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.
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. The nightly event is ceremoniously marked by the “Sunset Horn” bellowing just before the fiery ball disappears into the horizon. The fun continues well after dark with live entertainment and dancing under the palms. Daily Happy Hour from 4 – 6 pm. Takes place at Snooks Bayside & Grand Tiki at MM 99.8, Southbound Lane, behind the Sandal Factory outlet. Info: 305-453-5004; snooks.com.
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 with Well Drinks for just $4, Domestic Drafts for $3, and the island’s best Margarita menu. It all happens at Lorelei Restaurant & Cabana Bar, 96 Madeira Rd. FYI: Look for the giant mermaid at MM 82, Bayside, Info: 305-664-2692; loreleicabanabar.com.
Key West Champagne Sunset Sail
Key West: This romantic 2-hour cruise aboard the elegant and comfortable Schooner America 2.0 is what memories are made of. Experience a breathtaking Key West sunset from her spacious deck and watch for for playful dolphins and the elusive Key West “Green Flash!” You can find the Schooner America 2.0 docked behind Schooner Wharf Bar at 202R Williams St in Key West’s Historic Seaport. Info & reservations: 305-293-7245; sail-keywest.com.
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 docks behind the Opal Resort 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 spectacular Sunset Celebration a world-famous, multicultural happening.
Aquaplex
Key West: With three reinvented venues all under one roof, Key West’s state-of-the-art entertainment also boasts a lovely outdoor garden bar as well as the best drag bar in the Keys. But the crowning jewel of it all is the Birdcage Cabaret, which features the world-renowned female impressionist and singer, Christopher Peterson, and The Aquanettes, an outrageous troupe of talented drag queens. 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, admission is free, and everyone looks great in the golden twilight. The rooftop happening offers panoramic vistas across Old Town — from the Gulf of Mexico on one side to the Atlantic on the other. Takes place from 5 pm through sunset at The Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St. Info: 305-296-0458; tskw.org.
Every Wednesday
Sugarloaf Lodge Market
Sugarloaf Key: This emerging market might not be the largest in the Keys, but it is indeed a local favorite. It’s also the only outdoor market where you can shop an interesting array of local vendors and indulge in Tennessee Steve’s famous BBQ ribs. Takes place from 10 am – 2 pm at Sugarloaf Lodge, 17001 Overseas Hwy (MM 17). Info: 305-745-3211; sugarloaflodge.net
Every Thursday
Key West Waterfront Farmers Market
Key West: This traditional farmers’ market includes a huge variety of seasonal produce and other goodies. You can also shop for local arts & crafts, flea market finds, jewelry, clothing, cigars, and CBD products. Takes place from 1 pm – 6 pm at Truman Waterfront Park (end of Southard St). FYI: Bring your own bags. Info: 305-731-385; keysartisanmarket.com
Every SATURDAY
Boondocks Open-Air Market
Ramrod Key: Discover a great selection of local art, handmade jewelry, and one-of-a-kind creations, as well as fresh organic produce, greens, and flowers. Takes place from 9 am – 2 pm in the parking lot of Boondocks Plaza, 27205 Overseas Hwy (MM 27.5). Info: 305-872-4094; boondocksfloridakeys.com.
Every Saturday & Sunday
Big Pine Flea Market
Big Pine: You’ll find everything from local produce to vintage treasures, tools, crafts, and antiques at this bustling community favorite. Lots of great food vendors, too! BTW: don’t pass up the fresh, hot mini donuts made to order! Takes place from 8 am – 2 pm at 30250 Overseas Highway, Info: 305-872-4103; bigpinekeyfleamarket.com.
Select Sundays
(Now through April)
Key West Artisan Market
Key West: This juried market celebrates the best of the Keys’ creative community with a curated selection of fine crafts, art, jewelry, and more. Rotating themes featuring local non-profits, live remotes, musicians, and local authors, as well as food and drink options, make for a true “Sunday Funday.” Mark your calendar: Feb 1, 8, 15, 22; Mar 1, 8, 15, 22, 29; and Apr 5, 12, 19, 26. Takes place from 10 am – 2 pm at the Sony McCoy Indigenous Park, 1801 White St. Info: 305-731-3385; kwartisanmarket.com.
