November marks the beginning of the holiday season and there is just so much going on
that it’s hard to know where to begin.
Here’s what’s happening throughout the month but please do stay tuned in because it’s
just the tip of the proverbial iceberg!
ONGOING
Randy Roberts Live!
Key West: Spotlighted on television’s hit series “America’s Got Talent,” Randy Roberts shines in this live, multi-media tribute to some of the world’s most beloved performers. His uncanny impersonations of Cher, Better Midler, and Mae West are spot-on. He’ll have you rolling in the aisles when he performs a titillating striptease as the bawdy Gypsy Rose Lee. Catch this fantastic show at La Te Da’s Crystal Room Cabaret, 1125 Duval St. Tickets and info: 305-296-6706; lateda.com.
Christopher Peterson’s Eyecons
Key West: Christopher Peterson is, without a doubt, one of North America’s foremost female impressionists — visually and vocally. Often compared to the legendary Jim Bailey, master of impersonations, Christopher’s hit show EYECONS, is one of the hottest tickets in town. You’ll be amazed by how he transforms himself into more than a dozen famous women right before your eyes with the help of his “magic closet.” See him in the Crystal Room Cabaret at La Te Da, 1125 Duval St. Tickets and info: 305-296-6706; lateda.com.
Daily 
Mini Golf
Ramrod Key: Come play the southernmost mini-golf course in the Florida Keys. This kid-friendly 18-hole course is a perfect family adventure. It boasts a fun caveman theme with two giant waterfalls and four fountains. And get this: If you’re 21+, you and your friends can have a cocktail or glass of wine while you putter around. Happens daily from 10 am – 10 pm at Boondocks Grille & Draft House at 27205 Overseas Hwy (MM 27.5) on Ramrod Key. Be sure to check out their special party packages and tournaments. Info: 305-872-4094; boondocksus.com.
Daily
Miniature Golf
Marathon: The Keys’ newest and largest mini golf attraction is a full-size 18-hole course that challenges the best of the best. A fun tropical theme, lush landscaping, and an amazing local coral rock waterfall make it one of the Middle Keys’ “Must See” destinations. Top it off with various snacks, slushies, frozen daiquiris, or cold beers, and you’ve got yourself a great day — not at the beach! Special event packages and tournaments, too! Open daily 10am – 10pm at Porky’s Bayside, 1410 Overseas Hwy in Marathon. Info: 305-731-7592; porkysbaysidebbq.com.
Daily
Green Pineapple Key West Yoga
Key West: Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned practitioner, this Hatha-based yoga studio offers daily classes designed for every skill level. Based on the foundations of traditional yoga practices, categories include Vinyasa, Yin, Restorative, Gentle, Breath and Mindful Movement, Pilates, and Meditation. The Green Pineapple Yoga Shala also offers workshops to feed your body, mind, and soul. Private or Group Classes are also available. Come early or stay after class for a fresh juice, a cup of tea, or a super healthy Zen-Bite in the plant-based Wellness Cafe. Find it nestled inside The Green Pineapple Wellness Center, 1130 Duval Street, Key West. Info: 305-509-7378; greenpineapplewellness.com.
Nightly
Cabaret @ D’Vine Wine Gallery
Key West: This is an excellent hang if you want to kick back with a fine glass of wine and settle in for an intimate cabaret performance by some of Key West’s favorite performers, like classical guitarist Matteo Jampol and pianist Bobby Green. Takes place from 5 – 7 pm at The Gardens Hotel and Cottages, 526 Angela St. Info: 305-294-2661; gardenshotel.com.
Nightly
Jazz at Tavern N’ Town
Key West: Some of Key West’s top talent, including “Island Chanteuse” Carmen
Rodriquez and Michael Thomas perform nightly from 5 – 7 pm during Key West’s best Happy Hour. Takes place at Marriott Beachside Resort, 3841 N. Roosevelt Blvd. Info: 305-296-8100; tavernntown.com.
Nightly
Key West Sunset Celebration
Key West: Each evening, about two hours before sunset, flocks of people gather at Key West’s Mallory Square and on the pier behind the Opal Resort & Marina on Front Street to watch the sun slowly sink into the Gulf of Mexico and revel in the colorful street performers, local artists, psychics, and food vendors who have made Key West’s Sunset Celebration a world-famous, multicultural happening.
