Whether you’re pining for a Keys vacation but can’t get away quite yet, or are prepping for an upcoming trip to the island chain, you’ll want to watch “The Florida Keys: 200 Years of Paradise,” slated to debut this spring on Public Broadcasting Service channels across the U.S.

The fascinating 60-minute TV documentary explores the culture and history of the Keys from the early 1800s to the present. It was produced by South Florida PBS for broadcast during the island chain’s bicentennial year — this year — that commemorates the Florida Legislature’s establishment of Monroe County on July 3, 1823.

The program (partially underwritten by the Keys tourism council) takes you on a journey through the region’s dramatic history, seen through the eyes of residents who live and interpret that history every day.

Topics include the Florida Keys’ booms and busts, cultural and artistic expression, sport fishing and community leaders, industries like shipwreck salvage, natural disasters and renewal, environmental conservation and the legacy of Black pioneers.

Comments from Keys historians and others introduce viewers to the human side of the island chain’s two centuries of history — giving the story a deeply personal flavor.

“The Florida Keys: 200 Years of Paradise” is to be distributed nationally by American Public Television beginning March 1, and it’s expected to air on some 249 public television stations around the country. So check your local listings for scheduled airtimes to make sure you don’t miss it.

Meanwhile, three events are slated in Key West that showcase different elements of the Keys’ intriguing two-century cultural heritage.

Presidents in Paradise. Descendants of former president Harry S. Truman and five other U.S. commanders in chief will discuss their famous relatives and American bipartisanship Saturday, Feb. 18, at Key West’s Harry S. Truman Little White House.

The Presidential Family Forum is the centerpiece of Presidents Day weekend activities at the 111 Front St. residence — the place where Truman spent 11 working vacations during his 1945-1953 administration. Today the property is Florida’s only presidential museum.

In addition, Clifton Truman Daniel (former President Truman’s oldest grandson) will star as his grandfather in the one-man play “Give ‘Em Hell, Harry!” Sunday and Monday, Feb. 19-20. A seasoned actor and author, Clifton is the first direct descendant to portray a presidential ancestor in a stage production — and this one is absolutely unforgettable.

A Conch-Centric Celebration. Join several dozen other people and attempt to “blow your own horn” in Key West Saturday, March 4, during a celebration of the Florida Keys’ rich history known as the Conch Shell Blowing Contest.

In the 19th century, when Key West’s economy was largely based on salvaging cargoes from sinking ships, seafarers used the conch’s fluted pink-lined shells as signaling devices — blowing piercing blasts to attract attention. Today native-born residents refer to themselves as Conchs and the Florida Keys island chain is often called the Conch Republic.

The “conch honk” challenge is presented each spring by the Old Island Restoration Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving the architectural and cultural heritage of Key West. In the lush garden of the island’s Oldest House Museum, 322 Duval St., entrants vie to see who can coax the most impressive sounds from their “instrument.”

Remembering Tennessee. Internationally renowned playwright Tennessee Williams, who lived in Key West for more than 30 years, once said of his chosen home, “I work everywhere, but I work best here.” Explore his writing and life in the island city during the Tennessee Williams Birthday Celebration, with events scheduled throughout March.

Expected highlights include guided curator tours of the Tennessee Williams Museum, located at 513 Truman Ave. Birthday month activities also include screenings of films based on Williams’ plays, a walking tour of the playwright’s Key West, a lecture and readings, a theater production and a commemoration of the 112th anniversary of Williams’ March 26 birth.

What else is going on in Key West and the Keys over the next few months? Just check here — and then catch the PBS documentary and begin planning your next visit.

Want to help celebrate the 20th “birthday” of the fabulous Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory? Then be at 1316 Duval St. between midmorning and 2 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 21, for a kid-centric family fun day and free admission to the renowned attraction.

Twenty years ago, in January 2003, business partners George Fernandez and Sam Trophia debuted the 13,000-square-foot Key West facility — a wonderland devoted to the creatures sometimes called “flowers of the sky.”

The founders’ goal was simple yet profound: to educate and inspire visitors, who typically range from tiny children to seniors, by providing a close-up look at the incredible wonders of the butterfly world. Today, 20 years later, the conservatory still does just that.

In a climate-controlled 5,000-square-foot glass-enclosed habitat, it houses many hundreds of live butterflies from more than 60 species, plus over 20 varieties of exotic birds, in a breathtaking tropical garden that calls to mind a perfect, unspoiled rainforest.

