September
15th,
2024
Key West Events & Festivals
In the island paradise of Key West we look for any excuse to celebrate. Whether it's in honor of all things whacky during Fantasy Fest or reeling in the largest marlin during the annual Hemingway Days, refer to our events and festivals guide to see what's going on during your stay.
The Ultimate Guide to Key West BrewFest 2024
August 20, 2024
Here’s everything you need to know about the 14th annual beer festival, along with five reasons you should show up to this last hurrah of the summer.
Florida Keys Lobster Season 2024 is Here: What You Need to Know
July 25, 2024
Your guide to Key West spiny lobster season 2024, Lobsterfest, where to eat the best lobster on the island, and more.
Everything You Need to Know about Hemingway Days Key West 2024
July 10, 2024
We're breaking down all things "Papa" with a roundup of Hemingway Days activities and can't-miss events.
The Absolute Best Events at the Key West Key Lime Festival
June 15, 2024
Every Fourth of July, Key West gets together to celebrate the national fruit of the island - the key lime.
A Look at Fantasy Fest 2024
May 15, 2024
Start planning your costumes now and check out this sneak peak of Fantasy Fest 2024.
A Brief History of Trop Rock and the Enduring Legacy of Jimmy Buffett
April 30, 2024
The iconic soundtrack of Key West always includes the smooth sounds of Trop Rock - and no one else is more associated with this tropical sub-culture than Jimmy Buffett.
10 Ways to Celebrate Springtime in Key West
March 30, 2024
Welcome the new season with blooming flowers, glorious weather, seasonal cuisine, and lots of only-in-Key-West things to do this spring.
Fun Things to Do on Easter in Key West 2024
March 15, 2024
Whether you prefer the thrill of the hunt for colorful eggs or a relaxing brunch, let this guide fill you with inspiration for things to do this Easter in Key West.
Guide to Key West Spring Break 2024
February 29, 2024
Whether you’re in need of some vitamin D, a recharge to take your college finals, or simply a place to find solace from your day job, our spring break guide is designed to offer tips and tricks when visiting Key West.
Key West’s Top Art and Craft Festival Returns for its 59th Year
February 05, 2024
Celebrating outstanding local and national creativity, the annual weekend festival brings together over 120 emerging and established artists and artisans from 25 different states.
Upcoming Live Music & Festivals 2024 | Gates Hotel Key West
January 15, 2024
Check out the most exciting winter and spring big-name acts (and tribute bands!) set to take the stage in Key West.
Don't Miss Mile 0 Fest in Key West
January 10, 2024
Your holiday vacation days may be spent, but music fans of Red Dirt and Americana can’t pass up kicking off 2024 with the five-day Mile 0 Fest!
Holiday Events in Key West 2023
November 20, 2023
Spending the end of 2023 with us here in Key West? Here are some of the best annual holiday activities and Christmas events to look forward to year after year.
Everything you Need to Know about the Key West Powerboat Races 2023
October 25, 2023
Here’s everything you need to know about the Offshore World Championship Powerboat Races (we answer some frequently asked questions too!).
12 Best Halloween Events for 2023 in Key West
October 10, 2023
Whether you’re stopping by via cruise ship or visiting the island especially for Fantasy Fest, we've got you covered on all things Halloween.
The Weirdest Events at Fantasy Fest 2023
October 05, 2023
Fantasy Fest is known as a judgment-free zone where all things ‘weird’ are cause for celebration.
Labor Day Weekend in Key West 2023 Guide
August 15, 2023
Labor Day in Key West marks humid months coming to an end, the excellent weather to come, and an excuse to celebrate the extended weekend.
5 Fantastic Ways to Celebrate the 4th of July in Key West
June 15, 2023
The island always takes on a festive vibe come Independence Day, making it the perfect excuse to spend the day exploring, partying, or simply chilling in our tropical paradise.
The Events We’re Looking Forward to at Key West Pride 2023
May 15, 2023
Take part in Key West's embrace of "one human family" with these fun activities during Pride, which runs June 7 - 11, 2023.
Who to See at the Key West Songwriters Festival 2023
April 21, 2023
The largest festival of its kind, the Key West Songwriters Festival returns May 3 - 7, 2023 to celebrate the most successful, chart-topping songwriters in country music. Here are the artists to keep on your radar.
Save Your Appetite for the Florida Keys Seafood Festival
January 10, 2023
The two-day food festival is a time to celebrate the day’s catch and local fishermen with local seafood prepared every-which way, live bands, libations, activities for kids, and plenty more.
10 Ways to Survive (and Save) During Black Friday in Key West
November 15, 2022
Whether you’re looking to participate in the busiest shopping day of the year or are skipping the lines entirely, we’ve put together a list of ways to get you through Black Friday.
5 Must-See Acts at the 2022 Legends of Music Row Key West
September 15, 2022
We’re shining a light on some of the incredible acts performing during the star-studded country music festival, coming to the Coffee Butler Amphitheater in Key West, Oct. 13 - 15, 2022.
Biggest LGBTQ+ Festivals in Key West
August 12, 2022
Key West is one of the most LGBTQ+ friendly places in the world, so it goes without saying that the island’s annual Pride events come in all shapes and sizes.
Mel Fisher Days 2022 in Key West | The Gates Hotel Key West
July 30, 2022
Mel Fisher Days returns to Key West Sept. 1 - 5, 2022, this time with a very special edition of its annual celebration.
