa's elves prepare the holiday feast and festivities at the Christmas in the Keys festival set for Friday through Sunday, Nov. 30 - Dec. 2. A deliciously themed and decorated weekend event, Christmas in the Keys includes food, specialty drinks, family activities, games and a live local music entertainment lineup staged at the Hawks Cay Resort marina.
Friday, November 2, 2012
Roots, reggae and rocking dub-hop are to unite at the fourth annual BayJama Reggae Fest set for Saturday, Nov. 10, at Capital Bank Amphitheater in Islamorada's Founders Park, located at mile marker 87. Admission to the daylong music festival is free with a nonperishable donation for local food banks, in accordance with the season's spirit of giving.
Friday, November 2, 2012
Galleries, arts organizations, musicians, poets, artists, restaurants, performers and more are to present an islandwide celebration of creativity Friday through Sunday, Nov. 30-Dec. 2. Art! Key West! showcases three days of artistry throughout historic Old Town as well as spotlight events that rotate among the island's multiple cultural districts. Attendees can enjoy gallery openings, performance art, graffiti walls, live music, theatrical stagings, poetry readings, projection displays, a chalk art happening and much more.
Thursday, November 1, 2012
Key West has been named one of the 12 Prettiest Painted Places in America in a national competition sponsored by the Paint Quality Institute. The winners, one large and one small town or district in each of six U.S. regions, were announced Thursday by the institute, whose mission is to educate the public about quality paints and coatings. Key West was judged the prettiest painted large town in the southeastern region.
Monday, October 29, 2012
On the tiny island where films such as Tennessee Williams' "The Rose Tattoo" and the James Bond adventure "License to Kill" were partially shot, cinema fans can indulge in four days of screenings and related events during the inaugural Key West Film Festival. Set for Thursday through Sunday, Nov. 29 - Dec. 2, the festival is to feature more than 30 films. Filmmakers, directors and producers associated with many of them are to attend to discuss their creations and answer audience questions.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Boat parades are planned throughout the Florida Keys, featuring decorated vessels large and small. From Key Largo to Key West, they will illuminate the waterways and enliven the Keys' holiday season. Visitors can view the processions from shore or excursion boat, or even deck out their own craft in lavish lights and greenery and become part of the merriment.
Thursday, October 25, 2012
Chefs representing a wide gamut of experiences are testing their best recipes in preparation for the tastefully acclaimed Key Largo Chamber of Commerce's 31st annual Key Largo Cook-Off. The culinary competition is set for Thursday, Nov. 8, at the Holiday Inn, mile marker (MM) 100 in Key Largo.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
Santa might wear shorts in the subtropical Lower Florida Keys, and palm trees might outnumber Christmas trees, but the holiday spirit flourishes amid the area's balmy breezes and warm temperatures. Visitors and Keys residents are invited to welcome the festive season and celebrate the creative arts at the Big Pine & Lower Keys Island Art Festival, themed Art & Music in a Natural Key.
Wednesday, October 24, 2012
An international Latin arts festival titled ¡Esperando Nacer! (I am Waiting to be Born!) is set for noon to 11 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 10, on the Florida Keys island that lies just 90 miles from Cuba. With events ranging from workshops to a highlight concert, the Key West festival is to celebrate Latin culture through the traditional music and dance of countries including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Cuba, Mexico, Peru and Uruguay.
Monday, October 22, 2012
The South Florida Symphony, a unique gathering of professional symphonic musicians that began as the Key West Symphony, is to launch its 15th anniversary Master Concerts season with a performance featuring renowned violinist Lara St. John. Titled "Beauty and the Bear," the concert is set for 8 p.m. Friday, Nov. 16, at the Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Road on the campus of Florida Keys Community College.
Wednesday, October 17, 2012
More than 200 years ago Key Largo was reputedly a haunt of the notorious 19th-century pirate Black Caesar. The island celebrates his "return" Oct. 18-21 during its infamous Pirates Fest. Revelers are to don pirate wear and unleash their inner buccaneer as Blackwater Sound transforms into a pirate stronghold during four days of piratical shows, interactive demonstrations and entertainment for the whole family.
Tuesday, October 16, 2012
Several thousand of singer/songwriter/author Jimmy Buffett's "Parrot Head" fans are to flock to Key West Thursday through Sunday, Nov. 1-4, for the their annual convention. Titled "Another Trip Around the Sun" after Buffett's 2004 duet with Martina McBride, the gathering celebrates his music and laidback lifestyle on the island credited with inspiring much of both.
Monday, October 15, 2012
Key West has been named the best winter weather location in the United States by the Farmers' Almanac, and the island city's Duval Street has been designated one of the 10 Great Streets for 2012 by the American Planning Association. The Farmers' Almanac ranking was announced in the 2013 edition of the popular annual publication, which has been published since 1818 and contains long-range weather predictions, gardening tips, recipes, travel tips, calendars and more.
Tuesday, October 9, 2012
Key West has been named Florida's only finalist in a national competition to find the Prettiest Painted Places in America sponsored by the Paint Quality Institute. The competition drew nearly 200 entrants, ranging from big-city neighborhoods to tiny rural towns and historic districts, from around the United States. Entrants were required to submit up to 20 photographs of representative painted home and business exteriors as well as written information about the community.
Friday, October 5, 2012
Bicyclists are to explore the Florida Keys and pedal one of America's most scenic highways during the seven-night, 200-mile BubbaFest Bike Tour set for Saturday through Saturday, Nov. 3-10. Led by retired police sergeant and biking enthusiast Bubba Barron, the fully supported adventure takes cycling fans from Key Largo to Key West and back along the Overseas Highway (U.S. Highway 1) that connects the Keys with each other and the Florida mainland.
Friday, October 5, 2012
More than 40 masquerade contests, themed parties, parades and other spectacles are to challenge the creativity of mask and costume designers during Key West's Fantasy Fest, scheduled Friday, Oct. 19, through Sunday, Oct. 28. Held on the subtropical island whose natives are called "conchs," the festival is themed "A-Conch-Alypse" to spoof an ancient prophecy that states the world will end in December 2012.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Legendary film icon Humphrey Bogart is to be celebrated May 2-5, 2013, in the setting of one of his most famous movies. The inaugural Humphrey Bogart Film Festival is to mark 65 years since the premiere of the movie Key Largo, starring Bogart and his wife Lauren Bacall, which was partially filmed on the island at the top of the Florida Keys archipelago.
Thursday, October 4, 2012
Revelers are to party like there's no tomorrow during the Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest Parade set for the night of Saturday, Oct. 27. The lavish procession is the highlight of Key West's Oct. 19-28 Fantasy Fest celebration, themed "A-Conch-Alypse" in a Keys-style salute to an ancient apocalypse prophecy.
Wednesday, October 3, 2012
The annual Goombay street festival, a high-energy celebration of the cultural connection between Key West and the Bahamas, is set for Friday and Saturday, Oct. 19-20. The lively festival is centered on Petronia Street, just off Key West's famed Duval Street in the heart of the historic Bahama Village neighborhood. The fun runs from noon to midnight both days.
Tuesday, October 2, 2012
A classic holiday ballet, recast to showcase Key West's tropical atmosphere, coral reef environment and seafaring heritage, is set for a seven-show run in the island city beginning Saturday, Dec. 15. Nutcracker Key West is the creation of Key West resident Joyce Stahl, a classically trained dancer who performed The Nutcracker and other ballets with New Jersey's American Repertory Ballet for 38 years.
Friday, September 28, 2012
A host of elite Nashville songwriters are to liven up three Key Largo stages Friday and Saturday nights, Oct. 19 and 20, during the inaugural Downtown Key Largo Songfest. The free-admission weekend festival features an eclectic range of genres, including jazz, blues, rock and roll, country and contemporary pop.
Wednesday, September 26, 2012
Working against the natural buoyancy of submerged hollow pumpkins, divers aim to wow judges during the 2012 Underwater Pumpkin Carving Contest set for Sunday, Oct. 21. Artistic divers are to strap on dive knives and descend 30 feet beneath the surface in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary to pare frightening facial features and transform their fleshy gourds into jolly jack-o'-lanterns.
Tuesday, September 25, 2012
Sometimes called the Indianapolis 500 of offshore powerboat racing, the Key West World Championship is to draw national and international racing teams to compete Nov. 4-11 in the waters surrounding the island city. The action kicks off with a parade of race boats down Key West's legendary Duval Street, slated to start at 4 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 4. Racing is scheduled throughout the week, with high-speed challenges taking place Wednesday, Nov. 7; Friday, Nov. 9, and Sunday, Nov. 11.
Friday, September 21, 2012
The winter season in the Florida Keys & Key West is as lively as it is warm and sunny, with an array of events to entertain. From art shows to fine food festivals and beyond, the island chain has an event to spark virtually anyones interest.
Thursday, September 20, 2012
Revelers dressed as zombies, invading aliens and other madcap creatures are to parade through Key West's historic Old Town Friday, Oct. 26, during a masquerade march for everyone who is ready to be rowdy. The march is a highlight of the annual Fantasy Fest celebration, a lavish pre-Halloween masking and costuming festival scheduled Oct. 19-28.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
While leaves are falling across the country, visitors will be falling in love this fall with new and exhilarating adventure activities, expanding flight options, enhanced accommodations and more in the Florida Keys & Key West. Explore the highlights here.
Tuesday, September 18, 2012
Revelers intrigued by the "heady" aspects of Key West's annual Fantasy Fest masking and costuming celebration can let their imaginations run wild at the 30th annual Headdress Ball, set for 8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 23. Billed as the premier gay and lesbian event of Fantasy Fest, the ball takes place under a gigantic tent at the Southernmost on the Beach, 508 South St.
Friday, September 7, 2012
The Florida Keys & Key West Museum and Attractions Weekend event, providing free or value-added admission passes to participating museums and attractions in the island chain, has been extended to include Labor Day weekend through Monday, Sept. 3.
Wednesday, August 29, 2012
Keys officials Monday discontinued a directive discouraging visitors from traveling to the Florida Keys that was initiated when Tropical Storm Isaac threatened the island chain. After the National Hurricane Center dropped a tropical storm warning Monday, local officials said visitors could begin returning immediately.
Tuesday, August 28, 2012
The "end of time" is party time in Key West when Fantasy Fest 2012 takes a lighthearted look at the ancient apocalypse prophecy stating the world will end in December 2012. The outrageous annual masking and costuming festival, set for Oct. 19-28 and themed A-Conch-Alypse, features 10 days of revelry on the subtropical island whose natives are called conchs.
Wednesday, August 22, 2012
Motorcyclists from throughout the United States are to travel one of America's most scenic highways to raise money for charity during the 40th annual Phil Peterson's Key West Poker Run, set for Thursday through Sunday, Sept. 13-16. Riders on up to 10,000 bikes are expected to traverse the Overseas Highway (U.S. Highway 1), the 113-mile roadway from mainland Florida to Key West that features 42 bridges and long vistas of breathtaking open water.
Monday, August 20, 2012
Marathon's Curry Hammock State Park has been awarded third place in the "America's Favorite Park" 2012 contest after a six-week online challenge that involved more than 16,000 national, state and local parks. Curry Hammock State Park garnered more than 8.2 million votes to earn the third-place slot. The park received a $25,000 recreation grant from the Coca-Cola Live Positively initiative to help enhance its activity areas.
Monday, August 20, 2012
WLRN, South Floridas National Public Radio affiliate, and the Florida Keys & Key West tourism council have partnered to offer free- or reduced-admission passes to a number of Florida Keys attractions and museums Friday through Sunday, Aug. 24-26. The program provides a cultural pass for South Florida residents and visitors to discover the history of the Florida Keys by offering incentives to experience 13 participating museums and attractions.
Monday, August 13, 2012
A creative arts-and-philanthropy partnership has inspired an eclectic "pop up" gallery that is enticing art lovers to the heart of Key West's Duval Street. Located in the former Fast Buck Freddie's emporium at the corner of Duval and Fleming streets, the cooperative gallery features a visually rich blend of oils, watercolors, sculpture, mixed media, fine art photography and more.
Wednesday, August 1, 2012
Divers can help capture and remove non-native lionfish from Keys waters Saturday and Sunday, July 21-22, as well as scout favorite lobster holes before the annual lobster mini season. Sanctuary Friends Foundation of the Florida Keys has partnered with the Marathon dive community to create the two-day tournament geared toward the removal of lionfish, a popular aquarium fish believed to been introduced to Florida waters during the 1980s.
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
The 14th annual Florida Keys Birding and Wildlife Festival is scheduled Tuesday through Sunday, Sept. 25-30, offering participants real-life tips for becoming better birders, outdoor enthusiasts and nature photographers. Focusing on native wildlife, the family-friendly event is staged at Marathons oceanfront preserve, Curry Hammock State Park, mile marker (MM) 56.2, and features field trips to national, state and private natural areas throughout the Florida Keys.
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
The second annual Captain Tony Days festivities, recalling the late Key West bar owner and former mayor renowned for his colorful life, is set for Wednesday through Saturday, Aug. 8-11. The lighthearted festival commemorates "Captain Tony" Tarracino, who owned the island's legendary Captain Tony's Saloon, 428 Greene St., for nearly 30 years.
Friday, July 6, 2012
A Massachusetts restaurateur won a Facebook-based competition Monday seeking the man who most looks like Ernest Hemingway. Richard Costello, 71, of Chatham beat 86 other entrants in the Virtual "Papa" Hemingway Look-Alike Contest staged on the Florida Keys tourism council's Facebook page. He wins a trip to Key West to compete in a preliminary round of the live Papa Hemingway Look-Alike Contest.
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
As well as warm sun and seas, summer in the Florida Keys & Key West offers visitors new and exhilarating adventure activities, expanding flight options, enhanced spa offerings and more.
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Visitors to Key Largo can decide what team best builds a race boat out of household materials during the wacky Anything That Floats regatta set for Friday and Saturday, Aug. 17-18.
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
The fall season in the Florida Keys & Key West is known for warm weather, sunny skies and an array of events to entertain. From pillaging pirates to high-speed powerboats to eco-conscious happenings, the Florida Keys & Key West has an event to interest virtually everyone.
Friday, June 15, 2012
Divers and snorkelers have an opportunity to witness a fascinating annual phenomenon among coral reefs as boulder and branching corals release millions of gametes in synchronized mass-spawning rituals in Key Largo. Sparked by the August and September full moons, the rare and wondrous underwater exchange of gametes (eggs and sperm) means the continued survival of coral reefs including brain and star corals and the protected elkhorn and staghorn corals.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Fans of good writing can explore a roster of literary and theatrical events during Hemingway Days 2012, set for Tuesday through Sunday, July 17-22. The festival celebrates the literary accomplishments and exuberant Key West lifestyle of legendary writer Ernest Hemingway, who lived on the island throughout the 1930s.
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
During the year marking the 75th publication anniversary of Ernest Hemingway's novel To Have and Have Not, scores of stocky bearded men should see if they have what it takes to win Sloppy Joe's Papa Hemingway Look-Alike Contest. Approximately 125 entrants are expected to compete in the look-alike challenge at Key West's Sloppy Joe's Bar, 201 Duval St., frequented by Hemingway when he lived and wrote on the subtropical island throughout the 1930s.
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
The legacy of Ernest Hemingway, who lived and wrote in Key West throughout the 1930s, is to be recognized Tuesday through Sunday, July 17-22, during the 32nd annual Hemingway Days. The popular festival celebrates the literary accomplishments, angling prowess and Key West lifestyle of the Nobel Prizewinning author.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
The waters surrounding the Florida Keys are to sparkle and pop during Independence Day celebrations in the island chain as families gather for beachside barbecues, parades and on-the-water fun that coincide with spectacular fireworks shows. Key West's 28th annual July 4 picnic to benefit Hospice of the Florida Keys and the Visiting Nurse Association is to take place at the luxurious Casa Marina Resort & Beach Club.
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
A portion of the continental United States' only living coral barrier reef is to be the stage for divers and snorkelers portraying reefality show personalities during the annual Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival. Set for Saturday, July 14, the quirky underwater concert takes place at Looe Key Reef, an area of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary approximately six miles south of Big Pine Key.
Monday, May 21, 2012
Revelers in Cuban attire are to conga from the shores of the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico Friday night, May 25, to celebrate Key West's rich and colorful Cuban heritage.
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Long-distance swimming enthusiasts are to compete in a 12.5-mile open-water swim Saturday, June 16, on a route that circumnavigates the island of Key West. Solo swimmers and relay teams of two to six people, with or without fins, are to compete in the annual Florida Keys Community College Swim Around Key West.
Monday, May 7, 2012
For children age 8 and older, popular summer Marine Science Camps held on the tiny island of Pigeon Key, an unusual historic site in the Florida Keys, present an exciting summer learning opportunity.
Friday, May 4, 2012
A tribute to Jose Marti, Cuba's foremost patriot and poet, and a celebration of Cuba's 1902 independence from Spain is set for Thursday through Sunday, May 17-20, at Key West's San Carlos Institute at 516 Duval St.
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Boats made of thin plywood and duct tape might not sound very seaworthy, but they're the only class of vessel allowed in the 21st annual Schooner Wharf Minimal Regatta, which is expected to provide maximum hilarity for both participants and spectators Sunday, May 27.
Monday, April 30, 2012
Splashy pool parties and on-the-water adventures, a film festival and comedy, pageants, late-night dance parties and an exuberant community parade are among the attractions during Key West Pride 2012. Set for Wednesday through Sunday, June 6-10, the festival spotlights the all-accepting diversity that has helped make Key West an internationally renowned gay and lesbian vacation spot.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
Multiple melodic happenings are to set the stage for music lovers during the fourth annual Key Largo Original Music Festival, featuring live and original performances Thursday through Sunday, May 17-20.
Thursday, April 26, 2012
While many Americans are pondering their vote for the nation's 45th president, political figures and scholars are to gather in Key West to examine the foreign aid policies and legacy of the 33rd president.
Thursday, April 12, 2012
Considered as tough as they are beautiful and unique, the Florida Keys' fifth annual KEYS100 Ultra-Marathon races are set for Saturday, May 19, with racers navigating up to 40 bridges over the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay and Gulf of Mexico.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Visitors can display their "conch" spirit during the fourth annual Key Largo Conch Republic Days, a locals' feast of frivolity and fun set for Wednesday through Sunday, April 25-29.
Thursday, April 5, 2012
The legacy of Ernest Hemingway, who lived and wrote in Key West throughout the 1930s, is to be recognized Tuesday through Sunday, July 17-22, during the 32nd annual Hemingway Days. The popular festival celebrates the literary accomplishments, angling prowess and Key West lifestyle of the Nobel Prizewinning author.
Tuesday, April 3, 2012
The writers behind some of America's hottest contemporary hits are to perform in casual island settings Wednesday through Sunday, May 2-6, during the 17th annual Key West Songwriters Festival. More than 100 performing songwriters are to take the stage for 30-plus shows during the lively five-day event.
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
Paddleboard and self-propelled watercraft enthusiasts are to circumnavigate the continental United State's southernmost island during the 12-mile Key West Paddleboard Classic. The sporting challenge and its associated events, including a skills clinic and parties, are set for Thursday through Sunday, May 10-13.
Friday, March 23, 2012
With sunny skies and balmy temperatures, spring in the Florida Keys & Key West heralds new and enhanced offerings in land and water attractions, historic experiences and even wedding opportunities.
Friday, March 23, 2012
Set against the backdrop of Florida Bay's turquoise waters, the 18th annual Bay Jam music festival promises a full slate of musicians performing from midday into the night Sunday, April 15. The onstage lineup is to feature more than a dozen nationally renowned musicians and exceptional local performers at the outdoor Capital Bank Amphitheater at Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside on Plantation Key.
Thursday, March 22, 2012
According to the Chinese astrology calendar, 2012 is a Water Dragon year. Participants in the annual Battle in the Bay Dragon Boat Festival set for Saturday, May 12, at Marathon's Sombrero Beach, hope to benefit from the luck that designation is thought to bring.
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
Earth Day is to be commemorated around the globe April 22, but in the Florida Keys & Key West, surrounded by a national marine sanctuary and paralleled by the continental United States' only living coral barrier reef, celebrations take place up to and including Earth Day.
Monday, March 19, 2012
Visiting gourmets can find Key West chefs specializing in local seafood, tropical and Caribbean fare, European or Asian cuisine, vegetarian dishes and more. Only on Monday, April 23, however, can they find them all showcasing their creations in the same place: the 17th annual Taste of Key West.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
A trumpeter with an uncanny likeness in look and sound to the legendary Louis "Satchmo" Armstrong returns to the stage March 30 for a jazz concert at the Murray E. Nelson Government and Cultural Center in Key Largo. Troy Anderson's signature gravely voice, trumpet and handkerchief are to be joined onstage by fellow members of the Wonderful World Band jazz tribute group.
Tuesday, March 13, 2012
No sleuthing skills are needed to understand why missing the inaugural Key West Mystery Fest, set for May 4-13, would be a "crime." Scheduled attractions include a world-premiere play, interactive puzzlers for amateur detectives, a chance to meet the creator and writer/producer of television's "Monk," mystery films, presentations by leading mystery authors and more.
Thursday, March 1, 2012
The southernmost island chain's vibrant marine environment is to be celebrated with live music, artistry, kids' activities, educational exhibits and more during the third annual Florida Keys Ocean Festival, set for noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, March 24.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Live beachfront music, mouthwatering food and an acclaimed juried arts and crafts show are sure to whet the entire family's appetites for the 21st annual Florida Keys Island Fest.
Friday, February 17, 2012
Internationally renowned pianist Jeffrey Chappell, an award-winning composer and veteran of stages in North and South America, Europe and Asia, is to appear as the featured soloist during the South Florida Symphony's final Key West master concert of the 2011-12 season.
Thursday, February 16, 2012
Several thousand divers visit the Florida Keys annually to dive the island chain's shipwreck trail. More than 100 of them completed a series of nine wreck dives to be eligible to win one of several dive and lodging packages and sets of dive equipment, and 10 winners were selected at random as part of the inaugural Florida Keys Wreck Trek Passport Program that ended in January.
