Events & Festivals

A '12 Days of Christmas' Guide to Key West

Posted on: November 30th, 2023 | Events & Festivals

In a holiday state of mind? Here are 12 days of Key West Christmas events and activities you can’t miss out on.

All Things Fantasy Fest Key West 2023

Posted on: October 5th, 2023 | Events & Festivals

Be two steps ahead of the rest by reading up on our Fantasy Fest 2023 overview.

16 Best Events of Fantasy Fest 2023

Posted on: September 15th, 2023 | Events & Festivals

Check out the Fantasy Fest schedule to see all there is to enjoy this year and read on for the top events of 2023.

See What’s Cracking at the Key West Lobsterfest

Posted on: August 5th, 2023 | Events & Festivals

Thrown in honor of the Florida spiny lobster, this festival is easily the island’s tastiest long weekend.

The Dos and Don'ts of Florida Keys Mini Lobster Season 2023

Posted on: July 15th, 2023 | Events & Festivals

The two-day frenzy draws out-of-towners looking to get in on the action. This year, Florida Keys Mini Lobster Season 2023 will be held July 26 - 27.

Everything You Need to Know About the Key West Songwriters Festival

Posted on: April 21st, 2023 | Events & Festivals

Here’s everything you need to know about the iconic music festival, including dates, ticketing info, and the most anticipated events of 2023.

St. Patrick's Day in Key West Guide

Posted on: February 28th, 2023 | Events & Festivals

Channel the spirit of the Irish with green beer, Irish whiskey, Celtic music, bar crawls, parties, and more of the best St. Patrick's Day festivities.

Plan the Perfect Valentine's Day in Key West

Posted on: January 30th, 2023 | Events & Festivals

The island offers a bevy of options for Valentine’s Day, whether you want an old school heart-fluttering activity or you want to shake things up a bit.

New Year’s Eve 2022 in Key West

Posted on: December 21st, 2022 | Events & Festivals

Bid adieu to 2022 with our top picks for ringing in the New Year.

Things to Do in Key West on Thanksgiving Weekend 2022

Posted on: November 15th, 2022 | Events & Festivals

From Thanksgiving feasts to outdoor activities, cruises, live entertainment, and more, scroll through our round-up of seasonal activities.

Jimmy Buffett's Parrot Heads Unite: Meeting of the Minds 2022

Posted on: October 28th, 2022 | Events & Festivals

Here we’ve rounded up the events you diehard Jimmy Buffett fans can’t miss during the 30th annual Meeting of the Minds.

Where to Party in Key West on Halloween 2022

Posted on: October 18th, 2022 | Events & Festivals

Ready for some ‘spirited’ fun? Here’s where to party in Key West on (and around) Halloween for those 21+

A Quick Guide to your Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur High Holidays in Key West

Posted on: August 30th, 2022 | Events & Festivals

Here’s a quick guide to places around the island that are offering services and/or kosher meals for the High Holidays.

Key West Labor Day Weekend 2022 Picks

Posted on: August 15th, 2022 | Events & Festivals

Give summer a proper send off, bask in the fruits of your labor, and enjoy the best entertainment the island has to offer.

A Guide to Key West BrewFest 2022

Posted on: July 30th, 2022 | Events & Festivals

Here's everything you need to know about the beer-lover's paradise (in paradise).

Everything You Need to Know About the Key West Annual Key Lime Festival 2022

Posted on: June 27th, 2022 | Events & Festivals

The annual fest returns June 30 - July 4 with a packed schedule of activities like pie drops, scavenger hunts, key lime cooking demos, and more honoring our favorite citrus, the venerable key lime.

4th of July Events in Key West 2022

Posted on: June 15th, 2022 | Events & Festivals

With the holiday landing on a Monday this year, it’s the perfect excuse to spend the whole weekend enjoying everything the island has to offer.

Key West Pride 2022: Pride Info With Parade Route and Events

Posted on: May 15th, 2022 | 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.

Things to Do for Easter in Key West 2022

Posted on: April 6th, 2022 | Events & Festivals

Easter is coming up on April 17, so hop to it. Here are things to do for Easter that will get you packing.

Unofficially, the Most Fun in Key West: 40th Annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration

Posted on: March 30th, 2022 | Events & Festivals

...Where locals never miss an opportunity to exhibit their “sovereign state of mind."

Powerboat World Championships in Key West 2021

Posted on: October 20th, 2021 | Events & Festivals

The week-long powerboating series features races, shows, and parties, culminating in the grand-daddy of the super boat season: the world championships.

5 Things We Can’t Wait to Do During Hemingway Days 2021

Posted on: July 15th, 2021 | Events & Festivals

Hemingway Days is an unforgettable experience - and one that’s very Key West. Here are five things to do during the popular festival.

5 Reasons to Go to the Key Lime Festival this 4th of July Weekend

Posted on: June 28th, 2021 | Events & Festivals

There’s no fruit Key West loves more than the key lime. So when it comes to the Key Lime Festival, you can be sure we’re in attendance.

Treat Mom this Mother's Day in Key West

Posted on: April 30th, 2021 | Events & Festivals

Show the Mom in your life how much she means to you with our Mother’s Day guide.

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.

Sound the Horn! Enjoy the Key West Conch Blowing Contest

Posted on: February 11th, 2020 | 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.

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.

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.

Prep in Advance for Fantasy Fest

Posted on: July 30th, 2019 | Events & Festivals

Is it too early for you to start planning?

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.

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.

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.

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.

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Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau