Key West 2017: A Year of Festivities and Thriving Experiences
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Key West 2017: A Year of Festivities and Thriving Experiences
Key West, Florida, a vibrant island city known for its laid-back atmosphere, stunning sunsets, and unique cultural tapestry, boasts a calendar of events that consistently attracts visitors from around the globe. The year 2017 was no exception, offering a diverse array of festivals, celebrations, and cultural experiences that enriched the island’s charm and allure.
January:
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Key West Fantasy Fest: This annual, ten-day celebration of fantasy, creativity, and fun, kicks off the year with a vibrant burst of color and imagination. Parades, costume contests, parties, and artistic displays transform the island into a surreal wonderland, culminating in the iconic "Fantasy Fest Parade," a dazzling spectacle of elaborate floats and costumed participants.
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Hemingway Days: A tribute to the literary giant Ernest Hemingway, this event celebrates his life and works through readings, lectures, a look-alike contest, a marlin fishing tournament, and a lively "Papa’s Picnic" at the Hemingway House Museum, the author’s former residence.
February:
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Key West Songwriters Festival: This acclaimed festival brings together renowned and emerging songwriters for a week of intimate performances, workshops, and collaborative sessions. Music lovers can immerse themselves in the art of songwriting, experiencing diverse genres and gaining insights into the creative process.
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Key West Lighthouse Celebration: Celebrating the island’s iconic landmark, the Key West Lighthouse, this event features tours, educational programs, and special events showcasing the lighthouse’s rich history and its vital role in maritime navigation.
March:
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Key West Art & Craft Fair: This annual event showcases the talents of local and regional artists and craftspeople. Visitors can browse a diverse range of art forms, from paintings and sculptures to jewelry and ceramics, and interact directly with the creators.
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Key West Seafood Festival: A celebration of the island’s bounty, the Key West Seafood Festival offers a culinary adventure featuring fresh seafood dishes, cooking demonstrations, and live entertainment. Visitors can sample the flavors of the sea while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the waterfront.
April:
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Key West Marathon & Half Marathon: This annual running event attracts athletes from around the world, offering a challenging and scenic course through the island’s picturesque streets and waterfront. The event features both a marathon and half-marathon, providing a range of options for runners of all levels.
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Key West Flower Festival: A celebration of the island’s lush tropical flora, the Key West Flower Festival features vibrant displays of flowers, gardening workshops, and special events. Visitors can immerse themselves in the beauty of the island’s natural landscape and learn about the art of horticulture.
May:
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Key West Pride: A celebration of diversity and inclusion, Key West Pride brings together the LGBTQ+ community and allies for a week of parades, parties, and cultural events. The festival promotes acceptance, equality, and the spirit of community, making Key West a welcoming destination for all.
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Key West Food & Wine Festival: This annual culinary extravaganza features a series of events showcasing the island’s diverse culinary scene. Visitors can indulge in gourmet tastings, cooking demonstrations, and wine pairings, experiencing the flavors of Key West through a unique lens.
June:
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Key West Sunset Celebration: A nightly tradition in Key West, the Sunset Celebration takes on a special significance in June. The event features live music, street performers, and a vibrant atmosphere as the sun dips below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the island.
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Key West Marlin Tournament: A renowned fishing event, the Key West Marlin Tournament attracts anglers from around the globe, competing for the coveted title of "Biggest Marlin." The tournament is a testament to the island’s rich maritime history and its connection to the sea.
July:
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Key West Independence Day Celebration: Key West celebrates Independence Day with a grand fireworks display, live music, and a festive atmosphere. The event brings the community together to commemorate the nation’s birthday with patriotic pride.
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Key West Tropical Fruit Festival: A celebration of the island’s tropical fruit bounty, the Key West Tropical Fruit Festival features fruit tastings, cooking demonstrations, and educational programs. Visitors can learn about the diverse range of fruits grown in Key West and enjoy their unique flavors.
August:
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Key West Pirate Fest: A celebration of the island’s pirate heritage, Key West Pirate Fest features costumed characters, live music, and a festive atmosphere. Visitors can immerse themselves in the world of pirates, enjoying the island’s rich history and its connection to the seafaring world.
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Key West Jazz Fest: A celebration of jazz music, the Key West Jazz Fest features performances by renowned and emerging jazz musicians. Visitors can enjoy the soulful sounds of jazz in the heart of the island, experiencing the genre’s vibrant energy and improvisational spirit.