Entering the facility, you’ll first explore educational displays that offer insights into aspects of the butterfly’s life — identification and country of origin, anatomy and physiology, and the awe-inspiring annual migration of the Monarchs.

But you’ll really feel the magic when you step into the butterfly habitat itself. There you can stroll among hundreds of delicate winged creatures, ranging from the glittering Blue Morpho to the vivid Emerald Swallowtail, as they soar and dip and dance between thousands of tropical plants and trees. It’s easy to lose track of time when you’re following their mesmerizing flight — and if you’re lucky, one of the colorful “flowers” might flutter to rest briefly on your arm or shoulder.

However, that’s not all. In one corner of the habitat, you can watch butterflies actually being born — getting a rare glimpse of the hatching process through the wide windows of the “miracle of metamorphosis” observatory.

Actually, the “hatching” of the center was as intricate and intriguing as that of a butterfly. George and Sam spent many years planning it, took research trips to 13 butterfly facilities throughout the world, and invested significant amounts of money and creativity into making it as perfect as possible.

In July of 2013, some other unique creatures joined the butterflies at the acclaimed attraction: two pink flamingos.

A male and a female, the breathtaking pink birds were bred in Toronto. Coincidentally, since the species is often associated with love and romance, the pair was born on Valentine’s Day 2012. Ultimately, they were dubbed Rhett and Scarlett.

Visitors can watch the lovely birds in their private pond as they “dance” — gently moving their feet to stir up food in the water — and enjoy their lives in the rainforest-like habitat.

As well as flamingos and butterflies, the conservatory also houses a stunning collection of Sam Trophia’s butterfly art. He has spent more than three decades preserving the beauty of the winged creatures in original artwork.

If you’re in Key West for the Jan. 21 “birthday party,” as well as viewing the conservatory’s inhabitants you can enjoy crafts and activities for kids and families, picnic-style food, games, giveaways and plenty of other fun for all ages.

But if you can’t be there in January, don’t worry — the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory is open year-round with offerings that include daily explorations, guided twilight tours and super-popular small-group “flamingle” encounters with Rhett and Scarlett.

So get a VIP preview here, and put the natural wonderland on the must-see list for your next trip to Key West. You’ll be SO glad you did!

To start the New Year off on a tasty note, Keys Voices presents a VIP preview of an upcoming culinary extravaganza written by travel blogger, cookbook author, adventurer and longtime Key West resident Donna Shields.

Donna’s own blog, Open Mind Adventure, is for those seeking the hidden gems of travel. For example, check out her 17 Best Key West Happy Hours for 2023 … but first, tempt your appetite with her insights here on one of Key West’s leading annual events.

If you’ve ever wanted to savor and sip the foods and wines of Argentina, that’s exactly what you can do at the 2023 Key West Food & Wine Festival, set for Jan. 25-29 on the subtropical island at the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys.

Now in its 14th year, the festival is sponsored by Ocean Sotheby’s International Realty and has won accolades from around the U.S. Most recently, it was named the  Best Wine Fest of 2022 in the USA Today Readers’ Choice Awards.

With a “Viva Argentina” theme this year, the agenda is jam-packed with events for foodies and wine enthusiasts alike — all taking place at enticing Key West hotspots and landmarks. Event tickets can be purchased individually, but hurry because this much fun won’t be available for long.

Wednesday, Jan. 25: The fun kicks off with a Malbec tasting led by a Master Sommelier, one of only 269 in the world today, and she will be available throughout the entire festival. Once you wet your whistle at the tasting, head over to the Welcome Reception and Carnival de Buenos Aires. The Gaucho Parade culminates with an extravagant party with handpicked wines from Argentina at the outdoor restaurant Viva Argentinian Steakhouse.

Thursday, Jan. 26: Master the art of making empanadas at the Empanada Making, Eating & Wine Lunch at Frita’s Garden. Now that’s a way to spend the afternoon! The evening’s star attraction is the Che Guevara Piattelli Vineyard Wine Dinner at the Banyan Tree Garden, where the theme is “From Argentine Marxism to Cuban Revolution.” A unique feature of this stunning event is that it’s produced totally by females, from the winemaker to the sommelier to the chef to the food historian.

Friday, Jan. 27: Chimichurri, the national sauce of Argentina, gets top billing at the Choripan & Chimichurri Lunch at Viva Argentinian Steakhouse. It’s a fiesta of sparkling wine and the beloved chorizo sausage. The evening event, held at the one-of-a-kind Lost Beach at Island Farm, is a traditional asado (the Argentine version of a BBQ) paying homage to Francis Mallmann, one of Argentina’s celebrity chefs.

