Calendar of Events for Key West

Visit Key West's historic streets and see beautiful tropical foliage in bloom all-year round.

Throughout the year Key West hosts a wide variety of events - many of which are truly unique to the island.

Depending on the time of the year, you are likely to see walking Key West's streets: Hemingway look-alikes, Jimmy Buffet "parrotheads", pirates, motorcycle aficionados, Bahamian Junkanoo performers, world class sailors and fishermen, noted authors & writers, or scantily clad Fantasy Fest revelers. And every night is the Sunset Celebration (Key West sunset times).

Here is the upcoming calendar of events:

2009 Key West Calendar of Events

JANUARY:

• January 1-17, 2009:  THEATER - Wild Women of Planet Wongo - Red Barn Theater - 8pm - 319 Duval Street - Call 305-296-9911 for more information and tickets.
• January 1-10, 2009:  THEATER - Regrets Only - Waterfront Playhouse - 310 Wall Street - Call 305-294-5015 for more information and tickets.
• January 8-18, 2009:  LITERARY - 27th Annual Key West Literary Seminar - This year's theme is "Historical Fiction and the Search for Truth".  Offers workshops, discussions with panel members, and receptions with known and noteworthy writers including Gore Vidal, William Kennedy, and others.  Call 888-293-9291 for more information.
• January 8, 2009:  MUSIC - Old Town New Folk Music Series at the Studios of Key West - The Studios of Key West first annual series featuring the singer and songwriter Carrie Newcomer.  Tickets cost $20.  Call 305-296-0458 for more information.
• January 9-10, 2009:  MUSIC - Key West Symphony Orchestra - Master Concert #1 - Featuring Alexander Ghindin on piano and Jin Hi Kim on percussion. Tickets cost from $42 to $75, depending on seat choice. 8pm at the Tennessee Williams Theater, 5901 College Road, Stock Island - Call 305-295-7676 for more information and tickets.
• January 9 through June 30, 2009:  MUSIC - Key West Symphony Orchestra - led by conductor Sebrina Maria Alfonso.  Call 305-292-1774 for more information.
• January 19 through February, 2009: ART - Key West WPA Walking Tour - Walking tour visits the historic Old Town neighborhood of Key west.  Local interpretive guides will highlight the artwork of WPA artists.  10am Saturday January 10 and February 14 - Heritage House, 410 Caroline Street.  Tickets are $20 each and can be purchased at check-in.  Call 305-296-3573 for more information.
• January 14, 2009 - FOOD - A Taste of Wine and Music - Enjoy wine and music at the Key West Botanical Garden, West Martello, Key West.  5:30-7:30pm.   Cost is $10 for Botanical Garden Club members/$15 for non-members.  Call 305-296-1504 for more information.
• January 16, 2009 - SPORTS - Fight Night in the Keys - Pugilists battle in the ring at Mallory Square.  Call 305-292-0486 for more information.
• January 16-17, 2009 - ARCHITECTURE - House & Garden Tour - Visits five Key West homes that have agreed to open their doors to the public.  A rare opportunity to see inside some of Key West's magnificent, charming, and tropical residences.  Tickets for the tour cost $25 which includes use of Conch Tour Train that will transport guests from house to house.  Call 305-294-9501 for more information.
• January 17, 2009 - MUSIC - Jason Robert Brown: Songs for a New World - Songs for a New World is a work of musical theater written and composed by Jason Robert Brown. Its original off-Broadway production ran for 28 performances at the WPA Theater in New York City in 1995. The music of Songs for a New World is heavily influenced by a broad range of musical genres, including pop, gospel, jazz and classical music. Many of the songs combine elements of two or more of these genres. Some of the songs reference well-known historical and fictional characters, including Martin Luther King Jr., Mrs. Santa Claus, and Betsy Ross. This production is directed by Donna Roll.- 8pm, Tennessee Williams Theatre, Stock Island - Call 305-292-1774 for more information.
