July is so much fun in Key West. The average temperatures can be a bit steamy, but there’s always an air-conditioned place to pop into to enjoy a beverage and listen to live music. I may be partial, but I think July is the best time to visit Key West. Partial… because it is my birthday month… but Key West is pretty special any month of the year. But what is there to do in Key West in July?
Even with a few rainy days, this is a great time of year to visit the island. There are festivals happening most of the month. Towards the end of the month is Hemingway Days. Be sure to check out our article all about this amazing festival. Of course, July is in the middle of hurricane season, so prepare for the possibility of rain. As with any month, Key West weather is unpredictable and changes on the hour.
Plan a trip filled with lots of fun. Come for the Key Lime festival and check out the pie-eating contest. Or, plan a trip during the Fourth and see awesome fireworks displays on Higgs Beach. July and August are some of Key West’s busiest months. Spend some time at Smathers Beach and enjoy the warm water temperature. Or head out to visit some of the many historic sites on the island.
Want to escape the higher temperatures of the summer months? Check out the events held at the Studios of Key West. Or check out the treasurers found at the Mel Fisher Maritime Museum.
Skip car rentals when you land at the Key West International Airport. Some of the best ways to explore the island are on one foot, by scooter, or on a guided tour with a local. Daylight hours are long (although starting to get shorter), so take advantage of all that the island offers, from live entertainment to a Key West fishing tournament. Below is the list of events happening in Key West in July!
Key Lime Festival – July 2 – 5, 2025
The Key Lime Festival celebrates the world’s most sensational citrus with a spectacular lineup of festivities taking place across Key West, the island where Key lime pie was conceived. Highlights include a kick-off cookbook signing and champagne reception with festival co-founder and “Key West Key Lime Pie Cookbook” author David Sloan; delicious Key lime-centric dinner and brunch events; a wild and world-famous 4th of July Key lime pie eating contest; a gravity-defying Key lime pie drop competition from the top of the Key West Lighthouse; a Key lime pie hop; mini Key lime pie making classes; a 4th of July 5K; and for those with a taste for limey libations, Key lime rum tastings and a bar sip & stroll and more!
Truman Waterfront Farmers Market – Every Thursday – July 3
Shop with a view every Thursday from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Truman Waterfront Farmers Market located on the harbor by the USCG Ingham Museum. Find great food options including ready-to-eat items, fresh Florida produce and other grocery items, along with gifts, home decor, art and more. Located at the corner of Southard Street and Weech Way.
Key West Mermaid Festival – July 3- 6, 2025
facebook.com/keywestmermaidfestival
Make a splash July 3-6 at the Key West Mermaid Festival, where ocean magic meets whimsical fun. This fin-tastic celebration highlights ocean conservation with a thoroughly imaginative twist, including a July 4 party at Lagerheads Beach Bar, 0 Simonton St. Boasting an array of vendors, the signature event takes place July 5 at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center, 35 Quay Rd. Attendees can snap photos with mermaids who will be waiting in themed outfits throughout the attraction. Show up early at 9 a.m. for Donuts with Ariel! Kids are encouraged to dress in ocean-themed costumes.
Studios of Key West: First Thursday Open House – July 3
Studios of Key West invites all to visit during First Thursday Open House, where art, conversation and community come alive after hours. Wander through the galleries showcasing the newest exhibitions, sip drinks under the stars at the Hugh’s Rooftop terrace, and explore the creativity in the third-floor artist studios. Take in the vibrant energy, connect with fellow art lovers, and discover hidden gems at Books & Books. Mingle, marvel, or make memories!
Big Pine Key Fireworks – July 3
The Lower Keys Rotary Club kicks off the fun with local food vendors, kids’ games, music, and a low-key, family-friendly fireworks celebration Thursday, July 3 at Big Pine Community Park, 31009 Atlantis Drive, starting at 9 p.m. Admission is free.
Studios of Key West: 4th of July Rooftop Fireworks Viewing – July 4
Join Studios of Key West for a special Independence Day party on the Hugh’s View rooftop! Ticket price includes a free drink, a view of the fireworks on the horizon, and a DJ keeping the soundtrack flowing until 10pm. Wear your red, white and bluest finery and bring your firecracker personality!
