HAPPENINGS
JANUARY:
January 16 to April 16
Sculpture Key West
This stunning art exhibit showcases the work of leading contemporary sculptors at West Martello Tower, Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden. Visit Web site for more information.
Contact: 305-295-2800
Email: info@sculpturekeywest.com
January 17
Tropical Forest Topics Professional Speaker Series
Michael Ferraro, International Tropical Plant Curator is to discuss the "Endemic Flora of Cuba and Application to Cultivation in Key West," based upon his recent travels to Cuba. Come early at 1 p.m. and enjoy a private docent tour of the Garden, complimentary snacks, cash bar as well as a Cuban plant raffle and door prizes. Cost $10, 1 p.m., 2 p.m. and 3:30 p.m.
Contact: 305-296-1504
Email: KWBGS@kwbgs.org
January 18 to January 22
Premier Racing presents: Key West Race Week 2010
Nearly 300 racing yachts compete for class championships in this international midwinter sailboat regatta.
Contact: 781-639-9545
January 22 to January 24
Key West Harbour King Mackerel Tournament
Anglers use fast boats to target the voracious king mackerel, also known as kingfish, for cash prizes.
Contact: Lee Murray 305-296-0364
Email: lee@murraymarine.com
January 23
Anne McKee Artists Fund Auction
Nearly 100 artists are to exhibit and auction their work to raise money for the fund that provides project-based grants to Keys artists. Artwork includes original paintings, sculpture, photography, fiber art, ceramics and more. East Martello Museum, 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd.
Email: info@annemckeeartistsfund.org
January 24
Tropical Forest Topics Professional Speaker Series
Keith Bradley, Institute for Regional Conservation, is set to share the "History of Flora of Key West." Cost $10, starts 2 p.m.
Contact: 305-296-1504
Email: KWBGS@kwbgs.org
January 24
Key West Pops Orchestra presents: My Fair Lady
The great Irish playwright George Bernard Shaw's play Pygmalion is the inspiration for this musical in concert this season, My Fair Lady. Stars Key West talent Mike Mulligan. Showtime 7:30 p.m., at Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Road. Tickets $30, $50, $75, starting Nov. 2. Visit keywestpops.org for more information.
Contact: 305-296-6059
January 26 to February 06
Waterfront Playhouse presents: No Child
When a teacher of a rowdy 10th grade class decides to put on a play, the students rebel. But the power of performing eventually wins them over. No Child is an insightful and hilarious exploration of our public school system. Showtime 8 p.m.
Contact: 305-294-5015
January 28 to January 31
Key West Food & Wine Festival
Top chefs and restaurateurs showcase their culinary creativity and the Keys’ indigenous cuisine in a tasty schedule of events for food lovers. Attendees also can participate in food-related adventures during the savory celebration.
Contact: 305-292-1622
January 30 to January 31
25th Annual Key West Craft Show
Juried artisans and crafters display their talents at a popular show on lower Whitehead and Caroline Streets in historic Old Town.
Contact: 305-294-1241
Email: kwartctr@earthlink.net
January 31
12th Annual Key West Half Marathon Run
The 12th annual Key Wes Half Marathon takes place on a flat, fast 13.1-mile half-marathon course through Key West’s Old Town and scenic waterfront area. Entry fee $45, $50 day of race. Call (305) 296-7182.
Contact: Barbara Wright
Email: bwpromo3@bellsouth.net
January 31
Key West Master Chef Classic
Local restaurants vie for top honors in three categories; appetizers, entrees and desserts. Participants get to taste all the food made at this event while judges pick the winners. Location to be at Westin Hotel in Key West. Tickets available Jan. 8. Benefits MARC House programs.
Contact: 305-294-9526, ext 25
January 31
Tropical Forest Topics Professional Speaker Series
John Ogden, of the Florida Audubon Society, is set to discuss the "Song Birds and the Tropics." Cost $10, starts at 2 p.m.
Contact: 305-296-1504
Email: KWBGS@kwbgs.org
FEBRUARY:
February 07
Tropical Forest Topics Professional Speaker Series
Dr. Stuart Pimm, Director of Conservation, is set to discuss "A Hot Spot in the Tropics." Cost $10, starts 2 p.m.
Contact: 305-296-1504
Email: KWBGS@kwbgs.org
February 07 to February 15
Kelly McGillis Classic Flag Football Championship
Women and girls from around the United States and the world are to gather in Key West for hard-fought sporting action during the Kelly McGillis Classic International Women’s & Girls’ Flag Football Championship. Four days of competition with eight days of social events and parties.
