So, you’re thinking about visiting Key West in November? Well, let me tell you, my friend, that is an excellent idea. I can assure you that this is one of the best times to visit this beautiful island.  Key West in November, is well, the best time of year to visit, I think

Key West Weather

First things first, let’s talk about Key West weather. The average high temperature in November is around 82 degrees Fahrenheit, while the lows rarely drop below 72. I know what you’re thinking, “That’s perfect beach weather!” And you’re absolutely right. It’s warm enough to enjoy a day at the beach, but not scorching hot like it can get during the summer months.  Be prepared to spend time soaking up the sun at the beach or by the pool.  Yep, you can enjoy a cold beverage under the palm trees to your heart’s content.

Not only are the average temperatures comfortable, but November also marks the end of the Atlantic hurricane season. You can relax and enjoy your vacation without constantly checking the weather forecast for potential storms. Trust me, nothing ruins a trip like a hurricane.

But what about rain, you may ask? Well, compared to October, November sees an average of only 3 rainy days. And when it does rain, it’s usually just passing showers. So don’t worry about getting stuck inside all day.  There are sunny days galore during this time of year.

Obsessed with Key Lime Pie?  Check out all things Key Lime you can enjoy when you return home. 

Crowds?

And let’s not forget about the fewer crowds in November. Since it’s still considered shoulder season, you won’t have to deal with the same crowds as during the peak season. 

But don’t think that just because it’s not high season, there’s nothing to do in November. On the contrary, November is a great time to visit because you can still enjoy all that Key West has to offer without feeling overwhelmed by the crowds and heat.  As a bonus, at the end of the month, the Island begins to prepare for the holidays. Lights go up and the Holiday celebrations begin.

So what are you waiting for? Book your trip now and come experience Key West in all its November glory. And who knows, you might just fall in love and make it a yearly tradition. Happy travels!

Not planning to fly into Key West International Airport?  No worries, here’s the scoop on where to stop as you drive down the keys.

Ready to explore all of the fun activities happening in November?  Here’s the list of the best things!

Calendar of Events

STUDIOS OF KEY WEST ART OPENING – November 2

The Studios of Key West holds an art opening featuring three abstract painters whose work ignites the conversation around climate change and rising sea levels in the Sanger Gallery. You can also explore Ralph De Palma’s richly textured photography of local musicians, a quilting-inspired exhibition by artists Margo Ellis and Gayle Antonides, plus a selection of student work from Susan Sugar’s popular plein air watercolor intensive. Stop in to say hello, relax with a glass of wine on the rooftop terrace and check out the newly installed artwork! 6 to 8 p.m. 533 Eaton Street.

“DEWEY DEFEATS TRUMAN” EVENT AT HARRY S. TRUMAN LITTLE WHITE HOUSE – November 4

The Harry S. Truman Foundation celebrates the 75th anniversary of what some call “the most famous political photograph of all time” on Nov. 4 with a free event from Noon to 2 p.m. at the Harry S. Truman Little White House, 111 Front St. The image in question is that of Harry S. Truman holding up the erroneous “Dewey Defeats Truman” Chicago Daily Tribune headline from the rear platform of the Ferdinand Magellan railcar. At the event, a railcar set prop can be enjoyed for photos. Attendees are requested to wear the 33rd president’s preferred Key West attire of Hawaiian shirts. Light refreshments and dessert will be served.

RACE WORLD OFFSHORE WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP – November 5 – 12, 2023

Leading American and international powerboat teams compete in high-speed races Wednesday, Nov. 8; Friday, Nov. 10; and Sunday, Nov. 12. Races are scheduled to begin at 10 a.m., 10:45 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m. on all three days. On race days, spectators can get an unmatched view from areas at the Truman Waterfront Race Village and adjacent “Outer Mole” pier. Other popular viewing areas include restaurants and bars at harborfront hotels, as well as Key West’s Mallory Square. Both general admission and VIP viewing options available.

KEY WEST ARTISAN MARKET: RAISE THE ROOF FOR THE BIRDS EDITION – November 5

The market includes a full bar and smoothies, juices and coffee to wash down delicious food items you can eat immediately or take away. Shop for fine crafts, art, jewelry and more. The market is located at Indigenous Park, 1801 White St. near the pier. Also, meet the volunteers of the Key West Wildlife Center and donate to help fund the Key West Wildlife Center’s rescue activities and the rehabilitation center’s Capitol Campaign.

FRINGE THEATER: ART – November 7

In this smart, hilarious and well-acted play by Yasmina Reza, battle lines are drawn between three friends over the purchase of an expensive painting. Is it really art, or does it mean the end of a 15-year friendship? ART won the 1998 Tony Award for Best Play. Tickets start at $45. Performances at 7 p.m. at the Historic Armory, 600 White St.

