| April 28 to July 31,
in Key West |
Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden: Art in the Garden
Emphasizing harmony with nature, the return of Art in the Garden showcases local art and sculptures with artistic expressions. Artworks are earth-friendly in the selection of materials and themes and include recycled, repurposed, and natural material. Meander over garden boardwalks and down pathways through dappled shade, colorful blossoms and winged creatures to spot many beautiful works of art. View daily through July 31. 5210 College Rd.
|
| June 03 to July 24,
in Islamorada |
Hale Gallery: Hot Summer Night
The Hale Gallery features a showing of art and photography that evokes the sentiment of our Keys summer season. Featured artists include Thomas Flynn, Michelle Jones, Jul Jankowski, EmmaNorthMich and Ian Wilson-Navaro. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily. Mile marker 81.8 bayside.
|
| June 07 to July 26,
in Islamorada |
Island Home: Local Artisan & Gourmet Market
Find baked goods, local honey, homemade jams, oils, nut butters and more plus local crafts. Fridays at Island Home Garden & Nursery, mile marker 88.7 bayside from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
|
| July 01,
in Key Largo |
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Discovery Table on Polychaetes
What's a polychaete? Find out all about these fascinating segmented sea worms Monday from 1 to 3 p.m. in the Pennekamp Visit Center & Aquarium Lobby. The team from MarineLab will have a discovery table so you can find out about the many kinds of polychaetes, including feather duster worms, Christmas tree worms and the many other varieties of these fascinating critters. Free with regular park admission. Mile marker 102.5.
|
| July 03,
in Big Pine |
Big Pine Key 4th of July Celebration & Fireworks
The Lower Keys Rotary Club will host Independence Day festivities on Wednesday, July 3, starting at 5 p.m. at Big Pine Community Park, 31009 Atlantis Dr. There will be vendors, food, beverages, games, family activities, and entertainment. Fireworks will begin around 9 p.m. Admission is free. No coolers, pets, or personal fireworks are allowed.
|
| July 03 to July 07,
in Key West |
Key West Key Lime Festival
Key West's annual Key Lime Festival celebrates the world’s most sensational citrus with a bountiful array of festivities across the island where Key lime pie was conceived. Over five days, lovers of the lime can indulge in a full menu of activities including a gravity-defying Key lime pie drop competition from the top of the Key West Lighthouse; a Key lime cocktail sip and stroll, Key lime brunches and dinners, and of course, the world famous Key lime pie eating championship at 1:30 p.m. on July 4th at Southernmost Beach Cafe at 1405 Duval St.
|
| July 04 to July 06,
in Islamorada |
Billy Knowles Memorial Poor Boys Tarpon Fly Tournament
A fun tarpon-on-fly tournament open to all anglers. The team with the most releases of tarpon 4 feet and longer wins. Boats can leave from any dock from Harry Harris Park to Duck Key. Tournament events are held at the Lorelei Restaurant and Cabana Bar, mile marker 82 bayside.
|
| July 04,
in Key West |
Rotary Key West 4th of July 5k Walk/Run
Get a healthy start to the 4th of July with Key West Rotary's annual 5k walk/run. Register online in advance or at the starting line at 6:45 a.m. the morning of the race at Edward B Knight/White Street Pier, 1801 White Street. Race starts at 7:30 a.m.