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Dog and music lovers can take a "paws" for the cause at the third annual Woofstock Music Fair set for Saturday, March 10, at Islamorada's Founders Park, mile marker 87. Highlights of the far-out and free-admission festival include an 11:30 a.m. blessing of the pets for those who bring their favorite four-legged friends, K-9 search and rescue demonstrations and an animal adoption village with local rescue groups.
Friday, February 10, 2012
Among voguish artists and craftspeople from around the country, the acoustic guitar stylings of Casey Weston, a finalist on NBC's The Voice, are to be featured at the Pigeon Key Art Festival, set for this weekend, Feb. 11-12, at the Florida Keys Marathon Airport, mile marker 51.
Friday, February 10, 2012
A celebration of the culture, entertainment, food and flora of the island nation just 90 miles from Key West is to take place at the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden, 5210 College Road, Friday and Saturday, March 23-24.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012
Visitors can stroll among and view native plants and lush landscaping while getting ideas for tropical gardening during the annual Garden Walk presented by the Upper Keys Garden Club Friday, Feb. 24.
Tuesday, February 7, 2012
Maybe "American Idol" winners aren't abandoning their guitars to play conch shell concerts, but fans of the fluted, pink-lined shell are puckering up for the 50th annual test of "conch musicianship" in Key West.
Monday, February 6, 2012
Native-born Key West residents proudly call themselves conchs, a nickname inspired by the sturdy sea mollusk that inhabits area waters. A celebration of their conch heritage is set for 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Saturday, March 3.
Friday, February 3, 2012
What started as a community event to bolster tourism business has, more than 30 years later, become one of the Middle Keys' most anticipated and sumptuous weekends. The Original Marathon Seafood Festival, set for Saturday and Sunday, March 10-11, features a feast of fish, shrimp, lobster and conch for tens of thousands of seafood lovers.
Friday, February 3, 2012
Clermont, Fla., resident LouAnn Stubbs was selected from more than 1,000 entrants to win a week's stay in the Florida Keys, after participating in the destination's online Cyber-Train to Sunshine Contest. The competition was staged in conjunction with the recent 100th anniversary of the completion of Henry Flagler's Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad. Key West Mayor Craig Cates chose Stubbs in a random drawing.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
Descendants of three former United States presidents are to share memories and insights about their "first lady" forebears during a presentation at Key West's Harry S. Truman Little White House, Florida's only presidential museum.
Thursday, February 2, 2012
A colorful series of 4-by-5-foot angelfish created by local artists adorns various Key Largo venues as part of a public arts initiative sponsored by the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce. The initiative's purpose is to show off the artistic talent in the northernmost island community.
Tuesday, January 31, 2012
Arts and crafts by some of the Florida Keys' most creative spirits combine with music by top local and visiting musicians at the 12th annual Schooner Wharf Open Air Art & Music Affair, scheduled Saturday, March 3, in Key West's Historic Seaport.
Friday, January 27, 2012
A two-day paddlefest attracting single and double kayaks, canoes and standup paddle boards is set for Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 4-5, along a scenic course around the Florida Keys' northernmost island of Key Largo.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
In 1965 the Key West Art Center originated and sponsored a show of original fine art to promote the cultural image of the island city. Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 25-26, the 47th annual Old Island Days Art Festival is to continue that tradition with works by approximately 100 fine artists from around the United States and Canada.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012
Two Florida Keys lodging entities have been named to a list of the United States' top 25 hotels by TripAdvisor.com, one of the world's leading travel advice websites. Key West's Santa Maria Suites and Tavernier's Island Bay Resort were named to the Top 25 U.S. Hotels list after ranking in TripAdvisor's 2012 Travelers' Choice awards.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
Some of the finest homes and lushest gardens on the islands of Marathon are to be open to the public during the Marathon Garden Club's annual House & Garden Tour set for Saturday, March 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tuesday, January 24, 2012
As many as 600 amateur and professional astronomers from around the world are to gather in the Lower Florida Keys Monday through Saturday, Feb. 20-26, attracted by the chance for 180-degree viewing of the Southern Cross and other constellations during the 28th annual Winter Star Party.
Monday, January 23, 2012
Amateur and professional cook-off contestants and wannabe world champions representing seven U.S. states and Canada are busy testing their best recipes in preparation for the third annual Islamorada Chili Cook-Off. The competition is set for Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 18-19, at the Islamorada Moose Lodge, mile marker 81.
Monday, January 23, 2012
With balmy temperatures even in the winter months, the Florida Keys & Key West offer visitors a warm welcome and a wealth of new and enhanced accommodations, land and water attractions, and culinary and creative experiences.
Wednesday, January 18, 2012
Among voguish artists and craftspeople from around the country, the acoustic guitar stylings of Casey Weston, a finalist on NBC's The Voice, are to be featured at the Pigeon Key Art Festival, set for the weekend of Feb. 11-12 at Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49.
Friday, January 13, 2012
The roar of cannon fire and the sight of soldiers in Civil War uniforms are to greet visitors at oceanfront Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Friday though Sunday, Feb. 10-12, during the annual Civil War Heritage Days festival. Key West was the only Deep South port that remained in Union hands throughout the Civil War, and Fort Taylor was a vital base for the Union blockade of Confederate ships.
Thursday, January 12, 2012
The 100th anniversary of the completion of Henry Flaglers Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad is nearing, with events set for Jan. 14-23 throughout the island chain. An associated online contest to win a weeklong Keys vacation for two is to end Jan. 22 - 100 years after the first trains journey from the Florida mainland to Key West.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012
Climb aboard to be part of a once-in-a-lifetime parade celebrating the 100th anniversary of the completion of Henry Flagler's Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad. The historic procession is set for 1 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 22, exactly 100 years from the date of the first train's journey from mainland Florida to Key West.
Monday, January 9, 2012
A group art show titled "Tropical Impressions" is to run through Saturday, Jan. 28, in the gallery of the Marathon Community Theater. The show is a unique collection of watercolors, oils, acrylics, collage and mixed media reflecting the impressions of eight local artists and the tropical ambiance in the Keys.
Monday, January 9, 2012
Jan. 22, 2012, will mark the centennial anniversary of the completion of Henry Flagler's Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad. The rail line was conceived by Standard Oil tycoon Flagler, and construction began in 1905, motivated by an announcement that the Panama Canal would be built.
Friday, January 6, 2012
Advanced divers seeking to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroads completion can do so by exploring an artificial reef derived from part of the original railroad bridge sunk off Marathon.
Wednesday, January 4, 2012
Seventy Florida Keys artists are to exhibit and auction their work Saturday, Jan. 28, at the Anne McKee Artists Fund fine art auction. Set to take place at Fort East Martello Museum, 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd., the annual auction raises money for project-based grants to members of the Keys arts community.
Tuesday, January 3, 2012
The Morada Way Arts & Cultural District is to present the inaugural Islamorada Fine Art Expo Friday and Saturday, Jan. 21-22, at Morada Way between mile markers 81 and 82. Visitors, patrons and art collectors can discover stimulating artwork as well as music and fine dining options.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
For 21 years, a popular lecture series focused on Florida Keys history, archaeology, culture and environment has attracted residents and visitors to Key Largo's iconic John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Sponsored by Dagny Johnson Key Largo Hammock State Park, the Delicate Balance of Nature talks are presented by field experts in marine and geological sciences, ornithology, ecology and biology.
Wednesday, December 21, 2011
Visitors and residents traveling the Florida Keys Overseas Highway have a new outdoor art mural to view at mile marker 95 bayside in Key Largo. The hand-painted mural, measuring 60 feet long and 11.5 feet high, depicts a train similar to a Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad passenger train steaming across an arched bridge much like the Long Key Viaduct.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Engaging high-end original craft items, fine art and everything in between await visitors to the popular Art Under the Oaks show set for Saturday, Jan. 14, 2012. The annual event is held on the shaded grounds of San Pedro Catholic Church, mile marker 89.5 bayside on Plantation Key.
Monday, December 19, 2011
The South Florida Symphony is to showcase the artistry of violinist Chee-Yun Wednesday, Jan. 25, in a Key West concert titled "Fire and Ice." The performance is scheduled for 8 p.m. at the Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Road on the Florida Keys Community College campus.
Friday, December 16, 2011
From its cigar-makers' cottages to its Victorian mansions, Key West's architecture is as individualistic and unique as the island itself. Visitors can explore houses exemplifying that rich architectural tradition, as well as contemporary Keys design, during weekend house tours in January, February and March 2012.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Top local chefs are to vie for culinary honors while food-lovers savor their edible entries at Key West's 18th annual Master Chefs Classic. The culinary competition is scheduled 4-7 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 29, overlooking Key West Harbor at the Westin Key West Resort and Marina Pier.
Friday, December 16, 2011
Veteran sailboat racing teams from around the world are to compete in the waters off America's southernmost city during Quantum Key West 2012, scheduled Sunday through Friday, Jan. 15-20.
Thursday, December 15, 2011
The Key West boxing tradition that dates back to Ernest Hemingway is to be celebrated Friday, Jan. 6, with nine bouts overlooking Key West Harbor at Mallory Square. Fight Night in the Keys is to be highlighted by a 10-round battle between super middleweights Dyah Davis and Alfonso Lopez.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Pigeon Key, one of the Florida Keys' hidden gems, lies nestled beneath the Old Seven Mile Bridge and provides a window on life in the Keys a century ago. The tiny island is to take center stage during January's Keyswide celebration honoring the centennial of the Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad, lauded as the most unique railway in the world upon its completion.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Frost-free Key West isn't a winter wonderland during the holiday season, but it may become a wiener wonderland when about 200 dachshunds and their owners take a New Year's Eve stroll through the island's picturesque downtown. The seventh annual Key West Dachshund Walk, set for noon Saturday, Dec. 31, provides an informal, family-friendly prelude to nighttime New Year's Eve revelry.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Singers, dancers and musicians are gearing up for a busy 2012 season of adventure, drama, skits and music at the Marathon Community Theater, located in the Florida Keys. The 2012 slate of shows opens with Dixie Swim Club, running Jan. 5-28 and written by Jessie Jones, Nicholas Hope and Jamie Wooten.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Pigeon Key, one of the Florida Keys' hidden gems, lies nestled beneath the Old Seven Mile Bridge and provides a window on life in the Keys a century ago. The tiny island is to take center stage during January's Keyswide celebration honoring the centennial of the Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad, lauded as the most unique railway in the world upon its completion.
Monday, December 12, 2011
An exhibition and presentation by Florida's renowned black-and-white landscape photographer Clyde Butcher is to be a highlight of the Dec. 15 Morada Way Arts & Cultural District's Third Thursday Art Walk, co-sponsored by Islamorada's Moorings Village.
Monday, December 12, 2011
Fresh Florida Keys seafood and the commercial fishermen who harvest it are to be celebrated Saturday, Jan. 14, during the seventh annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival.
Friday, December 9, 2011
The historic Old Town and waterfront districts are to become a scenic racecourse for more than 900 runners Sunday, Jan. 22, during the annual Key West Half Marathon.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Boaters, anglers, divers and others who enjoy the Florida Keys marine environment can find goods and supplies for their seafaring pursuits at the Big Pine & Lower Keys Nautical Flea Market set for Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 21-22.
Friday, December 9, 2011
Some of the nation's finest collegiate swimmers and potential Olympians are to vie for honors at the annual Orange Bowl Swimming Classic, set for Tuesday, Jan. 3, at the Jacobs Aquatic Center, mile marker 99.6 oceanside in Key Largo.
Friday, December 9, 2011
The Florida Keys Art Guild is to hold an open-air holiday art showcase Tuesday through Saturday, Dec. 27-31, at Key West's Bayview Park. The show is to feature the work of local and national artists and artisans in diverse mediums. Painters, sculptors, photographers, jewelry designers, artists in glass and others are to display their creative wares at the annual event.
Thursday, December 8, 2011
An online contest has debuted in which the winner receives a weeklong Florida Keys vacation for two as part of the 100th anniversary celebration of the completion of Henry Flagler's Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad. The winner of the Florida Keys Cyber-Train to Sunshine Contest and a guest can follow the historic railroad's route through the Keys on the contemporary Overseas Highway, much of which was built on the old railroad bed.
Monday, December 5, 2011
Sharing Henry Flagler's vision of the Florida Keys as a remarkable and accessible destination, up to 100 nature-loving kayakers are to embark on a 115-mile, 10-day Paddle Florida Keys Challenge Thursday, Jan. 12, 2012, to celebrate the centennial of the Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Creative cuisine, premium wines and unique events in a subtropical island setting are to characterize the third annual Key West Food and Wine Festival, set for Thursday through Sunday, Jan. 26-29. Indoor and outdoor events showcase local chefs' culinary flair and favorite indigenous ingredients while offering only in the Keys experiences.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
Leading American and international writers are to explore the literature of the future, alternate and imagined worlds, utopias and the unknown during the 30th annual Key West Literary Seminar. Scheduled Thursday through Sunday, Jan. 5-8, the seminar is themed Yet Another World: Literature of the Future.
Wednesday, November 30, 2011
A celebration commemorating the 100th anniversary of the completion of Henry Flagler's Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad is to culminate Jan. 14-23, with Keyswide events marking the centennial of the first train's journey from the Florida mainland through the island chain to Key West.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Fitness enthusiasts might spot tiny, shy Key deer during the 12th annual No Name Race 5k Walk/Run, set to begin at 8 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 14, in the pristine Lower Keys. The 3.1-mile race, which benefits the Monroe County Domestic Abuse Shelter, is based at the Old Wooden Bridge Guest Cottages & Marina, located on No Name Road at the No Name Key Bridge.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
A special historic re-enactment commemorating the centennial anniversary of the completion of Henry Flagler's Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad is to be staged at 11 a.m. Friday, Jan. 20, at Bahia Honda State Park, mile marker 36.8, in the Lower Keys.
Monday, November 28, 2011
There's always something happening in the Florida Keys & Key West, from festivals focusing on the area's colorful history, artistic culture and quirky ambiance to events that celebrate the Keys' underwater paradise.
Friday, November 18, 2011
To help Santa navigate his stopover in the Florida Keys, large and small boats are to be 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.
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Railroad buffs can whet their appetites for the upcoming 100th anniversary of the completion of Henry Flagler's Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad by attending the Key West Model Railroad Club's second annual Key West Model Railroad Show & Sale.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
The spirit of the holiday season comes alive in the Florida Keys & Key West with holiday happenings and festive functions spreading cheer in a subtropical climate. From Key Largo to Key West, the calendar is packed with events designed to celebrate the holiday spirit - including festive lighted boat parades featuring vessels whose decorations range from traditional greenery to offbeat salutes to the season.
Monday, November 14, 2011
As many as 1,200 athletes are expected to test their strength and endurance in the second annual Key West Triathlon, set for Saturday, Dec. 3, on the subtropical island of Key West. Participants are to include internationally renowned triathlete Chris "Macca" McCormack, two-time Hawaii Ironman world champion now training for the 2012 Olympic Games.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
The historic heart of the island city's seaport commerce, the Key West Bight Marina, is to shine for the holidays during the Key West "Bight" Before Christmas Holiday Celebration that runs Nov. 23, 2011, through Jan. 1, 2012.
Thursday, November 10, 2011
A celebration honoring the 100th anniversary of the completion of the Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad, once lauded as the most unique railway in the world, is under way in the Florida Keys. Events are to culminate Jan. 22, 2012, exactly 100 years after the inaugural train rolled through the island chain and arrived at Key West.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
Frost-free Key West might be the southernmost island in the continental United States, but many of its bed-and-breakfast inns sport holiday decorations worthy of Santa's northernmost workshop. Visitors can tour the most festive and discover Key West's 19th-century architecture and warmhearted seasonal spirit in lighted inn tours set for 6-9 p.m. Friday, Dec. 9, and Saturday, Dec. 17.
Wednesday, November 9, 2011
The award-winning producer of films "Avatar" and "Titanic" has been named grand marshal of the 2011 Key Largo Boat Parade. Jon Landau is to preside over the Saturday, Dec. 10, evening parade of lighted and decorated boats on the bayside waters off Key Largo. This year's theme is "Key Largo Imagination."
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
The South Florida Symphony, a unique gathering of professional symphonic musicians that began as the Key West Symphony, is to launch its 2011-12 season with a concert featuring world-renowned cellist Zuill Bailey. Titled "Spice of Life," the performance is set for 8 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 1, at the Tennessee Williams Theatre.
Monday, November 7, 2011
For four decades, Impromptu Classical Concerts of Key West has brought stellar chamber music artists, ensembles and string orchestras to the Florida Keys. The acclaimed organization's 40th anniversary season continues that tradition with performances by the Firebird Chamber Orchestra, pianist Marina Lomazov, La Catrina String Quartet, the String Orchestra of New York and other renowned artists and musical groups.
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
New Year's Eve partiers tired of cold-weather festivities such as the traditional "ball drop" in New York's Times Square can find exuberant celebrations and much warmer temperatures in the Florida Keys. Revelry in the Upper Keys is to include fireworks displays and other inviting activities at popular Key Largo and Islamorada restaurants and resorts.
Monday, October 31, 2011
The Friends of the Key Largo Cultural Center continues its fall slate of entertainment with a three-night performance of Robert Harling's comedy-drama "Steel Magnolias," set for Friday through Sunday, Nov. 4-6.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
Roots, rock and reggae are to unite at the third annual BayJama Reggae Fest set for Saturday, Nov. 26, at TIB Bank of the Keys Amphitheater in Islamorada's Founders Park, located at mile marker 87.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
New Year's Eve partiers tired of cold-weather festivities such as the traditional ball drop in New York's Times Square can find exuberant celebrations and much warmer temperatures in the Florida Keys.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
A weekend of fun is planned for both anglers and non-anglers during the Pigeon Key Flagler Centennial Fishing Tournament, set for Friday and Saturday, Nov. 25-26, in waters surrounding the Florida Keys' famous Seven Mile Bridge in the Middle Keys.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Golfers can vie for more than $1 million in possible cash prizes at the annual Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce Golf Tournament. The event is set for Sunday, Dec. 4, at the Key West Golf Club, 6450 College Road, with a 7:30 a.m. shotgun start.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
A well-blended series of entertainment, educational programs and musical events presented by the Friends of the Key Largo Cultural Center accentuates Key Largo's growing cultural atmosphere. During the fall and winter 2011-12 season, theater and musically themed productions include a performance of Robert Harling's "Steel Magnolias," a three-day Key Largo Rhythm & Ribs Festival, a Doo-Wop music fest in March and a whodunit murder mystery and comedy.
Friday, October 21, 2011
Mixologists in the Florida Keys are to create a new libation to honor the upcoming 100th anniversary of the completion of Henry Flagler's Over-Sea Railroad. The "Flagler's Rusty Spike" cocktail is a new category for the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce's 30th Annual Cook-Off, set for Thursday, Nov. 10, at the Holiday Inn Key Largo at mile marker 100.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Despite subtropical air temperatures in the 70s, the forecast calls for snowflakes during the seventh annual Florida Keys Holiday Festival set for 4-10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 2, at Islamorada's Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
The historic seafaring town of Key West is to become a pirate stronghold Thursday, Nov. 24, through Sunday, Dec. 4, when "brethren of the coast" and winsome wenches invade the island for the 12th annual Pirates in Paradise Maritime Heritage & Music Festival. Featuring more than 100 costumed pirate re-enactors, Pirates in Paradise offers a packed roster of revelry for children and adults intrigued by the Florida Keys' seafaring history and culture.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Lavishly decorated floats, costumed characters, bands and elaborately garbed marching groups are to make a splash on Key West's Duval Street Saturday, Oct. 29, during the Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest Parade. The glittering parade is the traditional highlight of the annual Fantasy Fest masking and costuming celebration, set this year for Friday, Oct. 21, through Sunday, Oct. 30.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Subtropical Key West is widely credited with inspiring singer/songwriter Jimmy Buffett's smash hit "Margaritaville" and other tunes. Thursday through Sunday, Nov. 3-6, some 3,500 of Buffett's "Parrot Head" fans are to spread their wings on the island during their 20th annual convention.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Science fiction and horror film enthusiasts will delight in a three-night performance of "The Rocky Horror Show," the ultimate campy horror comedy musical, Oct. 14-16 in Key Largo.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
The Florida Keys tourism council has begun placed a new "live chat" communications tool on its www.fla-keys.com website, merging modern technology with visitor information services offered by the Keys' five regional chambers of commerce, from Key Largo to Key West.
Friday, October 7, 2011
The holiday season in the Lower Florida Keys typically features subtropical temperatures, visitors fleeing frigid northern air, enthusiastic festivities and unique gifts handcrafted by local artists. From 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Dec. 10, Lower Keys visitors can share the holiday exuberance, enjoy live music and choose one-of-a-kind artisan gifts at the Big Pine & Lower Keys Island Art Festival.
Friday, October 7, 2011
Dressed-up dogs, frolicking felines and other party animals are to steal the spotlight Wednesday, Oct. 26, during the annual Pet Masquerade and Parade in Key West. The wacky costume contest for domestic pets and their people is a highlight of the island city's 10-day Fantasy Fest costuming and masking festival.
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Visitors can experience sights, sounds and flavors recalling Key West's Bahamian heritage at the family-friendly Goombay Festival, scheduled Friday and Saturday, Oct. 21-22. The exuberant street festival takes place in the island city's Bahama Village neighborhood, settled in part by Bahamians seeking a new home in the early 1800s.
Monday, October 3, 2011
World-class musicians including Richie Supa, best known for his work with Aerosmith, are to headline the fourth annual 12 Step Music Fest, an entertainment-filled camping weekend in the Lower Florida Keys for members of 12-step recovery programs as well as individuals and families looking for a safe, sober music experience.
Friday, September 30, 2011
A new $330 million road connecting the South Florida mainland with the Florida Keys is finished. The new "18-Mile Stretch," a segment of U.S. Highway 1 between Florida City and Key Largo, required almost seven years to construct. A dedication ceremony marking the end of the project was staged Wednesday, Sept. 28.
