‘Nutcracker Key West’ is an Island-Flavored Holiday Gem

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.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2018-12-05T16:12:39-05:00December 5, 2018|

Haunted Hunt and ‘Haunting’ Atmosphere Draw Visitors to Key West

According to paranormal expert David Sloan, Key West is one of the most haunted cities in the entire United States. Visitors can discovery the island's “haunting” appeal for themselves by experiencing David's "ghost hunt" walking tour, taking an eerie excursion by trolley, "meeting" a supposedly supernatural doll or even staying in a lovely inn with a spirit guest or two.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2021-05-13T15:57:57-04:00October 31, 2018|

Five Preserves Protect the Florida Keys’ Natural World

For more than 100 years, the Florida Keys’ fascinating environment has been recognized and protected by forward-thinking conservation efforts. Connect with this natural world by learning about five vital preserves that protect endangered plants, animals and marine life — as well as the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2021-05-13T15:57:54-04:00October 24, 2018|

Hemingway’s Legacy Remains Strong in Key West

Key West's Hemingway Days celebrates the legacy of world-renowned author Ernest Hemingway, who called the island home for most of the 1930s. What he discovered there fed his exuberance for living, launched the most prolific period of his career and inspired him to use Depression-era Key West as the setting for “To Have and Have Not” — his only novel set in the United States.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2020-04-07T13:21:39-04:00July 11, 2018|

Remembering Mel and the ‘Shipwreck of the Century’

Legendary shipwreck salvor Mel Fisher, who found the wreck of the 1622 Spanish galleon Atocha, was one of Key West's most colorful and inspirational characters. Adventure lovers can celebrate his legacy during Mel Fisher Days, set for July 12-14 in his longtime “home port.”

By Carol Shaughnessy|2018-07-03T22:30:33-04:00July 3, 2018|

Key West’s Accidental Book

They’re everywhere: Key West history books, Conch cookbooks, descriptions of Cayo Hueso and life among its inhabitants. The island has been romanticized, glorified, insulted and libeled in print (sometimes all in the same piece of prose!). The author of the first book about Key West could never have known what a precedent he was setting.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2021-05-13T15:41:37-04:00June 18, 2018|

Authors and Artists Make Key West a Creative Haven

Artists, authors, playwrights and poets have been lured to Key West and seized upon its one-of-a-kind environment of creativity, natural beauty and sometimes eccentric qualities — making it the muse for some of their most acclaimed career accomplishments.

By Greg Tromba|2020-04-09T15:12:26-04:00June 6, 2018|

Four Cultural Celebrations That Happen Only in the Keys

From celebrations of resident artists’ and writers’ legacies to an art festival that recalls the Florida Keys' fascinating railroad history, "only-in-the-Keys" cultural events spotlight the island chain's heritage as a haven for creative spirits — and draw huge numbers of visitors every year.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2018-05-16T14:49:26-04:00May 16, 2018|

Seven Experiences to Savor Only in the Keys

Besides balmy year-round weather, endless blue water and a seriously laid-back vibe, in the Florida Keys you’ll find an enticing array of environmental, cultural and adventure activities that can’t be enjoyed anywhere EXCEPT in the island chain. Enliven your stay with some of the “only in the Keys” experiences outlined here.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2021-03-16T13:16:43-04:00May 2, 2018|

Celebrate the Conch Republic’s 36th Birthday April 20-29

A lighthearted sea battle featuring tall ships, a parade dubbed the world’s longest and a “drag” race for female impersonators are all part of the wonderfully wacky 36th annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration. Set for April 20-29, the offbeat event commemorates the Florida Keys’ symbolic secession from the United States.

By Carol Shaughnessy|2018-04-18T19:19:32-04:00April 18, 2018|

History