What to Do Now to Get Ready for Summer 2022 in Key West
June 15, 2022
Dreaming of summer in Key West? Let us help you prepare.
All About the ‘Swim Around Key West’ Marathon, Including Where to Watch
May 30, 2022
We’re breaking down all there is to know about one of the longest continuously running marathon swims in the world.
Your Comprehensive FL Keys Marathon Guide
May 15, 2022
If you’re a newcomer to running and are set on a 5K, or looking for a high intensity marathon or even a 100-mile race, there’s something for all runners in Key West.
Mother’s Day in Key West Guide
April 15, 2022
It’s the mother of all holidays. Here are 10 of the best things to do with your mom in Key West on Mother’s Day weekend.
Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day in Key West
March 15, 2022
Check out different activities happening around town this St. Paddy’s Day. Sláinte!
What’s Open on New Year’s Day in Key West
December 22, 2021
The party continues on New Year’s Day in Key West with these fun daytime activities, places to hang, and ways to unwind.
Best Places to Ring in the New Year in Key West 2021
December 09, 2021
The Conch Republic has their share of quirky NYE celebrations that are an island tradition. Here are our favorite.
Our Favorite Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving in Key West
November 12, 2021
Thanksgiving marks the unofficial start of the holiday season and what better way to celebrate it then in Key West style?
Where to Celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Key West
April 30, 2021
Though we love our fish tacos, tequila, and fiestas every day of the year, May 5 is a chance to double down with tasty Mexican eats and drinks all over Key West.
Prepare to Be Amazed at the Annual Kinetic Sculpture Parade
February 24, 2020
The annual Papio Kinetic Sculpture Parade celebrates creativity and honors the "dynamic junkman of Key Largo," sculptor Stanley Papio.
Things to Do in Key West this February 2020
January 30, 2020
February ushers in out-of-towners for the best time of year in Key West! See what else Key West has in store for February 2020.
Things to Do in Key West this December
December 01, 2019
Visiting Key West this December? Here is a look at the month’s top events.
Plan a Quick Getaway to Key West this Thanksgiving
October 29, 2019
Florida residents can enjoy special rates by booking with the Florida Resident Escape, which can save guests up to 20 percent off at The Gates Hotel.
Best Spots to Watch the Fantasy Fest Parade
September 17, 2019
10 days of Fantasy Fest all leads up to the great parade on Duval Street, which features giant floats, costumes, entertainment and more, with prizes handed out the the best of the rest.
Upcoming Art Exhibitions in Key West We're Looking Forward To
August 31, 2019
Take a look at what’s set to open at the Custom House Museum, located in right near Mallory Square in Old Town.
How to Eat Florida Spiny Lobster
August 09, 2019
The iconic, bright red boiled Maine lobster holds strong in most seafood restaurants, but the Florida spiny lobster may be that crustacean you’re missing in your surf and turf.
10 Things You Didn't Know About Key West
July 30, 2019
While these fun facts won’t surprise most Conchs, it might raise some eyebrows from our visitors.
Upcoming Summer Shows in Key West
July 01, 2019
There’s always live music in Key West. Read up on what shows are taking the stage at the Key West Theater while you’re in the southernmost island this summer.
Book Ahead for Fantasy Fest
June 21, 2019
The season of Fantasy Fest may seem far into the distance, but the week of events draws 75,000 revelers to the Key West. Reserve a room ahead of time!
6 Things to Bring in Your Key West Daypack
April 30, 2019
If you’re planning to take advantage of our hourly shuttle to Mallory Square in Key West, you'll want to pack light but also arrive prepared.
Best Annual Key West Fishing Tournaments
January 21, 2019
Reel in barracuda, marlin, dolphinfish & more in Key West! Cash prizes available year-round in these local game fishing tournaments.
5 Things You Don't Want to Miss at the Key West Food & Wine Fest
January 14, 2019
Make your own Key lime pie and enjoy pairings of grilled cheese and craft beer at the island's favorite food festival.
How to Prep for the Key West Half Marathon
December 11, 2018
The Key West Half Marathon and 5k is coming up on January 20th! Beginning at 7:00 a.m., it’s a fast-paced 13.1 mile challenge across the island’s flat topography, and in true Key West style, it’s packed with fun events before, during and after.
Concerts on the Green: JJ Grey & Mofro
November 29, 2018
JJ Grey and Mofro from Jacksonville Florida will play an outdoor concert in Key West this December. Held at the Sunset Green Event Lawn, the southern rock group will play soulful tunes mixed with funk during this winter concert on the lawn.
Don’t Miss the KW Lighted Boat Parade
November 30, 2017
The maritime holiday tradition has been a local mainstay for nearly 30 years.
Watch the Shoe Drop with Sushi
November 09, 2017
The Key West Shoe Drop began in 1996 at the Bourbon Street Pub on Duval Street.
Making the Most of Wine Dine Key West
August 31, 2017
Wine Dine Key West is just about here, offering locals and guests the chance to enjoy a multi-course meal at a discounted price.
5 Must-Taste Local Beers
August 30, 2017
To make the most of Key West Brewfest, we’ve made a list of the most distinct local beers on tap for the tasting.
Lobsterfest 2017
July 31, 2017
Lobster season is a big deal here in Key West. And when it’s opens, we can’t help but party in honor of our favorite crustacean.
Time Travel at Fantasy Fest 2017
May 09, 2017
It’s time to start planning for Fantasy Fest 2017. Held at the end of October, Fantasy Fest is Key West’s biggest party of the year.