Friday, September 30, 2011
More than 330 participants have already registered for the third annual Key Largo Bridge Run, a spectacular out-and-back foot race offering panoramic views of the Upper Keys and the eastern edges of the Florida Everglades. The race is set for Saturday, Nov. 12. The 10k, half marathon and 5k run/walk event typically entices running enthusiasts of all ages. Entrants in the 2011 challenge hail from 24 American states, the Bahamas, Brazil, Germany and Switzerland. The 2010 race attracted more than 900 contestants.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
The world premiere of a one-woman multimedia show written by and starring Christina Crawford, author of the blockbuster memoir "Mommie Dearest," is to be staged in Key West Wednesday and Thursday, Oct. 19-20. Performances are to begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Road on the campus of Florida Keys Community College.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Blackwater Sound is to become a backdrop for piratical plundering and pillaging as the fourth annual Key Largo Pirates Fest, set for Oct. 20-23, celebrates the return of notorious 19th-century pirate Black Caesar. Swashbuckling spectators can unleash their inner buccaneer during the festivities, set to kick off at 6:30 p.m. Thursday, Oct. 20, with a Captain Morgan Look-Alike Pirate Plunder Party at Snappers Restaurant, mile marker (MM) 94.5.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
EcoWeek 2011 is to bring together business interests, policymakers, environmental stakeholders and socially conscious travelers for a unique summit to find real solutions for safeguarding a healthy planet amid a host of environmental challenges. The event is scheduled Wednesday through Saturday, Nov. 2-5, and headquartered at Key Wests Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Road. Sessions are to be complemented by opportunities for eco-adventures in the Key West area.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Costume designers are expected to show off their most outrageous creations at dozens of masquerade contests, galas, parties, promenades and other events during Key West's annual Fantasy Fest. The 2011 masking and costuming celebration, themed Aquatic Afrolic, is scheduled Friday, Oct. 21, through Sunday, Oct. 30.
Friday, September 23, 2011
The official tourism website of the Florida Keys & Key West, located at www.fla-keys.com, now has a fresh new look with a more pronounced emphasis on social media sharing capabilities and high-definition videos. The video components enable website visitors to explore featured attractions, take virtual dives on reef and shipwreck sites spotlighted in all regions of the Keys, meet Keys personalities and find out about special events more conveniently than ever before.
Friday, September 23, 2011
Thousands of costumed revelers are to parade through Key West's historic Old Town Friday, Oct. 28, during an offbeat Masquerade March that begins at the local cemetery. The march is a highlight of the island's annual Fantasy Fest celebration, a lavish pre-Halloween masking and costuming festival scheduled Oct. 21-30.
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
Powerboats manned by leading American and international racing teams are to thunder through the waters of Key West Harbor during the Key West World Championship, slated Sunday through Sunday, Nov. 6-13.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Costuming, characters and competitions will bring ghostly revelry to the Florida Keys this Halloween. The island chain is to host an array of lively hauntings sure to spook visitors above and below the water's surface.
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
Sea monsters and mermaids, creatures of the deep and escapees from Davy Jones' locker are to surface in Key West Friday, Oct. 21, through Sunday, Oct. 30, during the island city's annual Fantasy Fest celebration. Born more than 30 years ago, the festival is internationally recognized for its uninhibited flair and lighthearted spirit.
Monday, September 12, 2011
The winter season in the Florida Keys & Key West is as bustling as it is warm and sunny, with an array of events to entertain. From holiday happenings to fine food festivals and beyond, the island chain has an event to serve everyone's interests.
Thursday, September 8, 2011
The heroes and victims of 2001's Sept. 11 terror attacks are to be remembered on the 10th anniversary of the tragedy at the soon-to-be-opened Key West Fire House Museum. The memorial is set for 6 p.m. at Old Fire House No. 3 at the corner of Virginia and Grinnell streets. The historic fire station, which operated from 1907 until 1998, is one of the oldest in Florida.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Now in its 43rd year, the Middle Keys Concert Association is to kick off its 2012 season in January with a slate of rich musical performances. What began as a simple quest to bring music to the Marathon community has grown into an annual tradition of musical excellence and philanthropy for the volunteer, not-for-profit organization.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Bicyclists, outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs can learn about the early years of the Upper Keys while enjoying exercise and sunshine during the Islamorada Historical Bicycle Tour offered Saturday through Monday, Sept. 3-5. The free, two-hour Labor Day Weekend tour starts at 10 a.m. each day next door to the Hurricane Monument at mile marker (MM) 81.6, where riders meet guide Mark Terrill. Participants are advised to rent a bike or bring their own, and bring water and sunscreen.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Florida Keys visitors can celebrate chowder power and fritter flavor during the second annual Conchtoberfest, set for Friday through Sunday, Sept. 30 through Oct. 2, at one of Marathon's premier locations at Duck Key. A deliciously themed and decorated weekend event, Conchtoberfest includes food, specialty drinks, family activities and games, conch shell blowing contests and live local music entertainment at the Hawks Cay Resort marina.
Monday, August 22, 2011
Surrounded by spectator fish and a coral reef background, divers are to plunge beneath the sea to transform hollowed-out pumpkins into jolly jack-o'-lanterns during the Underwater Pumpkin Carving Contest set for Sunday, Oct. 16 in Key Largo.
Thursday, August 11, 2011
An underwater art exhibit has debuted on a former Air Force missile-tracking ship sunk in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary seven miles south of Key West to become an artificial reef.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
The Florida Keys History of Diving Museum is to hold a special event Saturday, Sept. 3, to celebrate the facility's sixth anniversary as a unique showcase of mankind's attempts to explore, understand and venture under the sea. Scheduled from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., family-friendly activities include a silent auction, scavenger hunt and opportunities to suit up in a Mark V diving dress.
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Spotlighting native wildlife, the 13th annual Florida Keys Birding and Wildlife Festival is set for Wednesday through Sunday, Sept. 21-25, to capture the focus of nature enthusiasts and offer tips for becoming better birders and nature photographers.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Live music, cooking demonstrations with guest chefs and wine-pairing tips for everyday enjoyment are all part of the Key Largo Food and Wine Festival's signature Grand Tasting event planned for Saturday, Aug. 6. Taking place inside the Rowell's Marina area at mile marker 104.5 bayside, the event features two air-conditioned staging areas for continuous cooking demonstrations, wine education and mixologist demonstrations.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Motorcyclists from throughout the United States are to travel one of America's most scenic highways to raise money for charity during the 39th annual Key West Poker Run, set for Thursday through Sunday, Sept. 15-18.
Friday, July 29, 2011
The "Sauce Boss" is preparing to cook up a jazz-laden gumbo onstage as a highlight of nearly 30 palate-pleasing events at Key Largo's Food and Wine Festival, set for July 29 through Aug. 7. Bill Wharton, known as the "Sauce Boss," is to craft his signature dish during the Night in New Orleans event set for Saturday, July 30, at Sundowners, mile marker (MM) 104 bayside. The special gumbo accompanies a four-course Cajun French dinner, each course paired with wines.
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Visitors to Key Largo can decide what floats their boat during a wacky spectator event where teams race boats constructed out of household materials. The Anything That Floats regatta race is set for Friday and Saturday, Aug. 19-20.
Friday, July 22, 2011
More than 100 beers and ales, including unique microbrews, are to be on tap at Key West BrewFest, scheduled Thursday through Monday, Sept. 1-5. Presented by the Southernmost Hotel Collection and Southernmost Beach Café, the Labor Day weekend celebration benefits the Key West Sunrise Rotary Club of the Conch Republic.
Thursday, July 21, 2011
The life of "Captain Tony" Tarracino, a legendary former Key West bar owner and one-time island mayor, is to be celebrated Aug. 11-14 with a lighthearted festival. The inaugural Captain Tony Days events follow an Aug. 10 "birthday party" for the late captain, who died in 2008 at age 92.The party is to begin at 6 p.m. at Captain Tony's Saloon, 428 Greene St., which was owned by Tarracino for almost 30 years.
Wednesday, July 20, 2011
A hearty appetite and a passion for lobsters are mandatory during the 15th annual Key West Lobsterfest, a celebration of Florida's clawless lobster set for Friday through Sunday, Aug. 12-14. The event salutes the start of the Florida Keys lobster season, which runs from Aug. 6, 2011, through March 31, 2012.
Tuesday, July 5, 2011
Florida Keys visitors now can share their vacation memories and learn photo techniques from experts on a new Florida Keys Photo Adventure website that showcases the island chain.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Sparked by the August and September full moons, a rare and wondrous underwater exchange of reproductive cells means the continued survival of coral reefs in the Florida Keys, and a fascinating experience for divers. According to researchers, coral species utilize a reef-building and reproductive strategy by releasing millions of gametes once a year in synchronized mass-spawning rituals.
Friday, June 24, 2011
The gateway to the Florida Keys is to transform into a food and wine lover's paradise July 29 through Aug. 7 as Key Largo's culinary experts step up to the "palate" to present nearly 30 tasty food, wine and spirits events all over the island.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Contemporary visitors can discover and experience Key West's multifaceted history via the Key West Historic Marker Tour recently debuted by a local historian. Historic sites can be explored individually through free cell-phone tours or downloads from www.keywesthistoricmarkertour.org.
Monday, June 20, 2011
A series of six weekend evening concerts is on tap for the summer months, sponsored by the newly formed Friends of the Key Largo Cultural Center, with the season running Friday, June 17, through Friday, Aug. 26. Performances are to take place at the Murray E. Nelson Government and Cultural Center in Key Largo, located at 102050 Overseas Highway (MM 102).
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
Several Key Largo hotels are offering reduced-rate accommodations for visitors who want to join round-the-clock efforts to rehabilitate three surviving pilot whales convalescing at the Florida Keys-based Marine Mammal Conservancy. The "voluntourism" initiative is being aided with specially priced $69 (plus tax) per night rooms for visitors who sign up as volunteers.
Wednesday, June 15, 2011
The late shipwreck salvor Mel Fisher is to be honored Thursday through Sunday, July 14-17, with a festival that also commemorates the 26th anniversary of his discovery of the sunken Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha. Fisher and his crew uncovered a $450 million cache of Atocha treasure and artifacts July 20, 1985, after a 16-year search. The galleon sank in 1622 approximately 35 miles southwest of Key West.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
The flourishing Key West literary community that dates back to Ernest Hemingway's 10-year residence is to be celebrated July 19-24 during Hemingway Days 2011. Literary highlights include the culmination of the Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition, directed by author and Hemingway granddaughter Lorian Hemingway, and other events honoring Ernest's creative legacy and the talents of contemporary writers.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
The fall season in the Florida Keys & Key West will host warm weather, sunny skies and an array of events to entertain. From pillaging pirates to high-speed powerboats to eco-conscious happenings, the Florida Keys & Key West has an event to serve everyone's interests.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
The literary talent and vigorous Key West lifestyle of Ernest Hemingway are to be celebrated Tuesday through Sunday, July 19-24, on the island the Nobel Prizewinning author called home throughout the 1930s. Hemingway Days 2011 includes a popular look-alike contest, a book debut and authors' readings, an offbeat "Running of the Bulls," a marlin tournament and the culmination of a short story contest directed by author and Hemingway granddaughter Lorian Hemingway.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Each July, the island where Ernest Hemingway lived throughout the 1930s welcomes approximately 125 stocky, white-bearded aspiring "Ernests" to compete in Sloppy Joe's "Papa" Hemingway Look-Alike Contest. Set for Thursday through Saturday, July 21-23, the contest takes place at Sloppy Joe's Bar, 201 Duval St., where Ernest Hemingway often enjoyed cocktails with cohorts. The event is a highlight of the annual Hemingway Days celebration of the legendary author's literary prowess and colorful lifestyle.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Beach-goers and boating enthusiasts can flock to the sparkling waters surrounding the Florida Keys during the annual Independence Day celebrations along the 110-mile chain of islands. Throughout the Keys, beachside fun for families coincides with spectacular fireworks shows. Blackwater Sound provides a mirror-like surface designed to make the annual fireworks display seem like a 3-D viewing experience from either land or sea.
Thursday, May 19, 2011
Contemporary and traditional cuisine, a star-studded group of food and wine experts, and libations ranging from Spanish sherry to fine rums, mojitos, Bombay Sapphire Gin and wines from Argentina are to characterize the second annual Key West Bacchanalia. The gourmet gala is set for Thursday through Sunday, June 9-12, with a multifaceted menu of events for food and cocktail aficionados.
Friday, May 6, 2011
Solo swimmers and relay teams are to attempt to circumnavigate the island of Key West in a 12.5-mile open-water swimming race set for Saturday, June 18. Entrants in the annual Florida Keys Community College Swim Around Key West can compete either individually or in teams of two to six swimmers, with or without fins. Sanctioned by the Florida Gold Coast Masters of the United States Masters Swimming and Florida Gold Coast Swimming of United States Swimming organizations, the challenge typically attracts athletes from the U.S., Canada and abroad to vie for awards in multiple age categories.
Monday, May 2, 2011
Multiple music happenings are to set the stage for music lovers during the annual Key Largo Original Music Festival, featuring live and original performances Thursday through Sunday, May 19-22. Hit songwriters from Nashville, Tenn., and around the United States are expected to appear during the four-day festival, now in its third year, on various intimate stages.
Friday, April 29, 2011
Revelers in Cuban attire are to conga from the shores of the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico Friday night, May 27, to celebrate Key West's rich and colorful Cuban heritage. Located just 90 miles from Cuba, Key West was the site of a flourishing cigar industry in the mid to late 1800s, when the island city welcomed thousands of Cuban immigrants seeking greater personal and political freedom. The conga line and associated events recognize the vibrant culture and customs those people brought with them to Key West.
Friday, April 22, 2011
Hundreds of paddleboard and water-sports enthusiasts are expected to test their skills in subtropical waters during the Key West Paddleboard Classic set for Friday through Sunday, May 13-15.
Friday, April 15, 2011
There's always something happening in the Florida Keys & Key West, from festivals focusing on the area's literary history and indigenous seafood to events that celebrate the Keys' underwater paradise.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Families now can indulge in a uniquely private tropical getaway experience at the northernmost tip of Key Largo. The 2,500-acre members-only Ocean Reef Club community is offering a variety of childrens summer camps for nonmember family vacation guests between June and August.
Friday, April 8, 2011
During Harry S. Truman's 1945-1953 presidency, he spent 175 days at the Key West residence known worldwide as his Little White House. Friday and Saturday, May 13-14, the Little White House is to host the 2011 Truman Legacy Symposium recognizing the enduring influence of America's 33rd president.
Wednesday, March 30, 2011
Earth Day is to be commemorated around the globe April 22, but in the Florida Keys & Key West, surrounded by a national marine sanctuary and paralleled by the continental United States only living coral barrier reef, celebrations take place throughout the month.
Thursday, March 24, 2011
In January 1912, the first Oversea Railway train rolled from the Florida mainland through the Florida Keys to Key West, forever changing the face of many of the previously isolated islands by connecting them with the mainland and each other. A celebration to honor the historic railroad, lauded as the most unique railway in the world upon its completion, has begun in the Keys. Events are to culminate Jan. 22, 2012, the 100th anniversary of the inaugural train's arrival.
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
The Upper Florida Keys are to showcase their conch spirit during the third annual Key Largo Conch Republic Days set for Wednesday, April 27, through Sunday, May 1. Kicking off the celebration overflowing with frivolity, fun and feasting is a planned raising of the flag symbolizing Key Largo as the Northernmost Territories of the Florida Keys and the Keys chains status as the independent Conch Republic. The republic was formed when the Keys seceded from the United States to protest a 1982 Border Patrol blockade at the head of the island chain.
Monday, March 21, 2011
More than 100 top performing songwriters are to showcase their hits in intimate, audience-friendly settings during the 16th annual Key West Songwriters Festival. Scheduled Wednesday, April 27, through Sunday, May 1, the musical magic consists of 40-plus shows on 28 stages.
Monday, March 21, 2011
It's not unusual for culinary connoisseurs who visit Key West to search out chefs and restaurants specializing in seafood, tropical and Caribbean flavors, European delicacies, vegetarian treats and more. Only on Monday, April 18, however, can they find virtually all of them in the same place - showcasing their signature dishes at the 16th annual Taste of Key West.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
For more than 30 years, internationally renowned playwright Tennessee Williams lived in a modest cottage on a quiet Key West street. The centennial anniversary of Williams March 26 birth is currently being celebrated in the island city, with events honoring his literary prowess, passion for painting and enjoyment of the Key West lifestyle.
Wednesday, March 9, 2011
Indigenous seafood marries with local commercial fishing heritage during the Original Marathon Seafood Festival, set for Saturday and Sunday, March 12-13, at Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49 on the Florida Keys Overseas Highway. Local delicacies like mahi-mahi, Florida lobster, succulent stone crab claws, plump pink shrimp and smoked fish prepared according to a secret recipe highlight the annual munch-a-thon.
Tuesday, March 8, 2011
The unique marine environment of the Keys island chain, which includes the continental United States only living coral barrier reef, is to be celebrated Saturday, March 26, during the second annual Florida Keys Ocean Festival. Presented by Florida-based Mote Marine Laboratory, the family-friendly free-admission event is set for noon to 6 p.m. Scheduled attractions include live music, artistry, kids activities, educational exhibits and more.
Monday, February 28, 2011
An exhibit commemorating the centennial anniversary of the completion of the Oversea Railway, the first link to connect the Florida Keys to each other and mainland Florida, has opened in Key West. The railroad and its construction are showcased in Flagler Speedway to Sunshine, a comprehensive new exhibit at the Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House, 281 Front St. The exhibit also spotlights the upcoming 100th anniversary of the inaugural trains Key West arrival Jan. 22, 2012.
Thursday, February 24, 2011
Divers and snorkelers visiting the Florida Keys can plunge into an underwater game of hide and seek during the 11th annual Underwater Easter Egg Hunt. The fun is set for Sunday, April 24, in the warm, clear waters off Key Largo.
Wednesday, February 23, 2011
Elaborate racing dragons are to invade Marathon's Sombrero Beach during the annual Battle in the Bay Dragon Boat Festival set for Saturday, May 14. A unique direct-from-the-beach launch enables spectators to get close-up views of the sleek, 40-foot-long race boats. They can observe the boats in action as teams of 20 paddlers power them in unison along a 380-meter race course parallel to the beach display of strength and teamwork among men and women of all ages.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
Motorists driving to and from the Florida Keys via the Florida Turnpike should be aware of a new all-electronic system toll-collection system to be launched Saturday, Feb. 19. The new system affects four toll plazas between mile posts 0 in Florida City and 47 at the Miami-Hollywood/Fort Lauderdale line along a stretch of the turnpike known as the Homestead Extension.
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Some of the finest homes and most interesting gardens in the Middle Keys are to be open to the public during the Marathon Garden Club's annual House & Garden Tour set for Saturday, March 5, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Reggae legends Pato Banton and Calton Coffie are to showcase their world-renowned rhythms for Florida Keys audiences during the third annual Lower Keys Reggae Fest, scheduled for noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 2.
Tuesday, February 15, 2011
Native-born Key West residents proudly call themselves conchs, a nickname inspired by the sturdy sea mollusk that inhabits area waters. A celebration of their conch heritage is set for 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, March 5. The inaugural ConchFest, a family-friendly free-admission event presented by The Rotary Club of Key West, is scheduled at Bayview Park, located on Truman Avenue at the entrance to the island citys historic Old Town.
Friday, February 11, 2011
Live beachfront music, mouthwatering food and an acclaimed art show are sure to whet attendees appetites for the 20th annual Florida Keys Island Fest. The free-admission event is set for 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday, April 2-3, at Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside on Plantation Key.
Thursday, February 10, 2011
A celebration of the culture, entertainment, food and flora of Cuba, which lies just 90 miles from Key West, is scheduled Sunday through Saturday, March 13-26, at Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden, 5210 College Road. As well as the historic connection between the two islands, the event commemorates the garden's 75th anniversary.
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Arts and crafts by leading Florida Keys talents, a waterfront setting reminiscent of Old Key West and melodies by local and visiting musicians are to entice attendees at the 11th annual Open Air Art & Music Affair.
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Visitors can stroll among and view native plants and lush landscaping while getting ideas for tropical gardening during the annual Garden Walk presented by the Upper Keys Garden Club Friday, Feb. 25. Encompassing Tavernier, Plantation Key and Islamorada, the garden walk includes four private gardens and one resort between mile marker (MM) 92.6 and MM 81.2.
Monday, January 31, 2011
Luckily for most competitors in Key West's 49th annual Conch Shell Blowing Contest, they don't have to be stellar musicians to test their pucker power in the quirky challenge. Set for noon Saturday, March 5, the contest instead draws people eager to share in a Key West tradition by attempting to make music using a fluted, pink-lined conch shell.
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is hosting the 20th annual "Delicate Balance of Nature" lecture series focused on Florida Keys history, archaeology, culture and environment. The free one-hour lectures are to be held Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. through March 30 inside the park's Visitor Center at mile marker 102.5 oceanside.
Friday, January 21, 2011
Fort Zachary Taylor, a Civil War-era fort on Key West's Atlantic Ocean shore, is to host a battle between land and sea forces, the staged court trial of a blockade runner and living history encampments of Civil War re-enactors Friday through Sunday, Feb. 25-27.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
Fine artists from across the United States and Canada are to display their creativity Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 26 and 27, during the 46th annual Old Island Days Art Festival in Key West. Admission to the two-day juried show is free.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Marathon is known as the Boating Destination of the Florida Keys, but the Original Marathon Seafood Festival stars seafood fare rather than seafaring. This much-anticipated feast is set for Saturday and Sunday, March 12-13, at Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49 oceanside.
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Nearly 100 Florida Keys artists are to exhibit and auction their work Saturday, Feb. 5, at the Anne McKee Artists Fund fine art auction. Set to take place at Fort East Martello Museum, 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd., the annual auction raises money for project-based grants to members of the Keys arts community.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Officials with Florida's Turnpike Enterprise plan to introduce an all-electronic system Feb. 19 to collect tolls from motorists who travel Florida's Turnpike between Exit 1 and Exit 47. That segment of the turnpike, known as the Homestead Extension, is a primary route on the way to the Florida Keys.
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Women and girls from around the United States and the world are to gather in Key West for hard-fought sporting action during the 20th annual Kelly McGillis Classic International Women's & Girls' Flag Football Championship and Hyatt World Challenge Game, scheduled Sunday, Feb. 6, through Monday, Feb. 14.
