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.
Key West's Full Moon Experience gatherings on Higgs Beach, beside the Atlantic Ocean, are alive with music, dancing, local performers, artistry, games and enjoyment. Discover their exuberant energy, good-spirited vibe and the chance to share an evening with some of the most creative people in the Florida Keys.
Chefs from over 50 local restaurants and catering companies will join forces at the wonderful Taste of Key West, donating their time and talents to create mouthwatering small plates of gourmet delights, casual tidbits and fabulous desserts. Savor the flavors, plus enticing beers and wines, on April 15 against the gorgeous waterfront backdrop of Mallory Square.
In 1982, the Florida Keys & Key West seceded from the United States (for a very good reason) and formed the independent Conch Republic. Come to find out, the irreverent and gutsy spirit that inspired the Keys' secession also sparked the founding of a "country" on the other side of the world: the colorful “Republic of Whangamomona.”
Each spring, the Tennessee Williams Birthday Celebration honors the openly gay playwright who lived in Key West from 1949 to 1983. The 2019 commemoration includes film showings, curator-led tours of Key West's Tennessee Williams Museum, competitions for writers and painters, theatrical presentations, a birthday reception and even an intriguing Williams-themed cocktail tasting.
Key West Theater has undergone a dramatic transformation to become a cultural hub for the southernmost island’s arts and music community — putting Key West on the radar of world-class musicians, comedians, artists and entertainers. Among the big names it has lured to perform are Bret Michaels, David Crosby, Joan Osborne and Jefferson Starship.
Key West may be the perfect springtime destination for its fabulous weather, beaches, great food and watersports. It’s also a cultural powerhouse with a vibrant and flourishing arts community. And although notable cultural happenings take place almost every week, this year we’ve set the bar even higher with an enticing lineup of springtime events.
One of the Florida Keys’ greatest assets is a lively community of visual artists. You’ll find high-quality artwork in galleries, public buildings, art fairs, outdoor markets and exhibitions from Key Largo to Key West. And this winter and spring, four extraordinary shows celebrate creations by artists ranging from Keys talents to those born in neighboring Cuba.