Saturday, Jan. 28: Because the Thursday empanada-making event sold out so quickly, it’s been scheduled again for Saturday. And further demonstrating the popularity of these events, the Eva Peron Wine Lunch, held in the garden of the historic Audubon House & Tropical Gardens, is also sold out. Instead, foodies can savor the evening’s SLaM Grand Tasting at the Key West Lighthouse and Keeper’s Quarters, where wines from the San Juan, La Rioja and Mendoza regions will be featured alongside a curated selection of traditional foods.

(And FYI, because chimichurri will be served at multiple events throughout the festival, guests can vote on their favorite chef and version of the sauce for a chance to win a prize.)

Sunday, Jan. 29: The flavorful festival is capped by the Last Tango in Cayo Hueso Brunch, complete with tango dancers, at KAYA Island Eats’ Gran Patio Trasero. The featured beverage is at the Yerba Mate Ritual Bar, where you’ll learn how to make your own tea-like infusion from the traditional leaves. And a leisurely afternoon at the food and wine edition of the Key West Artisan Market, held directly across from the oceanfront Higgs Beach, is the perfect way to wind up your visit.

If you can’t make it to Key West this month for the Food & Wine Festival, put it on your calendar for January 2024. And in the meantime, check out the great food and drink to explore throughout the Florida Keys.

Attention, watersports enthusiasts: boating, fishing and nautical merchandise galore will be available at the 19th annual Big Pine & Lower Keys Nautical Expo. A popular annual “pop-up” outfitter of supplies for a wide variety of water activities, the open-air market is set for Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 14-15.

Running from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday and 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sunday, the event features items designed for sailors, boaters, anglers, kayakers and others who enjoy experiencing the Florida Keys’ unique seafaring environment — including, of course, divers and snorkelers immersed in the island chain’s fascinating underwater realm.

More than 100 vendors are expected to display and sell their wares at the event, which will be held on the grounds of the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce visitor center (mile marker 31 oceanside on Big Pine Key).

As well as supplies for just about every watersports pursuit imaginable, expo attendees can also find items to enhance a comfortable Florida Keys lifestyle. And that’s not all — talented Keys artisans will be on hand offering colorful clothing, jewelry and other unique temptations.

In addition to the items for sale, the family-friendly event includes live music by local and regional musicians and bands. And attendees can savor vendors’ Keys-style and casual food and beverages too, adding a picnic vibe to the weekend of outdoor fun.

Admission to the Nautical Expo and parking are free, and proceeds from the enticing event benefit the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce and its programs.

While the Expo takes place over a single January weekend each year, the Big Pine Key area also offers intriguing spots that can be explored at any time — some found in out-of-the-way places that seem worlds away from high-profile attractions and emporiums.

Lesser known and less visited, they’re wonderful settings for relaxing and discovering the quiet wonders of the Florida Keys environment.

For example, check out the Blue Hole. You’ll find this secluded oasis off Key Deer Boulevard at mile marker 30.5 bayside. An abandoned quarry with a layer of fresh water floating over salt water, the Blue Hole is attractive to a wide variety of wildlife.

Tiny Key deer drink there, and the watering hole’s other denizens include turtles, snakes, birds, fish and even the occasional alligator.

There’s a great view from the observation platform — or venture along the walking trail that leads deeper into the wild. Beyond the Blue Hole lie the hardwoods and subtropical foliage of Watson’s Hammock.

And no visit to the Big Pine area would be complete without a stop at Grimal Grove. The historic 2-acre tropical fruit grove, lying near mile marker 30.5, was first owned by inventor and recluse Adolf Grimal, who amassed hundreds of rare fruit trees and created raised garden beds and waterways for irrigation.

After his 1997 death, the property fell into a shambles. In 2013 Patrick Garvey and Growing Hope Initiative restored it as a tropical fruit park.

Today, under Patrick’s stewardship, Grimal Grove is believed to be the continental United States’ first and only breadfruit grove.

It features more than 30 breadfruit trees of five varieties — which not only can provide quality nourishment, but also are being used in the production of a specialty breadfruit vodka!

Guided excursions of Grimal Grove, showcasing subtropical and tropical fruits, frees and plants, are offered on request for $20 per person.

