It’s easy to “unplug” in the Florida Keys & Key West. But a visit to the Keys is also a great opportunity to connect with — and become inspired to protect — the priceless environment of the United States’ southernmost island chain. Explore earth-friendly options and activities to make the next Keys adventure unforgettable.
Creative recycling, offbeat artistry and lively “people power” combine into a spectacle that entertains spectators in Key West each May, during the lighthearted Papio Kinetic Sculpture Parade. Designed to fascinate fans of earth-friendly repurposing and “outsider” art, the annual human-powered parade of colorful mobile sculptures will meander through Key West’s downtown area on Saturday, May 4.
Key West is a city that's always finding new ways to celebrate life with passion and also give back to the community. And one fabulous example of that is the Stoli Key West Cocktail Classic. Renowned for its charitable contributions, the LGBTQ mixology competition will take place in conjunction with Key West Pride.
With its funky charm, quirky characters, end-of-the-road mindset and reputation as a bastion of the bizarre, Key West might seem more like a fictional setting than a real locale. But while the continental United States’ southernmost city is real enough, it definitely proves the old proverb that reality can be stranger than fiction.
Planning a visit to the Florida Keys this spring or summer? As well as enjoying the island chain’s many land-and-water attractions and near-addictive easygoing vibe, you can also explore two of the United States’ most intriguing places: Dry Tortugas and Everglades national parks. Both parks are nothing less than priceless national treasures.
Key West has an incredible lineup of events planned for its 2019 Pride extravaganza. So mark your calendars for June 5-9 and get your “inner pride on” in the Florida Keys. Highlights include playful pool parties, fabulous drag competitions, pride-themed movie screenings, theatrical and vocal performances, block parties, mischievous nightlife and an over-the-top Pride Parade.
“Athletes” in the weird and wonderful Cow Key Channel Bridge Run, the planet's only “zero-k race,” follow a 300-foot course across one of the Florida Keys Overseas Highway’s shortest bridges. Most wear wacky cow- or bull-themed costumes (some paired with tutus!) and the 2019 race is themed Pirates of the “Cowibbean.”
Throughout April, throughout the year and throughout the Florida Keys, sustainable family-friendly events are offered for travelers seeking to connect with the unique Keys environment and help to protect it. Among them are Mote Marine Laboratory’s Ocean Fest and the Florida Keys Wildlife Society’s full-moon kayak excursions into the National Key Deer Refuge.
During the Great Conch Republic Drag Race, female impersonators and their “pit crew” transform part of Key West’s Duval Street into an improvised speedway. The quirky challenge features “dragsters” from across the island, sporting their highest heels and glam racing attire, sprinting down the street in an “only in Key West” event.
Become part of Diana Nyad's health-promoting EverWalk in Key West — thanks to an inspirational invitation to readers from the legendary endurance athlete, who in September 2013 became the first person to swim from Cuba to Key West without a shark cage. Diana and her Cuba Swim expedition leader Bonnie Stoll share their latest adventure with Florida Keys residents and visitors.