|
| July 04,
in Key Largo |
Key Largo 4th of July Parade
Key Largo's 48th annual 4th of July Parade takes place from 10 a.m. to noon in the northbound lanes of US 1. Patriotically decorated floats range from boats to cars to bicycles, with area school and community groups represented. The parade route along US 1 runs from mile marker 98.2 at Anthony's clothing store north to the Diver's Direct plaza. "Super Soaker" water guns are a longstanding tradition with people on floats shooting to "cool off" the crowds, so if you don't want to get wet, move to the back of the viewing area along the highway
|
| July 04,
in Key Largo |
Key Largo 4th of July Fireworks
A 4th of July "Celebrating Freedom" celebration capped by a grand fireworks display takes place in Key Largo at Rowell's Waterfront Park, mile marker 104.5 bayside, beginning at 5 p.m. Enjoy live music, food and beverages for purchase, games and fun activities for kids. No coolers or outside food or drinks are allowed, but please do bring your chairs and blankets. A VIP tent is available for adults 21+ for $50 per person with alcohol service. Fireworks are to begin at 9:15 p.m. over Blackwater Sound. Offsite parking with shuttle service is available at Key Largo School, mile marker 104.8 oceanside.
|
| July 04,
in Islamorada |
Islamorada 4th of July Fireworks Celebration
The Upper Keys Rotary Club and the Village of Islamorada co-host an Independence Day Celebration at Founders Park, mile marker 87, from 6 to 10 p.m., Thursday, July 4. Food and beverage options will be available including food trucks and soda, water, beer and rum punch for purchase. Activities include music, face painting, a Patriotic People and Puppy Parade at 7:30 p.m., and fireworks beginning after sunset. Attendance is free, with a $10 donation for parking. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets.
|
| July 04 to July 07,
in Key West |
Key West Mermaid Festival
Enjoy mer-velous events daily through Sunday, July 7. Don't miss the chance to tap into your inner Irish mermaid at the Legend of the Selkie Party at The Celtic Conch, 528 Front St. on Friday, July 5 from 8 to 1 p.m. On Saturday, mermaids gather with the public at the Eco-Discovery Center, 35 Quay Rd. from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.; and then at Shots and Giggles, 201 Ann St., for a Mer-Mingle starting at 7 p.m. On Sunday from 5 to 8 p.m., there is an adults-only Mermaid Movie Night with a cash bar at Studios of Key West, 533 Eaton St.
|
| July 04,
in Marathon |
Isla Bella Beach Resort: Keys Musician Fest & Fireworks
Isla Bella's July 4th musical festival and all-day barbecue taking place at the resort from 11 a.m. up until the grand finale fireworks show after dark. One day passes are available.
|
| July 04,
in Key Largo |
Watch Key Largo 4th of July Fireworks at Mote Marine Lab's Key Largo Coral Nursery
Join Mote Marine Laboratory to watch the Key Largo Fourth of July Fireworks from the coral nursery at Reefhouse Resort & Marina, mile marker 103.8 bayside, a prime viewing spot on Blackwater Sound. Before the fireworks, explore Key Largo’s first and only land-based coral nursery, where Mote scientists lead resilience-focused reef restoration efforts. Nursery opens at 8 p.m.; fireworks start at 9:15 p.m. Walk-in available for $5 per person for walkers and bikers - this option does not include parking. VIP access for $50 per vehicle includes covered parking just steps away from the coral nursery and fireworks viewing, plus a tour of the coral nursery. Space is limited for both options, so reserve your spot in advance online.
Contact: Katie Cleek (305) 395-2757
Email: [email protected]
|
| July 04,
in Key Largo |
4th of July at Caribbean Club
Celebrate July 4th with live music by the Bootleg Band from 7 to 11 p.m. Two bars will be open with themed drink specials and there will be food by the Take Two Food Truck. Fireworks blast off at 9:15 p.m. Come early for a good spot, chairs and blankets are welcome. Located at mile marker 104 bayside.
|
| July 04,
in Key West |
Key West Mermaid Festival: Red, White & Blue & Mermaids Too
The Key West Mermaid Festival pod welcomes the public for a patriotic-themed mermaid splashing party at Lagerheads Beach Bar, 0 Simonton Street, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Come out for a family-friendly mer-mingle and swim event.
|
| July 05 to July 06,
in Key West |
John Lennon Art at Ocean Blue Galleries
Ocean Blue Galleries at 109 Duval St. launches its exclusive offering of John Lennon Limited Edition Art on Friday and Saturday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m.
