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.
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.
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.
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.
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 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.
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner and frigid winter temperatures affecting most of the U.S., it’s the perfect time to escape to the Florida Keys for a romantic getaway. The island chain has some of the warmest winter temps in the nation, and there’s nothing better than warming your heart and rejuvenating your soul in the Keys’ balmy subtropical sunshine.
Ever wondered how Key West residents live — and what lies behind their houses’ white picket fences, striking facades and gleaming front doors? Home tours scheduled for January, February and March offer a rare chance to find out. Discover Victorian gems and "shotgun" cottages, wonderful modern-day designs, interiors filled with antiques and art, and outdoor living spaces with lush, lovely gardens.
More than two dozen international teams will converge on Key West for adrenaline-charged sports competition Jan. 22-29, during the 28th annual Kelly McGillis Classic International Women’s & Girls’ Flag Football Championship. The Classic also features a Women’s Speaker Series focusing on female empowerment, parties and games, and acting workshops and performances guided by the famed actress herself.
Larry Blackburn is a prominent Florida Keys photographer, a fervent supporter of the Keys' "One Human Family" community and a constant presence at special events and fundraisers. Plus he will reign all year as the king of Key West's Fantasy Fest celebration after earning his crown by raising money for a local nonprofit. "Meet" Larry, whose heart is as notable as his height, by reading on.