What’s Up
So you’ve reached your final Florida destination, now what? Well, hold tight because this is one Florida destination where the fun never stops! In fact, there are probably more events and festivals going on in the Florida Keys & Key West than in any other Florida destination. Here’s a quick list of fun Keys’ happenings that you won’t want to miss! However be aware that due to COVID-19, we recommend that you check ahead.
Please confirm details with event organizers or venues in case of changes or cancellations.
ONGOING
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 makes it one of the Middle Keys’ “Must See” destinations. Top it all off with a variety of 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
Nightly
Snook’s Bayside Sunset Celebration
Key Largo: Kick back with a rum punch on Snook’s 5,000-square-foot waterfront patio, listen to some great live music, and enjoy an unobstructed panoramic view of the sun sinking into the Florida Bay. You can also get Happy Hour prices from 4 – 6 pm on various libations and appetizers. The nightly event is ceremoniously marked by the “Sunset Horn” bellowing just before the fiery ball disappears into the horizon. The celebration continues well after dark with live entertainment and dancing under the palms. Takes place at Snooks Bayside & Grand Tiki at MM 99.8, Southbound Lane, behind the Sandal Factory Outlet. Info: 305-453-5004; snooks.com.
Nightly
Lor-E-Lei Sunset Celebration
Islamorada: As that big ball of fire starts to sink into the horizon, the live music kicks in, and the bar crowd spills onto the beach for some serious toes-in-the-sand revelry. On most nights just after sunset, magician Michael Trixx, who was featured on America’s Got Talent, performs a “Rock-N-Roll Magic Show” that will blow your mind. Daily Happy Hour from 4 – 6 pm. You can find the Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar at 81925 Overseas Hwy. (MM 82, Bayside). Info: 305-664-2692; loreleicabanabar.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 Key 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 three reinvented venues all under one roof, Key West’s state-of-the-art entertainment complex is where it’s all happening. This world-class dance club, with high-tech lighting and an industrial vibe, also boasts a lovely outdoor garden bar called the Back Bar as well as 22&Co, heralded as the best drag bar in the Keys. But the crowning jewel of it all is the Birdcage Cabaret featuring the world-renowned female impressionist and singer Christopher Peterson, backed by The Aquanettes, an outrageous troupe of talented drag queens who sing and dance the night away. This is THE place to go for “not-to-be-missed” entertainment. Find it all at 711 Duval St. Info: 305-294-0555; aquakeywest.com.
Weekly
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: tskw.org.
Every Tuesday
Farmers Market
Key Colony Beach: Stock up on all of your favorite local produce, fruits, baked goods, and more at this home town favorite outdoor market. Takes place from 9 am – 2 pm on the corner of 7th St and W Ocean Dr. Info: 305-289-1212 ext 2; keycolonybeach.net.
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. It takes place from 2 pm – 7 pm at the Truman Waterfront (end of Southard St). FYI: Bring your own bags. Info: 305-731-3385; keysatisanmarket.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 see all that and more right at Boondocks. Takes place from 9 am – 2 pm in the parking lot of Boondocks Plaza, 27205 Overseas Hwy (MM 27.5). Info: 305-872-4094; boondocksus.com.
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, 1801 White St. Info: 305-731-3385; kwartisanmarket.com.
Monthly
First Friday
First Fridays on Fleming
Key West: “The Fabulous 500 Block of Fleming Street” showcases boutiques, galleries, and eateries with all kinds of cool events, including jewelry trunk shows, art openings, book signings, tastings, and libations. Takes place from 6 – 9 pm. Info:305-304-9001; kwartisanmarket.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. It 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.
February 14
Valentine’s Day Champagne & Aphrodisiacs Sunset Sail
Key West: Celebrate Valentine’s Day aboard the romantic Schooner America 2.0 with an oh-so-special Champagne and Aphrodisiacs Pairing Sunset Sail. You and your true love can sail along Key West’s beautiful turquoise green waters, sipping luscious champagnes, and sparkling wines from around the world paired with a titillating selection of gourmet hors d’oeuvres. Shoves off from the docks behind Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West’s Historic Seaport at the foot of William St. Info: 305-293-7245; sail-keywest.com.
February 14
Wesley House 42nd Valentine’s Day Gala
Key West: The “Keys Formal” doubles as a fundraiser for Wesley House Family Services and includes top entertainers, the island’s largest silent auction, an open bar, dancing, and an elegant dinner. Takes place from 6:30 – 9:30 pm at the Key West Art & Historical Society’s Custom House Museum, 281 Front St. Info: 305-809-5000; keystix.com.