Wednesday, January 5, 2011
Historic aircraft on display, free flight opportunities for kids, aviation-themed exhibits and a chance to explore the new and renovated terminals at Key West International Airport are to highlight the Southernmost Openhouse & Aviation Review set for Saturday, Feb. 5. Dubbed SOAR, the free family-friendly event is presented by the Friends of the Key West International Airport and scheduled from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
The annual Sweetheart Arts & Crafts Festival is set for Friday through Sunday, Feb. 11-13, at Holiday Isle Resort and Marina, mile marker 84 oceanside in Islamorada.
Monday, January 3, 2011
The Key West boxing tradition, whose fans included legendary author Ernest Hemingway, is to be celebrated Friday, Jan. 14, with an eight-bout match scheduled at Mallory Square overlooking Key West Harbor. Titled "Fight Night in the Keys," the open-air sporting challenge offers spectators the chance to view big-name boxing in a subtropical waterfront setting. For those who can't travel to Key West, the match is to be broadcast on ESPN2's "Friday Night Fights."
Monday, January 3, 2011
Sports fans, spectators and swine lovers are gearing up for the third annual National Pig Days celebration, set for Friday through Sunday, Feb. 25-27. In recognition of National Pig Day, celebrated on March 1 to give thanks for the clever and highly intelligent domesticated pig, the Stuffed Pig Restaurant at mile marker 49 is to host Rosaire's Royal Racers with live pig racing for hordes of squealing fans. Even a pig mascot is to be on hand.
Monday, January 3, 2011
Since John James Audubon's 1832 visit to Key West to sketch indigenous birds, the island has offered inspiration for creative spirits. The tradition of artistry dating from Audubon continues Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 29 and 30, when approximately 100 national and regional crafters display their wares at the 26th annual Key West Craft Show.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Several hundred runners are expected to race through Key West's historic Old Town and waterfront areas Sunday, Jan. 23, during the annual Key West Half Marathon. Set to begin at 7 a.m., the sporting challenge takes place on a flat, fast 13.1-mile half-marathon course in the scenic island city.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
What began as a simple quest to bring music to the Marathon community has grown into a tradition of musical excellence and philanthropy for the volunteer not-for-profit Middle Keys Concert Association. The association's 2011 season kicks off in January. MKCA brings six performances to Marathon, each representing different musical genres and cultures.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Some of America's most celebrated grassroots musical masters are to be featured at the Florida Keys Traditional Music Festival set for Friday through Sunday, Jan. 28-30. Event organizers report a diverse entertainment roster featuring Cajun, gospel, bluegrass, acoustic country, lively Tex-Mex conjunto, Irish fiddle and accordion performers.
Monday, December 20, 2010
Eighteen contemporary sculptures and two performances are to enhance the land- and seascapes around two Civil War-era forts and a botanical garden during the 16th annual Sculpture Key West exhibition. Set for Jan. 15 through April 15, the open-air exhibition spotlights the talent of international, national and local sculptors on the subtropical island known for its lively arts community.
Friday, December 17, 2010
The 11th annual No Name Race 5k Walk/Run is set to take place in the Lower Keys Saturday, Jan. 15, benefiting the Domestic Abuse Shelter of Monroe County, Fla. The 3.1-mile race begins at 8 a.m., presented by the shelter and coordinated by the Key West Southernmost Runners Club.
Friday, December 17, 2010
America's southernmost island is going to the dogs Friday, Dec. 31, when the sixth annual Key West Dachshund Walk provides an informal, family-friendly prelude to nighttime New Year's Eve revelry.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Boaters, anglers, divers and others who enjoy the Florida Keys' marine environment can find goods and supplies for their seafaring pursuits at the Big Pine Nautical Flea Market set for Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 22-23.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Combining fresh seafood, live local entertainment, cooking demonstrations, casting classes and costume contests, the second annual Key Largo Stone Crab & Seafood Festival is set for Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 29-30, at Rowell's Marina, mile marker 104.5 bayside.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Fresh Florida Keys seafood and the commercial fishermen who harvest it are to be celebrated Saturday, Jan. 15, during the sixth annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival. Presented by the Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen's Association, the family-friendly festival is set for 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. at Key West's Bayview Park, located at Truman Avenue and Jose Marti Drive. Admission is free.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
The 11th annual No Name Race 5k Walk/Run is set to take place in the Lower Keys Saturday, Jan. 15, benefiting the Domestic Abuse Shelter of Monroe County, Fla. The 3.1-mile race begins at 8 a.m., presented by the shelter and coordinated by the Key West Southernmost Runners Club.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Free admission to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is available Saturday, Dec. 11, during a special 50th birthday celebration planned for that day. The golden anniversary of the park at mile marker 102.5 on the Florida Keys Overseas Highway offers a variety of events beginning at 9 a.m. the culmination of 11 days of events in Key Largo honoring America's first undersea preserve.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Despite being located on Florida's subtropical southernmost island, inns in Key West are decorated for the holidays as enthusiastically as though they were Santa's own hostelries. Visitors can discover the holiday spirit, and Key West's 19th-century architecture and heritage, in a series of lighted inn tours set for 5:30-8:30 p.m. Friday and Saturday, Dec. 10-11 and Dec. 17-18.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
There's always something happening in the Florida Keys & Key West, from festivals focusing on the area's colorful history and quirky ambiance to events that celebrate the Keys' underwater paradise.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Food and wine enthusiasts can savor sunshine, standout dishes and stellar vintages during the second annual Key West Food and Wine Festival, set for Thursday through Sunday, Jan. 27-30.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Santa is likely to arrive in the Florida Keys by sailboat instead of by sleigh, pulled by a team of dolphins rather than reindeer -- at least during the festive lighted boat parades that enliven the Keys' holiday season. Boat parades from Key Largo to Key West are to illuminate the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and Florida Bay as the island chain celebrates the holidays.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Internationally renowned food writers are to offer a mouthwatering exploration of food in literature during the 29th annual Key West Literary Seminar. Two independent sessions of the seminar are scheduled, Thursday through Sunday, Jan. 6-9 and Jan. 13-16. Both are themed "The Hungry Muse."
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Kevens Reggae Drum & Bass Experience is set to headline the second annual BayJama Reggae Fest set for Saturday, Nov. 27, at the TIB Bank of the Keys Amphitheater in Islamorada Founders Park, located at mile marker 87.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Santa is likely to arrive in the Florida Keys by sailboat instead of by sleigh, pulled by a team of dolphins rather than reindeer -- at least during the festive lighted boat parades that enliven the Keys' holiday season. Boat parades from Key Largo to Key West are to illuminate the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and Florida Bay as the island chain celebrates the holidays.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Despite projected air temperatures in the low 70s, snowflakes are scheduled to fall at the annual Florida Keys Holiday Festival set for 4-10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 3, at Islamorada's Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside. The festival centerpiece is to be a children's area featuring a 20-ton mountain of artificial snow.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Santa might wear shorts in the subtropical Lower Florida Keys, and palm trees might outnumber Christmas trees, but the holiday spirit flourishes amid the area's balmy breezes and warm temperatures.
Friday, November 12, 2010
A classic holiday ballet, recast to showcase Key West's tropical atmosphere, coral reef environment and seafaring heritage, is set for a six-show run in the island city beginning Friday, Dec. 17. "Nutcracker Key West" is the creation of Key West resident Joyce Stahl, a classically trained dancer who performed "The Nutcracker" and other ballets with New Jersey's American Repertory Ballet for 38 years.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
The spiritual descendents of Blackbeard, Calico Jack Rackham, pirate queen Anne Bonny and even Captain Jack Sparrow are to descend on Key West Friday, Nov. 26, through Sunday, Dec. 5, for the 11th annual Pirates in Paradise Festival. Designed to appeal to children and adults alike, the colorful gathering typically brings hundreds of buccaneer aficionados and re-enactors to celebrate the island city's adventurous seafaring history.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
New Year's Eve revelers can expect to combine "bubbly" with "balmy" in the Florida Keys, raising champagne toasts at celebrations along the island chain as subtropical breezes rustle the palm fronds. While New York City is famed for its Times Square "ball drop," Key West is to stage three widely differing takeoffs on that New Year's Eve tradition as midnight approaches Friday, Dec. 31.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Perhaps because the southernmost islands in the continental United States have never experienced a snowy white Christmas, businesses and organizations in the subtropical Florida Keys are extraordinarily enthusiastic about showing their holiday spirit. From Key Largo to Key West, the calendar is packed with events designed to spread holiday cheer -- including festive lighted boat parades featuring vessels whose decorations range from traditional greenery to offbeat salutes to the season.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Perhaps because the southernmost islands in the continental United States have never experienced a snowy white Christmas, businesses and organizations in the subtropical Florida Keys are extraordinarily enthusiastic about showing their holiday spirit. From Key Largo to Key West, the calendar is packed with events designed to spread holiday cheer -- including festive lighted boat parades featuring vessels whose decorations range from traditional greenery to offbeat salutes to the season.
Monday, November 8, 2010
The critically acclaimed Key West Symphony Orchestra is to present a master concert Wednesday, Dec. 1, featuring internationally renowned violinist Lara St. John. The musical program is to spotlight St. John's talent in Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's G Major Violin Concerto No. 3 and Pablo de Sarasate's gypsy-flavored "Zigeunerweisen." The symphony program also features Ludwig van Beethoven's Symphony No. 4.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Approximately 600 runners, including enthusiasts from more than 22 U.S. states and four different countries, have already registered for the second annual Key Largo Bridge Run, set for Saturday, Nov. 13.
Monday, November 1, 2010
More than 500 athletes from the United States, Canada and Great Britain are to compete in the inaugural Key West Triathlon, set for Sunday, Dec. 5, in the subtropical climate of the continental United States' southernmost island. A two-day fitness expo and pre- and post-race events round out the weekend action.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
The 50th anniversary of the creation of America's first underwater preserve, John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, is to be celebrated Dec. 1-11 in Key Largo. The island is humming with activity as it prepares for visitors marking the occasion with a trip to the park at the gateway to the Florida Keys.
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Visitors are now just a finger tap away from comprehensive travel information and guidance from Key Largo to Key West with the free, newly released Florida Keys App.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
Costumed revelers are to exhibit their wildest fantasies during the Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest Parade, set for the night of Saturday, Oct. 30. The highlight of Key West's Oct. 22-31 Fantasy Fest celebration, the lavish parade is to transform the island's infamous Duval Street into an open-air "Habitat for Insanity," illustrating the costuming and masking festival's 2010 theme.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Chefs with a wide variety of experiences are testing their best recipes in preparation for the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce's 29th annual Key Largo Cook-Off. The cuisine competition is set for Thursday, Nov. 11, at the Holiday Inn, mile marker (MM) 100 in Key Largo.
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
The center of Tropical Storm Bonnie skirted north of the Florida Keys Friday, without leaving any appreciable impacts. The National Hurricane Center discontinued tropical storm warnings for the southeast cost of Florida and the Florida Keys at 2 p.m. Friday.
Monday, July 26, 2010
A free companion airfare offer for Florida Keys vacationers has been extended through Sept. 30, 2010. Visitors who stay in a room for two or more nights at participating Keys accommodations can get a free companion airfare certificate good for future passage on five legacy U.S. airlines.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Keys boating visitors and residents can practice their follow-throughs while feeding the fish and raising money for charity during the Conch Life Scramble, a wild and wacky on-the-water golf tournament set for Saturday, July 17.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
For more than 125 stocky, bearded men gathering in Key West in mid-July, donning a sweater won't be just a fashion statement or reaction to a cool breeze. Choosing to wear a cream-colored wool fisherman's sweater could mean the difference between victory and defeat in Sloppy Joe's "Papa" Hemingway Look-Alike Contest.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Melted butter is optional, but a taste for crustaceans is essential at the 14th annual Key West Lobsterfest scheduled Friday through Sunday, Aug. 6-8. The festival commemorates the start of the Florida Keys lobster season with events that include an open-air lobster feast on Key West's famed Duval Street.
Monday, June 21, 2010
The 25th anniversary of shipwreck salvor Mel Fisher's discovery of the sunken Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha is to be commemorated Thursday through Sunday, July 15-18, during Mel Fisher Days on the island the late salvor called home.
Friday, June 18, 2010
Get ready to "Ooh" and "Aah" as the waters surrounding the Florida Keys reflect bursts of color during the 2010 Independence Day celebrations along the 120-mile chain of islands. Families can gather for beachside fun as events throughout the Keys coincide with spectacular fireworks shows.
Thursday, June 17, 2010
The Florida Keys & Key West tourism council launched a new Web and social media-based feature Monday designed to communicate an accurate status of Keys tourism offerings during the Transocean/BP oil spill crisis.
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
Each summer, the gateway to the Florida Keys transforms into a food and wine lover's paradise as Key Largo's culinary experts step up to the "palate" to present nearly 30 tasty food, wine and spirits events all over the island. The 2010 Key Largo Food & Wine Festival is to take place July 30 through Aug. 8.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Registration is open for the second annual Key Largo Bridge Run, set for Saturday, Nov. 13. Organizers are planning a 10k event in addition to a half marathon and a 5k run/walk that is open to all ages.
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
A Wreck Trek Passport Program spotlighting the Florida Keys Shipwreck Trail now awaits divers visiting the Florida Keys. Certified divers can explore the destination's most appealing feature -- a string of sunken vessels and artificial reefs -- and be awarded for logging back-to-back wreck dives or dives on subsequent visits through Jan. 1, 2012.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Get ready to "Ooh" and "Aah" as the waters surrounding the Florida Keys reflect bursts of color during the 2010 Independence Day celebrations along the 120-mile chain of islands. Families can gather for beachside fun as events throughout the Keys coincide with spectacular fireworks shows.
Friday, June 4, 2010
Divers and snorkelers might encounter "Alice in Waterland," the "Cheshire Catfish" and their fictional friends beneath the sea during the 26th annual Underwater Music Festival, set for Saturday, July 10, in the Lower Florida Keys.
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
The Florida Keys & Key West tourism council has added more elements to its website to communicate accurate information about the relationship of the Transocean/BP oil spill in the northern Gulf of Mexico to the Florida Keys.
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
The legacy of Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway, who lived and wrote in Key West throughout the 1930s, is to be celebrated Tuesday through Sunday, July 20-25, during the island's 30th annual Hemingway Days.
Friday, May 21, 2010
U.S. Coast Guard Key West Sector Captain Pat DeQuattro confirmed Wednesday morning that tests on tar balls found Monday and Tuesday on Key West's Fort Zachary Taylor State Park beach and other areas of the Lower Keys are not from the Transocean/BP oil spill in the northern Gulf of Mexico.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Travel continues to the Florida Keys, despite reports of oil tar balls discovered on a Key West state park beach. The discovery of 20 tar balls Monday at Key West's Fort Zachary Taylor State Park is getting widespread national media attention, though the U.S. Coast Guard has yet to confirm their source.
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Long-distance swimming enthusiasts are to compete in a 12.5-mile open-water swim Saturday, June 12, on a route that circumnavigates the island of Key West. Solo swimmers and relay teams of two to six people are to compete in the annual Florida Keys Community College Swim Around Key West.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Hyatt Key West Resort and Spa is inviting GLBT (Gay, Lesbian, Bi-Sexual and Transgender) guests to come enjoy the la-te-dah fun of Key West Pride Fest, taking place June 9 - 13, in posh accommodations for as low as $300 a night. With Hyatt's new Pride Welcome package, guests can take advantage of one of the best rates on the island, along with a welcome amenity valued up to $25, daily full American breakfast for two, 4 p.m. late checkout and personalized service from a GLBT focused concierge.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Revelers in Cuban dress are scheduled to conga from the shores of the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico Friday night, May 28, to kick off Key West's 11th annual Cuban American Heritage Festival.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Nearly 20 hit songwriters from Nashville, Tenn., South Florida and the Florida Keys are set to strike a chord with music lovers during the second annual Key Largo Singers & Songwriters Festival, May 20-23.
Monday, May 10, 2010
The Florida Keys & Key West tourism council has added a component to its www.fla-keys.com website to provide travelers up-to-date information regarding the TransOcean/BP Oil spill in the northern Gulf of Mexico.
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
During his 1945-1953 administration, former President Harry S. Truman spent 11 working vacations at a comfortable two-story residence on Key West's Navy base that became known as his Little White House. Friday and Saturday, May 14 and 15, the Truman Legacy Symposium is to be held there and at other island locations.
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
Snorkelers, scuba divers and underwater photographers can discover Key Largo's reefs, shipwrecks and large indigenous fish population during the inaugural Reef Fest set for Saturday through Thursday, June 5-10.
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
A new initiative implemented by the South Florida Water Management District, a regional governmental agency that oversees water resources in the southern half of Florida, is making a positive environmental impact in the Florida Keys. Their research suggests that 75 percent of U.S. travelers feel it is important that their visits don't impact the environment. In August 2009, the district piloted the Water Conservation Hotel and Motel Program, called Water CHAMP.
Thursday, April 15, 2010
Officially Earth Day is celebrated April 22, but in the Florida Keys, surrounded by a national marine sanctuary and paralleled by the continental United States' only living coral barrier reef, a variety of events take place leading up to the planet-wide celebration.
Friday, April 9, 2010
The Upper Florida Keys are to showcase their "conch" spirit during the second annual Key Largo Conch Republic Days set for Friday, April 23, through Sunday, May 2. Overflowing with frivolity, fun, feasts and feats, the festival is to include an unusual attempt to land the region in the "Guiness Book of World Records" for "extreme underwater ironing."
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Athletes can register now for the inaugural Key West Triathlon, with events set for Saturday and Sunday, Dec. 4-5, 2010. Presented by Key West's Stay Fit Studio, the racing challenge is to include swimming in Gulf of Mexico waters off Key West, biking along a portion of the Keys' scenic Overseas Highway and running beside the Atlantic Ocean.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Country music sensation Randy Houser is to star in a free concert at Mallory Square following the opening ceremonies of the annual World Sailfish Championship. Presented by tournament organizers and set against the backdrop of the Gulf of Mexico, the concert is to begin at approximately 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 13.
Friday, March 26, 2010
More than 150 leading American songwriters are to perform their hit songs and preview new melodies on Key West stages during the 15th annual Better Angels Key West Songwriters Festival scheduled Wednesday, April 28, through Sunday, May 2.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
The Key West home that author Ernest Hemingway lived in from 1931 through 1939 has been designated a literary landmark. Hemingway worked on many of his best-known novels and short stories in a second-story writing studio adjoining the Spanish colonial villa at 907 Whitehead St.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
The Conch Republic, more commonly known as Key West and the Florida Keys, is to salute the 28th anniversary of its founding Friday, April 16, through Sunday, April 25.
Monday, March 15, 2010
The waters off Sombrero Beach are to transform into a swift racecourse for the Battle in the Bay Dragon Boat Festival set for Saturday, May 8. Marathon's Sombrero Beach offers spectators a pristine setting and a unique direct-from-the-beach launch for the sleek, 40-foot-long race boats whose elaborate designs originated in ancient China.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Divers visiting the Florida Keys around the Easter holiday are likely to trade in their "tank-head" personas for one more suitable to the season: "egghead."
Thursday, March 11, 2010
The U.S. Navy's renowned Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron is to showcase its members' dynamic flying skills Saturday and Sunday, April 10-11, during the Southernmost Air Spectacular presented by Naval Air Station Key West.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Contemporary and traditional offerings and original tunes by Florida Keys performing songwriters are to highlight the musical menu during the Island Grass Music Fest, set for 1-6 p.m. Sunday, March 28.
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Officially Earth Day is celebrated April 22, but in the Florida Keys, surrounded by a national marine sanctuary and paralleled by the continental United States' only living coral barrier reef, a variety of events take place leading up to the planet-wide celebration.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
A Key West boxing tradition dating back to Ernest Hemingway's presence on this subtropical island is to be celebrated Saturday, March 20, with a series of evening bouts in a harborfront ring at Mallory Square.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Marathon is known as the boating center of the Florida Keys, but the Original Marathon Seafood Festival takes delectable aim at the tummy. This much-anticipated feast is set for Saturday and Sunday, March 13-14, at Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49 oceanside.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Internationally acclaimed reggae sensation Fourth Dimension is to roll out its pulsing rhythms during the second annual Lower Keys Reggae Fest, scheduled for noon to 6 p.m. Saturday, April 3.
Tuesday, February 9, 2010
Unique gifts of fine art are to be offered by the Purple Isles Art Guild at its 44th annual judged art show set for Saturday, Feb. 27, through Sunday, March 7.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Some of the finest homes and most interesting gardens in the Middle Keys are to be open to the public for one day during the Marathon Garden Club's 35th annual House & Garden Tour. The tour is set for Saturday, March 6, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Thursday, February 4, 2010
Since the Florida Keys were first settled in the 1820s, the island chain's cuisine has been based around the bounty of the sea. Clawless Florida lobster, yellowtail snapper, sweet pink shrimp, grouper, stone crab claws and more -- all harvested by Keys commercial fishermen -- have become prized signature items on the region's menus.
Friday, December 4, 2009
The historic harbor walk linking colorful seaport restaurants, bars and businesses at the Key West Bight comes alive with holiday lights, four decorated Christmas trees, a free Christmas concert, specials from shops and galleries, a holiday food tasting and even photos with Santa during the "Bight Before Christmas" celebration running through Dec. 31.
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
To help navigate Santa's stopover in the Florida Keys, "stars on the water" are to light up to guide his Key deer-driven sleigh over the Gulf Stream and enliven the Keys' holiday season.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Some of the nation's finest collegiate swimmers are to vie for honors at an Orange Bowl Festival event in Key Largo. The seventh annual Orange Bowl Swimming Classic is set for 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 2, at the Jacobs Aquatic Center, mile marker 99.6 oceanside in Key Largo.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park is set to host a popular lecture series focused on Florida Keys history, archaeology, culture and environment. In their 19th year, the free, one-hour lectures are to be held inside the park's Visitor Center at mile marker 102.5 oceanside, Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m. through March 31.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Some of America's most celebrated grass-roots musicians are to be featured at a new Middle Keys event, the Florida Keys Traditional Music Festival, set for Friday through Sunday, January 29-31.