Marathon’s 4th of July Celebration – July 4
A full day of beachside activities begins with a patriotic parade starting at 11 a.m., July 4, from Marathon High School to Sombrero Beach and fireworks starting at approximately 9 p.m. hosted by the City of Marathon and the Rotary Club of Marathon. US1 Radio 104.1 will play patriotic music along with the fireworks display. Boaters are encouraged to watch from the beach or even offshore of Sombrero Beach. Admission is free.
For more info email: info@marathonrotary.org
Isla Bella Beach Resort Celebration – July 4
July 4
Celebrate the Fourth your way in Marathon poolside at the elegant Isla Bella Beach Resort, 1 Knights Key Blvd. With cocktail in hand, enjoy ocean views and a sunset sky your way. Choose from the Cabana + Day Pass that includes a shaded cabana for chilling out at one of the resort’s sparkling pools with food and drink service all day long; or the July 4th Event Pass that includes live music starting at noon, flowing into a festive evening with drinks, dancing, and a grand fireworks finale at 9:30 p.m. over the Gulf.
July 4th Party at Bungalows Key Largo – July 4
July 4
Celebrate Independence Day in style at the Florida Keys’ premier all-inclusive, adults-only resort. The Bungalows Key Largo star-spangled beach bash features an All-American BBQ by Chef Juan Maradiaga, a fresh seafood station, craft cocktails, and all-day live music. Guests can relax on the sand, sway to the sounds of Brothers of Others at Sunset Beach, and cap off the evening with a dazzling fireworks display over the Gulf of Mexico—followed by dancing under the stars with DJ Reggae Ronnie. bungalowskeylargo.com
Key West July 4th Fireworks – July 4
July 4
The Rotary Club of Key West hosts its annual fireworks show at Edward B. Knight Pier on Atlantic Ave. at White St. Festivities start at 5 p.m. with live entertainment, games, and food and beverages for sale. Pick your spot on Higgs Beach or Smathers Beach for great views of the fireworks that begin after 9 p.m. Note: White St. will be closed from 5 to 10 p.m. between Casa Marina Court and Laird St.
Islamorada July 4 Fireworks – July 4
July 4
Co-hosted by the Upper Keys Rotary Club and the Village of Islamorada, this free community event from 6 to 10 p.m. at Founders Park, 87000 Overseas Hwy., offers food trucks, live music, kids’ activities, an Apple Pie Baking Contest, the Patriotic People & Puppy Parade, and a waterfront fireworks show. Bring your beach chairs or blankets and settle in for an unforgettable night.
Key Largo Fourth of July Parade, Picnic & Fireworks – July 4
July 4
The Upper Keys’ 49th annual salute to America’s independence kicks off with the Pirate, Parrots & Patriots community parade beginning 10 a.m. at MM 98.2 on the northbound side and ending at Key Largo Community Park, 561 St. Croix Place. Enjoy a day of fun starting at 11 a.m. at the Family Freedom Picnic at the park with a kids’ activity zone, food vendors and more. For the fireworks over Blackwater Sound, popular viewing spots include business facing the water including Sundowners, Jim
Southernmost Beach Resort Mini Market – July 4
On Friday, July 4, the Artisan Market sets up at the Southernmost Beach Resort for a Mini Market from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in celebration of the biggest day of the Key Lime Festival. Against the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean, attendees can shop from an exclusive collection of talented artists, crafters, and makers offering everything from tropical-inspired artwork to Key Lime-themed gifts. A full bar and delicious food will be available throughout the day. At 1:30 p.m., the beach becomes the stage for the iconic Key Lime Pie Eating Contest, drawing a crowd eager to witness (or join in) the messy and memorable spectacle.
Studios of Key West: Mango Madness Annual Summer Members Show – July 5
Every member of The Studios is invited to participate in the annual members’ exhibit, and the result is a bounty of creativity in every form and style imaginable. Artists are not asked to make work about mangoes exactly, but it is hoped that the work brings them – and you – similar joy. 533 Eaton St.