THE STUDIOS OF KEY WEST: A CONVERSATION WITH TIPPER NEWTON, ARTIST IN RESIDENCE – November 9

Tipper Newton is an actor, award-winning filmmaker, and musician living in Los Angeles. She played the role of Karen on Fox TV & Hulu’s, The Mindy Project, and is the writer/director of the short films Wild Card and The Dangerous Type. The Studio’s Stephen Kitsakos sits down with Tipper to discuss her filmmaking and acting career, as well as screen a curated selection of short films. Tipper is a visiting artist and is currently working on her first feature film screenplay. Wait Until Tonight takes place in a small Florida city about a restless working-class pool cleaner who gets involved with a mysterious drifter. 6 p.m. at the Helmerich Theater. Tickets $20. 533 Eaton St.

KEY WEST FARMERS MARKET – NEW LOCATION THIS WEEK – November 9

Due to the Powerboat Races, this week’s Truman Waterfront Farmers Market will be at Bayview Park, 1320 Truman Ave. from 2 until 7 p.m. Shop for great gift items including arts and crafts, jewelry, natural soaps, honey, orchids and native plants, artisan food items, fresh regional produce and more. (On Nov. 16, the market returns to its regular location at Truman Waterfront).

KEY WEST HEADDRESS BALL ART EXHIBITION OPENING CELEBRATION – November 10

Celebrate the special Key West Headdress Ball – 40 Years of Creativity exhibit at Key West Art & Historical Society’s Custom House Museum at an opening reception from 5 to 8 p.m. The exhibition, which will be on display through Dec. 3, features towering headdresses from the recent 40th anniversary competition held during Fantasy Fest. 281 Front Street.

KEY WEST VETERAN’S DAY PARADE – November 11

The U. S. Navy hosts the 2023 Veterans Day Parade in Key West from 4 to 7:30 p.m. on Duval Street.

KEY WEST TROPICAL FOREST & BOTANICAL GARDEN: DOGS IN THE GARDEN – November 11

The garden partners with Florida Keys SPCA for a free, family-friendly event from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. to introduce the garden to dog lovers. There are 15 acres of mulched and boardwalk trails that are perfect for walking dogs. Highlights incudes a Silly Pet Trick contest, a dog obedience demonstration, information on plants that are safe dogs, veterinarian Dr. Doug Mader with his book “The Vet at Noah’s ark,” and you can meet adoptable dogs. 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. 5210 College Rd.

COFFEE BUTLER AMPHITHEATER: BOATS & BOOTS CONCERT – November 11

Celebrate the biggest night of powerboat race week with Boats and Boots, a show with some of the hottest musicians in Key West, including Cliff Cody, the Key West Kings, the Wolf Love Band and Sam Carlson. General admission $25; VIP including dinner and private full-service bar $225. Showtime 5 to 11 p.m. 21 Quay Rd. at Truman Waterfront Park.

SHERIFF’S ANIMAL FARM OPEN HOUSE – November 12

Visit the animals at the farm, including miniature horses, a steer, pigs, goats, bunnies, alligators, tropical birds, kinkajous, a capybara, lemur, alpaca, skunk, prairie dog, tortoises and turtles, snakes and many more. It is free of charge, but donations are welcomed because that is how the farm is sustained. The farm is located at 5525 College Rd. on Stock Island at the Sheriff’s Office Headquarters complex. The family-friendly Sheriff’s Animal Farm is open 1 – 3 p.m the second and fourth Sundays of the month.

24 NORTH HOTEL: PAINT & SIP NIGHT WITH ARTIST LANCE BERRY– November 14

Get ready to laugh and have a blast with the whole family or a couple of pals at Paint and Sip night with Key West artist, character and life-of-the-party, Lance Berry. Your $40 ticket includes your first drink, plus all the art supplies and instruction you’ll need to create your own masterpiece. The class takes place the second Tuesday of the month at Republica Bar & Lounge at 24 North Hotel, 3820 N. Roosevelt Blvd.

KEY WEST FILM FESTIVAL – November 15 – 19, 2023

This year’s festival has a special emphasis on powerful women. Jacqueline Durran is to appear in person to be presented with a Golden Key Award for Excellence in Costume Design for her work in “Barbie.” Screening venues include San Carlos Institute, The Studios of Key West, Williams Hall and others. Find all-access passes, individual tickets and the full schedule of screenings, panel discussions and special events at keywestff.com.

KEY WEST ART & HISTORICAL SOCIETY: HAPPY HOUR WITH THE HISTORIAN  – November 16

Join historian Dr. Cori Convertito for a happy hour discussion of how Florida and Key West were involved in the Spanish-American War. $15 ticket includes one glass of wine, beer or a soft drink. 5 to 6 p.m. at Comedy Key West, 218 Whitehead Street.

KEY WEST FILM FESTIVAL: BARBIE PARTY – November 16

Celebrate the Year of Barbie at the Mojo Dojo Casa Party at The Southernmost House/Mansion On the Sea in honor of Jacqueline Duran’s Golden Key for Excellence in Costume Design award. Feel free to dress as your favorite Barbie or Ken. The event includes delicious food, libations and DJ Blondie spinning her pink magic. Individual tickets $49. Free for Film Festival all-access badge holders. 8:30 p.m. at 1400 Duval Street.