Monday, November 23, 2009
New Year's Eve partiers unwilling to endure cold-weather festivities, such as the traditional "ball drop" in New York's Times Square, can find exuberant celebrations and far warmer temperatures in the Florida Keys. In Key West, revelers can choose from three very different -- though equally lighthearted -- takeoffs on the Times Square gala as midnight approaches Thursday, Dec. 31.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Aficionados of boating, fishing and diving in the Florida Keys' ocean realm can take their pick of maritime merchandise at the annual Big Pine Nautical Flea Market, set for 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 23.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Though fall and winter daytime temperatures average in the 70s in the subtropical Florida Keys, sandal-clad kids still play in the snow every year. Magical flakes of the white stuff are scheduled to "fall" at the annual Florida Keys Holiday Festival set for 4-9:30 p.m. Friday, Dec. 4, at Islamorada's Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
An extraordinary assembly of American and international poets will gather in Key West Thursday through Sunday, Jan. 7-10, for the 28th annual Key West Literary Seminar. The 2010 seminar will explore 60 years of American poetry and pay tribute to Richard Wilbur, a former United States poet laureate and the only living poet to have won the Pulitzer Prize twice.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
The Key West Symphony, a unique gathering of professional symphonic musicians from around the United States, is to begin its 2009-10 season with a concert featuring world-renowned violinist Cho-Liang Lin.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Outdoor athletes and thrill seekers have an opportunity to explore Islamorada by land, bike and water in the Amazing Race of Islamorada scheduled Saturday, Nov. 21. The competitive event is set to start at 10 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 21, from Robbie's Marina, 77520 Overseas Highway (mile marker 77.5), in Islamorada. Registration starts at 9 a.m. that morning.
Friday, November 13, 2009
To help navigate Santa's stopover in the Florida Keys, "stars on the water" are to light up to guide his Key deer-driven sleigh over the Gulf Stream and enliven the Keys' holiday season. Boat parades are to illuminate the waterways, with vessel decorations ranging from traditional lights and greenery to offbeat salutes to the season.
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Perhaps because the southernmost islands in the continental United States have never experienced a snowy white Christmas, businesses and organizations in the subtropical Florida Keys are extraordinarily enthusiastic about showing their holiday spirit. From Key Largo to Key West, the calendar is packed with events designed to spread holiday cheer -- including a trio of festive lighted boat parades featuring vessels whose decorations range from traditional greenery to offbeat salutes to the season.
Thursday, October 29, 2009
Ky-Mani Marley, son of legendary reggae icon Bob Marley, is set to headline BayJama Reggae Fest Saturday, Nov. 21, at the TIB Bank of the Keys Amphitheater in Islamorada Founders Park, located at mile marker 87.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
The historic seafaring town of Key West is to become a pirate stronghold Saturday, Nov. 28, through Sunday, Dec. 6, when "brethren of the coast" and lively wenches invade the island for the 10th annual Pirates in Paradise festival. Pirates in Paradise offers a packed roster of events for children and adults intrigued by the Florida Keys' seafaring history and culture.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Chefs with a wide gamut of experiences are testing their best recipes in preparation for the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce's 28th annual Key Largo Cook-Off. This culmination of culinary creativity is set for Thursday, Nov. 12, at the Holiday Inn, mile marker (MM) 100 in Key Largo.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
The Florida Keys Overseas Highway, from just north of Key Largo to Key West, is now an All-American Road. The designation was announced Friday by U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood and a plaque was presented by Victor Mendez, administrator of the Federal Highway Administration, during a ceremony in Washington, D.C.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
The Overseas Highway, a portion of U.S. Highway 1 that spans the Florida Keys from north of Key Largo to Key West, recently was named an All-American Road by federal transportation officials.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
Sun, warm sand and sea breezes swirl together with the sumptuous taste of fine wines, beers and spirits during Islamorada's second annual Wine on the Water, set for Saturday and Sunday, Nov. 14-15. Open to the wine- and beer-loving public, the event is to be staged at the Islander Resort, mile marker (MM) 82.1 oceanside, and presented by the Upper Keys Rotary Club.
Monday, October 19, 2009
Costume designers are expected to show off their most outrageous creations at more than 40 masquerade contests, galas, parties, promenades and other events during Key West's annual Fantasy Fest. The 2009 masking and costuming celebration, themed Villains, Vixens, and Vampires, is scheduled Friday, Oct. 23, through Sunday, Nov. 1.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Many visitors land in the Keys by car, boat or plane, ready to enjoy a warm, gentle tropical breeze. But about 250 visitors will feel a 120-mph breeze when the Keys Boogie skydiving weekend comes to Marathon.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
When internationally acclaimed singer/songwriter Jimmy Buffett wrote "I Have Found Me a Home" about Key West, he described riding his old red bike to "the bars and the beaches of my town." Thursday through Sunday, Nov. 5-8, the island popularly credited as the inspiration for the entertainer's hit "Margaritaville" is to host as many as 3,500 of his Parrot Head fans for their 18th annual Meeting of the Minds convention.
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Surrounded by warm, clear water and lying adjacent to the continental United States' only living coral barrier reef, the Florida Keys offer lively hauntings and friendly competitions for Halloween celebrants both above and below the water's surface.
Monday, October 5, 2009
In the early 1800s Key West was settled in part by Bahamian residents who migrated across the water to the new American seaport city. The annual Goombay street festival, a high-energy celebration of the cultural connection between Key West and the Bahamas, is set for Friday and Saturday, Oct. 23 and 24.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
The Florida Keys Chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association is to sponsor its Aviation Day at the Florida Keys Marathon Airport Saturday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. The family-oriented event is free and open to the public at the airport, located at 9400 Overseas Highway bayside.
Tuesday, September 29, 2009
Top American and international powerboat racing teams are to churn up the waters of Key West Harbor during the Key West World Championship slated for Sunday through Sunday, Nov. 8-15. Boats compete in 14 classes during the season-ending championship series, acclaimed as the Indianapolis 500 of the offshore powerboat racing circuit.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Tens of thousands of revelers are expected in Key West Saturday, Oct. 31, to celebrate Halloween with the 2009 Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest Parade, the highlight of the island city's annual Fantasy Fest masking and costuming celebration.
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Corvette aficionados can find decades' worth of examples of the authentic American sports car at the 16th annual Corvettes in Paradise show set for Saturday, Nov. 7, at Holiday Isle Resort, mile marker 84 oceanside in Islamorada.
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Bicycling enthusiasts can pedal through the Florida Keys on one of America's most scenic highways during the 200-mile BubbaFest Bike Tour, set Saturday through Saturday, Nov. 7-14. The fully supported seven-night bicycling adventure was created by retired police sergeant Bubba Barron, who has pedaled across America from the Atlantic to the Pacific, to enable fellow cycling fans to discover the Keys' environment and attractions while enjoying their favorite sport.
Monday, September 14, 2009
Beginning Thursday, Dec. 17, visitors to Key West can take advantage of AirTran Airways' nonstop jet service between Orlando and the island city. The AirTran flights, to be offered four times per week, will inaugurate the first scheduled service to Key West by a major low-cost carrier.
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Steeped in a community's tradition of giving and organized by dedicated volunteers, the Marathon International Bonefish Tournament celebrate its milestone 50th anniversary with the 2009 event, set for Thursday through Sunday, Sept. 17-20.
Friday, September 4, 2009
Motorcyclists from throughout the United States are to travel one of America's most scenic highways to raise money for charity during the 37th annual Key West Poker Run, set for Thursday through Sunday, Sept. 17-20. Riders on up to 10,000 bikes are expected to traverse the Overseas Highway (U.S. Highway 1), the 113-mile roadway from mainland Florida to Key West that features 42 bridges and long vistas of breathtaking open water.
Monday, August 24, 2009
According to history and legend, the pirate Black Caesar roved Florida's coastal waters in the early 19th century. According to the organizers of the Key Largo Pirates Festival, set for October 23-25, the notorious pirate will make a comeback during the festival.
Thursday, August 20, 2009
There's always something happening in the Florida Keys & Key West, from festivals focusing on the area's colorful history and quirky ambiance to events that celebrate the Keys' underwater paradise. While this calendar lists selected highlights through July 2010, a comprehensive schedule of events throughout the Keys can be found at www.fla-keys.com.
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
The International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and Its Abolition is to be commemorated at an oceanfront Key West site believed to be the only African refugee cemetery in the United States. Presented by Key West's Bahama Conch Community Land Trust, the observance is scheduled for 6 p.m. Sunday, Aug. 23, at the 1860 African Burial Ground on Higgs Beach, Atlantic Boulevard and White Street.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Environmental enthusiasts should be able to observe infant loggerhead sea turtles hatching and emerging from their nest, via a live streaming "turtle webcam" installed on a private beach on Big Pine Key in the Lower Florida Keys.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Nature enthusiasts can get acquainted with some of the unique birds and wildlife native to the Florida Keys at the 11th annual Florida Keys Birding and Wildlife Festival set for Wednesday through Sunday, Sept. 23-27. The family-friendly event is to be staged at the quiet oceanfront preserve of Curry Hammock State Park, mile marker (MM) 56.2 in Marathon, with field trips scheduled throughout the Florida Keys.
Friday, August 14, 2009
A hearty appetite and a passion for lobsters are mandatory during the 13th annual Key West Lobsterfest, a celebration of Florida's clawless lobster set for Friday through Sunday, Aug. 7-9 The events salute the tasty crustacean at the start of the Florida Keys lobster season, which runs from Aug. 6, 2009, through March 31, 2010.
Friday, July 17, 2009
Stocky white-bearded Ernest Hemingway look-alikes, aspiring writers and fans of Hemingway's work are to converge on Key West Tuesday through Sunday, July 21-26, for the island city's 29th annual Hemingway Days.
Friday, July 17, 2009
The Great Annual Fish Count, an international eco-event where volunteer divers and snorkelers assist in identifying and documenting fish diversity and population trends, is set to feature a series of July dive events hosted by local dive operators throughout the Florida Keys, in conjunction with volunteers from the Reef Environmental Education Foundation.
Friday, July 10, 2009
For more than 25 years, the annual Seven Mile Bridge Run has attracted sold-out fields with participants eager to run across the convergence of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico in the Florida Keys.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Anglers are to target permit and recall the late angling legend Del Brown Tuesday through Friday, July 21-24. The Del Brown Invitational Permit Tournament honors the inventor of the Del Brown Permit Fly, whose passion for the wily sportfish led him to catch more than 500 permit during his lifetime.
Thursday, July 2, 2009
A new artificial reef is open to sport divers and anglers following the May 27 scuttling of a 523-foot-long former U.S. Air Force missile-tracking ship. The Gen. Hoyt S. Vandenberg, the second-largest vessel in the world ever purposely sunk to become an artificial reef, now lies about seven miles south of Key West in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. The bottom of the ship's hull rests on sand at depths that average 145 feet, but the ship is so massive the superstructure begins about 45 feet below the surface.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Following a recommendation at the June Monroe County Tourist Development Council meeting, marketing workshops are scheduled for the upcoming District Advisory Committee (DAC) meetings scheduled for Tuesday, July 7 and Wednesday, July 8. The marketing workshops provide an opportunity for DAC members and the public throughout the Keys to hear a presentation by Tinsley Advertising, TDC's ad agency, and allow for input and feedback from the tourism industry within each district.
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Over Father's Day weekend, team 'Nuff Said scored three dolphin fish with a combined weight of 56.8 pounds, earning first place at the fifth annual Island Grill Charity Dolphin Tournament.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
David Dalu of Charleston, S.C., won the grand champion award at the prestigious Gold Cup Invitational Tarpon Tournament held June 15-19 in Islamorada.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Each summer, the gateway to the Florida Keys transforms into a food and wine lover's paradise. Key Largo's culinary experts are stepping up to the plate to present nearly 30 tasty food, wine and spirits events Friday, July 31, through Sunday, Aug. 9.
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Ernest Hemingway's decade of residence in Key West ended late in 1939, but his literary legacy lives on -- both in the island city and in the annual Hemingway Days festival. Scheduled Tuesday through Sunday, July 21-26, Hemingway Days 2009 offers a number of events that celebrate Key West's rich literary tradition and the talents of contemporary writers.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
For decades, Keys cooks have flavored their dishes with tropical fruits such as mango, papaya and Key lime gleaned from trees that grow along the island chain. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 27, these tropical fruits and many others are to be celebrated at the annual Florida Keys Tropical Fruit Fiesta.
Friday, June 12, 2009
The 24th anniversary of shipwreck salvor Mel Fisher's discovery of the sunken Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha is to be commemorated Thursday through Sunday, July 16-19, during Mel Fisher Days on the island the late salvor called home.
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Get ready to "Ooh" and "Aah" as the sparkling waters surrounding the Florida Keys reflect bursts of color during the 2009 Independence Day celebrations along the island chain.
Monday, June 8, 2009
A retired U.S. Air Force missile-tracking ship intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary has opened for public use.
Tuesday, June 2, 2009
The new Gen. Hoyt S. Vandenberg artificial reef is scheduled to open to the public Saturday morning, project officials said Friday. The installation of mooring buoys was completed Thursday, according to Kent Edwards, Lower Keys regional manager of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Steve Smith, the gay-market destination sales manager for the Monroe County Tourist Development Council, the tourism promotion agency for the Florida Keys & Key West, has been re-elected to the International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association's board of directors for 2009-2011.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Forty years after the release of their "Yellow Submarine" album, the Beatles are embarking on another underwater adventure. Divers costumed as the iconic quartet are to star in the 25th annual Underwater Music Festival set for Saturday, July 11, in the waters off the Lower Florida Keys.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Stocky white-bearded Ernest Hemingway look-alikes, aspiring writers and fans of Hemingway's work are to converge on Key West Tuesday through Sunday, July 21-26, for the island city's 29th annual Hemingway Days.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
Goombay Summer Fest, a high-energy street festival featuring live music, is scheduled noon to midnight Saturday, June 27. The family-friendly festival celebrates the Keys' Bahamian-flavored heritage.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Long-distance swimming enthusiasts are to compete in a 12.5-mile open-water swim Saturday, June 13, on a route that circumnavigates the island of Key West.
Friday, May 15, 2009
The vibrant cultural connection between Key West and Cuba, which dates back more than 150 years, is to be celebrated Saturday, May 23, with a coast-to-coast conga line in the Cuban tradition.
Friday, May 8, 2009
Nearly 20 hit songwriters from Nashville, Tenn., and the Florida Keys are set to strike a chord with country music audiences during the Singers & Songwriters Festival in Key Largo with performances at indoor and outdoor stages each weekend throughout May.
Monday, May 4, 2009
The unveiling of a nearly $1 million historic restoration at Florida's only presidential museum, scholars' presentations and an examination of former President Harry S. Truman's relationship with Congress are to highlight the annual Truman Legacy Symposium. Set for May 15-16, the symposium comes just days after the 125th anniversary of Truman's May 8 birthday.
Monday, April 20, 2009
The course has been set for the seventh annual Marathon Superboat Grand Prix, scheduled to start at 1 p.m. Sunday, May 17, as the highlight of a race weekend that begins Friday, May 15.
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Racers are to run across as many as 40 bridges and through the Florida Keys island chain beside the Atlantic Ocean, Florida Bay and Gulf of Mexico during the second annual Keys Ultra-Marathons set for Saturday, May 17.
Monday, April 13, 2009
For the first time, adventure-hungry certified divers can work alongside professional treasure salvage experts excavating the wrecksite of the Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha, one of the most significant shipwreck discoveries of the 20th century. The weeklong Atocha Dive Adventure includes training in commercial treasure salvage techniques, behind-the-scenes tours of the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum and laboratories where Atocha artifacts are conserved and two full days of diving the site alongside salvage experts seeking the galleon's sterncastle.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Visiting gourmets can find Key West chefs specializing in European delicacies, seafood, tropical and Caribbean flavors, vegetarian dishes and more. Only on Monday, April 20, however, can they find virtually all of them in the same place -- when the island's top culinary professionals gather to produce Taste of Key West.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
More than 100 top performing songwriters are to showcase their hits in intimate, audience-friendly settings during the 14th annual Better Angels Key West Songwriters Festival. Scheduled Wednesday, April 29, through Sunday, May 3, the event consists of more than 30 shows.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Earth Day is officially celebrated April 22, but in the Florida Keys, surrounded by a national marine sanctuary and paralleled by the United States' only living coral barrier reef, celebrations take place all month.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
In Key Largo there's a unique twist to the annual search for colored eggs brought by the Easter Bunny: it takes place underwater. Captain Spencer Slate of Atlantis Dive Center, mile marker 106.5 oceanside, is to host the annual Underwater Easter Egg Hunt in the warm, clear waters off Key Largo Sunday, April 12.
Monday, March 23, 2009
The Key West Symphony presents the popular musical revue "Songs for a New World" in the Upper Keys and Key West.
Monday, March 23, 2009
The 14th annual Key West Songwriters' Festival will be held April 29 - May 3, 2009. This year's festival revolves around five days and nights of more than 20 free concerts, staged at an array of the island's most popular drinking holes and hot spots. More than 100 chart-topping songwriters are scheduled to perform their hit songs and preview new melodies. Some of the headliners are responsible for writing hits for artists such as Eric Clapton, Aretha Franklin, Faith Hill and Randy Travis.
Friday, March 20, 2009
The annual Bay Jam music festival is slated for Sunday, April 19, at the TIB Bank of the Keys Amphitheater at Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside on Plantation Key. Concert goers can revel in the sounds of an eclectic range of musicians from midday through sunset and into the night from the performance center set against the aqua waters of Florida Bay.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Admirers of Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Robert Frost can celebrate his poetry Wednesday through Sunday, April 15-19, on the grounds of the Key West cottage that was Frost's winter retreat. The 15th annual Robert Frost Poetry Festival features poetry and haiku workshops and readings, art and film events, and the announcement of the winners of the Robert Frost Poetry Festival international haiku and poetry contests.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Reggae master Johnny Dread is to showcase his Caribbean-flavored musical magic for Florida Keys audiences during the Lower Keys Reggae Fest, scheduled for noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, April 5. The festival presents the sounds of the islands set against the swaying palms of Camp Sawyer, a Boy Scout enclave overlooking the Atlantic Ocean at mile marker (MM) 34 on West Summerland Key.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
With activities ranging from a "drag" race for female impersonators to a lighthearted sea battle featuring tall ships, the Conch Republic's 10-day birthday party is set to take place Friday, April 17, through Sunday, April 26.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
A Sunday night building fire destroyed a crepe shop and two art galleries on Duval Street, but firefighters were able to contain it and avoid serious impact to other buildings, including the historic San Carlos Institute and Jimmy Buffett's Margaritaville.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
A salute to Florida Keys seafood, the Original Marathon Seafood Festival is aptly dubbed "from fisherman to fork." Set for March 14-15 at Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49 oceanside, the festival is unique because local fishermen do all the food preparation and cooking.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Reggae master Johnny Dread is to showcase his Caribbean-flavored musical magic for Florida Keys audiences during the Lower Keys Reggae Fest, scheduled for noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, April 5. The festival presents the sounds of the islands set against the swaying palms of Camp Sawyer, a Boy Scout enclave overlooking the Atlantic Ocean at mile marker (MM) 34 on West Summerland Key.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Kiteboarders from around the country are set to kick it into high gear as they skim and slide during the Islamorada Invitational '09 March 6-15 at Whale Harbor Marina, mile marker 83.5 in Islamorada.
Monday, February 23, 2009
A salute to Florida Keys seafood, the Original Marathon Seafood Festival is aptly dubbed "from fisherman to fork." Set for March 14-15 at Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49 oceanside, the festival is unique because local fishermen do all the food preparation and cooking.
Monday, February 23, 2009
A colorful waterfront setting, arts and crafts by skilled Florida Keys artisans and tunes by talented local and visiting musicians are top attractions at the ninth annual Schooner Wharf Open Air Art & Music Affair. The event is set for 10 a.m. to midnight Saturday, March 7, in Key West's Historic Seaport.
Friday, February 20, 2009
Reggae master Johnny Dread is to showcase his Caribbean-flavored musical magic for Florida Keys audiences during the Lower Keys Reggae Fest, scheduled for noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, April 5. The festival presents the sounds of the islands set against the swaying palms of Camp Sawyer, a Boy Scout enclave overlooking the Atlantic Ocean at mile marker (MM) 34 on West Summerland Key.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Meeting space in the Florida Keys requires corporate types to change gears -- and attire. While the facilities meet high-tech specs, the Keys high-adventure ambience dictates that jackets, ties and shiny shoes be tossed to the wind.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Visitors can stroll among and view native plants and lush landscaping, while getting ideas for tropical gardening, during the annual Garden Walk presented by the Upper Keys Garden Club Friday, Feb. 27.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Some of the finest homes and most interesting gardens in the Middle Keys are to be open to the public for a single day during the Marathon Garden Club's 33rd annual House & Garden Tour. The tour is set for Saturday, March 7, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Friday, February 6, 2009
The third annual Sombrero Beach Run has grown into a weekend-long event for runners, walkers and families of all ages.
Friday, February 6, 2009
A visit to the Florida Keys is generally filled with color -- blue skies, aquamarine waters, orange sunsets and puffy white clouds -- but visitors are encouraged to think green during the fourth annual Green Living and Energy Expo in Marathon.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Nature lovers can enjoy an exhibition and sale of rare plants, explore the unique Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden and expand their horticultural knowledge during Gardenfest Key West, scheduled Friday through Sunday, Feb. 27 through March 1.
Friday, February 6, 2009
Live music in an amphitheater setting, mouthwatering food and artistry ranging from raku pottery to stitchery and sandcastles are sure to whet attendees' appetites for color, creativity and cuisine at the 18th annual Florida Keys Island Fest.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
The 28th annual run across the scenic Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon is set for Saturday, April 25, 2009, but interested runners need to act now to secure their participation. Applications to run in the race can now be requested. The run is limited to the first 1,500 people who return completed applications to the Marathon Runners Club.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Danny Joseph of Venice, Fla., scored a time of 1:18:57 to win the men's overall division and post the fastest time of 599 runners who competed in the 13.1-mile Key West Half Marathon that took place Jan. 25.
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
For nearly two centuries the lively seaport of Key West has attracted mariners and angling enthusiasts. Friday through Sunday, Feb. 27 through March 1, the focus turns to contemporary mariners at the seventh annual Key West Boat Show and Nautical Market.