Want to know more about the one-of-a-kind attractions to be found in Big Pine and the Lower Keys? Just click here.

Sunny, breezy subtropical holidays in the Florida Keys & Key West are filled with warmth and good cheer throughout the 125-mile-long island chain. From Key Largo to Key West, the 2022 holiday season features spirited events such as lighted boat parades, historic inn tours, only-in-the Keys frivolity, sparkling waterfront celebrations and other island festivities.

In the weeks leading up to the holidays, check out the enchanting events listed here.

Now through Dec. 10: Zonta’s Festival of Trees. The Zonta Club of Marathon, a women’s service organization, offers a free-admission display of decorated trees at its 12th Annual Festival of Trees at Marathon Garden Club, 5270 Overseas Highway. Attractions also include “Lunch with the Grinch” Saturday, Dec. 10. The upscale ticketed “Toast to the Season” is scheduled that evening at the garden club with champagne, music, libations and tasty treats. A drawing for all trees and holiday baskets is set for 9 p.m. While admission to the Festival of Trees is free, raffle tickets can be purchased for a chance to win a favorite tree.

Now through Dec. 23: Old Town Trolley’s Holiday Sights & Festive Nights Tours. The popular green and orange trolleys, festively adorned with holiday lights, showcase Key West’s best-decorated neighborhoods, buildings and homes on fun-filled 60-minute excursions. Tours depart each evening from the island city’s Mallory Square at 6:30, 7, 8 and 8:30 p.m.

Dec. 9: Key West Art & Historical Society Holiday Bazaar. The Key West Art & Historical Society hosts its sixth annual concert and holiday shopping event on the sweeping porch and walkway of the historic Custom House Museum at 281 Front St. The 5-9 p.m. free-admission event features a holiday light show produced by Key West High School’s Conch 5 Studios, unique gifts crafted by local artisans, musicians, choirs, food, libations and photos with Santa.

Dec. 9, 10 and 11: Lighted Boat Parades. Lighted and festively decorated boats, from fishing craft and cruisers to tall ships, are to cruise waters surrounding the Florida Keys. Celebrate the season with the Holiday Lighted Boat Parade of Stock Island (Dec. 9); the Key Largo Boat Parade on Blackwater Sound, themed “A Cartoon Christmas”; the Schooner Wharf Bar/Absolut Vodka Lighted Boat Parade (Dec. 10) around the Key West Historic Seaport and harbor; or the Key Colony Beach Christmas Boat Parade (Dec. 11).

Dec. 9 and 16: Holiday Historic Inn Tours. Old Town Key West is filled with unique historic inns, and two Friday evenings of 6-8 p.m. tours offer a chance to glimpse lavish decorations and experience holiday cheer, treats at bed-and-breakfast properties and two popular Key West attractions.

Dec. 10: Pops in the Park Concert “Joy to the World.” Islamorada’s family-friendly, free-admission holiday concert, themed “Joy to the World,” offers traditional and pops music by the Florida Keys Community Concert Band. The Burton Bell Ringers are to be special guests. Attendees can bring chairs and blankets to the 4-5 p.m. outdoor concert at Founders Park’s amphitheater, mile marker 87 bayside.

Dec. 11: Christmas on the Sheriff’s Animal Farm. Children and adults love visiting the unique Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Animal Farm, just northeast of Key West at 5501 College Road on Stock Island. The farm, open 1-3 p.m. on the second and fourth Sundays of each month, is educational for visitors and a haven for feathered, furry and fluffy creatures that are nurtured and cared for by jail inmates. Holiday highlights include photos with Santa.

Dec. 15: Third Thursday Art Walk. Showcasing the area’s fine arts, music and culinary nuances, Islamorada’s Morada Way Arts & Cultural District features national and local artisans whose work is showcased in galleries at Morada Way between mile markers 81 and 82, as well as beer tastings and live music. Admission is free to this outdoor pre-holiday celebration. The 6-9 p.m. Art Walk is held the third Thursday of each month.

Dec. 17: Winter Wonderland at Crane Point. At Crane Point Hammock Museum & Nature Trails, 5550 Overseas Highway in Marathon, families can enjoy an evening winter wonderland. Attractions are to include reindeer ponies and Santa Claus, holiday decorations, a chocolate fountain, other seasonal treats and libations for purchase — plus a forecast of snow!

While this listing outlines a handful of the Florida Keys’ seasonal highlights, there are plenty of other colorful festivities to enjoy as well. A complete roster of holiday activities and special events throughout the Keys can be viewed here.