MONTHLY
Last Wednesday
Dolphin Sunset Celebration
Marathon: What’s better than a margarita at sunset? How about sharing a non-alcoholic Jello shot with a dolphin! This unique Sunset experience is your opportunity to interact with dolphins, chat with experts, and discover what it means to build meaningful relationships with these special animals. As the sky turns gold, you can enjoy a champagne toast to the setting sun, surrounded by playful dolphins, an ocean breeze, and unforgettable island beauty. Space is limited, so reserve early! Takes place at 4 pm at the Dolphin Research Center, 58901 Overseas Hwy (MM 59 Gulfside) on Grassy Key. Info: 305-289-1121; dolphins.org.
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; fabflemingkw.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 – Noon at the Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden, 5210 College Rd. Info: 305-296-1504; keywest.garden.
SPECIAL EVENTS
March 14 – 15
Original Marathon Seafood Festival
Marathon: What began as a small gathering in the Publix parking lot has grown to a popular fresh seafood extravaganza, drawing more than 20,000 attendees each year. Live music, an open-air art show, and many vendor booths make for a delectable weekend. Open on Sa from 10 am – 9 pm and on Su from 11 am – 5 pm. Takes place at Marathon Community Park, 9805 Overseas Hwy., Oceanside. Info: 305-743-5417; marathonseafoodfestival.com.
March 14
48th Annual St Patrick’s Day Bar Stroll
Key West: Celebrate the true Conch Republic in fashion as Key West’s best bars commemorate the lively Irish holiday. Tickets for the stroll will get you a free beer at each stop and a Bar Stroll t-shirt. The party starts at noon at the Southernmost Beach Cafe, 1405 Duval St, and ends at Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West’s Historic Seaport at the foot of Williams St. Info: stpatricksdaybarstroll.com.
March 14
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 Black & Tan, Guinness, Irish Car Bombs, and green beer. Kicks off at 1 pm at Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West’s Historic Seaport at the foot of Williams St. Info: 305-292-3302; schoonerwharf.com.
March 17
St Patrick’s Day Parade
Key Colony Beach: No place in the Middle Keys rocks St Patrick’s Day like Key Colony Beach. It’s a full day of fun, starting with this throwback hometown parade. Time TBD, but usually takes place around 11 am at City Hall Park, 600 West Ocean Dr. Info: KCBCA.org.
March 15
Schooner Wharf Bar’s After St Paddy’s Bar Stroll Party
Key West: Extend your “Irish Heritage” during this particular “After Parade” Party, where the fun continues throughout the day and night. Takes place at Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West’s Historic Seaport at the foot of Williams St. Info:305-292-3302; schoonerwharf.com.
March 21 – 22
Key Largo Seafood, Music & Art Festival
Key Largo: Indulge in all kinds of fresh local seafood and shop more than 150 exhibitors cooking demos, all backdropped by terrific live music, boat displays and a fun Kids Zones.This year’s also edition includes a special a special Beer & Wine event on Sa. Takes place on Sa from 10 am – 8 pm and on Su from 10 am – 7 pm at Rowell’s Marine Park, 104550 Overseas Hw (MM 104.5, Bayside). Info: 305-812-7626; visitfloridakeys.com.
March 23
31st Annual Taste Of Key West
Key West: Over 40 top area restaurants serve mouthwatering samples of their cuisine to benefit AIDS Help, Inc. Food and wine tickets cost just $1, with “tastes” ranging from $3 – $8. The culinary celebration, which also includes a wide selection of premium wines and craft beers, takes place from 6 – 9 pm at Truman Waterfront Park, 21 E Quay Rd overlooking Key West Harbor. Info: 305-296-6196; tasteofkeywest.org.
March 28 – 29
Islamorada 33rd Annual Island Fest
Islamorada: Two full days of music, food, and fun, including one of the largest crafts shows in the Keys, live entertainment, sandcastle-building, kids’ activities, and the annual “Taste Of Islamorada,” a local chefs’ competition that happens on Sunday. Free admission. Takes place from 10 am – 5 pm at Founder’s Park (MM 87, Bayside). Info: 305-664-4503; islamoradachamber.com
March 29
Wreckers 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. 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 29
Wrecker’s Cup Race Series 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 and most luxurious schooner in Key West: Schooner America 2.0. The fun starts at 1 pm with the firing of the cannon. Tickets include a round of beer, wine, champagne, and a boxed lunch. Info & tickets: 305-292-7245; sail-keywest.com
April 5
Easter Brunch Sail
Key West: Enjoy the vibrant colors of Key West waters as you sip on mimosas, dine on a delicious brunch, and glide effortlessly under full sail aboard the elegant Schooner America 2.0. This special brunch cruise includes bagels and pastries, charcuterie, smoked salmon, quiche, crudités, and other delicious treats, as well as two alcoholic beverages (21+), soft drinks, and water. Not to be missed! You can find the Schooner America 2.0 docked behind Schooner Wharf Bar at 202R Williams St in Key West’s Historic Seaport. Info & reservations: 305-293-7245; sail-keywest.com.
