Birthplace of the original Key Lime Pie, Key West is bracing itself for the 7th Annual Key Lime Festival which runs from Thursday, July 4 – Sunday, July 7. Citrus, eccentrics, people, and pie take center stage during this wacky four-day celebration packed with culinary events for every taste.
Favorite happenings like the Key Lime Cocktail Sip & Stroll and Key Lime Pie Hop are back on the roster, along with the Key Lime Pie Drop and Key Lime Scavenger Hunt.
New favorites include the Key Limes & Coffee Guest Speaker Series, featuring presentations on key lime cultivation and history from local experts. The Key Lime University, where you can learn to make key lime pies and cocktails, and a Key Lime Cookbook Signing & Champagne Reception by festival co-founder, chef, columnist and author, David Sloan, who will also be making guest appearances throughout the festival.
Of course, the festival’s undisputed highlight is the Mile-High Key Lime Pie Eating Contest set for Thursday, July 4 at the Southernmost Beach Cafe, 1405 Duval Street. Brave contestants must attempt to devour an entire pie, topped with mounds of whipped cream, without using their hands — while trying to outpace their rivals and beat the pie-eating record of 62 seconds. Doors open at 10 am, and the contest begins at 11 am. Admission is free, and if you’re up to the task, the entry fee is just $20 which includes notoriety, a Key Lime Pie and a chance to be a champion.
To register and see a full schedule of events, go to keylimefestival.com. After all, what’s more American than Key Lime Pie?