Monday, January 26, 2009
As many as 650 amateur and professional astronomers from around the world are preparing to gather in the Lower Florida Keys to view stars and constellations that aren't visible anywhere else in the United States.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Approximately 100 fine artists, chosen from several hundred applicants from across the United States and Canada, are to display their creativity Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 21 and 22, during the 44th annual Old Island Days Art Festival.
Thursday, January 22, 2009
Marathon is known as the Heart of the Keys, but the Original Marathon Seafood Festival takes delectable aim at the tummy. This much-anticipated feast is set for Saturday and Sunday, March 14-15, at Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49 oceanside.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
Fort Taylor, a Civil War-era fort on Key West's Atlantic Ocean shore, is to host a battle between land and sea forces, the staged court trial of a blockade runner and living-history encampments of Civil War re-enactors Friday through Sunday, Feb. 13-15.
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
A celebration of the culture, entertainment, food and flora of the island nation just 90 miles from Key West is to take place at the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden, 5210 College Road, Sunday through Sunday, Feb. 1-8.
Friday, January 9, 2009
It's a tropical show with tropical art to go. The 15th annual Pigeon Key Art Festival is scheduled Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 7-8, at Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49 oceanside.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Several hundred runners are expected to race through historic Key West Sunday, Jan. 25, during the annual Key West Half Marathon. Set to begin at 7 a.m., the sporting challenge takes place on a flat, fast 13.1-mile half-marathon course in the scenic island city.
Friday, January 9, 2009
The Sweetheart Arts & Crafts Festival at Holiday Isle Beach Resorts and Marina, mile marker 84 oceanside in Islamorada, is set for Thursday through Sunday, Feb. 12-15.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Unique gifts of fine art are to be offered by the Purple Isles Art Guild at their annual judged art show set for Saturday, March 7, through Sunday, March 15.
Friday, January 9, 2009
The 11th season of the critically acclaimed Key West Symphony Orchestra continues with two performances Friday and Saturday, Feb. 6-7, highlighted by the piano artistry of soloist Yoko Hagino.
Friday, January 9, 2009
Local and visiting musicians are to showcase folk, bluegrass, country, traditional and original tunes during the 20th annual Terry Cassidy Pickin' Party, set for noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 1.
Tuesday, January 6, 2009
Like the 1980s fast-food commercial, "parts is parts" at the 14th annual Gigantic Nautical Flea Market, set for Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 21-22, at Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside on Plantation Key.
Monday, January 5, 2009
Five national touring bands are to gather in the Lower Florida Keys Sunday, Jan. 11, for afternoon and evening waterfront performances featuring a variety of blues, rock, jazz, soul and island music selections.
Wednesday, December 24, 2008
Since John James Audubon's 1832 visit to Key West to sketch indigenous birds, the island has offered inspiration for creative spirits. The tradition of artistry dating back to Audubon continues Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 24 and 25, when approximately 100 national and regional crafters display their wares at the 24th annual Key West Craft Show.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Women and girls from around the United States and the world are to gather in Key West for hard-fought sporting action during the Kelly McGillis Classic International Women's & Girls' Flag Football Championship, scheduled Sunday, Feb. 1, through Monday, Feb. 9.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
The Key West boxing tradition, whose fans included legendary author Ernest Hemingway, is to come alive Friday, Jan. 16, with a seven-bout match set to take place overlooking Key West Harbor at Mallory Square.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Several hundred runners are expected to race through Key West's historic Old Town and waterfront areas Sunday, Jan. 25, during the annual Key West Half Marathon. Set to begin at 7 a.m., the sporting challenge takes place on a flat, fast 13.1-mile half-marathon course in the scenic island city.
Friday, December 19, 2008
Following 10 seasons of internationally praised concerts, the Key West Symphony is entering its 2009 season with a superlative Russian soloist and a "cast" of more than 70 of the United States' premier classical musicians.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
First State Bank of the Florida Keys purchased the General Hoyt S. Vandenberg at auction Wednesday, making it possible for the 524-foot decommissioned Air Force missile tracking vessel to be scuttled as an artificial reef off the Florida Keys.
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Thirty-two contemporary sculptures are to enhance the land- and seascapes around two historic Civil War-era forts during the 14th annual Sculpture Key West exhibition. Set for Jan. 18 through April 18, the open-air exhibition spotlights the talent of international, national and local sculptors on the subtropical island known for its lively arts community.
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
For the 18th year, a "Delicate Balance of Nature" lecture series is to be held at the Visitor Center inside John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park at mile marker 102.5 oceanside. The lectures are set for Wednesday evenings at 7:30 p.m., starting Jan. 7 and running for 12 weeks.
Thursday, December 11, 2008
Fans of the Florida Keys' diverse ocean environment can outfit themselves for water activities at the fifth annual Big Pine Nautical Flea Market, set for 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 17.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Fresh seafood has been an integral part of Keys cuisine since settlers first fished the island chain's waters nearly two centuries ago. Today, chefs create signature dishes around the prized harvest of the region's commercial fishermen -- from clawless Florida lobster to sweet pink shrimp and stone crab claws.
Tuesday, December 9, 2008
Tiny, meticulously restored cigar-makers' cottages stand next to gingerbread-trimmed Victorian mansions in Key West's historic Old Town, creating an architectural tapestry as colorful as the island itself.
Friday, December 5, 2008
New Year's Eve celebrations in the Florida Keys traditionally feature balmy temperatures and a warm welcome for revelers fleeing colder climes. From beachside fireworks where overcoats and gloves aren't allowed, to wacky takeoffs on the traditional ball drop in New York's Times Square, the island chain offers visitors a wealth of warm-weather ways to greet 2009.
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
There's always something happening in the Florida Keys & Key West, from festivals focusing on the area's colorful history and quirky ambiance to events that celebrate the Keys' underwater paradise.
Thursday, November 20, 2008
Engaging craft items, gallery-class fine art and everything in between await visitors to the annual Art Under the Oaks show set for Saturday, Jan. 17, 2009. The event is to be held on the shaded grounds of San Pedro Catholic Church, mile marker 89.5 bayside on Plantation Key.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Some of the nation's finest collegiate swimmers are slated to vie for honors at an Orange Bowl Festival event in Key Largo. The fifth annual Orange Bowl Swimming Classic is set for 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 3, at the Jacobs Aquatic Center, mile marker 99.6 oceanside in Key Largo.
Wednesday, November 19, 2008
Internationally renowned writers of historical fiction and noted historians are to explore real and imagined journeys into the past during the 27th annual Key West Literary Seminar.
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
On a subtropical island where fall and winter daytime temperatures average in the 70s, it's hard to imagine sandal-clad kids playing in the snow. But that's the plan for the annual Florida Keys Holiday Festival set for 4-10 p.m. Friday, Dec. 5, at Islamorada's Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
Authentic soul food, junkanoo bands and historical re-enactors are to star at Crane Point Hammock and Museum's fourth annual Bahamian Heritage Festival Friday through Sunday, Jan. 30 through Feb. 1, at mile marker 50 bayside in Marathon.
Thursday, November 13, 2008
To help navigate Santa's stopover in the Florida Keys, "stars on the water" are to light up to guide his Key deer-driven sleigh over the Gulf Stream and enliven the Keys' holiday season.
Wednesday, November 12, 2008
Sleigh rides and snowball fights aren't on the menu of holiday amusements in the balmy Lower Florida Keys, but the spirit of the season nonetheless flourishes in subtropical temperatures.
Monday, November 10, 2008
In 1908, in response to a fashion trend that was decimating migratory bird populations, then-President Theodore Roosevelt created the Key West National Wildlife Refuge to protect and preserve a breeding ground for migratory species. Saturday, Nov. 15, the refuge's 100 years of conservation are to be commemorated by dignitaries, speakers, refuge staff and volunteers, environmental organizations and "Teddy Roosevelt" himself, portrayed by a re-enactor.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Scurvy pirates and winsome wenches are to celebrate Key West's adventurous seafaring history Saturday, Nov. 29, through Sunday, Dec. 7, during the annual Pirates in Paradise Festival.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Perhaps because the southernmost islands in the continental United States have never experienced a snowy white Christmas, businesses and organizations in the subtropical Florida Keys are extraordinarily enthusiastic about showing their holiday spirit.
Thursday, October 23, 2008
Names like Blue Devil, StingRay and SS have been considered for upcoming models of this authentic American sports car, but an upcoming Islamorada show focuses less on its muscle than on its grace, style, beauty and nostalgia.
Monday, October 13, 2008
A classic holiday ballet, recast as a unique interpretation of Key West's seafaring history, coral reef environment and free-ranging rooster population, is set for a 13-performance run in the island city beginning Friday, Nov. 28.
Monday, October 13, 2008
Some of the best things in life are free, at least in the Florida Keys. Through the dedication and talent of Florida Keys Community Concert Band members and supporters, an entire Pops in the Park season of themed outdoor concerts is to be offered free at Founder's Park, mile marker (MM) 87 bayside in Islamorada. The monthly performances are set for Saturdays at 4 p.m.
Thursday, October 9, 2008
When Jimmy Buffett discovered Key West in the early 1970s, he couldn't have known that he would inspire millions of people to share his love for the easygoing subtropical island. Thursday through Sunday, Oct. 30 through Nov. 2, more than 3,000 fans of the legendary singer, songwriter and bestselling author will flock to Key West to celebrate their hero's music and the lifestyle it promotes.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
The Florida Keys Chapter of the Experimental Aircraft Association is to sponsor its annual Aviation Day at the Florida Keys Marathon Airport Saturday, Nov. 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The family-oriented event is free and open to the public at the airport, located at 9400 Overseas Highway bayside.
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
Key West's wildest party is to turn bipartisan when Fantasy Fest, the island city's outrageous annual costuming and masking festival, takes aim at America's upcoming presidential elections. Set for Friday, Oct. 17, through Sunday, Oct. 26, the rowdy revel is themed "Pirates, Pundits and Political Party Animals."
Monday, September 29, 2008
Surrounded by warm, clear water and lying adjacent to the United States' only living coral barrier reef, the Florida Keys offer lively hauntings and friendly competitions for Halloween celebrants both above and below the water's surface.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Political party animals are expected to unleash their wildest fantasies on Key West's infamous Duval Street Saturday, Oct. 25, during the Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest Parade.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
According to history and legend, the pirate Black Caesar roved Florida's coastal waters in the early 19th century. According to the organizers of the Key Largo Pirate Festival, set for Friday through Sunday, Oct. 17-19, the notorious pirate will make a comeback during the festival.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
An exhibition of more than 70 original painted wood carvings by the late Key West folk artist Mario Sanchez, comprising a pictorial chronicle of the island's history, is to debut Friday, Oct. 10, in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Sanchez' Oct. 7 birthdate.
Wednesday, September 24, 2008
Mariner's Resort Villas & Marina, located at mile marker (MM) 97.5 oceanside in Key Largo, recently debuted a junior ballroom. The new Tarpon Room features more than 2,000 square feet of indoor event space and elegant nautical décor befitting the upscale marina surroundings. The ballroom can accommodate up to 100 guests.
Monday, September 22, 2008
An exhibition of 50 original painted wood carvings by the late Key West folk artist Mario Sanchez, comprising a pictorial chronicle of the island's history, is to debut Friday, Oct. 10, in commemoration of the 100th anniversary of Sanchez' Oct. 7 birthdate.
Monday, September 15, 2008
At 5 p.m. Monday afternoon forecasters at the National Hurricane Center discontinued a hurricane watch in the Florida Keys for Hurricane Ike.
Tuesday, September 9, 2008
According to history and legend, the pirate Black Caesar roved Florida's coastal waters in the early 19th century. According to the organizers of the Key Largo Pirate Festival, set for Friday through Sunday, Oct. 17-19, the notorious pirate will make a comeback during the festival.
Monday, September 8, 2008
In the early 1800s Key West was settled in part by Bahamian residents who migrated across the water to the new American seaport city. The annual Goombay street festival, a high-energy celebration of the cultural connection between Key West and the Bahamas, is set for Friday and Saturday, Oct. 17 and 18.
Monday, September 8, 2008
The first of five planned opportunities in 2008 for visitors to learn about coral reefs and work side-by-side with marine scientists to aid in their restoration is set for Aug. 24-28 in the Florida Keys.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Visitors began returning to the Florida Keys Tuesday after Keys officials lifted a precautionary visitor evacuation order that was initiated prior to the arrival of Tropical Storm Fay. The return of visitors came a day earlier than officials originally projected because the region's infrastructure was in even better shape than anticipated.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Following a visitor evacuation initiated prior to the arrival of Tropical Storm Fay, Florida Keys officials on Monday projected that tourists could return to the island chain Wednesday, Aug. 20.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Motorcyclists from throughout the United States are to travel one of America's most scenic highways for charity starting Thursday, Sept. 18, during the 36th annual Key West Poker Run.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
The first of five planned opportunities in 2008 for visitors to learn about coral reefs and work side-by-side with marine scientists to aid in their restoration is set for Aug. 24-28 in the Florida Keys.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Showcasing the unparalleled story of Matt Johnston and his one-of-a-kind dive gear, a "Diving a Dream" exhibit is set to open Wednesday, Aug. 13 at the Florida Keys History of Diving Museum in Islamorada.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Underwater voyeurs vie for spots to dive reefs in the Florida Keys for the annual coral "love affair" sparked by the August full moon. This rare exchange of reproductive cells fascinates divers for the sheer volume of white excretion that seemingly fills the Atlantic Ocean around the United States' only living coral barrier reef, which parallels the island chain.
Tuesday, July 29, 2008
For the 22nd consecutive year, the island city renowned for its all-embracing diversity is to welcome as many as 5,000 women during the Womenfest celebration. Set for Tuesday through Sunday, Sept. 2-7, the acclaimed event for lesbians and their friends features activities ranging from pool parties and women-only watersports excursions to an art and poetry evening and a group commitment ceremony.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Local and state officials gathered Friday to honor an Islamorada resort as the 200th certified green lodging resort in Florida. The 10-unit resort also was recognized as the first Florida lodging property to earn both Clean Marina and Green Lodging designations.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Nature enthusiasts can get acquainted with some of the unique birds and wildlife native to the Florida Keys at the 10th annual Florida Keys Birding and Wildlife Festival, set for Friday through Sunday, Sept. 26-28. The family-friendly event is to be staged at the quiet oceanfront preserve of Curry Hammock State Park, mile marker (MM) 56.2 in Marathon, with field trips scheduled throughout the Florida Keys.
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
A multiagency safe-diving initiative designed to enhance sport diving and boating safety is to be highlighted at the second annual Lobster Rodeo & Dive Safety Expo set for Sunday, July 27.
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
The island at the head of the Florida Keys is to become a wine-lover's paradise as guests meet vintners, winemakers and vineyard owners from around the world at free-pour events during the Key Largo Food and Wine Fest, set for Friday, Aug. 1, through Saturday, Aug. 9.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
The Florida Keys releases a schedule of events for Hemingway Days 2008, July 15-20.
Tuesday, June 24, 2008
A hearty appetite and a fondness for lobsters are all that's required of attendees during the 12th annual Key West Lobsterfest, a celebration of Florida's clawless lobster set for Friday through Sunday, Aug. 8-10. The events salute the tasty crustacean at the start of the Florida Keys lobster season, which runs from Aug. 6 through March 31, 2009.
Tuesday, June 17, 2008
The late Mel Fisher, one of the 20th century's best-known shipwreck salvors, is to be honored with a Key West festival that also commemorates the 23rd anniversary of his most famous find.
Monday, June 16, 2008
The literary legacy of Ernest Hemingway, who lived in Key West throughout the 1930s, is to be celebrated Tuesday through Sunday, July 15-20, with Hemingway Days' roster of events for fans of good writing.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
The environmental organization Reef Relief is celebrating the International Year of the Reef Tuesday, June 17, with the grand opening of its new environmental center. The center is located at 631 Greene St. in Key West's Historic Seaport, beside the popular waterfront restaurant Conch Republic Seafood Co.
Thursday, June 5, 2008
"Reefpublicans" and "Democrabs" are to congregate in the Lower Florida Keys Saturday, July 12, when the 24th annual Underwater Music Festival puts an undersea spin on the upcoming 2008 presidential elections.
Wednesday, June 4, 2008
For most people, putting on a sweater is a simple response to a chill. But for scores of men in Key West each July, donning a cream-colored wool fisherman's sweater could be the key to victory in Sloppy Joe's "Papa" Hemingway Look-Alike Contest.
Friday, May 30, 2008
The Reef Environmental Education Foundation is set to hold the 17th Great Annual Fish Count Saturday, July 19, in Key Largo. The Great Annual Fish Count is an international eco-event where volunteer divers and snorkelers assist in identifying and documenting fish diversity and population trends.
Wednesday, May 28, 2008
A marlin tournament in the spirit of legendary angler Ernest Hemingway, who fished Key West waters for more than a decade, is scheduled for Wednesday through Saturday, July 16-19, with a legendary prize at stake.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
A new $93-million Jewfish Creek Bridge, near the top of the Florida Keys Overseas Highway, opened Thursday helping enhance safety and scenic views for motorists. The dedication of the 65-foot-high, 1.25-mile span also marked the halfway point of a six-year, $300 million project to build a new connector road, known as the "18-mile Stretch," from the South Florida mainland to Key Largo and the Keys.
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Gamblers may count on Lucky Seven to bring them good fortune, but this summer, it's the Crazy 8's that will drive price-conscious travelers to take advantage of spectacular summer savings in a variety of exotic locations in the Caribbean and Key West.
Friday, May 23, 2008
Located near a dozen fish-filled, coral-covered world-renowned shipwrecks, Key Largo is the perfect venue to host WreckFest 2008 for advanced open water divers through those "wreckaholics" who just can't get enough. Set for Saturday, Aug. 2, through Sunday, Aug. 10, the festival includes nine days of wreck diving plus a packed roster of topside activities.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Throughout the Florida Keys, hotels, attractions and restaurants are offering a variety of summer deals and value-added incentives to enable visitors to stretch their summer vacation dollars.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
The sparkling waters surrounding the Florida Keys are set to reflect bursts of color during Independence Day celebrations along the 110-mile chain of islands. Blackwater Sound, fitting its name, provides the perfect nighttime mirror-like surface to make the annual fireworks display seems 3D in a viewing experience designed to dazzle.
Monday, May 19, 2008
Warm water and a warm welcome await water enthusiasts at Island Sun Splash '08, slated for Tuesday through Saturday, June 11-14. Organized by the Upper Keys Association of Dive and Snorkel Operators, the event includes activities for everyone from expert divers to families visiting North America's only living coral barrier reef for the first time.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Visitors just might go bananas over the trees and fruit, like mounds of bountiful tree-ripened mangoes, available at the Florida Keys Tropical Fruit Fiesta Saturday, June 28, in Marathon. The free event is set for 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Marathon Garden Club, mile marker 50 bayside.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Visitors from around the world are drawn to the Florida Keys to experience the island chain's priceless natural resources. Protection of these resources began a century ago, demonstrating the region's commitment to environmental stewardship and a resolve to preserve them for future generations.
Monday, April 21, 2008
During his 1945-1953 administration, then-President Harry S. Truman spent 11 working vacations at a 10-room residence on the Key West Navy Base that became known as his Little White House. Away from the pressures of Washington, he reviewed and revised policies, held pivotal meetings and made far-reaching decisions.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Revelers in Cuban dress are scheduled to conga from the shores of the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico Friday night, May 23, to kick off Key West's ninth annual Cuban American Heritage Festival.
Wednesday, April 16, 2008
Whether composing novels in his Whitehead Street writing studio or fishing for big game in local waters, Pulitzer Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway left a powerful legacy in Key West. His zest for life, literary accomplishments and enduring affection for the island he called home throughout the 1930s are to be commemorated Tuesday through Sunday, July 15-20, during the annual Hemingway Days celebration.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Value-added Florida Keys & Key West vacation offers with coupons that can be downloaded and printed on any personal computer are available on the official Keys tourism council's Web site at www.fla-keys.com.
Thursday, April 3, 2008
With live music in an amphitheater setting, mouthwatering food and artistry ranging from raku pottery to stitchery and sandcastles, the 17th annual Island Fest is sure to whet attendees' appetites for color, creativity and cuisine.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
The Conch Republic never received the billion dollars in foreign aid its officials requested from the U.S. government after its 1982 secession from the mother country. Nevertheless the republic, also known as Key West and the Florida Keys, is to salute the 26th anniversary of the secession Friday, April 18, through Sunday, April 27, in Key West.
Tuesday, March 25, 2008
More than 125 chart-topping songwriters are to perform their hit songs and preview new melodies on Key West stages during the 13th annual Hog's Breath Key West Songwriters' Festival, scheduled Wednesday, April 30, through Sunday, May 4.
Friday, March 21, 2008
A vacation in the Florida Keys generally inspires people to dream of blue skies and blue water, but visitors are encouraged to think green during the third annual Green Living and Energy Expo in Marathon.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Thirteen-year-old Caroline Waterman of Key Largo, Fla., earned top honors for the second consecutive year in the Key West Fishing Tournament kickoff with a catch that may be certified a world record.
Friday, March 21, 2008
In the 14th annual Backbone Lures Fish 'til You Lose It Backcountry Fishing Tournament held March 1 in Islamorada, anglers rose to the challenge of fishing a one-jig tournament.
Tuesday, March 11, 2008
The Big Boys Off-Shore Charity Fishing Tournament, set for Friday through Sunday, April 25-27, offers a $20,000 prize to the angler who catches the largest dolphin weighing more than 62 pounds. The popular Key Largo tournament is now in its third year.
Monday, March 10, 2008
For decades Key West has been renowned for the creativity of its artists, and culinary artists rank high among them. From 6-9 p.m. Monday, April 21, the island city's top chefs are to display their creative cuisine in a palate-pleasing feast called Taste of Key West.
Friday, March 7, 2008
The work of Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Robert Frost is to be celebrated Wednesday through Sunday, April 9-13, on the island where he wintered for more than a dozen years. The 14th annual Robert Frost Poetry Festival, the Florida Keys' only international poetry event, is to include workshops by acclaimed poets, a film evening, a cigar and wine tasting with open microphone readings, a jazz showcase with open microphone readings, a poetry slam, a sunset poetry sail, an art exhibit, poetry and haiku readings, and the announcement of the winners of the festival's national haiku and poetry contests.
