Quirks

Pucker Pros Take Center Stage in Key West’s ‘Conch Honk’

Maybe chart-topping rock stars aren’t abandoning their guitars to play the conch shell. But that’s okay — because the “pucker pros” playing pink-lined shells were treated like rock stars at Key West’s recent Conch Shell Blowing Contest. The event saluted the Florida Keys’ seafaring heritage and centuries-old use of the “conch horn” for signaling.

By |2024-03-13T12:46:25-04:00March 13, 2024|

The Sunny Tale of Santa Keys

In the Florida Keys & Key West, the holiday season is welcomed with great fanfare, festivities and flair. But for those who aren't lucky enough to be celebrating in the island chain, "Santa Keys" has dreamed up a special surprise. Discover the jolly guy’s warmhearted plan — and have a joyful and meaningful holiday.

By |2023-12-20T11:09:14-05:00December 20, 2023|

‘Zombies’ on Wheels to Prowl Key West Oct. 22

On the offbeat island of Key West, even the zombies defy stereotypes. Instead of stumbling through dark wastelands in tattered clothes — as often portrayed in films and TV shows — Key West’s zombies are to hop on their bikes and pedal beside the Atlantic Ocean Sunday, Oct. 22, during the annual Zombie Bike Ride.

By |2023-09-20T14:37:42-04:00September 20, 2023|

Only in the Keys: Lobster Selfies, Stargazing and MUCH More

In the Florida Keys, it’s common for locals and savvy visitors to greet the news of some particularly offbeat happening by grinning and murmuring, “Only in the Keys.” The four-word phrase is a standard response by people hearing about everything from a costume contest for pets to mermaids attending a local music festival.

By |2023-06-07T10:25:42-04:00June 7, 2023|

Papio Kinetic Sculpture Parade Salutes Earth Day and Keys Artist

The legacy of Florida Keys sculptor Stanley Papio, a pioneer of recycled art, is being celebrated on Earth Day 2023 with a colorful people-powered parade of recycled and repurposed artistic creations. The Papio Kinetic Sculpture and Art Bike Parade features sculptural floats with moving parts, decorated bicycles and other mobile works of art.

By |2023-04-19T12:30:34-04:00April 19, 2023|

Never, EVER Say “Kontch”

If you’ve spent time in the Florida Keys, you’re aware that Keys residents are generally easygoing and friendly. But unless you want to make them cringe, don’t ever say “kontch” — because the widely-used word “conch,” despite its spelling, is properly pronounced “konk.” Especially at the upcoming birthday party for the Keys’ Conch Republic.

By |2023-04-05T15:32:11-04:00April 5, 2023|

Pucker Power to Prevail at Key West’s ‘Conch Honk’

Conch shell blowing, a time-honored tradition, is Key West’s most indigenous form of musical expression. Every March, the island’s Conch Shell Blowing Contest draws dozens of entrants who demonstrate their “pucker power” by blowing through the conch’s fluted, pink-lined shell. The 2023 contest is set for March 4 at the Oldest House Museum.

By |2023-02-22T11:54:27-05:00February 22, 2023|

Underwater Pumpkin Carving and an Unforgettable Shipwreck

The continental United States’ only contiguous living coral barrier reef, which parallels the Florida Keys, hosts huge populations of tropical fish and other sea creatures. The warm, clear water makes a long dive in the Keys comfortable and enjoyable. And around Halloween each year, divers can immerse themselves while actually carving pumpkins underwater!

By |2022-10-26T12:52:11-04:00October 26, 2022|
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