|
| July 06,
in Key West |
Key West Mermaid Festival at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center
The Key West Mermaid Festival is back for the second-annual Meet the Mermaids event at the Eco-Discovery Center. Attendees can expect a "mer-velous" pod of mermaids to meet and mingle with and take "shell-fies." As you move from one ocean-themed exhibit to the next, you'll encounter special guests including King Neptune, Ariel and Prince Eric, and members of the Key West mermaid pod. There will be giveaways of a special King Neptune coloring page and more. Ocean and mermaid-themed costumes for kids are encouraged but not required (no glitter, please). The event is free, but a $10 donation is requested to fund the Eco-Discovery Center. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at 35 Quay Rd.
|
| July 11,
in Key Largo |
Caribbean Club - Yappy Hour to Benefit Marr-Velous Pet Rescue
Bring your dogs out for a night of cocktails, waggin’ tails and fundraising for the work that MarrVelous Pet Rescue does in the Upper Keys. Enjoy live music by Adam Musick on the outdoor stage from 6 to 9 p.m. To beat the heat, there will be doggy pools and a playful sprinkler set up in the back yard. There will also be raffles and retail items for sale, plus, adorable dogs up for adoption.
|
| July 11,
in Key West |
Jag Gallery: Looking Out & Up
Jag Gallery, 1075 Duval St., currently displays "Looking Out & Up," and exhibit featuring bird photography by Mark Hedden and scenic photography by Erika Heffernan. The exhibit remains on display through July 31st.
|
| July 12 to July 14,
in Marathon |
Marathon Community Theater: Alice in Wonderland, Jr.
Kids attending Marathon Community Theater's summer theater program perform this main stage show at 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday and 2 p.m. Sunday. The production is the culmination of the summer theater camp program. Doors open one hour before showtime. 5101 Overseas Hwy.
|
| July 12,
in Islamorada |
Islamorada Area State Parks: Shark Week Celebration
Junior Rangers and park visitors of all ages are invited to celebrate Shark Week at Windley Key Fossil Reef State Park, mile marker 84.9 bayside, starting at 9 a.m. Friday. There will be a presentation and a shark-themed game.
|
| July 12 to July 13,
in Key West |
Key West Association of Realtors Charity Fishing Tournament
Anglers fish for the largest dolphin fish by weight with prizes awarded for first, second and third place fish, with additional prizes for largest tuna and wahoo. Tournament activities are based at Key West Yacht Club, 2315 N. Roosevelt Blvd. Tournament proceeds benefit the KWAR CARES Foundation, providing help to many charities in the Keys. Captains meeting is July 12 with fishing on July 13.
Contact: 305-296-8259
|
| July 12 to July 13,
in Big Pine |
40th Annual Underwater Music Festival
Celebrate the 40th anniversary of the Underwater Music Festival with a free welcome event and tour Friday evening at Mote Marine, 24244 Overseas Highway on Summerland Key to learn about coral restoration efforts. Then on Saturday, join the underwater "musicians" in costume or just come as you are to dive and snorkel Looe Key Reef, an area of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary about 6 miles south of Big Pine Key. Trips can be booked with area dive operators. Each year, costumed divers pretend to play faux musical instruments in the undersea environment to ocean-themed music piped underwater. Hosted by the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce and local radio station, U.S. 104.1 FM, the ocean celebration encourages environmentally responsible diving and preservation of the world’s coral reefs, and also offers a bucket-list underwater experience.
|
| July 13,
in Key West |
Studios of Key West: One Night Stand - The 24-Hour Theater Project
Since 2007, One Night Stand has prompted creative thinkers to develop new theater from start to finish in only 24 hours. With the clock ticking, dozens of people work together at a wickedly fast pace to write, memorize, rehearse, create backdrops and sets, and comb the island for costumes and props. The result? Four brand new pieces of theater presented in front of a live audience. There will be two performances at 7 and 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 13 at The Studios.
