Key West is located just 90 miles from Cuba, and the two locales have a cultural connection that dates back almost 190 years, when early cigar makers found new homes in the island city. So it's no surprise that Cuban artistry, heritage sites, cuisine and even coffee enliven and enhance today's Key West.
A trail of breweries and distilleries winds throughout the 125-mile-long Florida Keys island chain, offering libations, brews and handcrafted cocktails infused with subtropical flavors such as Key lime or coconut. It's great fun to travel the trail, discovering each spot's individual vibe, sampling spirits and brews as desired, and discovering areas of the Keys through their varied and vibrant libations.
Ever wondered how Key West residents live — and what lies behind their houses’ white picket fences, striking facades and gleaming front doors? Home tours scheduled for January, February and March offer a rare chance to find out. Discover Victorian gems and "shotgun" cottages, wonderful modern-day designs, interiors filled with antiques and art, and outdoor living spaces with lush, lovely gardens.
Want to get 2019 off to a tasty start? Then plan to savor sunshine, fabulous food and wonderful wines at five Florida Keys celebrations of cuisine and spirits that take place in January. Each is unique, but they all spotlight local chefs’ creativity and indigenous Keys ingredients like fresh-off-the-boat fish and seafood.
More than two dozen international teams will converge on Key West for adrenaline-charged sports competition Jan. 22-29, during the 28th annual Kelly McGillis Classic International Women’s & Girls’ Flag Football Championship. The Classic also features a Women’s Speaker Series focusing on female empowerment, parties and games, and acting workshops and performances guided by the famed actress herself.
The new year is a great time to embrace activities that have a positive impact on the planet. For example, add meaning to a Florida Keys visit by giving back to the island chain. Connect with the earth, ocean and the living things that call the Keys home by dedicating a part of your vacation to a voluntourism activity.
'Twas the night before Christmas in the Florida Keys. And like most people in the balmy subtropical island chain, Santa Keys was doing everything possible to make the season merry and bright. He even planned a special island-style treat for people in colder climates who were craving some Keys warmth and cheer. Do YOU believe in Santa Keys?
Larry Blackburn is a prominent Florida Keys photographer, a fervent supporter of the Keys' "One Human Family" community and a constant presence at special events and fundraisers. Plus he will reign all year as the king of Key West's Fantasy Fest celebration after earning his crown by raising money for a local nonprofit. "Meet" Larry, whose heart is as notable as his height, by reading on.
Discover the seafaring heritage and vibrant coral reef environment of the Florida Keys, blended with a sizeable helping of heartfelt holiday spirit, during performances of the lovely and unforgettable “Nutcracker Key West.” The unique subtropical version of the classic “Nutcracker” ballet is being performed Dec. 7-16 — flavored with characters and sets that celebrate Key West’s colorful history, culture, traditions and even free-roaming roosters.
Super-talented female impersonator Christopher Peterson brings to life dozens of celebrity icons for Key West audiences — including Joan Rivers, Bette Midler, Lucille Ball and Marilyn Monroe. Christopher developed and stars in his one-man show, EYECONS, at the island's famed La Te Da Cabaret.