February 14 – 15
Annual Key West Home Tours
Key West: Festively dressed Key West homes and gardens take center stage during this much anticipated annual event, which showcases exquisite restorations, creative renovations, and delightful interiors and exteriors. The self-guided tours take place from 1 – 4 pm and benefit the Old Island Restoration Foundation. Info: 305-294-9501; Tickets & schedules at OIRF.org.
February 15
44th Annual Garden Walk 2025
Tavernier: Tour several spectacular private out-of-sight gardens, then enjoy a complimentary fabulous Garden Market and groovy art show. Takes place from 10 am – 4 pm (rain or shine) and kicks off from the Francis Tracy Garden Center, 94040 Overseas Hwy. Info: gardenclubupperkeys.org.
February 15 – 16
19th Annual Florida Seafood Festival
Key West: Lots going on for adults and kids, from feasting on fresh local seafood and shopping for marine-related crafts to face-painting, kids’ hands-on activities, raffles, and live music. Takes place on Sa from 11am – 8 pm and on Su from 11 am – 5 pm at Truman Waterfront Park, 21 E Quay Rd. Info: 305-743-0294; floridakeysseafoodfestival.com
February 22 – 23
60th Annual Key West Art & Craft Festival
Key West: This nationally recognized juried fine art show attracts over 100 fine and skilled artists from across the country, including painters, sculptors, photographers, collage artists, and other fine arts. Takes place from 10 am – 5 pm along the Quay at Truman Waterfront Park, 100 Southard St. Info: 305-294-1243; keywestartcenter.com.
February 22 – 23
Annual Gigantic Nautical Flea Market
Islamorada: Get great deals on new and used boats, marine equipment, electronics, fishing tackle, dive gear, nautical arts & crafts, and more from over 200 vendors. Takes place from 8 am – 3 pm at Founders Park, 87000 Overseas Hwy. Info: 305-712-1818; upperkeysrotary.com.
February 23
Wrecker’s Cup Race Series
Key West: Watch the second leg of the spirited 7-mile race to Sand Key, where bragging rights are the top prize. The race kicks off at 1 pm, followed by an Awards Party & Ceremony at Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West’s Historic Seaport at 200 Williams St. Info: 305-292-3302; schoonerwharf.com.
February 23
Wrecker’s Race Aboard Schooner America 2.0
Key West: If you really want to enjoy the thrill of the Wrecker’s Cup Race, then climb aboard the fastest schooner in Key West: Schooner America 2.0. Tickets include a round of beer, wine, champagne, and boxed lunch. Shoves off at 1 pm from the docks behind Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West’s Historic Seaport. Info: 305-292-7245; sail-keywest.com.
March 2
Key Colony Beach Day
Key Colony Beach: This old-fashioned annual event is a lazy day of good food, drinks, and music. Stroll the arts and crafts booths, try your luck at the world-famous barracuda races, or bet on your favorite plastic ducky in a race against all odds! Takes place from 9 am – 4 pm at City Hall Park, 600 West Ocean Dr. Info: KCBCA.org.
March 8
61st Annual Conch Shell Blowing Contest
Key West: Watch enthusiastic contestants pucker up as they demonstrate their shell-blowing talents and attempt to make “music” on fluted conch shells during this favorite Old Island Days tradition. Conch shells for blowing on sale in the gift shop. Takes place from 10 am – 2 pm in the garden of the Oldest House Museum, 322 Duval St. Info: 305-294-9501; oirf.org.
March 8
Gardenfest & Green Market Place
Key West: This annual native plant sale also features arts and crafts, green products, healthy living vendors, and a special Kids’ Science Corner. You can also enjoy food and music in the Beer Garden. Free garden tours at 11am and 2 pm. Takes place from 10 am – 4 pm at Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden, 5210 College Rd. Info: 305-296-1504; keywest.garden.
March 8 – 9
49th Annual Marathon Seafood Festival
Marathon: This popular fresh seafood extravaganza showcases a plethora of fresh boat-to-table seafood. You can enjoy some great live music, a fine art show, a boat show, and lots of shopping. Open Sa from 10 am – 9 pm and Su from 11 am – 5 pm at Marathon Community Park, 200 Ocean, 36th St. Info: 305-743-5417; floridakeysmarathon.com.
March 14 – 15
Annual Key West Home Tours
Key West: Festively dressed Key West homes and gardens take center stage during this much anticipated annual event, which showcases exquisite restorations, creative renovations, and delightful interiors and exteriors. The self-guided tours take place from 1 – 4 pm and benefit the Old Island Restoration Foundation. Info: 305-294-9501; Tickets & schedules at OIRF.org.
