July 4th Holiday Festivities in the Florida Keys
Plan your Independence Day getaway the Florida Keys way with […]
Plan your Independence Day getaway the Florida Keys way with […]
The southernmost stretch of U.S. Highway 1, running some 110 miles from mainland Florida throughout the Keys to Key West, has earned many names over the years. It’s been called the Florida Keys Overseas Highway. The Highway That Goes to Sea. But for those who love the Keys, it’s simply the road home.
The Florida Keys experience is all about a laid-back attitude, a sense of welcome, and an approach to living that blends individuality and a deep appreciation for relaxation. But it doesn’t have to end when a vacation ends. With a little imagination, the essence of the Keys experience can be savored all year long.
Now that 2025 has arrived with all its fanfare and festivities, far too many people are facing snowy winter weather and the return to a monotonous daily routine. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Instead of enduring the post-holiday blahs, take a break — and relax and recharge in the Florida Keys.
Chris Bergh, The Nature Conservancy’s Florida field program director based in the Lower Keys, is optimistic about the Florida Keys’ future and ability to adapt to environmental challenges in the coming decades. His priorities include protecting the Keys’ water quality and environmental biodiversity to save endangered and rare species such as Key deer.
Traditionally, people spend Christmas Eve anticipating a visit from Santa Claus. Yet those who love the Florida Keys (but can’t spend the holidays in the island chain) await another jolly bearded fellow: the legendary “Santa Keys.” Of course, as expected from a colorful Keys character, he does things a little bit differently …
Maybe it’s because the Florida Keys have never experienced a traditional white Christmas. Or because Keys residents are passionate about celebrating special occasions. But whatever the reason, despite the subtropical climate, people in the island chain go a little bit overboard with holiday decorations — and even “deck the hulls” for festive boat parades.
Valerie Preziosi, founder and president of the nonprofit Save Our Key Deer Inc., works to save the diminutive, indigenous and federally protected herd of about 800 Key deer from human-provoked tragedies. Also an avid nature photographer, she is opening a new state-authorized Key deer rehabilitation facility on Big Pine Key in late December.
The Hogfish Bar & Grill, a funky Keys-style emporium overlooking the water at Stock Island’s Safe Harbour Marina, has long been popular with locals and visitors – including Jimmy Buffett. Fans of the iconic spot can celebrate its 22nd anniversary Nov. 30 with a free concert starring some of the late Buffett's musical colleagues.
For Florida Keys foodies, Oct. 15 rivals a national holiday in importance. Why? Because that marks the opening of the annual stone crab season. The orange-red, pale yellow and black stone crab claws contain a sweet, tender meat that’s among the Keys’ most popular delicacies — and they're served at restaurants around the island chain.