Maybe it’s because the Florida Keys, the southernmost islands in the continental United States, have never experienced a traditional white Christmas. Or it might be simply because Keys residents love to celebrate special occasions.

But whatever the reason, despite our subtropical climate, we go a little overboard with our holiday decorations (if you’ve ever seen an inflatable 10-foot-tall reindeer perched atop a small houseboat, you’ll know what I mean) and throw ourselves gleefully into extended merrymaking.

In fact, from Key Largo to Key West, the calendar is packed with events designed to spread seasonal cheer — including a traditional Islamorada favorite that features actual snow.

Yes, despite the Keys’ typically balmy winter temperatures, grownups and kids of all ages can delight in snow Friday, Dec. 2, during Islamorada’s annual Florida Keys Holiday Fest.

It takes place on the beach at Founders Park (located at mile marker 87 bayside), and its anticipated highlight is a 30-ton snow mountain that’s perfect for making subtropical snowballs (and taking snow-covered selfies!). The fun is set for 4-10 p.m., so there’s plenty of time to enjoy it.

But that’s not the only snow sighting you can expect at the seasonal celebration. Organizers are also planning a 35-foot-tall tree with “magical” snow blowing from its branches — and its ceremonial lighting is slated for 6 p.m., shortly after sunset.

Plus don’t miss the festive parade, now in its 18th year. The 2022 parade is themed “Celebrating the Holidays Through the Centuries (1823-2023)” in honor of the upcoming 200th anniversary of the establishment of the Keys’ Monroe County.

Scheduled to begin at 7:30 p.m., the parade will feature decorated floats, marching bands, antique cars and (of course) an appearance by jolly old St. Nick and his reindeer, who will make their grand entrance in a fire truck fully decked out for the holidays.

Musical and dance performances are to enliven the outdoor stage throughout the festival — along with contests to choose “Miss Sugar Plum Fairy” and “Mister Gingerbread Man,” and the top three and “people’s choice” for the elaborate (and delicious) gingerbread house entries.

Well-behaved four-legged companions are welcome to join two-legged “party animals” on the stage as they prance in their own Santa Paws Pet Parade and vie for prizes for best (ahem!) doggone holiday attire.

The on-site bazaar promises gift items, jewelry, crafts, baked goods and gourmet baskets — a great opportunity to find that perfect item for someone special. The highly anticipated ornament silent auction features 50 hand-painted ceramic pieces created and donated by local artists. You can bid on these one-of-a-kind Keys keepsakes until 9 p.m.

As if all that isn’t enough, adults can sample a wide variety of food items, enjoy hot buttered rum and craft beer, or sip fine wines at the always popular Vino Village. And Santa’s Sweet Shoppe will offer tempting coffees, decadent desserts and treats.

Admission to the evening of revelry is free. (FYI, the festival is also plastic-free — so please bring a reusable non-glass drink container if possible.)

Enjoyable as it always is, Holiday Fest is just one of the upcoming island-style celebrations of the season. Between now and the new year, you’ll find events designed to jingle your bells all around the Florida Keys. “Keys Voices” will present highlights in the future posts — but you can get a preview by checking out the calendar here.

More than half a century ago, Captain Gainey Maxwell conceived a way to encourage people to visit and fish Florida Keys waters — and then come back to do it again. He called it the Key West Fishing Tournament.

The captain, who passed away several years ago after a life rich in experience, had an impressive set of credentials by the time he founded the tournament in 1965. A Navy veteran who ran fishing boats while he served, he subsequently skippered the Lookout III, a 50-footer with two staterooms for overnight trips.

He formatted the tournament in part to showcase the incredible variety of species awaiting anglers in Keys waters.

“I started it to get people interested in coming back and catching different fish,” Captain Gainey said during a 2015 interview. “We’d go fish over wrecks or in shallow water just to change and get different kinds of fish.

“The main thing is just to enjoy it and have fun doing it,” he added.

Today, an impressive 46 backcountry and offshore species are targeted during the free-entry tournament’s eight-month span. The 2023 challenge begins Dec. 1, 2022, and continues through July 31, 2023.

With divisions for men, women, junior anglers ages 10 to 15 and Pee Wees under 10 years old, the event provides a test of skill for seasoned anglers while developing newcomers’ interest in the sport.

It’s also known for motivating parents to introduce their favorite on-the-water activity to their kids. Family members from several generations sometimes compete together, bonding over the shared pursuit.