March 17
Schooner Wharf Bar’s St Patrick’s Day Party
Key West: Get your Irish up at this wild celebration that includes live music, a traditional beer-steeped corned beef and cabbage dinner, and plenty of green beer. The party starts at 1 pm at Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West’s Historic Seaport at 200 Williams St. Info: 305-292-3302; schoonerwharf.com.
March 29 – 30
NAS Key West Southernmost Air Spectacular
Key West: The infamous Blue Angels, as well as other ace flyers, perform death-defying maneuvers in this heart-pounding air show. You can also enjoy static aviation marvels, a Boat Show and Car Show, and more. Takes place at the Naval Air Station, Boca Chica Rd. Info: 305-293-2027; keywestairshow.com.
March 30
Wrecker’s Cup Race Series
Key West: This is the third leg of the spirited 7-mile race to Sand Key, where bragging rights are the top prize. The race kicks off at 1 pm with an Awards Party & Ceremony at Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West’s Historic Seaport at the foot of Williams St. Info: 305-292-3302; schoonerwharf.com.
March 30
Wrecker’s Race Aboard Schooner America 2.0
Key West: If you really want to enjoy the thrill of the Wrecker’s Cup Race, then climb aboard the fastest schooner in Key West: Schooner America 2.0. Tickets include a round of beer, wine, champagne, and a boxed lunch. Shoves off at 1 pm. Info: 305-292-7245; sail-keywest.com.
April 5 – 6
33rd Annual Island Fest
Islamorada: This lively hometown festival showcases over 100 juried artists and crafters, as well as classic cars and several “take it to the mat” competitions, including a Smoked Fish Dip contest, Sand Sculpting contest, and even a homemade “What Floats Your Boat?” Race. There’s also great live music and lots of yummy food. Takes place on Sa and Su from 10 am – 5 pm at Founders Park, 87000 Overseas Hwy (MM 87 Bayside). Info: 305-664-4503; islamoradachamber.com.
April 18 – 27
43rd Annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration
Key West: Commemorate the founding of our Conch Republic with a raucous celebration that includes a reenactment of the Great Sea Battle of the Conch Republic, Art & Craft Fair, Pirate’s Ball, Red Ribbon Bed Races, a wacky “Drag Queen” Race, and much more. Info: 305-296-0213; conchrepublic.com.
April 18
Conch Republic Independence Celebration: Kick-Off Party
Key West: Enjoy great live music, a fun Conch Shell Blowing Contest and lots of tall tales. Kicks off at 7 pm at Schooner Wharf Bar in the Historic Seaport at 200 Williams St. Info: 305-292-3302; schoonerwharf.com.
April 19
Conch Republic Independence Celebration: Drag Races On Duval
Key West: Key West’s hottest drag queens go heel to heel for a series of races and obstacle courses. Takes place from 2 – 6 pm at Bourbon Street Pub, 724 Duval St. Info: 305 747 0343; conchrepublic.com.
April 20
Conch Republic Independence Celebration: Art & Craft Street Festival
Key West: Shop for one-of-a-kind artworks from local artists that you’ll treasure for a lifetime. Takes place from 10 am – 6 pm along Duval St. Info: Info: 305 747 0343; conchrepublic.com.
April 25
Conch Republic Independence Celebration: World’s Longest Parade & Post Parade Party
Key West: This world-famous, quirky, and colorful parade runs from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico. Takes place from 8 – 9 pm, followed by a raucous post-parade party at Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West’s Historic Seaport at 200 Williams St. Info: 305-292-3302; schoonerwharf.com.
April 25
Conch Republic Independence Celebration: Great Battle Victory Party & Surrender Ceremony
Key West: Celebrate the Conch Republic’s raucous sea battle victory over the US Coast Guard. Kicks off at 7 pm at Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West’s Historic Seaport at 200 Williams St. Info: 305-292-3302; schoonerwharf.com.
April 25
Conch Republic Independence Celebration: Pirates’ Ball & Costume Contest
Key West: Arghh – don your best pirate threads and get ready for the biggest pirate bash in the Keys. Prizes for best costume. The fun starts at 7pm at Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West’s Historic Seaport at 200 Williams St. Info: 305-292-3302; schoonerwharf.com.
April 26
Conch Republic Independence Celebration: Blue Ribbon Bed Race
Key West: Billed as “the most fun you can have in bed with your clothes on,” the race pits multi-person teams against each other as they pilot their rolling beds down Duval. Kicks off at 1 pm from Upper Duval. Info: 305-296-0213; conchrepublic.com.
