Marathon

As well as being connected by the iconic Overseas Highway, the 125-mile-long Florida Keys island chain also is connected by a vibrant community of artists. From now through May 8, art lovers can view a 24-foot mural featuring the work of close to 400 creative spirits during a series of six exhibitions throughout the Keys. 

Fresh shrimp, fish and lobster are headlining the food tents at the 2018 Original Marathon Seafood Festival, and the equally delicious musical lineup is to include Latin sensation Tito Puente Jr. The taste bud–tempting feast is scheduled Saturday and Sunday, March 10-11.

Key Largo and Key West were least impacted by Hurricane Irma, which struck the Keys Sept. 10, 2017, as were most hotels and businesses on the bayside, or gulfside, in Islamorada and Marathon. The Florida Keys & Key West have been open to visitors since Oct. 1, just three weeks after the hurricane.

Winning a Florida Keys fishing vacation could be as simple as following the Florida Keys Facebook page and entering the #FishFLKeys trip giveaway, part of a four-month social media program that launched Monday. The program spotlights the Keys' recreational fishing activities and the destination’s unmatched concentration of seasoned professional charter guides.

From beachside fireworks to wacky takeoffs on the traditional ball drop in New York's Times Square, the Florida Keys offer visitors a wealth of ways to welcome 2018. And because "winter" in the subtropical island chain means balmy breezes rather than blizzards, revelers can leave heavy coats and boots behind as they head out to celebrate wearing light dresses or shorts and sandals. 

The 1980s were a “hair band” lover’s dream, and rock ‘n’ roll acts Great White and Slaughter are to join several other musical groups to raise money for veterans charities at the Middle Keys’ second annual Coral Head Music Fest set for Saturday and Sunday, Feb. 17-18.

Described as “a big show for a tiny island,” the annual Pigeon Key Art Festival is set for Friday and Saturday, Feb. 2-3, 2018, and attendees can expect new elements added to the artistry on display.

Providing visitors year-round entertainment, special events and festivals in the Florida Keys & Key West focus on the area’s colorful history, artistic culture and quirky ambiance, as well as celebrating the island chain’s underwater paradise, outdoor adventures and tasty cuisine.

The Florida Keys & Key West offer a variety of new and enhanced attractions, accommodations, tours and cultural offerings to entice, intrigue and entertain visitors. Explore the winter 2017-18 highlights here.


 

Key Largo and Key West were least impacted by Hurricane Irma, as were hotels and businesses on the bayside or gulfside in Islamorada and Marathon. Most tourism infrastructure is largely restored. Visitors can anticipate memorable, quality vacation experiences in most areas of the destination.