• January 17, 2009 - FOOD - Florida Keys Seafood Festival - Outdoor seafood festival offered by the Florida Keys Commercial Fishermen's Assn.  Taste and purchase Key West's fresh local seafood.  No cost for admission to festival grounds, Bayview Park, Key West - Call 305-619-0039 for more information.
• January 18, 2009 - ART - Sculpture Key West 2009 Opening Reception - West Martello (next to Higgs Beach), 6-8pm - cost to enter is FREE.  Call 305-295-3800 for more information.
• January 18 through April 18, 2009 - ART - Sculpture Key West 2009 - Features an increasingly imaginative and rewarding selection of outdoor sculpture displayed in beautiful seaside locations.  Visit Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and West Martello Tower to see the impressive works of art.
• January 19-23, 2009 - SAILING - Acura Key West 2009 - One of sailings most attended and competitive events featuring nearly three-hundred racing sailboats.  Known locally as "Race Week", this event includes world-class professional sailing teams as well as dedicated non-professional sailors.  Always popular is the after-race Mount Gay tent, set up on Caroline Street and William Street.  Call 781-639-9545 for more information.
• January 23-25 - FISHING - Hog's Breath King Mackerel Tournament - Highly competitive teams go after the largest of the mackerel, known locally as Kingfish.  Call 305-296-0364 for more information.
• January 24, 2009 - ART - Anne McKee Artists Fund Auction - Features nearly one-hundred artists exhibiting and auctioning artwork for the benefit of the local arts community.  Artwork is available for viewing starting at 7pm.  Auction will begin at 8pm.  Cost of admission is $25 and includes snacks and bar service.  East Martello Museum (next to the Key West International Airport) at 3501 South Roosevelt Boulevard.  Call 305-295-8383 for more information.
• January 24-25, 2009 - ART - 24th Annual Key West Craft Show - Stroll Whitehead Street in downtown Key West where numerous artists will display and offer their wonderful array of creations.  Call 294-1241 for more information.
• January 25, 2009 - THEATER - Key West Pops - Season-opening performance will be "A Little Night Music" from Stephen Sondheim.  Tennessee Williams Theatre, Stock Island.  Cost per ticket is $40, $60, or $100 - depending on seat choice.  Call 305-295-7676 for more information.
• January 25, 2009 - MUSIC - Impromptu Concerts Presents 'The Daedalus Quartet with the Wind Soloists of New York' - A quartet of outstanding young musicians, among America's outstanding string quartets: violinists Min-Young Kim and Kyu-Young Kim (who are sister and brother), violist Jessica Thompson, and cellist Raman Ramakrishnan. Showtime 4 p.m., at St. Paul's Church.  Call 305-296-1520 for more information.
• January 27 through March 7, 2009 - THEATER - "The Outer Shel: More Shel Silverstein" at Red Barn Theater 8 pm - 319 Duval Street - Call 305-296-9911 for more information.
• January 28 through February 14, 2009 - THEATER - "Doubt, A Parable" - At a Bronx school in 1964, the school principal takes matters into her own hands when she suspects a priest of improper relations with one of the male students.  Waterfront Playhouse, 311 Wall Street, Key West - Tickets cost $20 or $40, depending on choice of seating.  Call 305-294-5015 for more information.
• January 28, 2009 - THEATER - Dueling Divas -  Zany opera fun.  Tickets cost $18, $25, or $35 - depending on choice of seating. Tennessee Williams Theatre, Stock Island, 8 pm - Call 305-296-1520 for more information.
• January 30 to February 1, 2009 - WRITING - Key West Travel Writing Workshop - Learn the secrets of travel writing from Bob Fisher, a Frommers writer and contributing editor. Cost is $275 for two days of instruction (four hours per day on each Saturday and Sunday), an evening reception (on Friday) and optional tutoring and critique sessions (between classes or on the Monday following). Classes limited to only 14 students. Heritage House Museum, 410 Caroline Street

FEBRUARY:

• November 15 to February 14, 2009 - ART - Key West WPA Walking Tour - The first in a series of tours to be offered every second Saturday through February. Lead by local history guides, the walking tour will lead participants on a journey through Old Town Key West to discover the works of WPA artists and the stories behind the art. Tours at 10 a.m. on Saturdays, Nov. 15, Dec. 13, Jan. 10 and Feb 14 at Key West Heritage House, 410 Caroline St. The cost is $20. Tickets will be sold the morning of each tour. Call 305-296-3573 for more information.
• January 28 to February 14, 2009 - THEATER - "Doubt, A Parable" at Waterfront Playhouse - At a Bronx school in 1964, the school principal takes matters into her own hands when she suspects a priest of improper relations with one of the male students. Call 305-294-5015 for more information.
• February 1-7, 2009 - CULTURE - Cuban Cultural Explosion - An entire week packed with Cuban-inspired entertainment and educational opportunities, culminating with Hot Havana Nights. Attend lectures by local and regional experts to learn about the flora, fauna, art, architecture, food, and of course the gardens of Cuba. Cuban movies will be shown in the Gardens lush tropical setting throughout the week. Lectures: $8 members / $10 non-members. Movies: $6 members/$8 non-members. Call 305-296-1504 for more information.
• February 1-9, 2009 - SPORTS - Kelly McGillis Classic Flag Football Championship - Women and girls from around the United States and the world gather in Key West for hard-fought sporting action during the Kelly McGillis Classic International Women’s & Girls’ Flag Football Championship - Call 888-464-9332 for more information.
• February 6 to 8, 2009 - WRITING - Key West Travel Writing Workshop - Learn the secrets of travel writing from Bob Fisher, a Frommers writer and contributing editor. Cost is $275 for two days of instruction (four hours per day on each Saturday and Sunday), an evening reception (on Friday) and optional tutoring and critique sessions (between classes or on the Monday following). Classes limited to only 14 students. Heritage House Museum, 410 Caroline Street
• February 6-7, 2009 - MUSIC - Key West Symphony Orchestra - Master Concerts No. 2 - Dueling pianists, Amy and Sarah Hamann, are featured. Only 17 months apart in age, these sisters have been described as smart and stylish players who have a bold streak and fierce energy that can magically transform into delicacy and perfect unanimity. Tennessee Williams Theatre, Stock Island - Call 305-295-7676 for more information.
• February 7, 2009 - CULTURE - Hot Havana Nights - Celebrate Cuba Week finishes with the hottest event of the year. Join us at the beautiful Beachside Resort and dance to the sounds of Havana Soul while enjoying 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 $75. Call 305-296-1504 for more information.
• February 8-9, 2009 - THEATER - "November" at Red Barn Theatre David Mamet’s new oval office satire depicts one day in the life of a beleaguered American Commander-in-Chief. Red Barn Theatre, 319 Duval Street, 8 pm. Call 305-296-9911 for tickets and more information.
• February 8, 2009 - MUSIC - Impromptu Concerts Presents Peng-Peng Gong — “Rising Star” Series Peng-Peng Gong is a 14-year-old pianist & composer who won numerous competitions, including the Juilliard Pre-college 2003-04, 2005-06 Mozart Piano Concerto Competitions and the New Jersey Philharmonic International Music Competition. He has made a debut with Itzhak Perlman and has been an orchestral soloist with up to 15 orchestras across the country, including “Live from Lincoln Center.” Show at 4 p.m., at St. Paul's Church. Call 305-296-1520 for more information.
• February 12, 2009 - MUSIC - Old Town New Folk Music Series at the Studios of Key West - TSKW inaugural series features Wisconsin-based classic twisted storytelling tenor John Smith as part of TSKW's evening concert and workshop series. Concert tickets $20, purchase online at Web site. 600 White Street - Call 305-296-0458 for more information.
• February 13-15, 2009 - HISTORY - Civil War Heritage Festival - Re-enactments, military parades, sea battles with schooner ships, and more await for this unique historical event. Call 305-292-6850 for more information.
• February 15, 2009 - FILM - "Grits, Grunts & Gravy" - An oral history achievement by local filmmaker Marcela Morgan. The film features interviews of senior Key West residents recalling the hardships of the Great Depression. Tickets are $10, available at Heritage House the evening of the event. Doors open at 7 p.m. Seating is limited. Film at 8 p.m. Call 305-296-3573 for more information.
• February 20-21, 2009 - ARCHITECTURE - 49th Annual Key West House & Garden Tour - Tour five elegant and unique homes of Key West. Proceeds help benefit the Old Island Restoration Foundation. Admission $25 per person. Call 305-294-9501 for more information.
• February 21, 2009 - ART - Old Island Days Art Festival - The 44th annual juried fine art show is set on lower Whitehead Street in historic Old Town. Call 305-294-1241 for more information.
• February 21-22, 2009 - ANTIQUES - 5th Annual Key West Antiques Show & Sale - The only antiques show south of Miami! Over 30 dealers from around the US with a huge variety of antiques and collectables. Located at Fort East Martello. Benefits Key West Art & Historical Society. Contact: Call 305-295-6616 ext 12 for more information.
• February 22-23, 2009 - THEATER - "November" at Red Barn Theatre - David Mamet’s new oval office satire depicts one day in the life of a beleaguered American Commander-in-Chief. Showtimes 8 p.m., call 305-296-9911 for tickets and more information.
• February 22, 2009 - MUSIC - Impromptu Concerts Presents New Century Saxophone - Soprano sax, tenor sax, alto sax, baritone sax. “Doing for the saxophone what Casals did for the cello and Segovia, the guitar.” Call 305-296-1520 for more information.

