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.

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.

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.

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.

Whether you’re a shipwreck fan, treasure seeker or history buff — or simply enjoy fascinating tales of real-life adventure — you should definitely be in Key West Sept. 2-6.

Why? To help commemorate the 400th anniversary of the sinking of the Spanish treasure galleon Nuestra Señora de Atocha.

The Atocha sank during a September 1622 hurricane in the Florida Straits southwest of Key West, where it remained until its discovery by shipwreck salvor Mel Fisher and his crew in 1985.

They uncovered the priceless “main pile” of the Atocha’s treasure and artifacts after an exhaustive 16-year search. Underwater archaeologists and divers recovered quantities of gold and silver coins and bars, contraband emeralds, religious and secular jewelry, cannons and other weapons, pottery and rare navigational instruments from the Atocha site.

The discovery was internationally hailed as the shipwreck find of the 20th century. The salvage team, which included Mel’s wife Deo and their children, was nicknamed the “golden crew.”

In September 2022, history and shipwreck buffs can mark the historic anniversary with cultural and adventure-filled events featuring members of the Fisher family and the fabled crew.

The Sept. 2-6 commemoration, called Mel Fisher Days, takes place at a number of Key West locations. It honors the legacy of Mel Fisher as well as the Atocha and other vessels from Spain’s 1622 fleet that were lost in the Florida Straits.

An opening ceremony and Atocha-themed film screening are set for 7 p.m. Friday, Sept. 2, at Key West’s Tropic Cinema. Events are to be guided by Kim Fisher and Taffi Fisher Abt, son and daughter of the late Mel and Deo, who are carrying on the family’s shipwreck searches and heritage.

On Saturday, dive and treasure enthusiasts can meet members of the “golden crew” during a late afternoon gathering and charity fundraiser at the Schooner Wharf Bar, a waterfront watering hole and traditional hangout for the Fisher team.

(Charity fundraising, by the way, is a vital part of Mel Fisher Days. To date, the annual celebration has raised nearly $175,000 for organizations devoted to children and their health and wellbeing.)

Highlights of the Schooner Wharf gathering include the debut and book signing of “Today’s the Day — The Mel Fisher Story” by veteran Florida Keys journalist Wendy Tucker, who helped tell the world about the Atocha find. The presentation of the prestigious Mel Fisher Lifetime Achievement Award, plus auctions, games and contests round out the attractions.

Mel Fisher Days’ centerpiece is Sunday’s daylong 1622 Fleet 400th Anniversary Speakers Symposium at the Key West Marriott Beachside Hotel. Noted experts on the Atocha and 1622 fleet will share insights on topics including the fleet’s storied history, marine archaeology, shipwreck artifact conservation and the latest research on the tens of thousands of silver coins recovered from the Atocha. And attendees won’t want to miss Taffi Fisher Abt’s personal presentation titled “Living the Dream.”

That evening, ticket holders can join the Fisher family and the symposium speakers for a banquet on the hotel beach.

Events Monday, Sept. 5, include an all-day Fisher family meet-and-greet and book signing at Mel Fisher’s Shipwreck Treasures on Duval Street. Featured author Wendy Tucker will be joined by nearly a dozen other treasure-related authors during the day — including internationally acclaimed shipwreck coin expert Carol Tedesco.

The commemoration concludes Tuesday, Sept. 6, after the unveiling and installation of a memorial plaque at Key West’s Mallory Square. The plaque salutes the spirit of adventure displayed by Mel Fisher and his “golden crew,” and honors those who died when the 1622 vessels sank exactly four centuries before.

Don’t miss the opportunity to mark the 400th anniversary of an iconic moment in Key West history — and pay tribute to one of the island’s legendary characters. For a complete schedule of Mel Fisher Days events, click here.

Early September signals the end of summer for people in much of the U.S. But in Key West, that balmy summertime vibe continues uninterrupted. In fact, for several thousand women, Key West is the place to be in early September.

It’s the place to enjoy adventures in Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico waters, entertainment and parties with like-minded people, and relaxation on an accepting subtropical island — all during the island city’s annual Womenfest.

