Key West, Flordia has to be one of the prime destinations in the Continental United States. In addition, the best part is it’s only a few hours south of Miami. You can be transported to a true laid back tropical paradise, no passport required!
While visiting the Florida Keys is always fun no matter what time of year you go, there are a few festivals and events in Key West that you don’t want to miss.
In this post, we’ll take a look at five of the biggest festivals and events that see people from all over the world flocking to Key West. If you’ve been thinking about visiting this little island, these might be the best times to do it.
Key West Food and Wine Festival
When the theme is ‘flip flops required’ you know you’re in for a good time! The Key West Food and Wine Festival is held in late January and is one of the premier events of its kind in this country.
There will be over 30 different events covering everything from water-front food tastings to wine samplings and cooking exhibitions. You’ll also see and be able to mingle with some celebrity chefs.
Hemingway Days
Ernest Hemingway was not only one of Americas greatest authors, he also spent time in Key West. ‘Papa Hemingway’ is felt all over the island from his former home (now a museum) to his favorite bar and restaurant.
Key West celebrates his life every July during their Hemingway Days event. Attend and you’ll find hundreds of Hemingway look-alikes, a ‘running of the bulls,’ and a three-day marlin fishing event.
Fantasy Fest
If you want a huge party, look no further than Fantasy Fest. For many, this is Key West’s premier event that has people flocking to the island. This is a 10-day event held each October with a theme that changes every year.
Fantasy Fest has all sorts of events happening at once. There are bar crawls, body tattoo painting, bike rides, acrobatics, pool parties, and even a 5k. With scantily-clad party-goers and lots of alcohol, this event is adults-only.
Conch Republic Independence Celebration
Did you know in 1982 a blockade was set north of Key West effectively cutting it off from the rest of the US? In response to this, the citizens of Key West announced they were succeeding from the union and formed the “Conch Republic.”
While the stand off didn’t last long, the Conch Republic is still going strong today. So in celebration, every April Key West has a big event to remember the Conch Republic Independence Day with, what else, a huge party.
“Bight” Before Christmas
Spending the holidays in the warm breeze of the tropics? Sounds pretty good to us! You can do it this year at Key West’s Bight Before Christmas event.
The streets of Key West get lit up with Christmas lights giving everything a sparkle. And during the week’s long event, you can see everything from float parades on the streets, harbor walks, and lighted boat parades.
These are just a few of the best festivals and events in Key West you can enjoy. There are many more. So, the next time you’re planning your Key West vacation, check the calendar!
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