MARCH:

• February 25 to March 7, 2009 - THEATER - "Bitch Slap!" at Waterfront Playhouse - A humorous look at why ultimate screen goddesses Joan Crawford (the Movie Star) and Bette Davis (the Actress) hated each other so much. Call 305-294-5015 for tickets and information.
• February 27 to March 1, 2009 - GARDENING - 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 Saturday, Feb. 28 and Sunday, March 1. Gates open 9 a.m. - Call 305-296-1504 for more information.
• January 27 to March 7, 2009 - THEATER - "The Outer Shel: More Shel Silverstein" at Red Barn Theater - Live comedy, drama, musical theater, and cabaret shows in this intimate small theater. Call Box Office for details and tickets, showtimes 8 p.m. Located at 319 Duval Street, Rear. Call 305-296-9911 for tickets and information.
• February 25 through March 7, 2009 - THEATER - "Bitch Slap!" at Waterfront Playhouse - A humorous look at why ultimate screen goddesses Joan Crawford (the Movie Star) and Bette Davis (the Actress) hated each other so much. Call 305-294-5015 for tickets and information.
• February 27 to March 01, 2009 - GARDENING - 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 Saturday, Feb. 28 and Sunday, March 1. Gates open 9 a.m. Call 305-296-1504 for more information.
• March 1, 2009 - ART - Opening at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park - Opening reception for Sculpture Key West 2009, at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park. End of Southard Street. 3-6 pm, free entry. Call 305-295-3800 for more information.
• March 1-2, 2009 - THEATER - "November" at Red Barn Theatre - David Mamet’s new oval office satire depicts one day in the life of a beleaguered American Commander-in-Chief. Showtimes 8 p.m., call for tickets. Call 305-296-9911 more information.
• March 7, 2009 - LOCAL CULTURE - 47th Annual Conch Shell Blowing Contest - Grab your conch shells and join in the puckering fun! Held at Ocean Key Resort Sunset Pier, beginning at 1 p.m.. Free admission, conch shells available for purchase. Call 305-294-9501 for more information.
• March 8, 2009 - MUSIC - Impromptu Concerts Presents Cypress String Quartet - Two violins, one viola and one cello: they've brought audiences to their feet for over a decade, at Kennedy Center, Library of Congress, and more. Chamber Music Magazine says “a generation X ensemble to watch.” Showtime 4 p.m., at St. Paul's Church. Call 305-296-1520 for more information.
• March 8, 2009 - MUSIC - Key West Pops Orchestra Tenth Anniversary Concert - The show, hosted by Randy Roberts, will reunite the performers who starred in the Pops' very first concert in 1999. Expect many surprise guests who have appeared with the Pops during its ten year history. Call 305-295-7676 for more information.
• March 9-12, 2009 - FISHING - March Merkin Invitational Permit Tournament - This all-fly fishing tournament benefits Tarpon & Bonefish Unlimited as well as the Don Hawley Foundation. Call 303-888-4546 for more information.
• March 12, 2009 - ART - Sally Port Auction - At the Studios of Key West, 600 White Street. Benefit auction of maquettes and drawings created by artists in Sculpture Key West 2009. 6-9 p.m., $25 ticket. Call 305-295-3800 for more information.