April 17 – 26
44th Annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration
Key West: This raucous annual event commemorates the founding of our Conch Republic. The celebration includes a ton of fun events, including a big Kick-Off Party, a reenactment of the Great Sea Battle of the Conch Republic, Sunset Boat Parade, Art & Craft Fair, Pirate’s Ball, Red Ribbon Bed Races,
a wacky “Drag Queen” Bed Race down Duval St, and much more. Info: 305-296-0213; conchrepublic.com.
April 11
Annual Seven Mile Bridge Run
Marathon: An estimated field of 1,500 runners participate in this annual breathtaking foot race across the longest segmental bridge in the world. The race runs from 6 – 9 from the north end of the 7-Mile Bridge. Entry is limited, and runners must register in advance online at 7mbrun.com. Info: 305-395-7040.
April 25
Mote Marine Ocean Fest: A Community Celebration
Key West: Celebrate the marine environment during this fun annual event that includes crafts, games, music, shopping, food, and local brews. Proceeds and donations support Mote Marine Laboratory’s coral reef restoration and research programs. Takes place from 10 am – 3 pm at Key West’s Truman Waterfront Park, 35 E Quay Rd. Info: mote.org/oceanfest.
April 26
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 26
Wrecker’s Race Series 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 and most luxurious schooner in Key West: Schooner America 2.0. Takes place from 1 – 4 pm. Tickets include a round of beer, wine, champagne, and a boxed lunch. Info & tickets: 305-292-7245; sail-keywest.com.
April 29 – May 3
30th Annual Key West Songwriters Festival
Key West: This annual showcase of musical magic, the largest festival of its kind in the world, features America’s foremost performing songwriters with concerts staged at various venues in Key West. Info: 305-304-0814; keywestsongwritersfestival.com.
May 5
Cinco de Mayo Celebration
Key West: Grab your salt shaker and party with Margarita during this fun, annual celebration that includes live Salsa music, a Taco Eating & Hot Pepper Eating Contest, and prizes for Best Mexican Hat. The action starts at 7 pm at the Schooner Wharf Bar in Key West’s Historic Seaport at the foot of Williams St.Info: 305-292-3302; schoonerwharf.com.
Greater South
Miami-Dade
WEEKLY
Every Thursday – Sunday
Redland Market Village
Redland: Part flea market, part farmers market, part food emporium, this bustling marketplace is the place to shop for great bargains and fresh local produce. With almost two dozen international food trucks, live entertainment, and lots of special events, it’s always a fun jam! Open from 11 am – 6 pm on Th – F; and from 7 am – 6 pm on Sa & Su. Takes place at Redland Market Village, 24420 S Dixie Hwy. Info: 305-257-4335; redlandmarketvillage.com.
Every Thursday – Sunday
Wynwood Marketplace
Wynwood: Nestled in the heart of the Arts District, this bustling blockbuster bazaar is home to one of Miami’s most fun haps. Hundreds of vendors offer a unique selection of art and fashion, set against a backdrop of great live music — lots of food options, too, as well as special events and more. Open on Th from 4 pm – 3 am; on F & Sa from Noon – 3 am; and on Su from Noon – 2 am. Takes place at 2250 NW 2nd Ave. Info: 305-461-2700; wynwood-marketplace.com
SPECIAL EVENTS
Now – March 7
Luminosa: A Journey Through Light
Miami: You’ll see more dragons than reindeer at this fantastical, fairytale-themed lights festival, which features 40+ scenes made of silk fabric lanterns, as well as some amazing animatronic knights. Takes place on Su – Th from 5:30 – 9:30 pm; and on F & Sa from 5:30 – 9:30 pm at Jungle Island, 1111 Parrot Jungle Trail. Info: Info: 305-400-7000; luminosamiami.com.
