’Tis the Season (Already????) in the Keys
Incredible as it may seem, ’tis the season to be jolly — despite Christmas still being weeks away. But in the celebration-loving Florida Keys, mid-November brings the first stirrings of holiday spirit. So there are plenty of festivities coming up, ranging from traditional to offbeat (and all, of course, with a unique island twist).
Spotlight: The Colorful Life of Renowned Drag Queen “Sushi”
One of Key West’s most talented residents is Gary Marion (aka “Sushi”), who entertains nightly on the second floor of the popular LGBTQ hangout 801 Bourbon Bar with the “Sushi and the 801 Girls” show. Over the years, Sushi has become a drag icon who's known worldwide for her “Red Shoe Drop” appearances on CNN’s annual New Year’s Eve television program.
Haunted Hunt and ‘Haunting’ Atmosphere Draw Visitors to Key West
According to paranormal expert David Sloan, Key West is one of the most haunted cities in the entire United States. Visitors can discovery the island's “haunting” appeal for themselves by experiencing David's "ghost hunt" walking tour, taking an eerie excursion by trolley, "meeting" a supposedly supernatural doll or even staying in a lovely inn with a spirit guest or two.
Five Preserves Protect the Florida Keys’ Natural World
For more than 100 years, the Florida Keys’ fascinating environment has been recognized and protected by forward-thinking conservation efforts. Connect with this natural world by learning about five vital preserves that protect endangered plants, animals and marine life — as well as the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef.
Spotlight: Police Chief Donie Lee ‘On The Beat’ In Key West
Donie Lee, Key West's chief of police, is a widely admired officer and the island city's first openly gay police chief. As one of the unique community's many LGBTQ city officials and guiding spirits, this fifth-generation Key West resident plays an integral role in helping protect the place called paradise.
Insider Tips for Fantasy Fest’s Frolics
Key West's exotic Fantasy Fest is internationally recognized for its elaborate costume competitions, street fairs, masquerade balls and lavish grand parade. Fantasy Fest 2018 takes place Oct. 19-28 — and it’s an unprecedented display of Key West’s creativity, individuality and flamboyant spirit. The 10-day gala offers revelers a world-class chance to leave the "real world" behind and immerse themselves in fantasy.
An Officer and a Bar Owner: Cycling the Keys
Key Largo Bike and Adventure Tours offers a diverse menu of cycling treks, including a Key Largo to Key West ride, for people of varying fitness levels. Founded about seven years ago, the company specializes in popular excursions such as the Two-Day Tour to Key West, two 100-mile challenges called the Florida Keys and Hemingway Century rides, an Islamorada Bike Tour, the Bike and Beer Tour, and Taste of the Keys.