Contact: 888-464-9332
Email: iwffa@iwffa.com
February 12 to February 13
50th Annual Key West House & Garden Tour
Tour a series of elegant and unique homes of Key West. Proceeds help benefit the Old Island Restoration Foundation. Presented by the Old Island Restoration Foundation, this house and garden tour offers a rare opportunity to see inside some of Key West's magnificent, charming and tropical residences.
Contact: 305-294-9501
February 12
Royal Bal Masque
It's a Mardi Gras Key West event! To be held at the Gardens Hotel, 526 Angela St., at 7:30 p.m. tickets are $100, suggested formal attire, masks and costumes encouraged. Enjoy a gourmet Cajun dinner, live New Orleans jazz music and dancing.
Contact: 305-295-7676 or 305-296-6196
February 19 to February 21
Gardenfest Key West
South Florida's top nurseries will show bromeliads, orchids, fruit trees, palms, tropical flowers and natives for the Botanical Gardens' annual plant sale! Attend landscaping workshops, learn how to build your own native garden, browse through garden supplies booths, and arts and crafts. Docent tours will be offered. Plant sale is free and open to the public. Gates open 9 a.m.
Contact: 305-296-1504
Email: KWBGS@kwbgs.org
February 20 to February 21
Key West Travel Writing Workshop
Robert Haru Fisher, acclaimed writer, Frommer's contributing editor, former president of the Society of American Travel Writers and editor-in-chief at Fodor's, is to teach his popular Key West Travel Writing Workshop at Heritage House Museum, 410 Caroline St., home of the cottage where poet Robert Frost spent 16 winters. Call for remaining available spaces.
Contact: 305-296-3573
Email: bobharu@aol.com
February 25
Friends of the Key West Library Bi-annual Fund Raiser
A catered affair with entertainment, to be held at the Studios of Key West, from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m., cost $100 per person. Call for details.
Contact: Brewster Chamberlin 305-293-0713
Email: smithchamberlin@aol.com
February 25 to March 20
Waterfront Playhouse presents: The Full Monty
Six unemployed steelworkers are low on cash, prospects and self-esteem. What's a guy to do? After seeing their wives' enthusiastic reactions to a Chippendale's performance, the guys take matters into their own hands and create an act of their own. The results are hilarious, heart-warming and revealing. Showtime 8 p.m.
Contact: 305-294-5015
February 26 to February 28
Civil War Days Heritage Festival
Colorful Civil War re-enactments and tours of Key West's historic Civil War–era Fort Zachary Taylor highlight the journey into the island’s past.
Contact: 305-292-6850
February 27 to February 28
Old Island Days Art Festival
The 45th annual juried fine art show is set on lower Whitehead Street in historic Old Town. The highly acclaimed show features oil paintings, watercolors, sculpture, photography and other offerings by artists from around the United States.
Contact: 305-294-1241
Exact date to be announced - February
Mrs. Truman's 125th Birthday Celebration
This commemoration of the birthday of former first lady Bess Truman includes a speakers’ forum to introduce presidential grandchildren. It also spotlights the Little White House where former president Harry Truman spent nearly six months of his presidency.
Contact: 305-294-9911
MARCH:
March 01 to April 30
Migration Mania at Key West Botanical Gardens
Join us for a months-long celebration of the wonders of migration. Presentations for the entire family will feature live animal shows, seminars, birding tours, and much more. Private docent tours available by appointment. Check Web site for details.
Contact: 305-296-1504
Email: KWBGS@kwbgs.org
March 06
Key West Pops presents: Pianomen
Six world-class pianists yearning to share their souls through their playing make for an evening of true musical adventure. Showtime 7:30 p.m., Tennessee Williams Theatre, 5901 College Road. Tickets $20, $40 and $60. Tickets available starting Nov. 2.
Contact: 305-296-6059
March 06
48th Annual Conch Shell Blowing Contest
An Old Island Days tradition, this unique contest features novel sounds produced by contestants in several age categories as they attempt to make “music” on fluted conch shells. Contest located in the garden of the Oldest House, 322 Duval Street.
Contact: 305-294-9501
March 07 to March 13
Cuban Cultural Exposition & Hot Havana Nights
Celebrate Cuba Week finishes with the hottest event of the year, March 13. This annual event has returned to the Garden with the sounds of Havana Soul; enjoy mojitos, authentic Cuban food, original Cuban art, live auction and more. This HOT benefit always sells out so make your reservations early! VIP Seating: $125, General Admission $100. Starts 7 p.m.