Higss Beach: Red, White & Blue Key Lime Festival Artisan Market. July 6
The long weekend wraps up on Sunday, July 6, with the Red, White & Blue Key Lime Festival Edition of the Key West Artisan Market at Higgs Beach, located at Sonny McCoy Indigenous Park. From 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., guests can enjoy a robust open-air market featuring handcrafted goods, fresh produce, local seafood, tropical jams, baked goods, honey, artisan cheeses, soaps, and more. Iced coffee, smoothies, and fresh juices will be available, along with savory eats from food trucks (including crowd favorite Cousin’s Main Lobster) and vendors. Admission is free, and the market is pet-friendly, with ample free parking and bike racks available.
Truman Waterfront Farmers Market – Every Thursday – July 10
Shop with a view every Thursday from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Truman Waterfront Farmers Market located on the harbor by the USCG Ingham Museum. Find great food options including ready-to-eat items, fresh Florida produce and other grocery items, along with gifts, home decor, art and more. Located at the corner of Southard Street and Weech Way.
Underwater Music Festival – July 11
LOOE KEY, Florida Keys — The Lower Florida Keys’ vibrant underwater world is set to transform into a one-of-a-kind concert venue during the 41st annual Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival, taking place Saturday, July 12, at the iconic Looe Key Reef.
This immersive experience invites divers and snorkelers to dive into a whimsical undersea soundscape where marine melodies meet conservation messaging — all beneath the surface of the Atlantic Ocean. From 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., guests can swim among colorful coral formations and tropical fish while listening to ocean-themed music broadcast underwater via speakers suspended from boats.
Songs like Jimmy Buffett’s “Fins” and “A Pirate Looks at 40,” The Beatles’ “Octopus’s Garden,” and The Little Mermaid soundtrack are just a few of the fin-tastic favorites that often surface on the playlist, courtesy of US1 104.1 FM.
Adding to the aquatic spectacle? Costumed mermaids, sea creatures, and “submerged musicians” pantomiming along with whimsical instruments in a surreal underwater jam session.
The musical merriment has a serious side, too: it’s all about promoting coral reef preservation. Interspersed between tunes are eco-friendly dive tips, from using mooring buoys and avoiding contact with coral to understanding why reefs are known as “the rainforests of the sea” for their incredible biodiversity.
The festivities begin the evening before with a free welcome party on Friday, July 11, from 6 to 8 p.m. at Mote Marine Laboratory’s Elizabeth Moore International Center for Coral Reef Research & Restoration on Summerland Key. Guests can tour the state-of-the-art facility and learn about groundbreaking coral cultivation and reef restoration efforts from the experts helping bring Florida’s reefs back to life.
The festival is presented by the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce and US1 Radio, and held at Looe Key Reef, part of the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary — a protected area located about six miles south of Big Pine Key that’s home to the continental U.S.’s only living coral barrier reef.
Sheriff’s Animal Farm Open House – July 13
Visit the family-friendly Monroe County Sheriff’s Animal Farm, open the second and fourth Sundays of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. Animals include a capybara, possum, sloths, goats, birds and many more. Visits are free of charge, but donations of cash or fresh produce are always welcomed. Stock Island Detention Center, 5501 College Rd.
Lindsey Crews Presents: Through The Eyes of Spiny Lobster at Islamorada Public Library – July 15
The Matecumbe Historical Trust next free lecture will be held at the Islamorada Public Library located at 81830 Overseas Highway on Tuesday, July 15th starting at 6 pm.
Lindsey Crews will present “Through the eyes of a Spiny Lobster”.
In this presentation, we will explore the life of a Florida Spiny Lobster, from its larval stage in the open ocean currents to the ecosystems of the Florida Keys. We will dive into how they survive within the mangroves, seagrass, and coral reef ecosystems within Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary and their cultural and economic importance to the area. We will also highlight resources on where to find information about the upcoming lobster season including rules and regulations.
Lindsey joined the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary in 2021 as a science and outreach coordinator, sharing her love of science and the environment with locals and visitors. The southeastern Virginia native was inspired into the marine biology field by educational programs around Chesapeake Bay. Crews holds a bachelor’s degree in marine biology and a master’s degree in environmental education and interpretation from the University of North Carolina, Wilmington. She previously served as an educator for the North Carolina Aquariums and as park ranger at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo.