April 27
Wreckers Cup Race Series
Key West: Catch the last leg of the spirited 7-mile race to Sand Key, where bragging rights are the top prize. The race kicks off at 1 pm, followed by an Awards Party & Ceremony at 7 pm at Schooner Wharf Bar, 200 Williams St in Key West’s Historic Seaport. Info: 305-292-3302; schoonerwharf.com.
April 27
Wrecker’s Race Aboard Schooner America 2.0
Key West: If you really want to enjoy the thrill of the Wrecker’s Cup Race, then climb aboard the fastest schooner in Key West: Schooner America 2.0. Takes place from 1 – 4 pm. Tickets include a round of beer, wine, champagne, and boxed lunch. Info & tickets: 305-292-7245; sail-keywest.com.
South Miami-Dade
February 7 – 9
55th Annual Everglades Seafood Festival
Everglades City: Known as Florida’s Stone Crab Capital, this small historic fishing village draws an estimated 50,000+ visitors for three fun-filled days of tantalizing seafood, live country music, carnival rides, and arts & crafts. Takes place on F, Feb 7, from 4:30 – 10pm; on Sa, Feb 8, from 10 am – 10 pm; and on Su, Feb 9, from 10 am – 6pm in the downtown area. Info: evergladesseafoodfestival.org.
February 13
Burgerliscious 13! Block Party
Coral Gables: Sink your teeth into some really amazing burgers, enjoy a lovely cold Sam Adams, and enjoy live music and entertainment at this tasty event. This annual “eat your heart out” event is a meaty gathering of the local community’s tastiest and trendiest restaurants. Takes place from 5:30 – 8:30 pm at 201 Alhambra Circle. Info and tickets: 305-446-1657; burgerliscious.com.
March 8 – 30
5th Annual Flower Festival
Miami: This one-of-a-kind floral extravaganza in The Redland boasts a 4-acre sunflower maze bursting with vibrant blooms and a kaleidoscope of colors from sunflowers, zinnias, and marigolds in full bloom. Select weekends and times. Takes place at The Berry Farm, 13720 SW 216th St. Info: 305-560-0531; visittheberryfarm.com.
March 21 – 27
NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series
& XFINITY Series
Homestead: This action-packed weekend has now moved to South Miami-Dade. Not only can you experience some of the best racing on the planet, you can also get down with “Beach Bash,” an on-site beach party with water activities, beach games, and great deejay-powered grooves. Takes place at Homestead-Miami Speedway, 1 Speedway Blvd. Info: 305-230-7223; homesteadmiamispeedway.com.
April 26 – 27
5th Annual Watermelon Festival
Miami: Enjoy all kinds of watermelon-themed activities, including a watermelon-eating contest and a seed-spitting challenge. Cool down and savor the sweetness of the season while enjoying live entertainment and other farm festivities. Takes place from 9 am – 7 pm at The Berry Farm, 13720 SW 216th St. Info: 305-560-0531; visittheberryfarm.com.
May 2 – 4
Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix™
Miami Gardens: The fourth edition of this world-wide circuit event is the sixth race of the 24-race season. Built around Hard Rock Stadium, the three-day action-packed weekend attracts the world’s greatest F-1 drivers and teams and includes best-in-class racing, epic parties, celebrity musicians, original art and more. Tickets & info: f1miamigp.com.
OTHER FLORIDA HAPPENINGS
February 21 — April 5
Broadway Palm Dinner Theatre:
Crazy For You
Fort Myers: A young banker who dreams of being a star is sent to foreclose on a failing theater, but he falls for the theater owner’s daughter and tries to win her heart. Confusion and hilarity ensue. Gershwin’s hits include “I Got Rhythm,” “Embraceable You,” and many more! Info & tickets: BroadwayPalm.com.
March 14 – 23
Sarasota County Fair
Sarasota: This annual salute to agriculture features 4H livestock judging, sheep-shearing and cow-milking contests, horticulture displays, midway thrills, racing pigs, magic shows, a petting zoo, and more. Takes place
on M – Th from 4 – 10 pm; F from 5 – 11 pm; Sa from Noon – 11 pm; and on Su from Noon – 10 pm at the Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd. Info: sarasotafair.com.
March 28 – March 29
84th Annual Daytona Beach Bike Week
Daytona: This 10-day high-octane party is considered the “World’s Largest Motorcycle Event” and attracts over 500,000 motorcyclists and enthusiasts who make the annual pilgrimage. Celebrations occur all over town and include street festivals, concerts, motorcycle races at Daytona International Speedway, bike shows, rallies, manufacturer showcases, and much more. Info: 386-255-0415; officialbikeweek.com.