Contact: 305-296-1504
Email: KWBGS@kwbgs.org
March 12 to March 13
50th Annual Key West House & Garden Tours
Tour five elegant and unique homes of Key West. Proceeds help benefit the Old Island Restoration Foundation. Presented by the Old Island Restoration Foundation, this house and garden tour offers a rare opportunity to see inside some of Key West's magnificent, charming and tropical residences.
Contact: 305-294-9501
March 12 to March 14
Key West Fishing Tournament Kick-Off
Targeting multiple species, this annual challenge starts a season-long tournament that awards certificates for outstanding catches and prizes in a host of categories.
Contact: Doris Harris 305-295-6601
Email: director@keywestfishingtournament.com
March 13 to November 30
Key West Fishing Tournament, Inc
This popular 8.5-month-long competition targets more than 40 species of fish.
Contact: Doris Harris 305-295-6601 or 800-970-9056
Email: director@keywestfishingtournament.com
March 30 to April 10
Waterfront Playhouse presents: Bitchslap!
Back by popular demand, the trio brilliantly portray the legendary feud where these ultimate screen goddesses battle over roles, top billing, Oscars and MEN. Funny, bitchy and touching. Showtime 8 p.m.
Contact: 305-294-5015
APRIL:
April 10 to April 11
Naval Air Station Air Show
U.S. Navy Flight Demonstration team is to host the Blue Angels, as well as aerial demonstrations by military and civilian performers, and static military and vintage aircraft. Free admission to Naval Air Station; event schedule to be announced, visit Web site for details to follow.
Contact: (305) 293-2425
Email: james.e.brooks@navy.mil
April 13 to April 17
World Sailfish Championship
With a guaranteed top prize of $100,000, the prestigious sailfish challenge draws top teams and benefits the Don Shula Foundation for Breast Cancer Research, Camp Boggy Creek for youngsters with chronic and life-threatening illnesses, and other national and local charities.
Contact: Mike Weinhofer (305) 395-3474, (727) 631-0072
Email: lemmole@worldsailfish.com
April 16 to April 25
28th Conch Republic Independence Celebration
Parades, bed races, parties and a wacky “drag race” commemorate the founding of the Conch Republic on April 23, 1982, in response to a U.S. Border Patrol roadblock that halted traffic in and out of the Florida Keys.
Contact: (305) 294-2298
April 19
15th Annual Taste of Key West
Scores of area restaurants present mouthwatering samples of their cuisine to benefit AIDS Help Inc. The culinary celebration takes place at the Truman Waterfront overlooking Key West Harbor.
Contact: (305) 296-6196
April 21 to April 22
Key West Symphony Master Concert No.1
The final concert of the symphony’s twelfth season will feature pianist Christopher Taylor who is back by popular demand to perform the beautiful Prokofiev’s Concerto No 2 for Piano and Orchestra. The symphony will also play the haunting music of Vaughan Williams’ Fantasia on a Theme of Thomas Tallis and the jubilant Beethoven Symphony No 5.
Contact: 305-295-7676
April 23
Waterfront Playhouse presents: Terri White in Concert
One night only! An unforgettable evening concert with Broadway's dynamite star. Showtime 8:30 p.m., show sponsored by the Key West Piano Bar.
Contact: 305-294-5015
April 28 to May 02
Key West Songwriters’ Festival
The 15th-annual showcase of musical magic features America’s foremost performing songwriters, with concerts staged in intimate, audience-friendly island settings.
Contact: (305) 304-0814
MAY:
May 06 to May 29
Waterfront Playhouse presents: Stepping Out
A group of would-be-hoofers join a tap class in the hope of conquering their inhibitions and awkwardness. When the class is asked to be part of an upcoming dance recital, their ex-chorine teacher tries to whip the motley but lovable crew into shape. The class eventually overcomes fears, conflicts and left feet to triumph. A hit on Broadway, this touching play will get your toes tapping. Showtime 8:30 p.m.
Contact: 305-294-5015
May 21 to May 22
Harry S. Truman Legacy Symposium
“Truman's Far East Legacy: Japan, Korea, Vietnam and the Two Chinas.” Key West’s political history is highlighted in panel discussions, a reception and tours of the Little White House where Truman spent many working vacations during his presidency.