For more information, please visit Matecumbe Historical Trust.org or call 305-393-0940.
Free Immerse Yourself! The Science of Submersibles – July 16
Join the History of Diving Museum as it hosts submersible pilot and expert Don Liberatore. Don will take us through the challenges faced when designing, maintaining, and diving underwater submersibles, as well as some of the spectacular expeditions for which they have been used. Presentation will be both in-person and virtual, and take place at 7 PM on July 16th at the History of Diving Museum, 82990 Overseas Hwy (MM 83 Bayside). Donations welcome. Info: (305) 664-9737; www.divingmuseum.org
Truman Waterfront Farmers Market – Every Thursday – July 17
Shop with a view every Thursday from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Truman Waterfront Farmers Market located on the harbor by the USCG Ingham Museum. Find great food options including ready-to-eat items, fresh Florida produce and other grocery items, along with gifts, home decor, art and more. Located at the corner of Southard Street and Weech Way.
Morada Way Third Thursday Art Walk – July 17
The Morada Way Arts & Cultural District’s Third Thursday Art Walk in Islamorada is the organization’s landmark, monthly event. This Thursday, enjoy a holiday-flavored edition of the art walk with Keys-inspired fine artists, vendors, residents, and visitors congregating on Morada Way in Islamorada. Enjoy a relaxing evening from 6-9 p.m. perusing local fine art, imbibing local craft beer and wine and listening to music, in the area between mile markers 81 and 82 at 151 Morada Way.
Walk on White Third Thursday Art Walk – July 17
Explore an array of arts-focused offerings at more than 20 locations showcasing the works of painters, photographers, sculptors, ceramic and mixed media artists, and artisan jewelry makers at this monthly third Thursday event from 6 to 9 p.m. Take in views of beautiful island architecture, exhibit openings, creative demonstrations, musical, literary and performance offerings and complimentary libations. White Street between Southard and United Streets.
Women’s Dive Day Tours: History of Diving Museum – July 19
Join the History of Diving Museum at 11 AM and 2 PM for a special guided tour of the exhibits! The tour is included in your admission price. July’s tours will coincide with Women’s Dive Day and featured special highlights of pioneering women in diving history.
Key West Marlin Tournament – July 16- 23, 2025
Coinciding with the 45th annual Hemingway Days celebration, anglers ply the waters once fished by novelist Ernest Hemingway, vying for $50,000 in guaranteed cash prizes. The event awards $25,000 to the first-place team with the most points for blue marlin, white marlin and spearfish. Teams can enter one fun fish (dolphin, tuna, wahoo or released sailfish) per day for additional points. Entry is limited to the first 75 boats. Tournament events are based out of Stock Island Marina Village, 7005 Shrimp Rd..
Hemingway Days – July 22 – 27, 2025
Ernest Hemingway look-alikes, writers, anglers, and fans of the late author’s work are to gather in Key West for the annual Hemingway Days celebration. The festival honors the legacy of the American literary giant who lived and wrote on the island for most of the 1930s. Events include the legendary Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, the wacky Running of the Bulls on Sat. July 26, literary presentations, a commemoration of the 126th anniversary of Hemingway’s July 21 birth, a museum exhibit, a marlin tournament, a 5k run and paddleboard race, a street fair and more.
Truman Waterfront Farmers Market – Every Thursday – July 24
Shop with a view every Thursday from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Truman Waterfront Farmers Market located on the harbor by the USCG Ingham Museum. Find great food options including ready-to-eat items, fresh Florida produce and other grocery items, along with gifts, home decor, art and more. Located at the corner of Southard Street and Weech Way.
Sloppy Joe’s 44th Annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest – July 23 – 27, 2025
The look-alike challenge is a highlight of Key West’s July 23-27 Hemingway Days celebration, created to salute the writing talent and adventurous life of the literary master who lived and wrote in Key West throughout the 1930s. It takes place at Sloppy Joe’s Bar, 201 Duval St., where Hemingway enjoyed sharing cocktails and camaraderie with friends while living in Key West in the 1930s. The contest’s preliminary rounds are set for 6:30 p.m. Thursday and Friday, July 24 and 25, and the newest “Papa” is to be chosen during a final round beginning at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 26.