|
| July 13,
in Key West |
Discover Saturday at Eco-Discovery Center: Lobster Lab
Florida Fish & Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) presents "Lobster Lab" Saturday during "Discovery Saturday," the free monthly program offered Saturday mornings beginning at 10:30 a.m. at the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary's Eco-Discovery Center, 35 Quay Rd. The program is geared to children in grades 1 through 5, but adults can benefit from the information, offered one day before the new "bonus" lobster mini season day for Florida Residents.
|
| July 14,
in Key Largo |
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Shark Awareness Day
On Sunday - Shark Awareness Day - the University of Miami Shark Tagging and Research team will be at the park to talk about these marine predators and the work they do with them. There will be a talk at 11 a.m. in the auditorium and a Discovery Table from 1 to 2:30 p.m. in the lobby of the Visitor Center and Aquarium. The programs are free with regular park admission. Mile marker 102.5 oceanside.
|
| July 14,
in Big Pine |
Goal: Clean Seas Make a Difference Dive
Make a Difference in the marine environment at Looe Key through a guided clean-up dive to remove marine debris with Capt. Hook's Sunday morning. The dive boat departs from the Big Pine Key location at mile marker 29.5 bayside. Check-in time is 7:30 a.m. for Advanced Open Water-certified divers only. This event is part of the Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary's Goal: Clean Seas initiative and is free for participating divers.
|
| July 14 to July 17,
in Big Pine |
Del Brown Invitational Permit Tournament
Anglers fly fish on the flats in a challenge that honors the late angling pioneer Del Brown, who caught and released more than 500 permit off the Keys. Professionals and guides are allowed to compete as anglers.
|
| July 14,
in Key West |
Sheriff’s Animal Farm Open House
Visit the family-friendly Monroe County Sheriff's Animal Farm, open the second and fourth Sundays of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. Visits are free of charge, but donations are always welcomed. Stock Island Detention Center, 5501 College Rd.
|
| July 15,
in Marathon |
Free Monthly Fishing Seminar
The topic of the July 15th free fishing seminar, presented by Captain Chris Still of The Tackle Box, is Recreational Fishing Regulations for saltwater fishing in Florida and especially the Florida Keys. There will be a discussion of state vs. federal waters and the difference in rules for each. The seminar takes place at Marathon Elks Lodge, 8239 Overseas Highway, from 6 to 8 p.m. and incudes door prizes and a raffle. Doors open at 5 p.m. Attendees may eat dinner for $10 dollars.
|
| July 16 to July 21,
in Key West |
Hemingway Days
Ernest Hemingway look-alikes, writers, anglers, and fans of the late author’s work are to gather in Key West for the annual Hemingway Days celebration. The festival honors the legacy of the American literary giant who lived and wrote on the island for most of the 1930s. Events include the legendary Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, the wacky Running of the Bulls on Sat. July 20, a presentation on Key West in the 1930s, a commemoration of the 125th anniversary of Hemingway's July 21 birth, a museum exhibit, a 3-day marlin tournament, a 5k run and paddleboard race, a street fair and more.
|
| July 17 to July 20,
in Key West |
Key West Marlin Tournament
Coinciding with the 44th annual Hemingway Days celebration, anglers ply the waters once fished by novelist Ernest Hemingway, vying for $50,000 in guaranteed cash prizes. The event awards $25,000 to the first-place team with the most points for blue marlin, white marlin and spearfish. Teams can enter one fun fish (dolphin, tuna, wahoo or released sailfish) per day for additional points. Entry is limited to the first 75 boats. Tournament events are based out of Stock Island Marina Village, 7005 Shrimp Rd..
|
| July 17,
in Islamorada |
History of Diving Museum: Immerse Yourself
This month's free Immerse Yourself program covers maritime archeology with a presentation by Matthew Lawrence of NOAA Florida Keys Marine Sanctuary on the HMS Looe, a British Royal Navy ship that wrecked in the Keys in the 18th century. 7 p.m. at the museum, 82990 Overseas Hwy. Please RSVP online in advance or call 305-664-9737.