• March 13-15, 2009 - FISHING - 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.  Call 305-295-6601 for more information.
• March 13-14, 2009 - ARCHITECTURE - 49th Annual Key West House & Garden Tour - Tour five elegant and unique homes of Key West. Proceeds help benefit the Old Island Restoration Foundation. Admission $25 per person. Call 305-294-9501 for more information.
• March 14, 2009 - GARDENING - Pond Grand Opening at Key West Botanical Gardens - Come celebrate the Grand Opening of the Gardens' newest exhibition featuring expanded habitat for our native flora, birds and butterflies. Bring the entire family for this exciting new experience. Time TBD. Call 305-296-1504 for more information.
• March 14 to April 17, 2009 - ECOLOGY - Migration Mania at Key West Botanical Gardens - Join us for a month long celebration of the wonders of migration. Presentations for the entire family will feature live animal shows, seminars, birding tours, and much more. Early birders will enjoy our extended hours during Migration Mania. Private docent tours available by appointment. Dates and presentation times TBD.  Call 305-296-1504 for more information.
• March 17 to April 18, 2009 - THEATER - "Steele Magnolias" at Red Barn Theater - Live comedy, drama, musical theater, and cabaret shows in this intimate small theater. Call Box Office for details and tickets, showtimes 8 p.m. Located at 319 Duval Street, Rear. Call 305-296-9911 for tickets and information.
• March 18 , 2009 - MUSIC - A Taste of Wine and Music - Enjoy a taste of the vine while strolling through the Key West Botanical Garden and listening to music by Key West's finest performers. Wines featured from all over the world. $10 members / $15 non-members. 5210 College Road, Stock Island. Call 305-296-1504 for more information.
• March 22, 2009 - MUSIC - Impromptu Concerts Presents A Far Cry Orchestra - A conductor-less orchestra creating the freedom and flexibility of chamber music, as well as the power and beauty of an orchestra. Showtime 4 p.m., Tennessee Williams Theater. Call 305-296-1520 for more information.
• March 24 to April 12, 2009 - THEATER - "Reefer Madness, The Musical" at Waterfront Playhouse - Back by overwhelming popular demand! Sold-out houses. Rave reviews. The buzz of the Key West season. This legend returns with the same brilliant cast for three weeks only.  Call 305-294-5015 for tickets and information.
• March 24, 2009 - MUSIC - Old Town New Folk Music Series at the Studios of Key West - TSKW inaugural series features Ashville Airstreamer, whose versatile baritone belts ballads to acoustic soul, as part of TSKW's evening concert and workshop series. Concert tickets $20. Call 305-296-0458 for more information.
• March 29, 2009 - MUSIC - Impromptu Concerts Presents Jeffrey Chappell — Solo Piano - He is loved in Key West and is considered part of the “family.” A far ranging career. Soloist with the Philadelphia, St. Louis, Pittsburgh, Houston, and Key West Symphonies. Showtime 4 p.m., St. Paul's Church. Call 305-296-1520 for more information.