Nightly
Aquaplex
Key West: With four reimagined venues all under one roof, Key West’s state-of-the-art entertainment complex is where it’s all happening. SideBar, a world-class dance club with high-tech lighting and an industrial vibe, connects each venue, including a lovely outdoor garden bar called the Back Bar. There’s 22&CO. known for its tutu-wearing clientele, neon flamingo décor, and unique glittering cocktails. There’s also the original Aqua Nightclub, renowned for its outrageous drag shows. What more could you ask for? Find it all at 711 Duval St. Info: 305-294-0555; aquakeywest.com.
WEEKLY
Every Monday & Tuesday
Glow Hours: Rooftop Happy Hour on Hugh’s View
Key West: For a headier Happy Hour, head up to Hugh’s View, where the bar is open, there is free admission, and everyone looks great in the golden twilight. Hugh’s View sits on the roof of The Studios of Key West. It offers panoramic vistas across the rooftops of Old Town, from the Gulf of Mexico on one side to the Atlantic on the other. Takes place from 6 – 8 pm at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.
Every Thursday
Key West Waterfront Farmers Market
Key West: This traditional farmer’s market includes produce, seasonal fruits, cheese, pickles, nuts, honey, seafood, fresh bread, hot sauces, and more. You can also shop for local arts & crafts, flea market goods, jewelry, clothing/t-shirts, cigars, and CBD. Takes place from 2 pm – 7 pm at the Truman Waterfront (end of Southard St). FYI: Bring your own bags. Info: 305-731-3385; keysartisanmarket.com.
Every Saturday
Open-Air Market
Ramrod Key: Forget about driving miles to find local Florida Keys art, handmade jewelry, one-of-a-kind creations, fresh organic produce, greens, and flowers. You’ll find all that and more right at Boondocks. Takes place from 9 am – 2 pm in the parking lot of Boondocks Plaza at MM 27.5 on Ramrod Key. Info: 305-872-4094; boondocksus.com.
Every Sunday
Jazz in The Gardens
Key West: Enjoy hot jazz amidst lush flora and fauna during this free hang that draws Key West’s top jazz cognoscenti. Full bar, champagne, and fabulous wines. Takes place from 5:30 – 8 pm at the Gardens Hotel, 526 Angel St, Key West. Info: 305-294-2661; gardenshotel.com.
Every Other and Every Sunday
Key West Artisan Market
Key West: Shop a curated outdoor market offering fine crafts and art from talented Florida Keys makers, a wide variety of food and libations, and local musicians and authors. Takes place from 10 am – 2 pm at Higgs Beach every other Sunday, October through April, and every Sunday, February through March. 1801 White St. Info: 305-731-3385; kwartisanmarket.com.
MONTHLY
Third Wednesday
Immerse Yourself!
Islamorada: This free monthly presentation occurs on-site at the History of Diving Museum or virtually so you can tune in from wherever you are. Experts cover maritime history, archeology, diving, and marine science topics. Coming up: History of the Habakkuk, Search for the Last Missing WASP, and Coral Creations. The on-site presentation takes place at 7 pm at the History of Diving Museum, 82990 Overseas Hwy. Info: 305-664-9737; divingmuseum.org.
First Saturday
Market on the Green
Key West: Shop some amazing local arts at this fun artisan market. Takes place from 10 am – 2 pm at the Sunset Green Event Lawn between the Gates Key West Hotel and 24 North Hotel, 3852 N Roosevelt Blvd. Info: 305-400-4117; thekeyscollection.com.
Third Saturday
Native Plant Sale
Key West: Peruse over 2,000 native, rare, and endangered plants from the Keys, Cuba, and the Western Caribbean at this terrific monthly plant sale. Takes place from 9 am to noon at the Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden, 5210 College Rd. Info: 305-296-1504; keywest.garden.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Now – January 1
SPECIAL EXHIBITION: Key West Shutter Stories
by Elizabeth Devries
Key West: Elizabeth Devries’ has been a craftsman in the Keys for over 36 years and is known as ‘Lizzee the Shutter Lady’. Her artwork/woodwork catalogs Key West’s authentic artifacts, and many of her elements are over a hundred years old. The main vehicle for her brilliant creations are old shutters salvaged from historic homes owned by famous artists and writers. Takes place daily from 9:30 am — 4:30 pm at the
Custom House Museum, 281 Front St. Info: 305-295-6616; kwahs.org.