September:
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Key West Labor Day Celebration: A festive celebration of Labor Day, Key West hosts a variety of events, including live music, street performers, and special offers at local businesses. The event provides a relaxed and enjoyable way to mark the end of summer.
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Key West Conch Republic Independence Celebration: A humorous celebration of the island’s secession from the United States in 1982, the Conch Republic Independence Celebration features parades, parties, and a playful spirit. Visitors can join in the festivities and enjoy the island’s quirky sense of humor.
October:
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Key West Wine & Food Festival: This annual culinary extravaganza features a series of events showcasing the island’s diverse culinary scene. Visitors can indulge in gourmet tastings, cooking demonstrations, and wine pairings, experiencing the flavors of Key West through a unique lens.
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Key West Halloween Fest: A festive celebration of Halloween, Key West Halloween Fest features costume contests, parades, and spooky events. Visitors can enjoy the island’s unique and often outrageous take on the holiday, experiencing the spirit of Halloween in a vibrant and unforgettable way.
November:
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Key West Thanksgiving Celebration: Key West celebrates Thanksgiving with a traditional feast, parades, and a festive atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the island’s unique blend of Southern hospitality and Caribbean flair, experiencing Thanksgiving in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.
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Key West Veterans Day Celebration: A tribute to the men and women who have served in the United States armed forces, Key West Veterans Day Celebration features parades, ceremonies, and special events. The event honors the sacrifices made by veterans and their families, showcasing the island’s deep respect for military service.
December:
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Key West Christmas Celebration: Key West celebrates Christmas with a festive atmosphere, decorated streets, and a variety of special events. Visitors can enjoy the island’s unique blend of Southern charm and Caribbean flair, experiencing Christmas in a relaxed and enjoyable setting.
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Key West New Year’s Eve Celebration: Key West rings in the New Year with a grand celebration featuring live music, fireworks, and a festive atmosphere. Visitors can enjoy the island’s unique blend of Southern hospitality and Caribbean flair, experiencing New Year’s Eve in a vibrant and unforgettable way.
Importance and Benefits of Key West’s Calendar of Events:
Key West’s vibrant calendar of events plays a crucial role in the island’s economy and cultural landscape. These events attract visitors from around the globe, boosting tourism revenue and supporting local businesses. They also provide opportunities for residents and visitors to come together, celebrating the island’s unique culture, history, and traditions.
Furthermore, the events create a sense of community and pride, showcasing the island’s vibrant spirit and its ability to host world-class events. They offer opportunities for cultural exchange, promoting understanding and appreciation for diverse perspectives.
FAQs:
- Q: When is the best time to visit Key West based on the calendar of events?
A: The best time to visit Key West depends on your interests. If you enjoy music festivals, February and August offer the Key West Songwriters Festival and Key West Jazz Fest, respectively. For those seeking a vibrant cultural experience, Fantasy Fest in January and Key West Pride in May are highly recommended.
- Q: Are there any events specifically for families?
A: Key West offers family-friendly events throughout the year. The Hemingway Days in January, the Key West Flower Festival in April, and the Key West Pirate Fest in August are particularly popular with families.
- Q: How do I plan my trip around the calendar of events?
A: It is advisable to check the official Key West calendar of events online or through local tourism bureaus. Booking accommodations and securing tickets for events in advance is recommended, especially during peak season.
Tips:
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Book Accommodations Early: Key West is a popular destination, especially during peak season. It is recommended to book accommodations well in advance, particularly if you plan to attend specific events.
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Check Event Schedules: The Key West calendar of events is subject to change. It is advisable to check the official event websites or contact local tourism bureaus for updated information.
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Take Advantage of Free Events: Many events in Key West are free and open to the public. Take advantage of these opportunities to experience the island’s culture and atmosphere.
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Explore the Island: Key West offers a variety of attractions beyond the calendar of events. Take time to explore the island’s historic streets, vibrant waterfront, and unique shops and restaurants.
Conclusion:
Key West’s 2017 calendar of events reflected the island’s vibrant spirit and its commitment to offering a diverse range of experiences for visitors. From the whimsical Fantasy Fest to the soulful Key West Jazz Fest, the events showcased the island’s unique culture, history, and traditions, attracting visitors from around the globe. The events not only contributed to the island’s economic prosperity but also fostered a sense of community and pride, making Key West a truly unforgettable destination.
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