APRIL:

• January 18 to April 18, 2009 - ART - Sculpture Key West 2009 - Outdoor sculpture exhibition at Fort Zachary Taylor State Park and West Martello Tower. Cutting edge sculptures made by artists from around the world. Call 305-295-3800 for more information.
• March 14 to April 17, 2009 - ECOLOGY - Migration Mania at Key West Botanical Gardens - Join us for a month long celebration of the wonders of migration. Presentations for the entire family will feature live animal shows, seminars, birding tours, and much more. Early birders will enjoy our extended hours during Migration Mania. Private docent tours available by appointment. Dates and presentation times TBD. Call 305-296-1504 for more information.
• March 17 to April 18, 2009 - THEATER - "Steele Magnolias" at Red Barn Theater - Live comedy, drama, musical theater, and cabaret shows in this intimate small theater. Call Box Office for details and tickets, showtimes 8 p.m. Located at 319 Duval Street, Rear. Call 305-296-9911 for more information and tickets.
• March 24 to April 12, 2009 - THEATER - "Reefer Madness, The Musical" at Waterfront Playhouse - Back by overwhelming popular demand! Sold-out houses. Rave reviews. The buzz of the Key West season. This legend returns with the same brilliant cast for three weeks only. Call 305-294-5015 for tickets and information.
• April 1-30, 2009 - LITERATURE - 15th Annual Robert Frost Poetry Festival - The festival features poetry and haiku workshops and readings, and a poetry and haiku contest. Events are staged at the Robert Frost Cottage at the Heritage House Museum, where Frost spent many island winters. Call 305-292-7963 for more information.
• April 9-10, 2009 - THEATER - "Always ... Patsy Cline" at Red Barn Theatre - Once again, in cooperation with the San Carlos Institute, the Red Barn Theatre is proud to bring back the music and the story of one of the most beloved singers of all time. There are only five performances so please reserve early for this Sweet Dream of a show. You’d be Crazy not to. Call 305-296-9911 for tickets and information.
• April 14-18, 2009 - FISHING - World Sailfish Championship - Three days of hard-fought fishing are to be complemented by three evenings of fabulous food, drinks, fun and entertainment, including a thank-you concert. Call 305-395-3474 for more information.
• April 17-18, 2009 - MUSIC - Key West Symphony Orchestra Presents - Masters Concert No. 3 - The 2008-09 season closes with the the triumphant return of one of the world’s most accomplished young piano virtuosos, Adam Golka. At only twenty-one years old, he has already earned a reputation as one of the most promising young artists in the world today. Call 305-295-7676 for more information.
• April 20, 2009 - FOOD - 14th 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, from 6 p.m. - 9 p.m. Tickets available at the festival grounds.
• April 28 to May 30, 2009 - THEATER - "Return of Rompers, Short Attention Span Theatre" at Red Barn Theater - Live comedy, drama, musical theater, and cabaret shows in this intimate small theater. Call Box Office for details and tickets, showtimes 8 p.m. Located at 319 Duval Street, Rear. Call 305-296-9911 for tickets and more information.
• April 29 to May 3, 2009 - MUSIC - Key West Songwriters’ Festival - The 14th-annual showcase of musical magic features America’s foremost performing songwriters, with concerts staged in intimate, audience-friendly island settings. The festival is presented by Hog's Breath Saloon.

MAY:

• April 28 to May 30, 2009 - THEATER - "Return of Rompers, Short Attention Span Theatre" at Red Barn Theater - Live comedy, drama, musical theater, and cabaret shows in this intimate small theater. Call Box Office for details and tickets, showtimes 8 p.m. Located at 319 Duval Street, Rear. Call 305-296-9911 for more information and tickets.
• April 29 to May 3, 2009 - MUSIC - Key West Songwriters’ Festival - The 14th-annual showcase of musical magic features America’s foremost performing songwriters, with concerts staged in intimate, audience-friendly island settings. The festival is presented by Hog's Breath Saloon. Call 305-304-0814 for more information.
• May 6-23, 2009 - THEATER - "The Musical of All Musicals, The Musical" at Waterfront Playhouse - This hilarious satire takes one simple plot and turns it into five delightful musicals, as done in the styles of Rodgers & Hammerstein, Stephen Sondheim, Jerry Herman, Andrew Lloyd Webber & Kander and Ebb.  Call 305-294-5015 for more information.
• May 8, 2009 - HISTORY - Harry Truman's 125th Birthday Party - Truman's LIttle White House lawn, Truman Annex, Free exhibits and birthday party refreshments on the lawn. Call 305-294-9911 for more information.
• May 15-16, 2009 - HISTORY - Truman Legacy Symposium - The President and the Congress -  Truman Annex. Hosted by FKCC, Florida Atlantic University, and the Truman Library. $125 fee for symposium. Free educational opportunities for Monroe County students: contact Jeanne Sanford at 305-360-2447.
• May 17, 2009 - DANCE - DanceWorks VII - presented by Coffeemill Dance Collective - For more information call 305-296-9982.
• May 23, 2009 - FISHING - Yamaha Dolphin Masters Invitational - Experienced offshore captains are to lead the chase for the colorful and acrobatic dolphin fish and a hefty first prize. Call 305-304-7674 for more information.