Hemingway Days: Running of the Bulls July 26
A festival tradition, this wacky event is sponsored by Sloppy Joe’s Bar and features Hemingway Look-Alike Contest winners and entrants dressed in their Pamplona best — and a breed of “bull” found only in Key West. The fun starts on Greene Street outside Sloppy Joe’s at 1 p.m. Free for spectators.
Hemingway 5k Sunset Run & Beach n’ Beer Mile July 26 – 27, 2025
Join fellow runners and walkers for the 36th annual Hemingway 5k Sunset Run. This year, final registration for the evening race is at Southernmost Beach Cafe, 1405 Duval St., but, new for 2025, the race is to start and end at the Southernmost Point Buoy/Marker. The run is followed by a beach party with awards and tastings of Papa’s Pilar Rum and Islamorada Brewery & Distillery Beer, plus raffles and live entertainment. On Sunday, The Beach N’ Beer Mile departs from Southernmost Beach Cafe at 12 p.m., including 4 beers. Costumes are encouraged! A pool party follows at Rum Row, 3824 N. Roosevelt, from 3 to 6 p.m.
36th Anniversary Hemingway 5K Sunset Run – July 26
- Website
- HEMINGWAY 5K SUNSET RUNRACE SCHEDULESaturday, July 26, 2025 – RACE DAY!3:00 pm – 7 pm:Race Registration Booth
- Location: Outside Southernmost Beach Cafe, 1405 Duval Street
- Location: Southernmost Point
- Location: Outside Southernmost Beach Cafe, 1405 Duval Street
Inside will be Happy Hour Prices on Food and Drinks all evening on the 20th.
- Location: Outside Southernmost Beach Cafe, 1405 Duval StreetPrizes awarded for:
2. Best Dressed
3. Least Dressed3:00pm – 6:00 pm Pool Party at The Backyard – Pool and Social Cub | Blue Flamingo Resort – 3280 N Roosevelt Blvd, Key West, FL 33040
Sheriff’s Animal Farm Open House – July 27
Visit the family-friendly Monroe County Sheriff’s Animal Farm, open the second and fourth Sundays of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. Animals include a capybara, possum, sloths, goats, birds and many more. Visits are free of charge, but donations of cash or fresh produce are always welcomed. Stock Island Detention Center, 5501 College Rd.
Truman Waterfront Farmers Market – Every Thursday – July 31
Shop with a view every Thursday from 2 to 7 p.m. at the Truman Waterfront Farmers Market located on the harbor by the USCG Ingham Museum. Find great food options including ready-to-eat items, fresh Florida produce and other grocery items, along with gifts, home decor, art and more. Located at the corner of Southard Street and Weech Way.
Reef Relief: Jerry Garcia Birthday Bash – July 31
Join us for jams by the Grateful Dead played live by local favorites, good times, a silent auction, and more! This event will start at 5 pm and go until late. This fundraiser benefits Reef Relief’s education and conservation programs!
Blue Star Museums: History of Diving Museum – until September 1, 2025
To honor and thank those serving in the military, on Armed Forces Day the History of Diving Museum will hold complimentary guided tours included with your admission ticket. These will take place at 11 AM and 2 PM on Saturday, May 17. This date also marks the beginning of the 2025 Blue Star Museums Program, which offers free admission to active-duty military and up to five members of their family. Blue Star Museums begins on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 17 and ends on Labor Day, Monday, September 1.
May 17th – September 1st Blue Star Museums – until September 1
To honor and thank those serving in the military, the History of Diving Museum takes part in the annual Blue Star Museums Program, which offers free admission to active duty military and up to five members of their family. Blue Star Museums begins on Armed Forces Day, Saturday, May 17 and ends on Labor Day, Monday, September 1.
History of Diving Museum Presents – Celebrating 20 Years! Featured Exhibit – until December 31, 2025
The History of Diving Museum’s new limited-time featured exhibit is open to the public! Starting May 21st, dive into the Museum’s 20th Anniversary Special Exhibit to learn about what it took to create the world’s largest collection of diving equipment on public display, how the Museum has evolved and grown over the past two decades, and what visitors have to look forward to in the future. Info: (305) 664-9737; www.divingmuseum.org