Friday, March 7, 2008
The Main Attraction II team out of Key Colony Beach, Fla., won the $25,000 first prize at the 10th annual Leon Shell Memorial Sailfish Tournament that ended March 2. The victory marks the team's second consecutive win -- a first in the tournament's history.
Friday, March 7, 2008
Earth Day is officially celebrated April 22, but in the Florida Keys, surrounded by a national marine sanctuary and paralleled by North America's only living coral barrier reef, celebrations take place all month.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
The 13th annual Bay Jam music festival is slated for Sunday, April 6, at the TIB Bank of the Keys Amphitheater at Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside on Plantation Key. Concertgoers can rock to the sounds of an eclectic range of musicians from midday through sunset and into the night from the hammock-like performance center set against the aqua waters of Florida Bay.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
The tranquil blues of the subtropical sky are to blend with melodic blues at the seventh annual Lower Keys Jazz and Blues Festival, scheduled 1-6 p.m. Sunday, April 13. The event is to be presented by the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce on the grounds of the chamber's visitor center, mile marker 31 oceanside.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Internationally acclaimed pianist Andreas Klein and rising opera singer Yuriko Nonaka are to appear with the Key West Symphony during the orchestra's final master series concerts of its 10th anniversary season.
Friday, February 15, 2008
Arts and crafts by some of the Florida Keys' most creative spirits combine with music by top local and visiting musicians in the eighth annual Schooner Wharf Open Air Art & Music Affair, scheduled Saturday, March 1, in Key West's Historic Seaport.
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
The 27th annual run across the scenic Seven Mile Bridge in Marathon is set for Saturday, April 19, 2008, but interested runners need to act now to secure their participation.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Black History Month is to be commemorated in Key West beside an oceanfront site believed to be the only African refugee cemetery in the United States. Presented by Key West's Bahama Conch Community Land Trust, the observance is scheduled Friday and Saturday, Feb. 15 and 16, with educational, art and musical programs.
Thursday, February 7, 2008
Nature lovers can enjoy an exhibition and sale of rare plants, tour the lush and lovely gardens surrounding five private Key West homes, explore Key West's two premier public gardens and expand their horticultural knowledge at educational workshops during Gardenfest Key West, scheduled Friday through Sunday, Feb. 22-24.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
The Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center is to celebrate its first anniversary Saturday, Feb. 2, with the grand opening of Mote Marine Laboratory's Living Reef Exhibit inside the center.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
The conch shell isn't likely to eclipse the electric guitar as major-league musicians' favored instrument, but fans of the fluted, pink-lined shell are puckering up for an annual test of shell-playing skill in Key West.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
Instead of bright flower gardens and green grass, the Easter egg hunt off Key Largo is to be staged near coral heads teaming with colorful tropical fish or a bed of sea grass in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary. After all, when the Easter bunny is a scuba-diving gentle giant nearly seven feet tall (including ears), he can hide eggs anywhere he wants to -- as long as it's underwater.
Friday, January 25, 2008
Marathon is called the Heart of the Keys, but it's the tummy that will get the attention at the Original Marathon Seafood Festival. In its 37th year, the fun-filled feast is set for Saturday and Sunday, March 15-16, at Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49 oceanside.
Friday, January 25, 2008
As many as 600 amateur astronomers from around the world are to gather in the Florida Keys Monday through Sunday, Feb. 4-10, attracted by the chance for 180-degree viewing of the Southern Cross and other constellations during the 24th annual Winter Star Party.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
The Key West boxing tradition that dates back to Ernest Hemingway's residence is to return to the island city in a series of bouts set for Friday, Jan. 18, overlooking Key West Harbor at Mallory Square.
Tuesday, January 15, 2008
The subtropical island that has nurtured creative spirits from John James Audubon to famed Cuban folk artist Mario Sanchez is to showcase the wares of approximately 100 national and regional artisans Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 26 and 27. The Key West Craft Show, scheduled from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, is to transform the island's historic lower Whitehead Street into a lively open-air marketplace.
Monday, January 14, 2008
In 1965, the Key West Art Center originated and sponsored a show of original fine art to promote the cultural image of the island city. Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 23-24, the 43rd annual Old Island Days Art Festival is to continue that tradition with works by approximately a hundred artists from throughout the United States and Canada.
Monday, January 14, 2008
More than 30 antique dealers from around the United States are to stage the country's southernmost antiques show Friday through Sunday, Feb. 22-24, on the historic island of Key West. The antiques are to be displayed against the backdrop of a Civil War-era fort that is now a museum showcasing the island city's intriguingly offbeat history.
Monday, January 14, 2008
The Key West boxing tradition that dates back to Ernest Hemingway's residence is to return to the island city in a series of bouts set for Friday, Jan. 18, overlooking Key West Harbor at Mallory Square.
Thursday, January 10, 2008
Folk, bluegrass, country, traditional offerings and original tunes by Florida Keys performing songwriters are to highlight the musical menu during Terry Cassidy's Pickin' Party, set for noon to 6 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 3.
Friday, January 4, 2008
The roar of cannon fire and the sight of soldiers in Civil War uniforms are to greet visitors to Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park Friday though Sunday, Feb. 8-10, when the annual Civil War Days festival transforms the fort into a mid-1860s encampment.
Friday, January 4, 2008
Attention, water enthusiasts: boats, motors and nautical items galore are to be available at the fourth annual Big Pine Nautical Flea Market.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Blossoms, butterflies and brushstrokes. Bamboo, bananas and bromeliads. They all come together February at the Marathon Garden Club, 5270 Overseas Highway at mile marker 50 bayside in Marathon.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
The Sweethearts Arts & Crafts Festival at Holiday Isle Beach Resorts and Marina, mile marker 84 oceanside in Islamorada, is set for Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 9-10. The annual festival traditionally is a popular venue for attendees to find unusual and unique St. Valentine's Day gifts.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
From the odd and unusual to the new and necessary, parts and equipment that make life easier in, on or under water in the Keys can be found at the 13th annual Gigantic Nautical Flea Market. The event is set for Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 23-24, at Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside on Plantation Key.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
The 10th season of the critically acclaimed Key West Symphony Orchestra continues with two performances Friday and Saturday, Feb. 1 and 2, highlighted by the piano artistry of soloist Jeffrey Biegel.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
With a lineup of superb talent, the 28th Annual North Carolina Jazz Festival continues its longstanding tradition of bringing world-class jazz musicians to Wilmington, North Carolina. During the weekend of January 31 through February 2, 2008, the N.C. Jazz Festival will present concerts by 15 traditional jazz artists who will perform in a cabaret-style setting at the Hilton Wilmington Riverside's ballroom.
Thursday, January 3, 2008
Contemporary sculptures created by 34 international, national and local artists are to be displayed against two oceanfront Civil War-era forts during Sculpture Key West. The critically acclaimed annual open-air exhibition is set to begin its three-month run Sunday, Jan. 20, in the island city.
Friday, December 21, 2007
Three days of Bahamian cooking, junkanoo bands and historical re-enactors are to be celebrated at Crane Point Hammock and Museum's third annual Bahamian Heritage Festival Friday through Sunday, Jan. 25-27, at mile marker 50 bayside in Marathon.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
More than 30 American and international authors, scholars and critics are to discuss the expanding boundaries of contemporary literature during two separate sessions of the 26th annual Key West Literary Seminar. Sessions are to be offered Thursday through Sunday, Jan. 10-13 and Jan. 17-20, both themed "New Voices: Where Have We Been? Where Are We Going?" As in past years, the majority of the presentations are to take place at Key West's San Carlos Institute, 516 Duval St.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
From its cigar-makers' cottages to its Victorian mansions, Key West's architecture is as individualistic and unique as the island itself. Visitors can explore houses exemplifying that rich architectural tradition -- and contemporary Keys design -- during weekend house tours set for January, February and March 2008.
Thursday, December 6, 2007
Since the Florida Keys were first settled in the 1820s, the island chain's cuisine has been based around the bounty of the sea. Clawless Florida lobster, yellowtail, sweet pink shrimp, grouper, stone crab claws and more -- all harvested by Keys commercial fishermen -- have become prized signature items on the region's menus.
Wednesday, December 5, 2007
Captain Scott Stanczyk's Catch 22 team released nine sailfish to win the three-day Islamorada Sailfish Tournament that ended Sunday, Dec. 2. The tournament is the first of three angling challenges that make up the Florida Keys Gold Cup series.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
NAMSA Championships And Tradewinds Midwinter Nationals Come To Islamorada's Founders Park Jan. 19-20
The quiet beach at Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside on Plantation Key, is to come alive with fast boats and colorful sails when some of the top catamaran sailors in the world arrive to race in the North American Multihull Sailing Association North American Championships and 2008 Tradewinds Midwinter Open Cat Nationals. The racing action is set for Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 19-20, 2008.
Tuesday, December 4, 2007
National and regional angling experts are to gather in Islamorada Saturday, Jan. 19, 2008, to share Florida Keys sport-fishing techniques when the Salt Water Sportsman National Seminar Series stages its first-ever session in the Keys.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
The Key West Symphony, a unique gathering of 70-plus musicians from around the United States, is to begin its 10th year with a concert titled "Love, Scandal and Intrigue" featuring soloist Monica Abrego.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
He came, he cast, he conquered. Josh Shevlin, 12, of Bay Harbor, Fla., was named master angler at the 2007 Islamorada Fishing Club Junior Derby. Shevlin set a record by accumulating 1,660 points -- 200 more than any angler in the history of the derby.
Wednesday, November 28, 2007
The legendary lyrics of late folk artist Woody Guthrie are to resonate at an 8 p.m. outdoor concert Friday, Dec. 14, in Islamorada.
Tuesday, November 27, 2007
Florida Keys offers a year's worth of tournament action in 2008, fishing for prizes, fame or charity in a quest for the best from sailfish to snook, kingfish to dolphins, multi-lure to lost lures, offshore to fishing on the flats.
Monday, November 26, 2007
Many repeat visitors to the Florida Keys often dream about owning a vacation or permanent residence in the subtropical island chain. That dream is to become a reality for someone when Home and Garden Television awards a luxury residence in Islamorada to the winner of its 2008 HGTV Dream Home Giveaway contest set to begin Jan. 1.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
The Florida Keys releases their 2008 Florida Keys fishing tournaments schedule.
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Some of the nation's finest collegiate swimmers are slated to vie for honors at an Orange Bowl Festival event in Key Largo. The annual Orange Bowl Swimming Classic is set for 10 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 5, at the Jacobs Aquatic Center, mile marker 99.6 oceanside in Key Largo.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
On a subtropical island where fall and winter daytime temperatures average in the 70s, it's hard to imagine sandal-clad kids playing in the snow. But that's the plan for the third annual Florida Keys Holiday Festival set for 4-10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 30, at Islamorada's Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
From beachside fireworks to wacky takeoffs on the traditional ball drop in New York's Times Square, the Florida Keys offer visitors a wealth of ways to welcome 2008. And because "winter" in the subtropical island chain means balmy breezes rather than blizzards, revelers can leave overcoats and boots behind as they head out to celebrate dressed in shirtsleeves, shorts and sandals.
Tuesday, November 6, 2007
The eighth annual Don Gurgiolo Sailfish Classic is slated for Friday through Sunday, Dec. 7-9, in Islamorada. The tournament honors the late Captain Don Gurgiolo for his more than 50 years of fishing in the Keys.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
The Mercury Cheeca Redbone Celebrity Tournament and associated Superfly Tournament are set for Thursday through Sunday, Nov. 1-4. The Redbone is the final contest in the prestigious three-tournament Redbone Celebrity Trilogy that targets bonefish and redfish, and raises funds for cystic fibrosis research.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Two-time A-Cat world champion Peter Melvin is among 100 world-class international competitors and Olympic sailors preparing to race November 8-16 in the 2007 Ronstan A-Class Catamaran World Championship headquartered at Islamorada's Islander Resort, mile marker 82.1 oceanside.
Thursday, October 25, 2007
Chefs representing a wide gambit of experiences are testing their best recipes in preparation for the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce's 26th annual Key Largo Cook-Off. The culinary challenge is set for Thursday, Nov. 8, at the Holiday Inn, mile marker 100.
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
As well as balmy temperatures and scores of visitors eager to escape frigid northern air, the holiday season in the Florida Keys is characterized by enthusiastic celebrations all along the subtropical island chain.
Friday, October 19, 2007
The spiritual descendents of Blackbeard, Calico Jack Rackham, pirate queen Anne Bonny and even Captain Jack Sparrow are to drop anchor in Key West Thursday through Sunday, Nov. 29 through Dec. 2, for the annual Pirates in Paradise Festival. Designed to appeal to children and adults alike, the colorful gathering typically brings hundreds of buccaneer aficionados and re-enactors to the island city renowned for its adventurous seafaring history.
Wednesday, October 17, 2007
Maintaining its reputation as the Indianapolis of Offshore Powerboat Racing, Key West is getting set to host its 27th world championship Nov. 4-11.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
On a subtropical island where fall and winter daytime temperatures average in the 70s, it's hard to imagine sandal-clad kids playing in the snow. But that's the plan for the third annual Florida Keys Holiday Festival set for 4-10 p.m. Friday, Nov. 30, at Islamorada's Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside.
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Most tournaments target one or two species of fish. But the Islamorada Fishing Club's Junior Derby encourages kids to get out and fish for just about anything that swims (tropicals excluded).
Tuesday, October 16, 2007
Maintaining its reputation as the Indianapolis of Offshore Powerboat Racing, Key West is getting set to host its 27th world championship Nov. 4-11.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Under the guidance of a gifted American ballet dancer, 17 dance professionals from around the United States are to join dozens of Keys children to create a unique island-flavored version of the classic holiday ballet "The Nutcracker."
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Though ghosts and goblins only attend in spirit, the annual Underwater Pumpkin Carving Contest, set for Saturday, Oct. 20, at Amy Slate's Amoray Dive Resort in Key Largo, kicks off the Halloween season with an assemblage of jack-o-lanterns that have been known to scare the local damselfish silly.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
The rich Caribbean tradition that flavors Key West's culture is to be celebrated Friday and Saturday, Oct. 19 and 20, during the 27th annual Goombay Festival. The exuberant street party showcases island arts and crafts, music and food in the heart of Key West's historic Bahama Village neighborhood.
Thursday, September 27, 2007
In 1957, the National Key Deer Refuge was established in the Lower Florida Keys to protect and preserve the diminutive Key deer and other Keys wildlife resources. Saturday, Nov. 17, the refuge's 50 years of conservation are to be commemorated by regional officials, dignitaries refuge staff and volunteers.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Animal antics take center stage Wednesday, Oct. 24, during the WKEY Pet Masquerade and Parade, a wacky costume competition for barking, meowing and squawking revelers and their human companions.
Tuesday, September 25, 2007
Under the guidance of a gifted American ballet dancer, 17 dance professionals from around the United States are to join dozens of Keys children to create a unique island-flavored version of the classic holiday ballet "The Nutcracker." "Nutcracker Key West" is scheduled to begin its 11-performance run Friday, Nov. 23, featuring characters and sets that depict the island city's colorful history, vibrant coral reef environment and even free-roaming local roosters.
Friday, September 21, 2007
A cavalcade of costumed crazies is to converge on Key West's famed Duval Street Saturday, Oct. 27, for the Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest Parade. The glittering parade is traditionally the highlight of the annual Fantasy Fest masking and costuming celebration that takes place this year Friday, Oct. 19, through Sunday, Oct. 28.
Friday, September 21, 2007
Entries in previous years have included a group of gigantic dancing Chinese takeout containers and a sea hag driving a 10-foot-tall blue and pink sequined replica steam engine, and competitors in the 2007 Pretenders in Paradise costume competition are expected to dream up equally elaborate and flamboyant ensembles.
Tuesday, September 18, 2007
Fans of the flamboyant are invited to step through the looking glass into a wacky wonderland during Fantasy Fest 2007. Themed "Gnomes, Toads & White Rabbit Tea Parties," the riotous romp is scheduled Friday, Oct. 19, through Sunday, Oct. 28.
Friday, September 14, 2007
It was U.S. Route 66 that brought widespread fame to the fiberglass-bodied two-seater. But U.S. Highway 1 in Islamorada will be the road that shows off the authentic American sports car's grace, style, beauty and muscle.
Friday, September 14, 2007
Under the guidance of a gifted American ballet dancer, 17 dance professionals from around the United States are to join dozens of Keys children to create a unique island-flavored version of the classic holiday ballet "The Nutcracker."
Monday, September 10, 2007
Environmentally minded organizations and individuals are to celebrate Florida Coastal Cleanup Day Saturday, Sept. 15, by beautifying the near-shore waters, shore and grounds of Harry Harris County Park, mile marker 93 oceanside in Key Largo. Activities are to begin at 9 a.m. and continue until noon.
Friday, August 31, 2007
"South Florida Sun-Sentinel" readers chose the Florida Keys as the second wonder of Florida in a recent Seven Wonders of Florida readers poll.
Thursday, August 30, 2007
In an area that includes so many of nature's marvels, people often forget to "get back to nature." But the Florida Keys Birding and Wildlife Festival, set for Friday through Sunday, Oct. 12-14, serves as a unique reminder to experience the natural, unspoiled Florida Keys.
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
Motorcyclists from throughout the United States are to travel one of America's most scenic highways for charity starting Friday, Sept. 14, during the 35th annual Key West Poker Run.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Anglers can target the "big three" game fish of the flats while fishing with celebrities ranging from sports heroes to astronauts in the annual Mercury Southernmost Light-Tackle Anglers Masters (S.L.A.M.) Celebrity Fishing Tournament.
Monday, August 6, 2007
An estimated 5,000 fans are expected to turn out for Hawaii's annual Slack Key Guitar Festival, celebrating its 25th anniversary this August 19, 2007, from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. at Kapiolani Park's Victorian Bandstand.
Friday, August 3, 2007
The 21st annual Womenfest, a celebration of all things female designed for lesbians and their friends, is set for Tuesday through Sunday, Sept. 4-9. Typically attracting several thousand women, the festival is to take place in America's southernmost island of Key West, renowned for its enthusiastic diversity.
Wednesday, August 1, 2007
Lobster lovers are to savor sensational crustaceans during the 11th annual Key West Lobsterfest, a tasty salute to Florida's clawless lobster set for Friday through Sunday, Aug. 10-12.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
Every year, patrons of Florida Keys dive and snorkel shops play a guessing game. Locals and visitors alike try to guess the date and time of the annual coral spawn -- sometimes nicknamed "sex on the reef" -- on North America's only living coral barrier reef, which parallels the island chain.
Wednesday, July 18, 2007
For Tom Siska of Saddlebrook, N.J., winning the Gold Cup Invitational Tarpon Tournament has been a long time coming. He's been second, third, fourth, fifth -- nearly always in the top five over the last 10 years. Now, his name will be engraved on the Gold Cup perpetual trophy alongside many of the legends of tarpon fishing.
Friday, July 6, 2007
A multi-agency initiative designed to enhance sport diving safety, is to be highlighted by a Lobster Diving Rodeo and Safety Expo Monday, July 23, in the Florida Keys.
Thursday, July 5, 2007
When Mary Mitchell decided to fish the Conch Republic Ladies Dolphin Championship, her plans didn't include fighting her first blue marlin. But the angler from Clover, S.C., hooked a blue as well as earned first-place individual honors for a 27-pound dolphin.
Thursday, July 5, 2007
Ernest Hemingway's decade of residence in Key West ended late in 1939, but his literary legacy lives on -- both in the island city and in the annual Hemingway Days celebration. Scheduled Tuesday through Sunday, July 17-22, Hemingway Days 2007 offers three events that commemorate Key West's rich literary tradition while honoring talented contemporary writers.
Tuesday, June 26, 2007
David Rodriguez of Miramar, Fla., weighed in a 55.9-pound dolphin to take first place and a check for $10,000 at the Florida Keys Community Classic.
Monday, June 25, 2007
The all-night Southernmost Swordfish Tournament with Hydro Glow has been rescheduled to take place the night of Saturday, July 7. The angling challenge, presented by the Key West Fishing Tournament, was originally scheduled for June 16, but was postponed because of inclement weather.
Friday, June 22, 2007
Goombay Summer Fest, a high-energy street festival featuring live music, is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, June 29-30. As well as providing an opportunity for family fun, the festival celebrates the Keys' Bahamian-flavored heritage.
Friday, June 22, 2007
Lobster lovers are to savor sensational crustaceans during a tasty salute to Florida's clawless lobster set for Saturday, Aug. 11. The 11th annual Key West Lobsterfest is scheduled from noon to 11 p.m. in the 100 through 400 blocks of Key West's renowned Duval Street.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
When divers from shipwreck salvage company Blue Water Ventures Key West last week discovered an estimated million-dollars-plus worth of 17th-century gold and artifacts, the objects were quickly brought to a conservation laboratory above the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum.
Thursday, June 21, 2007
Steve Kreiger of Big Pine Key took first place in the 14th annual Big Pine and Lower Keys Dolphin Tournament that ended June 17.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Over Father's Day weekend, team Yank Um headed far out to sea to find the three dolphin fish that combined to weigh 45.2 pounds and earn first place at the third annual Island Grill Charity Dolphin Tournament.
Wednesday, June 20, 2007
Ernest Hemingway's decade of residence in Key West ended late in 1939, but his literary legacy lives on -- both in the island city and in the annual Hemingway Days celebration. Scheduled Tuesday through Sunday, July 17-22, Hemingway Days 2007 offers three events that commemorate Key West's rich literary tradition while honoring talented contemporary writers.
Tuesday, June 19, 2007
The 22nd anniversary of shipwreck salvor Mel Fisher's discovery of the sunken Spanish galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha is to be commemorated Thursday through Saturday, July 19-21, with a Mel Fisher Days celebration in the island city the late salvor called home.
Friday, June 15, 2007
Noted photographer and author Paul Humann, whose "Reef Fish Identification" series of books on fish, corals and creatures are used by divers and snorkelers around the world, is to be the special guest at the Great Annual Fish Count kick-off reception set for 6-8 p.m. Saturday, July 7.
Wednesday, June 13, 2007
The sparkling waters surrounding the Florida Keys are set to reflect bursts of color during Independence Day celebrations along the 110-mile chain of islands.