JUNE:

• December 1 to June 1, 2009 - THEATER - Tennessee Williams Theatre Season - Performing Arts For Key West - Tennessee Williams Theatre brings the best live, professional, nationally-touring shows and performers from New York and around the world. The 2009 Encore Series includes Tony Award-winners, TV stars, celebrities and many audience favorites. Call or visit Web site for showtimes and performers. Call 305-295-7676 for more information.
• January 9 to June 30, 2009 - MUSIC - Key West Symphony Orchestra 2009 Season - The Key West Symphony Orchestra is the manifest dream of Music Director and Conductor Sebrina María Alfonso, a fifth-generation member of a Cuban-American family, born & raised in Key West. She envisioned making live symphonic music accessible to the community and its young people both as a performing art and educational experience. Visit Web site for performance schedule and showtimes. Call 305-292-1774 for more information.
• June 6-14, 2009 - GAY/LESBIAN - Pridefest 2009 - 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. Call 305-292-3223 for more information.
• June 26-28, 2009 - FISHING - Key West Gator Club Dolphin Derby - Anglers are to compete to catch dolphin fish, a plentiful summertime treat off the Keys, to raise money for college scholarships. Call 305-304-7674 for more information.

JULY:

• July 4, 2009 - BENEFIT - Key West Benefit Blast - Bar stroll benefiting the Forgotten Soldiers Outreach - an organization committed to supporting and encouraging the American soldier. This fun event costs only $25 and includes commerative t-shirt, beers, drinks, and snacks. Visits many Key West bars. Call 305-766-0239 for more information and tickets.
• July 4, 2009 - FAMILY EVENT - 25th Annual July 4th Picnic - Benefiting Visiting Nurse Association & Hospice, Casa Marina Resort  1500 Reynolds Street, 5:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m., for tickets and more information call 305-294-4310 Ext. 20.
• July 4, 2009 - FESTIVITIES - Independence Day Celebration. Fireworks after sunset launched from the White Street pier. Fireworks cruises are popular and should be booked in advance.
• July 4, 2009 - FISHING - Conch Republic Ladies' Dolphin Tournament - Women are to compete to catch dolphin fish for cash prizes. Call 305-304-7674 for more information.
• July 10-11, 2009 - GHOSTS - KeyFest 2009 - Presented by Florida Ghost Team: "Weekend-long paranormal investigation with the stars of Ghost Hunters International. We will be investigating East Martello, the Key West Lighthouse and the Lighthouse Keeper's Quarters. Tickets are $125." - Call 850-624-5952 for more information.
• July 21-24, 2009 - FISHING - Del Brown Invitational Permit Tournament - Fly fishing for that other famous fish of the tropical shallows in honor of the late angling pioneer Del Brown, who caught and released more than 500 permit off the Keys. Call 305-664-2444 for more information.
• July 22-25, 2009 - FISHING - Key West Marlin Tournament - Anglers fish for the mightiest of the offshore species in the same waters plied by novelist Ernest Hemingway. Call 305-292-2710 for more information.
• July 23-26, 2009 - HEMINGWAY - Sloppy Joe's 29th Annual Look-Alike Contest - Over 100 Hemingway look alikes compete for prizes and notoriety as most resembling the famous writer, judged by previous contest winners. Sloppy Joe's Bar - 6:30 pm - 201 Duval Street.
• July 25, 2009 - HEMINGWAY - 12th Annual Running of the Bulls - Hemingway look-alikes stage a Key West version of the running the bulls race. 1:00 pm - Sloppy Joe's Bar - 201 Duval Street.
• July 26, 2009 - HEMINGWAY - 23rd Annual Arm Wrestling Contest - Men and women compete in various weight divisions for prizes. $5 entry fee. 1:00 pm - Sloppy Joe's Bar - 201 Duval Street.
• July 29-30, 2009 - FISHING - Mini Lobster Season - Traditionally held the last Wednesday and Thursday of July, this two day lobster season is open to recreational anglers with a valid Florida Saltwater Fishing License with a Lobster Endorsement (extra fee).