Described as one of North America’s largest gatherings of lesbians and their friends, the 2022 festival is scheduled Wednesday through Sunday, Sept. 7-11.

Womenfest was created over 20 years ago to give singles, couples and groups of women a chance to experience camaraderie and shared activities in a warm and welcoming environment.

“Feeling supported and celebrated has always been the mission; that’s why Womenfest exists,” said Fritzie Estimond, who ably coordinates the event for its presenter, the acclaimed Key West Business Guild. “Come to Womenfest with an open mind and be prepared to make lasting friendships, in safe spaces where we are truly celebrated.”

For attendees arriving early, a pre-festival sunset sail is set for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 6, on the SV Argo Navis luxury catamaran sailing yacht — and the word “luxury” is not an exaggeration, since the 75-foot-long vessel is the last word in elegance. The two-hour women-only cruise includes tempting food and drink pairings (be sure to sample the luscious bean-to-bar chocolates!).

The merriment’s official kickoff is a poolside welcome party featuring DJ Citizen Jane and planned for 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 7. The women-only fun takes place at the festival’s host hotel, the Silver Palms Inn, and provides a great opportunity for Womenfest visitors to mingle with locals and get insights into the festival’s (and the island’s) can’t-miss experiences.

What’s next on the festival schedule? For active attendees, attractions include the second annual Ultimate Beach Bash and Cornhole Tournament at Lagerheads Beach Bar on Simonton Beach; and a clothing-optional sandbar snorkel trip aboard the catamaran Blu Q.

The entertainment roster also includes the “Women, Words & Art Poetry Reading and Art Exhibition”and a narrated bike tour exploring elements of Key West’s literary side through the city’s Art in Public Places sidewalk poetry installations.

“This year we have implemented more cultural events, so I implore visitors to include those events as part of their ‘must dos’ and experience a mix of everything Womenfest has to offer,” Fritzie advised.

Festival-goers can spend their evenings enjoying high-energy parties — including one whose “dress code” mandates tutus (yes, really!) — at the popular Aquaplex venues and Mangoes, located in Key West’s LGBTQ entertainment district around the 700 and 800 blocks of Duval Street.

Among Womenfest’s anticipated highlights is a Saturday night show by Sarah Potenza and Katie Kadan, both critically acclaimed singer/songwriters and alums of television’s “The Voice,” at the Key West Theater. (Sarah, BTW, also competed on “America’s Got Talent.”)

Closing events Sunday, Sept. 11, include a noon “Drunken Drag Brunch” at Mangoes Restaurant — where both the local drag entertainers and the special brunch menu (with craft cocktails) are sure to be stellar.

All good things must come to an end, even Womenfest — but the festival finale is worth waiting for. At 4 p.m. Sunday, visiting women can join Key Westers in enjoying an island tradition: the beloved Sunday Tea Dance at La Te Da.

Want to know more about the upcoming Womenfest festivities? For details, including a complete schedule of events, just click here.

There’s a new “Papa” Hemingway in the island city where legendary author Ernest Hemingway lived for most of the 1930s. White-bearded Floridian Jon Auvil won the 2022 Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, the undisputed highlight of Key West’s annual Hemingway Days celebration.

Hemingway Days salutes the vigorous lifestyle and literary legacy of the Nobel Prize-winning author, who wrote enduring classics including “For Whom the Bell Tolls” and “To Have and Have Not” during his Key West years.

It was Jon Auvil’s eighth attempt at winning the Look-Alike title, and it wasn’t an easy victory. But ultimately, after two preliminary rounds and the hard-fought finals, the 65-year-old real estate attorney from Dade City triumphed over 124 other entrants.

Look-Alike contenders were judged by past contest winners at Sloppy Joe’s Bar, the famed Duval Street saloon where Hemingway and his cohorts frequently gathered.

Crowds of spectators cheered enthusiastically for their favorites as the entrants paraded onstage at the bar and took turns speaking. Most tried to emulate the author in his later-years “Papa” persona with full beards, rugged demeanors and the sportsman’s garb or heavy wool sweaters associated with him.