|
| July 17,
in Key Largo |
Key Largo Library: Marc Renson Book Signing
Key Largo Library hosts Marc Renson at 2 p.m. for a meet-the-author event and book signing for his new book "How Will I Know?" that is set in the Keys. Books will be available for sale. The library is located in Tradewinds Plaza near Publix, mile marker 101.4 oceanside.
|
| July 18,
in Islamorada |
Morada Way Third Thursday Art Walk
The Morada Way Arts & Cultural District’s Third Thursday Art Walk in Islamorada is the organization’s landmark, monthly event. On the Third Thursday of each month, Keys-inspired fine artists, vendors, residents, and visitors congregate on Morada Way in Islamorada to celebrate the arts and culture in the Florida Keys. Enjoy a relaxing evening from 6-9 p.m. perusing local fine art, imbibing local craft beer and wine and listening to music, in the area between mile markers 81 and 82.
|
| July 19,
in Marathon |
Marathon Community Theater: Dramatic Wine Tasting
The theater invites you to take the Dramatic Wine Tasting challenge. Blind taste three varieties of Pinot Grigio -- high end, medium price and cheap, plus one bonus surprise pour. Find out if you can tell the difference and identify them correctly. 6 to 7 p.m. at the theater, located at 5101 Overseas Hwy. $15 per person at the door.
|
| July 20,
in Islamorada |
History of Diving Museum: Summer Guided Tours
In honor of Women's Dive Day, guided tours are offered at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on Saturday. Find out the interesting stories behind all of the exhibits. The tours are included with the price of admission. The museum is located at mile marker 82.9 bayside.
|
| July 20,
in Key West |
Hemingway Days: Running of the Bulls
A festival tradition, this wacky event is sponsored by Sloppy Joe’s Bar and features Hemingway Look-Alike Contest winners and entrants dressed in their Pamplona best — and a breed of “bull” found only in Key West. The fun starts on Greene Street outside Sloppy Joe’s at 1 p.m. Free for spectators.
|
| July 20,
in Key West |
Hemingway 5k Sunset Run & Paddleboard Race
The Hemingway 5k Sunset Run & Paddleboard Race is to challenge competitors Saturday, July 20. Registration opens at 3 pm. at Southernmost Beach Cafe, 1405 Duval Street. The paddleboard race starts at 5:30 p.m. from Higgs Beach, 1000 Atlantic Blvd; and the 5k Run/Walk starts at 7:30 p.m. at Southernmost Point. The awards party is from 8 to 10 p.m. at Southernmost Beach Cafe with food and beverage tastings, raffles and entertainment. The athletic challenges are part of Hemingway Days, a six-day commemoration of the life and work of the author who lived and wrote in Key West for most of the 1930s.
|
| July 20 to July 21,
in Key West |
Key West Lionfish Derby
The second annual Key West Lionfish Derby kicks off with a captain's meeting Friday evening at Finz Dive Center, 6003 Peninsular Ave., with the goal of removing as many invasive lionfish from Keys waters as possible. Fishing for lionfish is to take place Saturday and Sunday, with weigh-in each day from 3 to 5 p.m. The awards ceremony begins at 6 p.m. at The Docks, Stock Island, 6840 Front St. Prizes will be awarded for largest, smallest and most lionfish.
|
| July 21,
in Marathon |
Marathon Community Theater: Drag Queen Bingo "Red Carpet Glam"
This month's theme is Red Carpet Glam. You're welcome to join the theme festivities by coming in costume, but it's not required. Doors and concessions open at 4 p.m. with the event from 5 to 7 p.m. Age 18-plus only.
