Arts & Culture

Several thousand admirers of Jimmy Buffett, known as “Parrot Heads,” are flocking to the island credited with inspiring the multitalented entertainer’s signature sound for their 27th annual “Meeting of the Minds” convention.

Dressed-up dogs, costumed cats, bright-plumed birds and other domestic pets and their people can unleash their“animal magnetism” before more than 2,000 spectators at the wacky Pet Masquerade, a highlight of Key West’s Oct. 19-28 Fantasy Fest.

Jumpstarting the Florida Keys’ seven-month stone crab harvest season is a much-anticipated munch-a-thon — the eighth annual Stone Crab Claw Eating Contest for amateur eaters set for Saturday, Nov. 10, in Marathon.  

Revelers can expect a “monopoly” on high-energy fun Friday, Oct. 19, through Sunday, Oct. 28, as Key West’s annual Fantasy Fest puts a playful spin on masking and costuming festivities. The 2018 festival is themed “Oh … The Games We Play!” and features 10 days of masquerade balls, elaborate costume contests, parties and fanciful frolics, all climaxing in a grand parade set for Saturday, Oct. 27. 

Colorful history, artistic culture, quirky ambiance and celebrations of the Florida Keys island chain’s underwater paradise, outdoor adventures and tasty cuisine provide visitors with year-round entertainment, festivals and special events.

Ernest Hemingway left Key West in late 1939 after nearly a decade of residence, but his literary legacy continues during Hemingway Days 2017, scheduled Tuesday through Sunday, July 18-23.