Some performed song parodies designed to demonstrate their worthiness to win. One finalist even accompanied himself on a harmonica as he sang a Hemingway-themed spoof of the 1982 classic “Bad to the Bone.”

Many “aspiring Ernests” have competed for years, likening the annual July contest to a reunion with good friends. Some are drawn as much by the brotherhood that exists among the “Papas” as the chance to win. Look-Alike wives generally reunite with their fellow “Mamas” in Key West as well.

The closeness of their bond was illustrated by the heavy cream-colored sweater Jon wore when he won, and the poignant story behind it. The sweater belonged to Bob Doughty, the 2005 Look-Alike Contest winner, who passed away several years ago. His widow Randy chose Jon to wear Bob’s “Hemingway sweater” — and he believes it helped propel him to victory.

“It helped me because of the lady who honored me with her decision for me to wear it,” Jon said. “She sat there and watched me win this tonight in her late husband Bob’s sweater.”

As well as appearance, Jon said he shared other traits with Ernest Hemingway including a love of fishing. He admitted he has also tried his hand at writing fiction and a bit of nonfiction.

“Of course, every man wants to write like Hemingway,” Jon said. “He represents a lot — romance, masculinity, sports, love of the sea, love of a woman, love of children … life.”

Speaking of writing, the new “Papa” wasn’t the only winner during Hemingway Days. Nick Henke of St. Louis, Missouri, earned top honors in the Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition, a literary highlight held in conjunction with the festival.

His accomplishment was announced during Hemingway Days’ traditional evening of prose and poetry readings; his story titled “A Lot of Carrefours” was chosen over 775 other American and international submissions.

Lorian Hemingway, Ernest Hemingway’s author granddaughter, has spearheaded the literary competition since it began some 40 years ago. Nick’s story impressed the judges, she explained, in part for its lack of artifice, ability to depict vulnerability and brilliant ending.

“It’s an excellent piece of writing — very nuanced and intelligent — and there’s a lot of heart in it that is understated, but clearly present,” Lorian said.

Sincere congratulations to Jon Auvil and Nick Henke — one who shares “Papa’s” appearance and passion for fishing, and one who shares his talent for crafting important stories.

For those who weren’t in Key West for this year’s Hemingway Days (or who were, and want to return), Hemingway Days 2023 is scheduled July 18-23.

For nearly a century, Key West has been a haven and an inspiration for some of the United States’ most influential writers. But none was more influential than Ernest Hemingway, who lived and wrote on the island for most of the 1930s.

Fans of adventurous living and masterful writing can celebrate Hemingway’s legacy Tuesday through Sunday, July 19-24. Each year, the Hemingway Days festival salutes the author’s vigorous Key West lifestyle, sporting pursuits and extraordinary creative talent.

As many as 150 burly, bearded contestants are expected to compete in the annual Hemingway® Look-Alike Contest at Sloppy Joe’s Bar. So expect to see dozens of “Ernests” hanging out at the historic saloon where Hemingway often enjoyed cocktails with cohorts — and whose original owner was his good friend and fishing companion, Joe Russell.

The contest’s preliminary rounds are set for 6:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, July 21 and 22, with finalists facing off at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 23.

Held in conjunction with the festival is the Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition coordinated by Ernest’s granddaughter, author Lorian Hemingway. Each year the contest awards $2,500 to emerging writers, with the winners to be announced — and the top story given its first public reading — at 6 p.m. Wednesday, July 20, at Key West’s Monroe County Public Library.

The announcement will be paired with another can’t-miss event for fans of fine writing: the acclaimed Key West Poetry Guild’s annual showcase of Hemingway’s little-known poetry and their own work.

The festival also features two “museum days” where visitors can view a unique Hemingway exhibit at Key West’s Custom House Museum — plus 59 original pen-and-ink drawings by marine wildlife artist Guy Harvey that provide a visual narrative to the author’s classic novel, “The Old Man and the Sea.”

Speaking of the sea, anglers can share “Papa’s” passion for deep-sea fishing during the Perry Hotel & Marina Key West Marlin Tournament, set for Wednesday through Saturday, July 20-23. Participants can pursue marlin and spearfish, sailfish, tuna, dolphin fish and wahoo while competing for a whopping $50,000 in guaranteed cash prizes.

