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5 Unmissable Florida Keys Festivals You Need to Attend at Least Once

The Florida Keys are a unique and special location. An intoxicating mix of natural beauty, rich culture, and broad vacation appeal, it’s a place that’s truly got something for everyone.

If you’re looking to relocate here, you’re not alone. Data from 2021 found almost 330,000 people had moved to the Sunshine State in the previous 12 months. This trend is set to continue until 2025.

It’s easy to see why this migration pattern has emerged. There’s so much to do and see in Florida and the Florida Keys are a prime example. Read on for a rundown of five Florida Keys festivals you won’t want to miss.

1. The Marathon Seafood Festival

If you’re a lover of seafood then there are worse places to be than the Florida Keys. Out of all the seafood festivals in the Florida Keys, the Original Marathon Seafood Festival has got to be the standout event.

Taking place each year in March, this festival features mouth-watering seafood and delicious drinks from over 200 vendors. Admission is a mere $5 and even better kids enter for free!

2. Fantasy Fest

Nothing sums up the fun and flashy nature of the Florida Keys and their whimsical residents better than the annual Fantasy Festival in Key West Florida. For ten days each year in October locals and visitors vie to outdo each other with sparkly, over-the-top, and magical costumes, culminating in a parade that has to be seen to be believed. Think of it like the Floridian twist on Mardi Gras in New Orleans or Carnival in Brazil!

3. An Underwater Music Festival in Florida keys

Not too many places can say that they host an underwater music festival, but the Florida Keys aren’t quite like most other towns. This July will mark the 38th iteration of this annual event which combines culture with education and of course amazing music. You can even take a tour of the renowned Mote Marine Laboratory and Aquarium while you take in the sights and sounds.

4. Art in the Garden

If you’re an appreciator of art then you won’t want to miss Art in the Garden, a showcase of local art and sculptures made from sustainable and recycled materials. The garden in question is the Key West Tropical Forest and Botanical Garden, which in itself is a sight to behold. You’ll only need to pay the cost of admission to the garden to enjoy the Keys’ answer to Art Basel, so it’s well worth your time and money to check it out.

5. Hemingway Days

Last but certainly not least we have the tribute to one of America’s most well-known authors—Earnest Hemingway. Hemingway Days is a five-day extravaganza to celebrate the literary heavyweight and takes place between July 19 and 24, 2022 in Key West. There’s a lookalike competition, a paddleboard race, an angling competition, and much more.

The Very Best Florida Keys Festivals

It’s difficult to fit all of the amazing Florida Keys festivals into one article, but hopefully, this will give you an idea of what you can look forward to. If you’re looking to move to the Florida Keys or purchase a second home here, don’t work with anyone other than One Realty Group. Get in touch with a member of our team today to find your dream home.