Gerrit Marshall’s Birthday Gift: Just Call Him ‘Papa’
Meet the newest “Papa.” White-bearded Wisconsin man Gerrit Marshall has won the 2023 Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, a highlight of Key West's Hemingway Days festivities. The retired television broadcast engineer triumphed over nearly 140 other contest entrants on his 68th birthday — just a day after the July 21 birthday of the original "Papa" Hemingway.
New Festival Spotlights Key West’s Cuban Connection
Key West frequently celebrates its historic Cuban connection with events that showcase our cultural ties to the nearby island nation. One such event will be the inaugural LGBT Art & Culture REvolution, set for Sept. 7-13. Key West attendees can enjoy everything from cigar, rum distillery and art gallery tours to Cuban music events and a special Cuba Libre brunch.
In Hemingway’s Footsteps
As the first widely-renowned author to make Key West his home, Ernest Hemingway inspired generations of writers and readers to follow in his footsteps and explore the island’s innate creativity. His legacy and love for Key West are celebrated each July during Hemingway Days.
Underwater Music Festival ‘Makes Waves’ for Reef Protection
For more than three decades, the Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival has spotlighted coral reef protection and environmentally responsible diving. The unique “submerged songfest” takes place in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary at beautiful Looe Key Reef (about six miles south of Big Pine Key).
The Fun Factor Rises for Tropical Heat 2017
Key West's Tropical Heat, set for Aug. 16-20, features pool parties, sunset sails, snorkel and paddleboarding tours, drag shows, some wicked late-night parties, and even a Gay Key West Trolley Tour spotlighting the island's LGBT heritage -- so check out the hotspots and highlights.
Simply Saltwater: Florida Keys Water Adventures Beckon
The Florida Keys offer a terrific choice of sea-based adventures that you can discover at your own pace, according to your own energy level. With options that range from paddleboarding to snorkeling, you only need one basic ingredient to have an exhilarating outdoor experience in the Keys: simply saltwater!
‘Keymandments’ Encourage Simply Sustainable Enjoyment
Encouraging environmentally responsible behaviors is vital in protecting the Florida Keys' natural resources — including the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef. Visitors can share Keys residents' commitment to preserving the unique ecosystem by following the “10 Keymandments.”