Among the most motivated young anglers is Miami’s Julia Bernstein. Fishing in the Pee Wee division in 2021, when she was 10 years old, she eclipsed her competitors to earn the division’s Master Angler award — for achievements including a remarkable 104 releases. Her catches included a 23.8-pound Jack Crevalle on 30-pound line that earned a tournament weight record, a 24.8-pound barracuda on 20-pound line that earned divisional “heaviest fish” honors, four other “heaviest fish” winners and three division leaders.

Julia continued her winning streak in the 2022 tournament, then competing in the junior division and earning the division’s out-of-county Master Angler designation with accomplishments that included 41 releases. Notable among them was a 20-pound permit caught on 12-pound line.

In the 2023 challenge as in past years, anglers that post the heaviest catch of each of 33 species earn recognition and trophies. Six different line classes and three artificial casting categories further heighten the competition.

Other awards recognize the most releases of barracuda, blue marlin, bonefish, dolphin fish, permit, sailfish and tarpon. In keeping with the Keys’ eco-conscious ethic to protect the fishery, the tournament strongly encourages the release of game fish and will not recognize any killed sailfish, marlin, spearfish, tarpon, redfish, warsaw grouper or shark for award purposes.

The respected tournament draws at least a thousand entries each year, and entrants can fish from a boat, bridge or land. Visiting and resident fishing aficionados can enter their catches at a tournament weigh station in the Lower Keys or Key West — OR they can enter by submitting photos of their fish at this link.

All participants receive certificates noting their catches and qualify for a variety of awards, including the coveted Master Angler titles.

Now celebrating its 58th anniversary, the Key West Fishing Tournament still adheres to the principles and purpose that Gainey Maxwell established for it in 1965.

“Gainey Maxwell had a vision to organize a tournament to promote the diverse sportfishing in the Keys,” said current tournament director Doris Harris. “Now, more than 50 years later, the event upholds his goal of showcasing the Keys fishery and providing a positive angling experience.”

The continental United States’ only contiguous living coral barrier reef, which parallels the Florida Keys, hosts huge populations of tropical fish and other creatures. Purple gorgonians, giant boulder corals, elegant finger corals, colorful shrimp, shy and skittish lobsters, bashful nurse sharks and rays provide an incomparable display of undersea life to divers and snorkelers.

The Keys reef is easy to get to and easy to navigate, while the warm clear water makes a long dive comfortable and enjoyable.

Around Halloween, however, the region’s underwater beauty goes hand in hand with offbeat fun.

That’s because Halloween in the Keys brings a popular yet unusual event: the Underwater Pumpkin Carving Contest (yes, involving actual pumpkins) in Key Largo waters. (Key Largo, by the way, is the northernmost part of the island chain and is renowned as the Dive Capital of the World.)

Set for Saturday, Oct. 29, the contest is now in its 24th year and features intrepid “artists” descending approximately 25 feet beneath the surface. Their task: transform orange pumpkins into masterful sculptures incorporating frightening facial features, playful denizens of the sea or traditional toothy grins.

As well as design challenges, participants must contend with two other elements. First, hollow pumpkins are naturally buoyant. In other words, they tend to float — which means subsea sculptors must work with a potentially moving target AND keep it from drifting away.

Second, as seasoned pumpkin carvers know, hollowing out the gourds’ interior reveals seeds and stringy “guts.” These float too, and often attract quick-swimming reef fish that move in for a closer look and a nibble on the intriguing tidbits — so dodging finned “spectators” becomes part of the artistic process.

Each year, however, the pumpkin carvers not only persevere but report having a great time — competing to craft the most innovative creations to win prizes and bragging rights.

Previous years’ pumpkin entries have featured everything from traditional triangle eyes and toothless grins to shark-mouthed sneers, dolphin silhouettes and many other sea creatures. One crafty past competitor even came up with a “fishy” skeleton.

Certified divers can join in the Oct. 29 competition with Amoray Dive Resort, located at mile marker 104.5 in Key Largo. The two-location dive includes tanks, weights and a pumpkin ready for carving. Reservations are an absolute MUST.

Once the carving is complete, the top pumpkin chosen by the experienced judges (who double as the crew of the Amoray Diver dive boat) earns its creator a complimentary dive trip for two.

If you’re an advanced- or wreck-certified diver, Key Largo waters also offer another one-of-a-kind underwater adventure: the chance to dive on the 510-foot U.S. Navy ship Spiegel Grove, the world’s third-largest ship ever intentionally sunk to become an artificial reef. The vessel has enthralled trained divers since June 2002, when the Key Largo community rallied to sink it as the backbone of a new reef ecosystem.

