From Key Largo to Key West: A Summer’s Worth of Festivals, Event Traditions and America 250 Celebrations
The Florida Keys & Key West are kicking off the 2026 summer season with a diverse calendar of events. From June through Labor Day weekend in early September, the island chain will host numerous festivals, sporting events, culinary celebrations, and traditional festivities — including Key West Pride, the Key Lime Festival, and several events commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.
Summer is “Keys Season” in The Florida Keys & Key West offering great value at hotels and resorts, fewer crowds as well as awesome fishing and diving conditions; all set against that classic Keys backdrop of turquoise waters, warm breezes, and relaxed island vibes paired with a packed event calendar. Highlights include:
June Events
Key West Pride
June 3 – 7, 2026
June ushers in the kaleidoscopic Key West Pride, one of the most beloved Pride events in the country. With the 2026 theme “Color the Island: A Celebration of Identity Through Color & Creativity,” the island will transform into a vibrant, living work of art filled with music, performances, and community connection, culminating in a joyful parade and unforgettable celebrations.
Coralpalooza
June 7, 2026
Divers from across the globe join the Coral Restoration Foundation® for reef restoration dives during this internationally recognized ocean conservation event. Participants work together to outplant coral and help restore vital reef ecosystems, making a meaningful impact beneath the surface while celebrating the beauty of the Florida Keys’ marine environment.
CFK Swim Around Key West & Swim Meets
June 12 – 14, 2026
Adventure seekers can dive into the 12.5-mile Swim Around Key West, the only sanctioned, insured, and U.S. Coast Guard-permitted race of its kind. The event also includes additional swim meets and festivities that celebrate endurance, ocean adventure, and the spirit of competition in a spectacular open water setting.
July Events
Key Lime Festival
July 1 – 5, 2026
The Key Lime Festival is a vibrant, multi-day celebration held each summer in Key West, Florida, honoring the island’s signature citrus and quirky spirit. Enjoy a zesty lineup of pie tastings, gastronomic events, contests, live music, and creative activities across multiple venues. Culinary events range from cocktail “Sip & Strolls” and pie-hopping tasting tours to intimate dinners and rum tastings infused with the tart flavor of Key lime. Signature competitions include the World Famous Key Lime Pie Eating Championship, Key Lime Pie Drop from the lighthouse, and the fiery 5-Alarm Pie Challenge.
Key West Mermaid Festival
July 2 – 5, 2026
Make a splash at the annual Key West Mermaid Festival, where the mythical aquatic creatures come to life for several days of whimsical fun. This celebration highlights ocean conservation with an imaginative twist, featuring family friendly events at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, mermaid-themed pool parties, and more. Learn more.
America 250 celebrations
As part of the nationwide America 250 celebrations, the Florida Keys will commemorate the 250th anniversary of the United States with a variety of events over Independence Day weekend (July 3–4, 2026). Planned festivities include parades, concerts, fireworks, and community events in Key West, Marathon, Islamorada, and Key Largo.
Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival
July 10 – 11, 2026
Divers and snorkelers can explore part of the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef while enjoying a one-of-a-kind underwater concert that promotes reef protection. Held at Looe Key Reef within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, this immersive experience blends music, marine conservation, and unforgettable underwater adventure.
Hemingway Days
July 22 – 26, 2026
Ernest Hemingway look-alikes, writers, anglers, and fans of the late author’s work gather annually in Key West for the 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.
August Events
Key West Lobsterfest
August 5 – 9, 2026
Celebrate the much-awaited opening of Florida’s spiny lobster season with an island-wide party packed with flavor and fun. From the savory kickoff Lobster Boil to the lively Duval Street Fair featuring live music, this beloved festival is the ultimate crustacean celebration in the Florida Keys.
September Events
Womenfest Key West
September 2 – 6, 2026
Womenfest brings a soulful and empowering energy to Key West, welcoming women and allies for a celebration of creativity, connection, and community. With the 2026 theme “Lost Women in the Arts,” festival highlights include a poetry reading and art exhibition event, themed and pool parties, live music and DJ sets, bike and trolley tours, a fabulous sunset sail, a clothing-optional snorkel trip, a speed-dating adventure, foodie fun and more.
Just a Few Friends Festival
September 3 – 7, 2026
This laid-back celebration is inspired by the music and legacy of the destination’s favorite son — legendary singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffet. From the streets and bars Jimmy sang about to the harbors that sparked his stories, fans can stroll, sip, and sing along in the places that shaped his “changes in latitude, changes in attitude.” The festival is part memorial, part music fest, and all Buffett spirit.
Discover more summer events and experiences in the Florida Keys & Key West here!