AUGUST:

• August 6, 2009 - FISHING - Lobster Season - Beginning of the 2009 commercial lobster season.
• August 8, 2009 - FOOD - Key West Lobsterfest 2009 - 13th Annual festival celebrates the local delicacy - Florida Lobster. The event is to feature lobster offerings ranging from appetizers to full dinners with the traditional trimmings, from 20 local restaurants. Noon until 11pm on lower Duval Street.

SEPTEMBER:

• October 1 to September 30, 2009 - ART - The Studios of Key West Workshop Event and Exhibition Season - Visit The Studios of Key West, a new kind of artists community in the historic Armory building at 600 White Street. TSKW features workshops in visual, literary and performing arts, life drawing sessions, revolving exhibitions, residencies, and film and theatre projects. Exhibitions are free and open to the public and workshop prices vary. Check web site for details. Call 305-296-0458 for more information.
• September 8-13, 2009 - GAY/LESBIAN - Womenfest - This lesbian-oriented festival features art shows, sailing and snorkeling, comedy performances and other activities. Call 800-535-7797 or (305) 294-4603 for more information.
• September 11-13, 2009 - FISHING - Mercury 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. Call 305-664-2002.
• September 17-21, 2009 - MOTORCYCLE - 37th 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. Call 800-545-2561 for more information.

OCTOBER:

• October 23 to November 1, 2009 - FANTASY FEST - 31st Annual Fantasy Fest - An outrageous, 10-day celebration featuring costume competitions, promenades, street fairs and a grand parade with marching groups and lavish floats. This year's theme: Villains, Vixens, and Vampires. Call 305-296-1817 for more information.

NOVEMBER:

• October 23 to November 1, 2009 - FANTASY FEST - 31st Annual Fantasy Fest - An outrageous, 10-day celebration featuring costume competitions, promenades, street fairs and a grand parade with marching groups and lavish floats. This year's theme: Villains, Vixens, and Vampires. Call 305-296-1817 for more information.
• November 5-8, 2009 - MUSIC - 18th Annual Meeting of the Minds (MOTM) - The official Parrothead Convention for lovers of Key West and the music of Jimmy Buffett. Event highlights include Duval Street concert, private shows, charitable auctions, and street fest.
• November 8-15, 2009 - POWERBOAT - Key West World Championship Race - High-speed powerboats continue Key West’s longstanding tradition in a challenge described as the Indianapolis 500 of powerboat racing. Call 305-296-6166 for more information.

DECEMBER:

• December 31, 2009 - CELEBRATION - Key West New Year's Eve - Celebrations include the lowering of the Conch Shell over Sloppy Joe's on lower Duval Street, the lowering of famous Key West drag queen Sushi (riding a huge high-heeled shoe) over the Bourbon Street Complex on upper Duval Street, and the lowering of the "pirate wench" from the mast of a schooner in the Historic Seaport.

2010 Key West Calendar of Events

April:

• April 28 - May 2, 2010 - MUSIC - 15th Annual Key West Songwriters Festival - The 14th-annual showcase of musical magic features America’s foremost performing songwriters, with concerts staged in intimate, audience-friendly island settings.

Something missing? If you know of any Key West calendar events that we have overlooked, please e-mail us and we'll add it. Also, check back since more dates and details will be added as the season progresses.