Wednesday, June 6, 2007
Twenty-six species of Florida Keys plants and trees from the Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden are on display in Washington, D.C., this summer as part of an exhibit titled "Celebrating America's Public Gardens."
Monday, June 4, 2007
American literary giant Ernest Hemingway lived in Key West throughout the 1930s, writing some of his most enduring works and embracing the unpretentious island atmosphere. The legacy of the writer whose prose earned Pulitzer and Nobel prizes is to be recognized Tuesday through Sunday, July 17-22, during the annual Hemingway Days celebration.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
As many as 150 white-bearded, stocky men resembling Ernest Hemingway are to gather in Key West to compete for the title of "Papa" during the 27th annual Hemingway Days celebration, the island city's summer festival honoring its most famous literary resident.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
For decades, Keys cooks have flavored their dishes with tropical fruits such as mango, papaya and Key lime gleaned from trees that grow along the island chain. From 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, June 30, these tropical fruits and many others are to be celebrated at the annual Florida Keys Tropical Fruit Fiesta.
Friday, May 18, 2007
In December 1947, then-President Harry S. Truman traveled from his "Little White House" in Key West to dedicate Everglades National Park, today revered as a national treasure. Friday and Saturday, June 8-9, that action is to be celebrated during the fifth annual Truman Legacy Symposium.
Thursday, May 3, 2007
Beginning Saturday, May 5, visitors bound for Key West can take advantage of Delta Connection's Saturday-only nonstop service between Tampa and the island city. Flights are to depart Tampa International Airport each Saturday at 7 a.m. and 3:10 p.m., and arrive at Key West International Airport approximately 70 minutes later.
Thursday, May 3, 2007
Rock legends are to celebrate the "key of sea" in Lower Keys waters Saturday, July 14, as divers portraying Sonny and Cher, Elton John, David Crosby and even a mermaid Madonna rock the reef during the 23rd annual Underwater Music Festival.
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
Beginning Saturday, May 5, visitors bound for Key West can take advantage of Delta Connection's Saturday-only nonstop service between Tampa and the island city.
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
Special flies, accurate casts and a bit of luck are the recipe for winning when some of the nation's top fly anglers set their sights on the prestigious grand champion's award at the 13th annual Golden Fly Invitational Tarpon Tournament. The tournament is set for Sunday through Wednesday, May 20-23, in Islamorada.
Friday, April 20, 2007
Anglers targeting dolphin can also "catch" cash prizes and awards totaling more than $36,000 in the 14th annual Big Pine and Lower Keys Dolphin Tournament. Set for Friday through Sunday, June 15-17, the tournament is presented by the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce. Events are to be headquartered at the Sugarloaf Key Resort KOA at mile marker (MM) 20 oceanside on Sugarloaf Key.
Friday, April 20, 2007
Two days of fun and games, great food, arts and crafts, and entertainment are to fill Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside, during the 16th annual Florida Keys Island Festival, Taste of Islamorada and newly created Islamorada Games. The festivities are slated for Saturday and Sunday, May 19-20.
Friday, April 20, 2007
The 63-acre Crane Point Hammock at mile marker 50.5 bayside in Marathon is to host Earth Awareness Day Saturday, April 21, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The festivities are to feature specially created environment-themed booths, healthy food choices, music and outdoor activities.
Friday, April 20, 2007
The 33rd annual Don Hawley Invitational Tarpon Tournament is slated to kick off Sunday, June 3, with cocktails and a pre-tournament briefing at the Islamorada Fishing Club, mile marker (MM) 82 bayside in Islamorada.
Friday, April 20, 2007
The Key West Symphony is to bring its stellar musicianship to Marathon audiences in a free outdoor "Symphony at Ease" community concert set for 8 p.m. Sunday, April 15. The concert is to take place at the City of Marathon Amphitheatre at mile marker 49.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Those eager to immerse themselves in the flavors of Key West can indulge their appetites during the 12th annual Taste of Key West, set for 6-9 p.m. Monday, April 30. The open-air gala traditionally features mouthwatering temptations such as Caribbean-influenced cuisine and fresh-off-the-boat local seafood, accompanied by a selection of wines from around the world.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
Jeff Bloodworth of Atlanta, Ga., finished two strong days of bonefishing to capture grand champion honors at the 2007 Islamorada All-Tackle Spring Bonefish Tournament March 28-30.
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Warm water and warm hearts are to welcome water-lovers at Island Sun Splash '07, slated for Sunday, June 10, through Saturday, June 16. Organized by the Upper Keys Association of Dive and Snorkel Operators, the event includes activities for everyone from experienced diving experts to families visiting North America's only living coral barrier reef for the first time.
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
The annual Bay Jam music festival that benefits Florida Keys art and music students is slated for Sunday, April 15, at the TIB Bank of the Keys Amphitheater at Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside on Plantation Key.
Monday, April 2, 2007
The Key West Symphony is to bring its stellar musicianship to the public in two free outdoor pops-style concerts at Fort Zachary Taylor, a Civil War-era fort fronting on the island city's Atlantic Ocean shore. The concerts are set for Wednesday and Thursday, April 10-11, beginning at 8:15 p.m. both evenings.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Some people feel an adrenaline rush crossing over the Florida Keys' Seven Mile Bridge at 50 miles per hour. Imagine going under two concrete bridges at about 100 miles per hour.
Monday, March 26, 2007
Musical icon Mick Jagger might croon that he "can't get no satisfaction," but Key West rock fans aren't likely to echo his lament on Friday, April 20. That's the night Satisfaction, a renowned Rolling Stones tribute band, is to present the music of the legendary Stones in a free concert at Key West's Mallory Square.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Some people feel an adrenaline rush crossing over the Keys' Seven Mile Bridge at 50 miles per hour. Imagine going under two concrete-supported bridges at more than 100 miles per hour.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
Pianist Adam Golka is to appear as the featured soloist during the Key West Symphony's final performances of its 2006-07 season. Golka joins the symphony performing Sergei Rachmaninoff's fiery Piano Concerto No 3, beginning at 8 p.m. Friday and Saturday, April 13 and 14, at the Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 W. College Road on the campus of Florida Keys Community College.
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
More than 70 of the United States' top performing songwriters are to showcase their original music in intimate, audience-friendly tropical settings during the 12th annual Hog's Breath Key West Songwriters' Festival, scheduled Wednesday through Sunday, May 2-6.
Friday, March 16, 2007
When a tournament grows beyond its boundaries, there's only one thing to do -- expand the boundaries. That's how the Marathon Community Classic became the Florida Keys Community Classic. Set for Thursday through Sunday, June 7-10, the event includes a two-day tournament open to all anglers and a two-day flea market with food and live entertainment.
Monday, March 12, 2007
Soulful jazz in a subtropical setting is to characterize the sixth annual Lower Keys Jazz Festival, scheduled for 1-6 p.m. Sunday, March 25. Presented by the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce, the event is to be staged at Dolphin Marina, mile marker (MM) 28.5 oceanside on Little Torch Key.
Thursday, March 8, 2007
The work of Pulitzer Prize-winning poet Robert Frost is to be celebrated Wednesday through Sunday, April 11-15, on the grounds of the cottage Frost considered his winter retreat.
Thursday, February 22, 2007
An almost seven-year void was filled Thursday when commercial air service returned to the middle Florida Keys, with the first arrival of Delta Connection's daily nonstop round-trip service from Atlanta to Florida Keys Marathon Airport.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
When the cuddly, floppy-eared Easter bunny stands 6 feet 4 inches tall (sans ears) and weighs in at 240 pounds (dry), he gets to hide his Easter eggs anywhere he wants to. So snorkelers and divers should be happy to know those eggs are to be hidden in barely 10 feet of azure Florida Keys water.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Marathon is called the Heart of the Keys, but it's the tummy that will get the attention at the Original Marathon Seafood Festival. The fun-filled feast is set for Saturday and Sunday, March 10-11, at Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49 oceanside.
Thursday, February 15, 2007
From the odd and unusual to the new and necessary, parts and equipment that make life easier in, on or under water in the Keys can be found at the 12th annual Gigantic Nautical Flea Market. The event is set for Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 24-25, at Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside on Plantation Key.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
A 46-mile area of Dry Tortugas National Park is now a Research Natural Area, a no-fishing, no-anchoring ecological preserve that provides a haven for species affected by over-fishing and loss of habitat.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
Boat owners, and those who want to be one, can satisfy their cravings for marine merchandise Saturday and Sunday, March 3 and 4, at the Rotary Club of Key West's fifth annual Boat Show and Nautical Market. The event is to begin at 9 a.m. both days along the wide cement pier at Key West's Truman Waterfront.
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
The Florida Keys are surrounded by glistening aquamarine waters, but the color of the day will be green at the biannual Green Living & Energy Education Expo slated for Saturday, March 31, at the Stanley Switlik School, mile marker 48.5 bayside in Marathon.
Friday, February 2, 2007
Loaves of stale Cuban bread, a federal border checkpoint and a request for $1 billion in foreign aid played major roles in the Florida Keys' 1982 secession from the United States and the formation of the independent Conch Republic. Today touted as The World's First Fifth-World Nation and A Sovereign State of Mind, the republic will mark its 25th birthday Friday, April 20, through Sunday, April 29, with the offbeat Conch Republic Independence Celebration featuring a re-enactment of the historic secession ceremony.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
Some of the finest homes and most interesting gardens in the Middle Keys are to be open to the public for one day during the Marathon Garden Club's 31st annual House & Garden Tour. The tour is set for Saturday, March 3, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
The Middle Keys Concert Association's 38th season continues with internationally renowned pianist Frederick Moyer on Monday, Feb. 12, the Brazilian Guitar Quartet on Monday, Feb. 19, and the Moscow Chamber Orchestra on Monday, March 19.
Wednesday, January 31, 2007
On a laidback subtropical island chain where Jimmy Buffett tunes and beach music prevail, Island Opera Theatre is in its sixth year of presenting quality opera and musical theater. The talented local company's 2006-07 season continues through June, highlighted by a presentation of the classic "South Pacific" set for March 9-11 and 16-18 at the Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Road on the campus of Florida Keys Community College.
Friday, January 26, 2007
Fans headed to Super Bowl XLI, set for Sunday, Feb. 4, can enjoy an island vacation that begins about an hour's drive south of pro football's world championship game in South Florida. A necklace of islands, the Florida Keys are connected to the South Florida mainland by the Overseas Highway's 43 bridges -- one almost seven miles long -- over the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
A Civil War-era fort overlooking the Atlantic Ocean is a fitting site for the southernmost antiques show in the United States, scheduled for Friday through Sunday, Feb. 23-25. The Fort East Martello Museum and Gardens, 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd., which showcases Key West's colorful past, is to open its doors to more than 30 exclusive antiques dealers from around the U.S. for the third annual Key West Antiques Show & Sale.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Weez in the Keys took the lead on day one of the third annual Outdoor Channel Offshore Classic and never looked back to win the two-day sailfish tournament with a total of 10 releases.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Marathon is called the Heart of the Keys, but it's the tummy that will get the attention at the Original Marathon Seafood Festival. The fun-filled feast is set for Saturday and Sunday, March 10-11, at Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49 oceanside.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Some anglers treat their most prized lure like gold, making sure it lasts through a hard day of fishing. That strategy is mandatory at the 13th annual Backbone Lures Fish Til You Lose It Backcountry Fishing Tournament, set for Saturday, March 3, in Islamorada.
Wednesday, January 24, 2007
Anglers on the Wound Up, skippered by Miami resident John Dudas, caught and released eight sailfish Saturday, Jan. 20, to come from behind and post top honors at the Cheeca Lodge Presidential Sailfish Tournament in the Florida Keys.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
The $6 million Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, a free-admission environmental education facility, formally opened this past weekend providing visitors a way to experience the Keys' underwater ecosystem before they get wet.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
The Sweethearts Arts & Crafts Festival at Holiday Isle Resorts and Marina, mile marker 84 oceanside in Islamorada, is set for Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 3-4. The annual festival is a popular venue for attendees to find unusual and unique Valentine's Day gifts.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
It's not a brass instrument, a stringed instrument or a drum, but the fluted pink-lined conch shell has the distinction of being the "instrument" behind Key West's most indigenous form of musical expression. The offbeat art of conch shell blowing is to be demonstrated by novices and rare "pucker pros" at the 45th annual Conch Shell Blowing Contest, scheduled for 1:30 p.m. Saturday, March 3.
Wednesday, January 17, 2007
Gate Crasher, with Captain Chuck Bloomer of Key Largo at the helm, took home the $1,500 first prize at the Key Largo Sailfish Challenge. Anglers Chester Simms and Mike Acheson, both of Key Largo, released five sailfish.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Sailfish of the Middle Keys, beware. The popular Leon Shell Memorial Sailfish Tournament, set for Friday through Sunday, March 2-4, in Key Colony Beach, Fla., is to expand from one to two full days of sailfishing and offer a $20,000 purse.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
The life and culture of the Keys' pioneering Bahamian families are to be celebrated at the Bahamian Heritage Festival, set for Friday through Sunday, Jan. 26-28, at Crane Point Hammock, mile marker 50 bayside in Marathon.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Fine art aficionados can discover the work of approximately 100 artists in a balmy open-air setting during the 42nd annual Old Island Days Art Festival, scheduled Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 24 and 25, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Several hundred professional and amateur astronomers from around the world are to set up their telescopes in the Florida Keys Feb. 12-18, 2007, attracted by the chance for 180-degree viewing of the Southern Cross and other constellations during the 23rd annual Winter Star Party.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
From the odd and unusual to the new and necessary, parts and equipment that make life easier in, on or under water in the Keys can be found at the 12th annual Gigantic Nautical Flea Market. The event is set for Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 24-25, at Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside on Plantation Key.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
In the 1930s, when he wasn't writing, fishing or indulging at Sloppy Joe's Bar, Ernest Hemingway often officiated boxing matches outside a small bordello near his Spanish colonial home on Whitehead Street. That tradition is scheduled to return to Key West in a harborside series of bouts set for Friday, Jan. 19, at Mallory Square.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
More than 30 teams of women and girls from across the U.S., Canada and Europe are to converge on Key West in February for the 16th annual Kelly McGillis Classic International Women's & Girls' Flag Football Championship. The championship, named for and endorsed by the critically acclaimed actress and former Key West resident who starred in "Top Gun" and "Witness," is scheduled Sunday, Feb. 4, through Monday, Feb. 12.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
Beginning Jan. 13, visitors can experience the Florida Keys' underwater ecosystem without getting wet at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, a free-admission environmental facility on the Key West waterfront at Truman Annex. Incorporating more than 6,400 square feet of interactive exhibits, the center is to debut with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 11 a.m. Saturday, Jan. 13.
Tuesday, January 9, 2007
Fort Taylor, a Civil War-era fort on Key West's Atlantic Ocean shore, is to host a battle between land and sea forces, the staged court trial of a blockade runner and encampments of Civil War re-enactors Friday through Sunday, Feb. 9-11. Civil War Heritage Days, now in its 21st year, re-creates the era when Key West was the only Deep South port to remain in Union hands.
Friday, January 5, 2007
Noted environmental artist Wyland is to paint the 95th in a planned series of 100 mammoth marine life murals, known as Whaling Walls, Feb. 1-12 in the Florida Keys.
Thursday, January 4, 2007
Legendary composer, lyricist and former Key West resident Jerry Herman is to return to the island city to star in a tribute concert presented by the Key West Pops Orchestra. "Welcome Home, Jerry Herman" is set for 8 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 6, at the Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Road on the campus of Florida Keys Community College.
Wednesday, January 3, 2007
More than 70 nationally recognized fine artists and craftspeople are to exhibit their artistry at the 13th annual Pigeon Key Art Festival, set to run Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 10-11, at Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49 oceanside in Marathon.
Wednesday, January 3, 2007
Stellar Keys musicians are to strut their stuff playing folk, bluegrass, country, traditional and original tunes during the Terry Cassidy Pickin' Party, set for noon to 5 p.m. Sunday, Feb. 4. As many as 70 musicians are expected to perform at the free-admission event.
Wednesday, January 3, 2007
Settled as a salvaging outpost in the early 1800s, Key West has since become widely renowned for its lovingly preserved Victorian architecture, vibrant arts and cultural community and unique seafaring heritage.
Wednesday, January 3, 2007
Ever since John James Audubon visited Key West in 1832 to sketch indigenous birds, the island city has offered a haven and an inspiration for creative spirits. The tradition of creativity that dates back to Audubon is to continue Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 27 and 28, when approximately 100 national and regional crafters display their wares at the 22nd annual Key West Craft Show.
Friday, December 22, 2006
Aficionados of boating, fishing and diving in the Florida Keys' ocean realm can take their pick of maritime merchandise at the third annual Big Pine Nautical Flea Market, set for 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 27.
Friday, December 22, 2006
More than 70 nationally recognized fine artists and craftspeople are to exhibit their artistry at the 13th annual Pigeon Key Art Festival, set to run Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 10-11, at Marathon Community Park, mile marker 49 oceanside in Marathon.
Thursday, December 21, 2006
The Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce Wednesday unveiled an 18th-century British cannon and a series of educational panels documenting one facet of the Keys' maritime history.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
New Year's Eve partiers unwilling to endure cold-weather festivities, such as the traditional ball drop in New York's Times Square, can find equally exuberant celebrations and far warmer temperatures in the Florida Keys.
Monday, December 18, 2006
Engaging craft items, gallery-class fine art and everything in between await attendees at the annual Art Under the Oaks show set for Saturday, Jan. 13. The event is to be held on the beautiful grounds of San Pedro Catholic Church, mile marker 89.5 bayside on Plantation Key.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Ladies are to take their turn challenging the speedy sailfish of the Upper Keys at the Islamorada Women's Sailfish Tournament, set for Friday through Sunday, Feb. 2-4.
Thursday, December 14, 2006
Anglers can vie for prizes including a boat, motor and trailer valued at $60,000 during the 2007 Hog's Breath King Mackerel Tournament, slated for Friday through Sunday, Jan. 26-28.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
The ninth season of the critically acclaimed Key West Symphony Orchestra continues with two performances Friday and Saturday, Jan. 26 and 27, highlighted by music accompanied by breathtaking images from deep space.
Tuesday, December 12, 2006
The historic harbor walk linking colorful seaport restaurants, bars and businesses at the Key West Bight is to come alive with holiday lights, a free Christmas concert and even a visit from Santa during the "Bight Before Christmas" Friday and Saturday, Dec. 15-16.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Patrick Green of Put-in-Bay, Ohio, won the Hobie Wave National Championship held Dec. 1-3 in Key Largo. It was Green's first win at a major race.
Monday, December 11, 2006
Three Civil War-era forts on Key West's Atlantic Ocean shore are to become the backdrop for unique artwork during Sculpture Key West, set for Jan. 14 through April 14 in the island city.
Thursday, December 7, 2006
Scurvy pirates and winsome wenches are to kick off Key West's Pirates in Paradise Festival with the "Official End of America's Hurricane Season Party" set for Thursday, Nov. 30. The buccaneering bash celebrates the day the National Hurricane Center has designated the end of the 2006 Atlantic basin hurricane season.
Thursday, October 26, 2006
The tradition of world championship offshore powerboat racing continues Nov. 5-12 as some of the globe's top names in offshore powerboat descend on the Southernmost City in the Continental United States for the Key West World Championship.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Several thousand fervent fans of singer/songwriter/author Jimmy Buffett, known as Parrot Heads, are following the Key West-inspired Buffett's footsteps to the United States' southernmost city. The 15th annual Parrot Heads in Paradise Meeting of the Minds convention, titled "Island Daze," is scheduled Thursday through Sunday, Nov. 2-5, in Key West.
Monday, October 16, 2006
Revelers are to climb aboard for a wild ride through the outrageous outpost of Key West during Fantasy Fest 2006, themed "Key Weird on the Dis-Oriented Express." Scheduled Friday through Sunday, Oct. 20-29, the festival is on track to recall Key West's history of shipwrecks, pirates, rumrunners and even the famed Overseas Railroad.
Monday, October 16, 2006
Every dog may have its day, but only in Key West can that "day" include competing in a costume contest specifically designed for canines, felines and other party animals.
Wednesday, October 11, 2006
The ninth annual Keys Boogie is set to jump into action Thursday through Sunday, Nov. 9-12, in Marathon. The skydiving festival is hosted by Skydive Sebastian of Sebastian, Fla.
Thursday, October 5, 2006
In the early 1800s, Key West was settled in part by Bahamian residents who migrated across the water to the new American seaport city. The annual Goombay celebration, set for Friday and Saturday, Oct. 20 and 21, commemorates the culture and heritage the island shares with its neighbors in the Bahamas.
Thursday, October 5, 2006
The Chevrolet Corvette, dubbed "America's sports car" because it was the first all-American sports car built by General Motors, will be the star of the show at the 13th annual Corvettes in Paradise on Saturday, Nov. 4. The automotive action is to take place at Holiday Isle Resort & Marina, mile marker 84 oceanside in Islamorada.
Thursday, October 5, 2006
Couples with an "Ernest" desire to marry can opt for a ceremony performed by "Papa Hemingway" himself at Key West's Ernest Hemingway Home and Museum, 907 Whitehead St. Hemingway look-alike and licensed notary Bob Orlin is now available to perform ceremonies in the landscaped gardens of the home where the legendary author lived and wrote throughout the 1930s.
Monday, October 2, 2006
Eccentricity and inventiveness characterize the annual array of costume competitions during Key West's Fantasy Fest, set for Oct. 20-29. The festival's 2006 theme, "Key Weird on the Dis-Oriented Express," encourages costume designers to hop aboard the express to excess and dare to dazzle with gaudy, glitzy ensembles.
Tuesday, September 26, 2006
Nationally acclaimed authors including Dennis Lehane and Les Standiford are to share their insights on writing at the 2006 Florida International University/Key West Writers' Conference, scheduled Wednesday through Saturday, Oct. 18-21. The event is to be held at the Pier House Resort & Caribbean Spa, 1 Duval St.
Monday, September 25, 2006
Revelers are to climb aboard for a wild ride through the outrageous outpost of Key West during Fantasy Fest 2006, themed "Key Weird on the Dis-Oriented Express." Scheduled Friday through Sunday, Oct. 20-29, the festival is on track to recall Key West's history of shipwrecks, pirates, rumrunners and even the famed Overseas Railroad.
Thursday, September 21, 2006
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