Posted on:
March
13th,
2020
Blog
The island of Key West packs a lot of punch in its relatively small surface area. To keep tabs on Duval Street nightlife, seasonal seafood, event guides, watersport adventures and more, bookmark the 24 North Hotel Blog.
Events & Festivals
Annual events like Hemingway Days, the Key Lime Festival, and Fantasy Fest turn the island into one big get-together, with street fairs, impromptu dance parties and parades. Don’t miss out! Check out our events and festivals guide to know what activities coincide with your stay in Key West.
The Key West Songwriters Festival
Posted on:
March
13th,
2020
|
Events & Festivals
The festival gives songwriters a chance to step out from behind the scenes and play songs they usually don’t get a chance to perform.
Unofficially, the Most Fun in Key West: Conch Republic Independence Celebration
Posted on:
March
9th,
2020
|
Events & Festivals
Locals never miss an opportunity to exhibit their “sovereign state of mind” – as you’ll see in the annual celebrations.
Sound the Horn! Enjoy the Key West Conch Blowing Contest
Posted on:
February
11th,
2020
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Events & Festivals
Conch blowing contests have a long history on the island, put on during the Old Island Days celebrations started in the 1960s.
Great Hotel Amenities for Marathon Runners
Posted on:
December
7th,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
The Florida Keys plays host to a handful of marathons, so the hospitality business is no stranger to runners.
Spending New Year's Eve in Key West? Here are Some Kid-Friendly Options
Posted on:
December
2nd,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
The Annual Dachshund Walk is among some family-friendly events available in Key West on New Year's Eve.
Christmas in Key West
Posted on:
November
1st,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
Here are some activities you can’t miss out on this 2019 holiday season.
Powerboat World Championships in Key West
Posted on:
October
22nd,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
The annual Powerboat Championships is a must-see, racing fanatic or not.
Celebrating 40 Years of Fantasy Fest
Posted on:
October
15th,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
Fantasy Fest has only grown since its early days, drawing an approximate 75,000 revelers to the island annually.
Ready, Set, Go! Southernmost Marathon in Key West
Posted on:
September
30th,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
Runners can expect endless views of the Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico while on Route 1, which connects the Florida Keys.
Best Events of Fantasy Fest
Posted on:
September
19th,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
The must-attend events for this year's Fantasy Fest: In Tune But Off Key
All Things Fantasy Fest
Posted on:
September
17th,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
Be two steps ahead of the rest by reading up on our Fantasy Fest overview.
Costume Tips for Fantasy Fest
Posted on:
September
13th,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
For who have attended Fantasy Fest before already know, the more the alcohol flows, the less clothes everybody seems to be wearing.
Labor Day Weekend Picks
Posted on:
August
26th,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
Labor Day weekend is upon us! Here’s a look at the best activities to look forward to during this long weekend in Key West.
Photo courtesy of Key West Brewfest.
Key West Brewfest 2019
Posted on:
August
12th,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
This Key West festival features tastings from craft breweries and international brands, brunch, lunch, and dinner parings, pool parties, games, and great live music.
Prep in Advance for Fantasy Fest
Posted on:
July
30th,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
Is it too early for you to start planning?
See What’s Cracking at the Key West Lobsterfest
Posted on:
July
16th,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
You’ll find the guest of honor everywhere this weekend – on the grill, in the fryer, in tacos, ceviches and rolls – prepared with care by the island’s local chefs.
The Dos and Don’ts of FL Keys Mini Lobster Season
Posted on:
July
8th,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
Recreational anglers have two days to catch rock lobsters before commercial fisherman.The mini lobster season falls on July 24-25 this year.
Join Us in Key West for the Annual Key Lime Festival
Posted on:
June
24th,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
There’s no better way to spend the 4th of July than joining the island of eccentrics for special events honoring our favorite citrus, Key lime.
Submerge Yourself in this Underwater Music Festival
Posted on:
April
25th,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
Florida has a reputation for being unconventional, and the Florida Keys even more so. It’s no surprise that the Lower Keys host an underwater music festival every year in the coral reef.
Top 5 Foodie Fests in Key West
Posted on:
January
22nd,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
Celebrate Key lime pie, local seafood and Cuban fare all year long in Key West. Check out our favorite annual food fests you can only find in the Conch Republic.
A Look at Upcoming Live Music in Key West this Spring
Posted on:
January
14th,
2019
|
Events & Festivals
Get in on the music! Shows played outdoors or in venues along Duval Street offer something for everyone.
Fantasy Fest Tips for First-Timers
Posted on:
September
10th,
2018
|
Events & Festivals
Avoid rookie mistakes and enjoy 10 days of pure fantasy.
Upcoming Summer & Fall Shows in Key West
Posted on:
August
9th,
2018
|
Events & Festivals
Here’s a look at concerts and shows coming to the Conch Republic later this year.
Try these FL Beers at Key West BrewFest
Posted on:
August
8th,
2018
|
Events & Festivals
Here are some lesser-known sunshine state brews set to pour during this year’s celebration of hops, malt and barley.