Among other festival attractions are Sloppy Joe’s offbeat “Running of the Bulls” (spoiler alert: it’s more of a stroll than a run, and it features scores of Hemingways and several manmade bulls), a commemoration (with cake!) on the 123rd anniversary of Hemingway’s July 21 birth, a street fair along the Duval Street blocks he once walked, and a 5k run and paddleboard race that recall his sporting lifestyle.

Ernest Hemingway lived in Key West from 1931 until late 1939, penning literary classics including “For Whom the Bell Tolls” and “To Have and Have Not” — the latter set primarily in the island city he called home. So it’s no surprise that several Key West sites are associated with his presence.

The best-known is the Spanish colonial villa at 907 Whitehead St. where he lived with his second wife Pauline. Now a registered National Historic Landmark, it’s open to the public as the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum. Its notable features include the island’s first swimming pool and a colony of cats — many of them six-toed — that are descended, so the story goes, from a sea captain’s feline given to the author.

Hemingway wrote many of his best-known works in the second-story studio that adjoins the Whitehead Street house. The home that nurtured the legendary writer’s talent is well worth a visit, and guided tours are offered daily.

Many Hemingway fans also seek out the onetime Key West Arena, located at the corner of Thomas and Petronia streets in Bahama Village, the site of open-air neighborhood boxing matches that Hemingway sometimes refereed. Today the popular Blue Heaven Restaurant, where the food is “Caribbean casual” and the Key lime pie is world-renowned, occupies the former arena site.

Ernest Hemingway might have left Key West in late 1939, but his legacy lingers on. Just ask the Look-Alikes who flock to Sloppy Joe’s, the writers who followed him seeking creative inspiration, or anyone who has ever walked the halls and grounds of his island home.

Hundreds of divers and snorkelers explored part of the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef Saturday, July 9, while rocking to a unique sub-sea concert that promoted reef protection. (Yes, a concert. And it’s unlike any other dive or snorkel experience on the planet.)

It’s called the Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival, and it takes place each year about 6 miles south of Big Pine Key at Looe Key Reef — one of the most spectacular areas of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.

Established in 1990, the sanctuary is an environmental blessing that protects the waters surrounding the entire Keys island chain.

And the concert? Created to encourage coral reef protection and environmentally responsible diving, it’s presented each year by the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce and coordinated by Keys radio station US1 104.1 FM. Now in its 38th year, the marine-themed music fest debuted in the mid-1980s — and ever since, attendees have agreed that it makes the already wonderful Keys underwater experience even better.

This year as in the past, the incomparable concert drew several hundred divers and snorkelers to enjoy the sound of music while discovering the ecosystem that lies beneath the sea.

The festival began Friday night with a kickoff gathering at Mote Marine Laboratory’s Lower Keys facility, where attendees learned about Mote’s coral cultivation and reef restoration efforts that are underway in the island chain. Saturday morning, they grabbed their gear and boarded boats heading for Looe Key Reef.

How did the festival work? Music broadcast by the radio station was piped underwater via special speakers suspended beneath boats above the reef, providing a “submerged soundtrack” for participants. And because sound travels faster in water than it does in the air, it had an ethereal and multidirectional aspect that was fascinating to hear.

Swimming among colorful tropical fish and coral formations, divers and snorkelers listened to sea-focused offerings that included the Beatles’ “Yellow Submarine,” the Zac Brown Band’s “Island Song,” and the themes from “Gilligan’s Island” and “The Little Mermaid.”

The latter was particularly appropriate, because some divers spotted several “mermaids” beneath the waves. Joined by other costumed participants dressed as sea creatures, they mimicked playing musical instruments underwater —adding an appealing visual component to the soundscape.

But it’s not just divers and snorkelers who appreciated the enhanced marine environment. Even fish on the reef reacted positively, according to fest-goers, seemingly swaying to the music as they swam.

While enjoying the aquatic experience, enthusiasts also received valuable insights into preserving and protecting the Keys’ rich coral reef ecosystem.