Designed to carry cargo and craft for amphibious landings, the Spiegel Grove operated from 1956 until its decommissioning in 1989, and helped enforce America’s Cold War strategy by rushing troops and equipment to support friendly governments.

Today, the venerable vessel rests in 130 feet of water about six miles off Key Largo. Enveloped by delicate corals and invertebrates, the top deck is about 60 feet below the ocean’s surface.

The ship is so wide that, on many days, the view of the superstructure will fade into a green-blue abyss. On the clearest days, however, the sandy bottom is visible.

For wreck divers who intend to enter the upper deck areas of the Spiegel Grove (which were specially prepared to lessen the risk of such activity), knowledge and proof of certifications regarding diving in overhead environments is required.

Whether you’re coming to the Florida Keys to carve a pumpkin underwater, explore a unique reef ecosystem or embark upon an only-in-the-Keys shipwreck dive, you’ll find plenty of professional dive operators to help you immerse yourself in the underwater realm. For more information, just click here.

One October in Key West, I spotted a dog impersonating an iguana. A man garbed like King Tut strolling down the street beside a mermaid wearing sequined gauze and seashells. Five slightly intoxicated guys in pink tutus and bushy beards. Two bewildered goldfish (you might ask how a goldfish can look bewildered, but these did!) swimming atop a pseudo coral reef made out of reef-printed shower curtains. And so much more that it defies description.

You guessed it … Fantasy Fest was underway.

I have a strong affection for Fantasy Fest. It’s an extravagant display of Key West’s creativity, individuality and flamboyant spirit — where people of all ages, shapes and levels of attractiveness can “play dress up” and feel great doing it.

The over-the-top 10-day festival is internationally recognized for its elaborate costume competitions, live music and theater shows, masquerade parties and lavish grand parade featuring motorized floats and exotically attired marching groups. There’s even a costume contest for pets (where I encountered those bewildered goldfish).

Each year, a different theme provides inspiration for costumes and floats. Fantasy Fest 2022 takes place Oct. 21-30, themed “Cult Classics & Cartoon Chaos” (and believe me, a lighthearted dollop of “chaos” is not unlikely).

Participants are encouraged to draw costume ideas from the festival theme, portraying characters inspired by favorite cartoons and television or film productions with a cult following. Influences might include animated offerings like “Family Guy” or “Underdog,” or Hollywood classics like “Mad Max” or “Pulp Fiction.”

The fun begins Friday, Oct. 21, with the “Thanks for the Memories” Royal Coronation Ball to crown the Fantasy Fest king and queen, held at the Truman Waterfront’s Coffee Butler Amphitheater. Aspiring royals earn their titles by raising funds for the Florida Keys’ A.H. of Monroe organization.

Key West’s Bahamian roots are celebrated that weekend with Friday and Saturday’s family-friendly Goombay street party in historic Bahama Village. Attractions include nonstop live music, food and a spirited salute to the cultural connection between Key West and the Bahamas.

And on Sunday “zombies” are to prowl the island streets, when the Zombie Bike Ride gives a pedal-powered twist to ghoulish fare ranging from Bela Lugosi films to television’s “The Walking Dead.”

Subsequent festival highlights include Wednesday’s Pet Masquerade, where costumed dogs, cats, birds and more prance across the stage at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater. You’ll find people dressed as animals and animals dressed as people during this family-style evening of engaging antics.

Contestants might impersonate Scooby Doo and his cohorts, cartoon feline Garfield, a flock of Angry Birds or even the fantastic Wallace and Gromit of British film fame.

Thursday brings the lavish Headdress Ball, also at the amphitheater, featuring prizes for the best masks and headdresses. Typically sporting feathers, glitter and glitzy accessories, many entries tower above their wearers’ heads in a fine display of design artistry.

The cartoon chaos takes to the streets Friday, Oct. 28, during the Captain Morgan Masquerade March, sometimes called the locals’ march for the large number of Florida Keys residents that participate each year — sharing their costuming creativity and party-loving spirit with visiting festival fans. Together, the vividly garbed marchers promenade from Key West’s Frances Street to an after-party at the Green Parrot Bar on Whitehead Street.

Other scheduled standouts include the mini-but-mighty “Smallest Parade in the Universe,” tutu and toga parties, multigenre musical salutes, themed costume contests and the fun-filled Fantasy Market at Truman Waterfront Park.

