A welcome sight lifted the spirits of many weary Florida Keys locals returning home in the weeks after Hurricane Irma’s Sept. 10 passage through the beloved island chain. That sight was “Fred," a salt-sprayed Australian pine tree that's growing out of a roadbed on the historic Old Seven Mile Bridge.
Early August marks the start of the Florida Keys’ annual commercial lobster season -- so it's time to savor the sweet, clawless local lobsters in restaurants ranging from waterside seafood shacks to gourmet emporiums. Some foodies even design their own “lobster quest" to sample chefs’ crustacean creations at a variety of eateries from Key Largo to Key West.
Each year on Memorial Day Weekend, fans of the fast-growing minimalist trend cheer teams powering boats made of bare-bones materials in the annual Schooner Wharf Minimal Regatta. Now in its 26th year, the quirky regatta is an undisputed tradition in the Florida Keys -- featuring minimally constructed vessels, plucky mariners displaying a “sink or swim” spirit, and maximum fun for spectators.
If you want to be mistaken for a Florida Keys resident — or at least a savvy regular visitor — don’t ever say “kontch.” The widely-used word “conch” is pronounced “konk" on the island chain that's proudly known as the Conch Republic.
Strange bedfellows and drag queens in unnervingly high heels race down the streets of Key West in April, highlighting the Florida Keys’ overflowing event lineup for visitors. It's all part of the upcoming antics in continental America's southernmost city.
The Cow Key Channel Bridge, stretching about 300 feet between Key West and neighboring Stock Island, is among the shortest of the Florida Keys Overseas Highway’s 42 bridges. It’s also the site of a wacky event believed to be the world’s only “zero k” bridge run.
For those fascinated by the unusual art of conch shell blowing, it’s time to pucker up and hone your “honking” skills on your favorite oceanic instrument — because Key West’s 55th annual Conch Shell Blowing Contest is coming up fast.
In the Florida Keys & Key West, the holiday season is welcomed with great fanfare, festivities, and unique island 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 his "gift" -- and have a joyful and meaningful holiday.
Born in 1979, Key West's Fantasy Fest has grown to be an exuberant 10-day whirlwind of costuming and masking contests, themed parties, masquerade events and a gala grand parade. And the revelry has also celebrated some amazing people and true-life heroism.
Key West's Zombie Bike Ride, a pre-Halloween tradition for visiting and local families and groups, is scheduled Sunday, Oct. 23 -- and much of the island is likely to be overrun by an oddly lively gaggle of the biking dead. The spooky spectacle typically draws several thousand participants (including a few slightly bewildered pets).