Now – January 31
SPECIAL EXHIBITION: Living In Harmony
Members Show
Key West/Key Largo: Members of the Florida Keys Council of the Arts showcase works that express the theme “Living in Harmony.” The exhibition includes paintings, drawings, photographs and any related media. Takes on M — F from 9 am — 5 pm at the Gato Building, 1100 Simonton St, Key West; and on M – Sa 9 am – Close
(various times) at the Key Largo Library, Tradewinds Shopping Center, 101485
Overseas Hwy. Info: 305-295-4369; keyarts.com.
November 7 – 11
Art
Key West: In this Tony award-winning “Best Play,” battle lines are drawn between friends over the purchase of an expensive piece of art. Is it, after all, really art?
Produced by Art House, Fringe at the Armory, 600 White Street. Showtime: 7pm. Info: 305-731-0581; fringetheater.org.
November 9
Screening & Conversation with
Actor Tipper Newton
Key West: Award-winning filmmaker, actor and musician, Tipper Newton screens her short films alongside a curated selection of “Florida noir” films which have inspired her current project. Takes place at 6 pm at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.
November 10 – December 3
SPECIAL EXHIBITION: Key West Headdress Ball –
Celebrating 40 Years of Creativity
Key West: Combining captivating entertainment and creative competition, the Key West Headdress Ball has been the premier LGBTQ+ event of the island’s annual
10-day Fantasy Fest for the last 40 years! The ball typically features up to 25
contestants showcasing their unique headdresses, some that tower high above their designers. Takes place daily from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm at the Custom House
Museum, 281 Front St. Info: 305-295-6616; kwahs.org.
November 14
HISTORIC WALKING TOUR: Walk in Harry’s Steps -
President Truman Walking Tour
Key West: Weave through historic Truman Annex to learn about the history and
legacy of US President Harry S Truman in Key West. You’ll learn about the US Navy Submarine Base, the Marine Hospital, Truman’s private beach, the Truman Little White House and the Truman Foundation. Takes place daily from 10 am –
11:30 pm. Meet at the USCGC Ingham Maritime Museum at Truman Waterfront Park. The tour finishes at the Truman Foundation in Building 21, 111 Front St. Info: 305-295-6616; kwahs.org.
November 15
History of Diving Museum Presents: History of the Habakkuk
Islamorada: This special virtual presentation by Professor Susan Langley of the
University of Maryland explores the fascinating history of World War II’s attempted construction of a battleship made of ice. Presentation will be broadcast virtually via Zoom, with a viewing available in the Museum library. Takes place at 7 pm at The History of Diving Museum, 82990 Overseas Hwy. Info: 305-664-9737; divingmuseum.org.
November 5 – 12
Key West World Championship Offshore Races
Key West: High-speed offshore powerboats race in Key West Harbor and surrounding waters during this breathtak-ing annual challenge, known internationally as the Indianapolis 500 of powerboat racing. A portion of the 6.5-mile course runs directly through Key West Harbor, meaning smooth water where racers can achieve speeds above 140mph. Info: 305-296-6166; raceworldoffshore.com.
November 15 – 19
Key West Film Festival
Key West: Passion meets paradise during this annual event, showcasing films that exhibit storytelling excellence. Screenings and special events take place at landmark venues throughout Key West, including the San Carlos Institute, The Studios of Key West, and Key West Theater. Info: keywestff.com.
November 15 – 19
Key West Film Festival
Key West: This annual event showcases films that exhibit excellence in storytelling and features screenings, visiting filmmakers, workshops, and special events at landmark venues throughout Key West. The festival also looks to support the next generation of local student filmmakers with scholarships and other key awards. Info: kwfilmfest.com.