Diver awareness announcements throughout the broadcast stressed the importance of not touching corals or leaving litter underwater, using mooring buoys instead of anchoring when boating, respecting dive flags, and other ways of minimizing environmental impacts while exploring the reef.

“The Underwater Music Festival is a one-of-a-kind event that immerses snorkelers and divers in the beauty and splendor of the third-largest coral reef in the world,” said Steve Miller, executive director of the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce and programmer of the festival’s playlist.

“Equally important,” Miller advised, “the music underwater, along with the mermaids and other visual attractions, helps draw attention to the message: how to protect and save the reef while there’s still time.”

I recently got back from a conference in Phoenix, where the temperature was 112 degrees. Arizona residents might say, “Oh, but it’s a dry heat; it’s not so bad” — a statement that leaves me trying not to roll my eyes.

After departing Phoenix’s oven-like atmosphere, landing in Key West and exiting my plane, I was ecstatic as the island’s balmy ocean breezes (and high temps in the “pleasantly moist 80s”) welcomed me back home. In fact, it inspired my traditional happy dance!

Even in August, our temperatures rarely hover above 90 degrees. However, there’s one summertime event that definitely raises the energy level, heat quotient and vibe of the island. Tropical Heat, coordinated by the Key West Business Guild, is by far the steamiest annual five-day event for gay men ages 21 and over that takes place in Key West!

The decadent all-male theme parties, pool parties, clothing-optional events and adult-oriented entertainment showcase the island’s stellar LGBTQ venues. In addition to all the scheduled events, attendees can also enjoy our many other activities on land and sea.

This year’s festivities, designed to entertain revelers with a sizzling long weekend of all-male adult events, is scheduled Wednesday through Sunday, Aug. 10-14.

The island’s gay-o-sphere begins to heat up at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10, with an official kick-off party at the Island House Resort (1129 Fleming St.). You can expect lots of delicious complimentary hors d’oeuvres, shots and some fantastic giveaways — plus a weather forecast that calls for a 100 percent chance of “raining men!”

Festival fans can cool down Thursday with an all-male clothing-optional excursion aboard the Blu Q. The four-hour sailing trip offers amazing snorkeling (optional) and stops at some tranquil sandbars and other uncrowded locales — perfect for a skinny dip for those so inclined.

Thursday night’s sizzling roster of events includes a new party at Mangoes restaurant (700 Duval St.). Attendees at the “SuperGay Party” are encouraged to show up in their favorite superhero costumes. Locals and Key West visitors usually go all out with their costumes, so I’m expecting a very entertaining and intriguing evening of people-watching.

The fun and frolic continue Friday with an afternoon “Splash” pool party at the Bourbon St. Pub (724 Duval St.), followed by evening events including a sunset sail, drag shows, and sultry late-night dance parties at some of the island’s LGBTQ venues.

Saturday at noontime, the Island House Resort stages its “Skinny Dip Pool Party” with complimentary ice-cold shots and hot raffle prizes (Speedos are optional).

The red-hot festival continues Sunday, featuring an always hilarious “Drunken Drag Brunch: Tropical Heat Edition” at Mangoes from noon to 3 p.m., a daytime snorkeling sail and a sunset cruise aboard the Blu Q, and Key West’s legendary 4 p.m. Tea Dance at La Te Da (1125 Duval St.).

Closing events will include shows and gatherings at clubs in the “Pink Triangle,” an area of LGBTQ bars, entertainment venues and shops around the 700 block of Key West’s renowned Duval Street.

Tropical Heat all-access VIP passes are available for $99 per person, or attendees can pay individual cover charges for specific events.

With the V.I.P. band/pass, you’ll receive admission or discounted entry to all parties and a five-day pass to use the Island House Resort’s pool, hot tubs, sauna and spacious sundeck with cooling misters (love them!). The property also has terrific food and ice-cold libations, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy all the festivities.

Whether you “like it hot” or would rather just chill, I hope your next island visit includes plenty of “only in the Florida Keys” experiences and opportunities to have a fabulous time. After all, there’s no better summer getaway spot than Key West and the Keys!

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