‘Tis the Season: Key West Lobsterfest
Posted on:
July
31st,
2018
|
Events & Festivals
Lobsterfest is a time to celebrate the opening of spiny lobster season in Key West and all its delicious variations.
Book in Advance for Fantasy Fest 2018!
Posted on:
July
2nd,
2018
|
Events & Festivals
Fantasy Fest regulars know that the island’s biggest annual event is just around the corner, and there’s no better time to book than now!
Celebrate 38th Annual Hemingway Days in Key West
Posted on:
May
30th,
2018
|
Events & Festivals
Arm wrestling, the Hemingway look-alike contest, running of the bulls, marlin tournament ... come celebrate Papa Hemingway's birthday in Key West.
Book Ahead for 2018 Key West Pride Week!
Posted on:
May
9th,
2018
|
Events & Festivals
Pride Week is just around the corner, and thousands are expected to come and to be part of the “One Human Family” that is the Key West community.
Silent Disco at 24 North Hotel
Posted on:
May
4th,
2018
|
Events & Festivals
Guests will be able to choose between 3 live DJs simply by switching channels on their headphones.
Upcoming Shows at the Key West Theater You Don’t Want to Miss
Posted on:
January
22nd,
2018
|
Events & Festivals
Check out the different acts set to perform in the Conch Republic early this year.
2018 Florida Keys Seafood Fest
Posted on:
January
11th,
2018
|
Events & Festivals
The Florida Keys Seafood Festival is a time to celebrate and sample the fresh seafood harvest, supplied by the local fishermen and women of The Keys.
Key West Nature Attractions
Posted on:
December
13th,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
Check out the nature exhibits in Key West.
New Year’s Eve in Key West
Posted on:
November
13th,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
Ringing in the New Year with us? Here are some New Year’s Eve Key West traditions to check out.
Parrot Heads Unite: Meeting of the Minds 2017
Posted on:
October
18th,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
Here we’ve rounded up the events you can’t miss during Meeting of the Minds 2017
Get to Fantasy Fest Early for Goombay
Posted on:
October
16th,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
Goombay is a family-friendly street party that celebrates the rich music, food, dance and cultures of the area’s Caribbean heritage.
Tips for Offshore Powerboat Races in Key West
Posted on:
October
11th,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
Here we’ve compiled a list of things to know if you’re in Key West for the week of the offshore powerboat races.
5 Tips for Surviving Fantasy Fest
Posted on:
October
10th,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
Fantasy Fest is just about upon us, but it’s hard to be totally prepared for the island’s party of the year.
Upcoming Events in Key West
Posted on:
August
23rd,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
Because of year-round sunny skies and temperate weather, Key West has no need to wrap up the summer nor hibernate.
5 Things to Pack for Fantasy Fest
Posted on:
August
18th,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
And once again, Fantasy Fest nears. Burlesque shows, dog costume contests, drag shows, tutu Tuesday, bodypaint, the smallest parade in the universe…
Donavon Frankenreiter Comes to Key West Theater
Posted on:
August
10th,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
Singer-songwriter Donavon Frankenreiter will be at the Key West Theater on Sept. 3, playing songs from his most recent album, “The Heart.”
Brewfest Bud Light Beer Pong Party Tour
Posted on:
August
3rd,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
Key West BrewFest is a fitting way to celebrate the end of summer over Labor Day weekend.
Photo courtesy of Mel Fisher.
Mel Fisher Days in Key West
Posted on:
July
11th,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
We’re fascinated by local treasure-hunter Mel Fisher and his 16-year long search for the sunken Spanish galleon, Nuestra Señora de Atocha.
24 North Picks: Hemingway Days in Key West
Posted on:
July
11th,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
One of our favorite festivals is just around the corner. Starting July 18 and running through July 23, it’s Hemingway Days, Key West annual celebration of all things Papa Hemingway.
Photo courtesy of the Key Lime Festival
5 Reasons to Go to the Key Lime Festival this July 4th Weekend
Posted on:
June
30th,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
There’s no fruit we love more than the key lime. From our national dessert, the key lime pie, to key limeade, key lime cocktails and even key lime rum, we take every chance we can get to use this little fruit.
24 North Picks: Key West Pride
Posted on:
May
16th,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
If there’s ever a place to spend Pride, Key West is it. Key West is open, inviting and always a good time. And that’s on a normal day.
The Cow Key Channel Bridge Run 2017
Posted on:
March
15th,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
Only in Key West can you run a Zero K race. And that race is the Cow Key Channel Bridge Run.
Tennessee Williams' 106th Birthday Celebration
Posted on:
February
22nd,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
In Key West, we love any excuse for a party. And when it’s honoring one of our own, even better. That’s why Tennessee William’s March birthday is a national [Conch Republic] holiday. We drink wine and eat cake. But it’s not just on March 26 that us Conchs honor the famous American playwright - it’s all month. After all, Tennessee Williams called Key West home for over forty years. It’s only right we honor him. Starting February 28, 2017, the Tennessee Williams festivities begin. But here are some we’re especially looking forward to
Key West Food & Wine Festival 2017
Posted on:
January
12th,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
Every January, Key West stuffs itself with some of the best cuisine that south Florida has to offer during the Key West Food & Wine Festival. From tastings and seminars to tours, the festival boasts everything your heart – and stomach – can desire. And this year, we here at 24 North aren’t just participating, we’re hosting, too.