March 13 – 17
World Baseball Classic
Miami: For baseball lovers, this world-renowned tournament is history in the making when powerhouse teams from the Dominican Republic, Venezuela, and the Netherlands battle it out in a tough competition that rocks the stadium from the first round to the championship game. Witness unforgettable international matchups, dramatic moments, and a showcase of the world’s best talent. Various times at Loan Dept Park (Marlins Park), 501 Marlins Way. Info: 305-380-1300; mlb.com.
March 7 – April 5
6th Annual Flower Festival
Miami: This one-of-a-kind floral extravaganza in 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 15 – 29
2026 Miami Open
Miami Gardens: The world’s greatest tennis players converge on Miami for one of the largest tennis and most prestigious events in professional tennis. The Miami Open is a unique tournament that draws the top men’s and women’s players from the ATP and WTA for two weeks of best-in-class action. Takes place at Hard Rock Stadium, 347 Don Shula Dr.Info & tickets: 305-943-6736; miamiopen.com.
April 2 – 12
18th Annual Miami Beach Pride: Pride Is Infinite
Miami Beach: This major LGBTQ community event attracts thousands for ten days of music, art, activism, and community celebration. Highlights include a vibrant parade, immersive exhibits, live performances, and lots of engaging activities, culminating with a free 2-day weekend celebration in Lummus Park. Takes place at various times and venues. Info: 786-362-5232; miamibeachpride.com.
April 12
20th Annual Deering Seafood Festival
Palmetto Bay: Regaled as one of the top-rated seafood festivals in Florida, this tasty annual culinary and cultural event offers a unique opportunity to indulge in a seafood extravaganza showcasing fresh catches from the sea, prepared by top chefs and culinary experts. The action-packed day also includes hands-on seafood cooking workshops, culinary demos, a Seafood Cook-Off Competition by local chefs, live performances, and lots of family-friendly activities. Takes place from 10 am – 6 pm at the Deering Estate, 16701 SW 72nd Ave. Info: 305-680-5219; deeringestate.org.
April 12
BBQ Cook-Off & Showdown:
Part 3 — Ribs (Any Style)
Miami: The final leg of this premier, 3-part circuit series competition, brings together BBQ chefs and enthusiasts. The Grand Finale and Rib Showdown challenges top grill masters to create “mystery meat” BBQ, which you can purchase and enjoy. Takes place from Noon – 5 pm at The Berry Farm, 13720 SW 216th St. Info: 305-560-0531; visittheberryfarm.com.
April – TBD
Miami-Dade Countryfest
Miami: Get ready for two action-packed days featuring the renowned International Livestock Show & Rodeo, Cattle Show, live music, a kids zone, food trucks, and more. This year’s all star lineup marquees big name stars including Reba McEntire, Blake Shelton, and Carrie Underwood, as well as performances by emerging talents like Luke Combs and Chris Stapleton. Takes place at Ronald Reagan Equestrian Center at Tropic Park, 7900 SW 40th St (Bird Rd). Info & tickets 305-222-2116; mdcountryfest.com.
May 1 – 3
Formula 1 Crypto.com Miami Grand Prix 2026
Miami Gardens: This high-octane, three- day spectacle boasts a packed on-track schedule featuring the return of the F1 Sprint format and the debut of a new support series. A short, action-packed race, the F1 Sprint happens earlier in the weekend and is designed to add another layer of excitement and unpredictability for fans. Takes place at the Miami International Autodrome, Hard Rock Stadium, 347 Don Shula Dr. Info & tickets: f1experiences.com.
OTHER FLORIDA HAPPENINGS
ONGOING
Florida Rep Theater
Fort Myers: Cited as “One of America’s Top Repertory Companies” by the Wall Street Journal, Florida’s premiere professional theater company is nationally renowned for its stellar comedies, dramas, new plays, and musicals productions. On stage at both the Historic Arcade and the ArtStage Studio Theatres, located at 2268 Bay Street in the heart of the Fort Myers Historic River. Info & tickets: 239-332-4488; FloridaRep.org.
March 13
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; on F from 5 – 11 pm; on Sa from Noon – 11 pm; and on Su from Noon – 10 pm at the Sarasota Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Blvd. Info: sarasotafair.com.