The festivities will be most spectacular, however, during the Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade, when brilliantly-conceived floats travel Key West’s downtown streets to the cheers of some 60,000 spectators. Walking groups dressed in bright robes and feathers add fire and color to the procession — as do the cleverly costumed revelers gleefully following the floats.

All reflecting the event’s freewheeling creativity, they start at Whitehead and Southard streets, travel down Whitehead toward the Gulf of Mexico, turn onto Front Street and then proceed along Duval Street to the Atlantic Ocean.

Past parade showstoppers have included a “living orchestra” of instruments conducted by an oversized Mozart replica, a prehistoric “Flintstones” ensemble and a massive dragon float and marchers saluting television’s epic “Game of Thrones.”

Whether you’re heading to Key West for Fantasy Fest 2022, planning to glimpse events from home via social media and webcams, or already vowing not to miss next year’s fun, enjoy a full-scale festival preview by clicking here.

On May 18, 1991, Queen Elizabeth II paid a visit to the Florida Keys. Thirty-one years later, as the world mourns the British monarch’s death, it seems only fitting to recall that day — and Her Majesty’s encounter with the unofficial queen of the island chain.

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip visited Fort Jefferson in Dry Tortugas National Park, a remote enclave of seven tiny islands that lies 70 miles west of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico.

They traveled aboard the magnificent Royal Yacht Britannia, making the Tortugas a brief stopover on the way to New Orleans after spending several days in Miami. As is typical of the laid-back Keys, the pomp and circumstance at Fort Jefferson was significantly more low-key than it was in Miami.

Queen Elizabeth and her party arrived via tenders from the Britannia, which had anchored just off Fort Jefferson. On Garden Key, the Tortugas’ largest island and home of the massive Civil War-era fort, she was greeted by the Keys’ “queen”: Wilhelmina Harvey, the first woman mayor of the island chain’s Monroe County, a beloved 79-year-old grande dame.

And I was there to witness and photograph the historic moment.

Wilhelmina, who was born in Key West (also known as the southernmost city in the continental U.S.), was renowned for her candid charm. She made the 70-mile trip to the Tortugas via helicopter — the first time, she admitted, that she had ever flown in one.

About an hour before Queen Elizabeth’s arrival, Wilhelmina and the small contingent of assembled media (including me) were given a rather strict briefing about how the royal couple must be greeted. We media types were absolutely forbidden to shout or ask the queen to turn one way or another for a better photo or video angle. And we couldn’t move an inch from our designated spots.

When the great the moment arrived, the tenders carrying the queen and her party tied up to the Fort Jefferson dock and the royal couple stepped ashore.

Wilhelmina was wearing a tropical white dress with a red shawl and a wide-brimmed hat to help fend off the subtropical sun. She welcomed Her Majesty to the Keys by presenting her with a conch shell — the traditional symbol of the island chain.

My goal was to get a picture of the two of them together with the shell so we could see both faces. But alas, the queen faced Wilhelmina during the entire presentation and never turned.

National Park Service ranger Matt Fagan spent about 45 minutes escorting Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip around Fort Jefferson. He hit all the highlights including the fort’s distinction that, despite its massive size and role as a critical defense point in controlling access to the Gulf of Mexico, it had never been fired upon.

The royal party also saw the cell where an American physician was imprisoned for supposedly conspiring with John Wilkes Booth to assassinate U.S. President Abraham Lincoln in 1865. Four years afterward, Dr. Samuel Mudd was pardoned by President Andrew Johnson — but despite repeated efforts by Mudd’s descendants, his conviction was never expunged. His exact role in Lincoln’s murder, if any, is still officially unknown.

As Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip made their way back to the tenders to return to the royal yacht, a group of campers gathered on the Fort Jefferson beach. They quietly gave the “royal wave” as the tenders departed for the Britannia.

 As far as I know, the British monarch never publicly commented on her Florida Keys visit. But whenever I saw Wilhelmina, she stated that the opportunity to meet Queen Elizabeth was “one of the most beautiful things that ever happened in my life.”

Wilhelmina died in May 2005 at age 93, while Queen Elizabeth passed away Sept. 8, 2022, at age 96 — after a remarkable 70 years on the throne. And though both the British queen and the unofficial queen of the Florida Keys are gone, their meeting in the Dry Tortugas remains an unforgettable moment in Keys history.