Key West Cuba Race Week - The Conch Republic Cup
Posted on:
January
2nd,
2017
|
Events & Festivals
January 22 - February 3, 2017.
Key West may be 90 miles to Cuba, but that doesn’t mean it’s always been easy for Americans to get there. Leave it to a few dedicated Conch skippers to make that happen. As is now tradition, every January Conchs race from Key West to Varadero, Cuba, then to Havana, and back to Key West.
Key West Race Week 2017
Posted on:
December
23rd,
2016
|
Events & Festivals
Marked by yachts and crews from all over the world, Key West Race Week brings one of the most important international regattas to the waters off the Conch Republic. With a wide array of sailboats, ranging from the popular J/70s to the C&C 30s, Key West Race Week appeals to not only the serious competitor, but also the weekend enthusiast.
Key West Half-Marathon & 5K
Posted on:
December
19th,
2016
|
Events & Festivals
For those of you looking to kick your New Year’s resolutions into full gear, the annual Key West Half-Marathon is just around the corner. Continually ranked as one of the best destination half-marathons in the United States, the Key West Half-Marathon is always a good time - and if you’re a regular runner, it’s a breeze.
New Year’s Eve in Key West
Posted on:
December
8th,
2016
|
Events & Festivals
Although Key West only covers 7 square miles, it seems like every inch of Old Town is covered in New Year's Eve festivities. From drag queens to parrotheads, there's a party for just about everybody, as the island's myriad of NYE celebrations cater to a wide range of personalities, much like Key West itself. No matter which you choose, you can count on a good time. That said, here are some of the most popular events year after year.
Fantasy Fest 2016 – Bahama Village Goombay
Posted on:
September
22nd,
2016
|
Events & Festivals
Fantasy Fest isn’t all body paint and crazy costumes, it also channels that island vibe we love so much about Key West. Kicking off the Conch Republic’s most infamous festival,Bahama Village Goombay gets the party started with a true Caribbean celebration, just like in the Bahamas. Held on the first Friday and Saturday of Fantasy Fest , this is one tropical dance party you don’t want to miss.
Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau
Fantasy Fest 2016 – Political Voodoo & Ballot-Box Barbarians
Posted on:
September
11th,
2016
|
Events & Festivals
Fall in Key West means one thing for us - Fantasy Fest - the wildest party on the island and quite possibly the country. Fantasy Fest is 10 days of outrageous costumes, intoxicating debauchery, and parties galore. Started over 30 years ago as a way to encourage tourism during Key West’s low season, Fantasy Fest has now turned October into high season in Key West. That said, book your room as soon as possible – they always go fast.
Phil Peterson's Poker Run 2016
Posted on:
September
1st,
2016
|
Events & Festivals
September 15-18, 2016
Pull your bike out of the garage and hammer down to Key West for the 44th annual Phil Peterson’s Poker Run. Win or lose, the Key West Poker Run is a prime excuse to dust off the bike and ride down one of the most scenic routes in all of America. It’s also an even better excuse for a party. After all, proceeds from the Key West Poker Run go to the Diabetes Research Institute and the Sunrise Rotary Club.
Key West Events – Mini-Lobster Season 2016
Posted on:
July
26th,
2016
|
Events & Festivals
At 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, July 27, 2016, you can catch your very own lobster in the Florida Keys. But come 12:01 a.m. Friday, July 29, 2016, and the harvesting of lobster is once again prohibited. This “mini” lobster season is just that – mini - hence the name, “Mini-Lobster Season.”
Key West Events – Hemingway Days 2016
Posted on:
July
18th,
2016
|
Events & Festivals
Key West and Ernest Hemingway go way back. In the 1930s, Hemingway didn’t just have a house in Key West, he called Key West home. Whether he was officiating boxing matches at Blue Heaven or drinking with Joe Russell at Sloppy Joe’s, Hemingway had a strong presence on the island. And Conch Republicans like to keep that presence alive each July with a week-long party.
24 Things To Do in Key West – 4 Must-See Attractions in Key West
Posted on:
June
22nd,
2016
|
Events & Festivals
Whether you’re visiting Key West to cut loose or to adventure, there are some things you just can’t miss during your stay in the Conch Republic. Here are 24 North’s picks for the must-see attractions in Key West.
Key West Pride 2016
Posted on:
June
8th,
2016
|
Events & Festivals
From parties and pageants to relays and races, Key West Pride is one of the most vibrant parties on the island, and we at 24 North are proud to be celebrating in our beloved Conch Republic.
The Songwriter's Festival – A Key West Classic
Posted on:
April
26th,
2016
|
Events & Festivals
It wouldn’t be May in Key West without the annual Songwriter’s Festival. This iconic festival honors the artists who write the hits for big billboard acts, but don’t perform them. Songwriter’s is an opportunity for these artists to perform their songs and tell the stories behind them. Headlining this year’s 21st annual festival are Jake Owen, Robert Earl Keen, Rhett Akins and Natalie Hemby.