November 16
Happy Hour with the Historian:
The Building the American Riviera
Key West: Historian Cori Convertito explores the history of numerous hotels built by American Industrialist, Henry Flagler during the Gilded Age and his impact on the transformation of Florida’s East Coast into an elite destination. This fun historical
lecture, which includes a complimentary drink (beer, house wine, or soft drink), takes place from 5 – 6 pm at the Custom House Museum, 281 Front St. Info: 305-295-6616; kwahs.org.
November 18
Annual Light Up Key Largo!
Key Largo: For one magical night, you can ice skate in the “Diving Capital of the World” as Key Largo lights Monroe County’s tallest Christmas tree. The celebration includes an Ice Skating Rink, Santa’s Workshop, Carolers, lots of holiday goodies, and more. Tree Lighting at 6 pm. Takes place from 4 – 8 pm at the Murray Nelson Government Center, 102050 Overseas Hwy, MM 102 Bayside. Info: 305-451-1414; keylargochamber.org.
November 18 – 19
SPECIAL EXHIBITION:
Cristiam Ramos
Key West: Creating artwork on out of the ordinary surfaces and with non-typical mediums, Cristiam Ramos’ unique and unusual art includes everything from painted Butterfly Wings to Blue Jean Patchwork Portraits. See his unusual and amazing
artwork at SeasSister Island Gallery at 303 Duval St, Key West. Info 954-232-7248;
seasisterislandgallery.com.
November 22
Lighting of the Bight: Key West Harbor Walk of Lights
Key West: The Key West Harbor lights up the waterfront with a 16′ fresh pine Nautical Christmas Tree, a Fishing Buoy Tree, and the original 20′ Key West Lobster Trap Tree. Gather on the Harbor Walk Plaza at Greene and Elizabeth St. for the best viewing.
November 23 – December 31
Key West Harbor Walk of Lights
Key West: This “Harbor Walk of Lights” honors the maritime history of the Key West waterfront and stays lit nightly through New Year’s Eve. Stretches along the seawall past Greene, William, and Margaret Streets to the Key West Ferry Terminal. The opening night event starts with live music at 5 pm and the lighting at 6 pm. Info: keywestchristmas.org.
November 24
Black Friday Shopping Extravaganza
Key West: Find one-of-a-kind gifts, unique handmade items, and exquisite art, along with delicious culinary delights, yummy beverages, and views you won’t find at any mall from local artisans and vendors. Takes place from 10 am to 6 pm along Weech Way at Truman Waterfront Park, 21 E Quay Rd. Info: 305-731-3385; keywestartisanmarket.com.
November 25
Big Pine & The Lower Keys Island Art Festival
Big Pine: This fun annual holiday event always draws a big crowd and includes live music, exhibits, arts and crafts, food vendors, and more. Takes place from 9 am –
3 pm at the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce, MM 31, oceanside. Free admission. Info: 305-872-2411; lowerkeyschamber.com.
November 25
Holiday Artisan Market
Key West: Enjoy cookies and coffee as you stroll through a friendly, festive indoor market. Over 20 artisans showcase unique and locally produced gifts: jewelry, textiles, home accessories, and quality crafts. Takes place from 10 am – 2 pm at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: tskw.org.
November 25
Big Pine & The Lower Keys Island Art Festival
Big Pine: This fun annual holiday event always draws a big crowd and includes live music, exhibits, arts and crafts, food vendors, and more. Takes place from 9 am – 3 pm at the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce, MM 31, oceanside. Info: 305-872-2411; lowerkeyschamber.com.
November 29 – December
16
Little Shop of Horrors
Key West: Don’t miss the limited three-week run of this deviously delicious Broadway and Hollywood sci-fi smash musical that devours the hearts of theatergoers in New York. Takes place at the Waterfront Playhouse, 407 Wall St. in Mallory Square. Info and tickets 305-294-5015; waterfrontplayhouse.org.
November 30
Distinguished Speaker Series: American Volunteers
in Cuba’s Insurgent Army
Key West: Guest speaker, Paula Michael Taylor explores the role of Cuban-American civilian volunteers who mustered at Tampa and places it within the broader history of the Spanish-American War and the history of Florida and of US-Cuban relations.
Takes place from 6 – 7 pm at the Custom House Museum, 281 Front St. Info: 305-295-6616; kwahs.org.