|
| July 21,
in Key West |
Ernest Hemingway Festival: Papa Birthday Bash
Celebrate the 125th anniversary of Ernest Hemingway’s July 21 birth at Sloppy Joe’s, 201 Duval St., beginning at 9 a.m. The Papa Birthday Bash is the last event of the annual Ernest Hemingway Festival. The fun begins at 9 a.m. with opportunities to take photos with the newly-named “Papa 2024,” presentation of checks to non-profit organizations supported by the annual Look-Alike contest, and a themed birthday cake at noon.
|
| July 23,
in Key West |
Key West Theater: Our House - The Music of Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young
An ensemble of family and friends of Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young assembles to perform classic hits such as “Déjà vu,” "Wooden Ships," "Helpless," "Carry On" and more. Doors open at 7 p.m.; show at 8 p.m. 512 Eaton St.
|
| July 24 to July 27,
in Key West |
Mini Music Fest
The inaugural Mini Music Fest, where Florida's Mini Lobster Season merges with the vibrant sounds of Nashville, is hosted by Brightwild and Rams Head Presents Key West. The event takes you from the thrill of your spiny lobster catch to the sounds of the stage and multiple events where you are up close with the artists. Featured performers include Wyatt Durrette, famous for penning Zac Brown hit songs "Chicken Fried," and "Colder Weather," along with Jerrod Nieman, Abby Anderson, Billy Dean, Rebecca Brunner, Nick Norman, Dave Kennedy and more. Activities for All-Access pass holders include a chef's table lobster dinner with songwriter pairings, a boat trip to the Stranded Songwriters Sandbar Party and other VIP-level events. Besides the All-Access pass, there are a limited number of tickets to a Saturday performance at Key West Theater.
|
| July 25 to August 08,
in Key Largo |
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Thursday Fish ID Class with REEF
Reef Environmental Education Foundation hosts a fish identification class in the John Pennekamp State Park Visitor Center and Aquarium on Thursdays at 11 a.m. During this weekly program, you'll learn how to identify common fish species of the Florida Keys and learn how to become involved in citizen science projects. The program is free with paid park admission.
|
| July 27,
in Key Largo |
John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park: Ranger Talk - The Last Mangrove Standing
Learn firsthand the importance of having mangroves on our shorelines in the auditorium at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. 1:30 p.m. Free with paid park admission. Mile marker 102.5 oceanside.
|
| July 27,
in Islamorada |
The Nest at Green Turtle Inn: Comedy Show
This month's comedy show at The Nest featuring nationally touring comedian Adam Lowery and Central Florida-favorite Absar Siddiqui, presented by Gold Coast Comedy. Showtimes are at 6 and 8:30 p.m. Seating starts one hour before showtime. Come early for drinks and dinner from The Nest's BBQ hut.
|
| July 28,
in Key West |
Sheriff’s Animal Farm Open House
Visit the family-friendly Monroe County Sheriff's Animal Farm, open the second and fourth Sundays of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. Visits are free of charge, but donations are always welcomed. Stock Island Detention Center, 5501 College Rd.
|
| July 30,
in Key Largo |
REEF: Wings Over Waves - Seabird Adaptations & Conservation
Join REEF and the Florida Keys Wild Bird Center for a presentation to learn all about seabirds and their interconnectivity within marine ecosystems. Topics to be covered include seabird adaptations, conservation and the connection between fish populations and seabirds. The event starts with a social from 6:15 to 7 p.m. featuring drinks and snacks, then an engaging presentation followed by a fun trivia game. REEF Campus, in the median at 98300 Overseas Hwy.
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| July 31,
in Key West |
Green Parrot Bar: 9th Annual Jerry Garcia Birthday Bash
The annual Jerry Garcia Birthday Bash to benefit Reef Relief is back on July 31st. Beginning at 5 p.m., attendees will no doubt party on late into the night to the tunes of The Happy Dog band. Pick up Grateful Dead merchandise and participate in raffles and a silent auction with prizes ranging from local Key West favorites to a dream vacation. 601 Whitehead St.
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