Contact: (305) 294-9911
May 29 to June 06
Pridefest Key West 2010: Diversity In Paradise
Event honoring diversity, openness and freedom in the city that is consistently recognized as one of the world's top gay and lesbian vacation destinations.
Contact: (305) 292-3223
May 29
Yamaha Dolphin Masters Invitational
Experienced offshore captains are to lead the chase for the colorful and acrobatic dolphin fish and a $15,000 first prize.
Contact: John Stuempfig (305) 304-7674
Email: wave.whacker@hotmail.com
JUNE:
Key West / June 12
The Original FKCC Swim Around Key West
Sponsored by the Bone Island Masters Club, this USMS-sanctioned event is a 12.5 mile swim clockwise around the island of Key West. Age groups 18 through 65 and older can register. Visit Web site for details.
Contact: Lori Bosco (305) 809-3562
Email: aqualb@aol.com
Key West / June 25 to June 27
Key West Gator Club Dolphin Derby
Anglers compete to catch dolphin fish, a plentiful summertime treat off the Keys. The derby raises money for college scholarships.
Contact: John Stuempfig (305) 304-7674
Email: wave.whacker@hotmail.com
JULY:
Key West / July 03
Conch Republic Ladies’ Dolphin Tournament
This competition is for women only, although male captains and mates are allowed.
Contact: John Stuempfig (305) 304-7674
Email: wave.whacker@hotmail.com
Key West / July 15 to July 18
Mel Fisher Days
Each year Mel Fisher's family and friends celebrate the legendary salvor’s accomplishments, unquenchable optimism and exuberant zest for life with a festival chock full of events. Visit Web site for details.
Contact: (305) 296-6534
Email: skwiley@melfisher.com
Key West / July 20 to July 25
Hemingway Days
The 30th celebration of the legendary author’s work and lifestyle features literary readings, a theatrical premiere, short story competition, fishing tournament, Sloppy Joe’s Look-Alike Contest and a pre-birthday "party" commemorating Ernest's July 21st birthday.
Contact: (305) 296-2388 (Look-Alike); 294-0320 (literary)
Key West / July 21 to July 24
Drambuie Key West Marlin Tournament
Anglers pursue the mightiest of the offshore species in the same waters plied by novelist Ernest Hemingway. The catch-and-release tournament, held in conjunction with Key West’s annual Hemingway Days celebration, offers more than $50,000 in guaranteed prize money.
Contact: Scott Greene (305) 292-2710
AUGUST:
SEPTEMBER:
Key West / September 07 to September 12
Womenfest Key West
This lesbian-oriented festival features art shows, sailing and snorkeling, comedy performances and other activities.
Contact: (800) 535-7797 or (305) 294-4603
Key West / September 10 to September 11
S.L.A.M. (Southernmost Light-Tackle Anglers Masters) Celebrity Tournament.
In the first of the annual fall Redbone Trilogy events that raise money to fight cystic fibrosis, top anglers and celebrities target tarpon, permit and bonefish with light tackle.
Contact: Gary Ellis at (305) 664-2002
Email: redboneinc@aol.com
Key West / September 16 to September 19
38th Annual Phil Peterson's Key West Poker Run
Motorcycle enthusiasts from around the U.S. are to travel the Keys' scenic Overseas Highway from mainland Florida to Key West to raise money for charity. Stops are arranged throughout the Keys with a final celebration in Key West.
Contact: (800) 545-2561 or 877-MIAMI-HD
OCTOBER:
23rd through 24th - Goombay Festival22nd through October 31st - FANTASY FEST - 32nd Annual Fantasy Fest Celebration! YES! We will be offering airbrushing!!! This years theme: Habitat for Insanity. www.fantasyfest.net
NOVEMBER:
November 04 to November 07
19th Annual Parrot Heads in Key West
Fans of musician Jimmy Buffett are to flock to the island dubbed Margaritaville for their annual "Meeting of the Minds" convention.
Contact: Charlotte Skinner
Email: caphmobile@aol.com
DECEMBER:
December 10 to December 11
Historic Lighted Inn Tours
Discover the history and holiday spirit of Key West by touring beautifully decorated historic inns. The tours include creative offerings by local chefs, artists, writers and performers.
Contact: Contact: 305-295-1334
December 17 to December 18
Historic Lighted Inn Tours
Discover the history and holiday spirit of Key West by touring beautifully decorated historic inns. The tours include creative offerings by local chefs, artists, writers and performers.
Contact: 305-295-1334