Morada Way Third Thursday Art Walk – November 16

The Morada Way Arts & Cultural District’s Third Thursday Art Walk in Islamorada is the organization’s landmark, monthly event. On the Third Thursday of each month, Keys-inspired fine artists, vendors, residents, and visitors congregate on Morada Way in Islamorada to celebrate the arts and culture in the Florida Keys. 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.

KEY WEST GARDEN CLUB: FALL PLANT SALE & ART MARKET – November 17 – 18, 2023

Shop for tropical and native plants including orchids along with whimsical garden art, paintings and handcrafted items perfect for holiday gift-giving. Sample delicious food while you shop. Free admission. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at West Martello tower at Higgs Beach, 1100 Atlantic Boulevard.

The SMART Ride 20, Pedal to Paradise – November 17 – 18, 2023

The SMART Ride, also called the Southern Most AIDS/HIV Ride, is a 2-day, 165 mile bicycle ride from Miami to Key West. Riders begin their trek Friday from University of Miami, pedaling 100 miles to Hawks Cay Resort on Duck Key. On Saturday, the group pedals the remaining 65 miles to Key West for closing ceremonies and celebrations. This 20th anniversary SMART Ride is to be the last one. SMART Ride has given back 100 percent of its fundraising proceeds, totaling $15 million to AIDS service organizations in Florida since 2003.

Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club: Lighting of the Lighthouse – November 17 – Marathon

The annual holiday lighting of the Faro Blanco Resort & Yacht Club’s “lighthouse” is slated for 6 to 9 p.m. at the resort, located at 1996 Overseas Highway bayside. The public, along with resort guests, can enjoy live music, a holiday market and seasonal cheer at the resort’s Lighthouse Grill.

Mote Marine Laboratory: Reef Revival Fest – November 17 – Islamorada

Celebrate Mote Marine Laboratory’s 30 years of dedication to researching and preserving Florida Keys’ reefs at the free-to-attend Reef Revival Fest, held at Bud N’ Mary’s Marina, mile marker 79.8 oceanside. Get a first-hand look at Mote’s resilience-focused coral restoration efforts while touring the coral nursery located at the marina, or take a microfragmentation workshop. There is to be a junior coral scientist Kids Zone, along with live music, food trucks and brews from Florida Keys Brewing Company. 5 to 9 p.m.

Reignite the Light Gala – November 18 – Islamorada

This fundraising gala shines a beam of hope on the restoration project for Alligator Lighthouse and celebrates the lighthouse’s 150th anniversary. Guests at the event on Tea Table Key are to enjoy culinary delights inspired by the sea, premium cocktails and fine wines, live music, a silent auction and other delights, all with a view of the newly illuminated lighthouse. Proceeds are dedicated to the fundraising campaign to restore the aging lighthouse. 6 to 10 p.m. Parking at Bud n’ Mary’s Marina, mile marker 79.8 oceanside, with shuttles available.

Tropical Fall Harvest – November 18 – 19, 2023

Grimal Grove presents a an island-style fall marketplace event at The Lagoon on Grassy Key, 59300 Overseas Highway, Sat. and Sun. from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Shop for holiday gifts, native plants, fruit trees, art, local crafts, tropical fruit and more. Enjoy craft beer and Grimal Grove’s Mutiny Island vodka made from breadfruit grown at the grove.

Light Up Key Largo – November 18

Get in the holiday spirit Nov. 18 from 4 to 8 p.m. during Light Up Key Largo. This annual free event kicks off the holiday season with holiday shopping from local vendors, seasonal music, great food, photos with Santa, “train” rides and the lighting of “Holly,” the Key Largo holiday tree at 6 p.m. It all takes place at Murray Nelson Government and Cultural Center, MM 102 bayside.

KEY WEST ARTISAN MARKET: FILL THE PANTRY EDITION – November 19

Find fine arts and crafts, jewelry, apparel, produce, delicious foods, drinks and more at this open-air bazaar. The market’s charity partner is the SOS Callahan Community Kitchen for underserved children. Please bring donations of cash or canned goods. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. In the park near Higgs Beach, 1801 White St.

Pinfish Comedy Night – November 20

Pinfish Entertainment features comedian Jimmy McCartney in an “adults only” (21+) comedy night. McCartney is a stand up comedian who wants you to see the absurdity of what we all do on a daily basis with rants reminiscent of George Carlin. Tickets $20. Food, craft beer and wine available for purchase from the regular Pinfish menu. Pinfish is the new bowling and gaming arcade at Tavernier Town Center, mile marker 91.2 bayside.

LIGHTING OF THE BIGHT: KEY WEST HARBOR WALK OF LIGHTS – November 22

Gather on the Harbor Walk plaza at Greene and Elizabeth St. to best see the official lighting of the 2023 Key West “Harbor Walk of Lights” with lights and creative displays reflecting the “Maritime History of Key West.” The Key West “Harbor Walk of Lights” stays lit nightly through New Year’s Eve, stretching along the Key West Historic Seaport and Key West Bight Marina.

SOUTHERNMOST TURKEY TROT 5K AND ROOSTER ROMP – November 23

Move your feet before you eat at the first annual Southernmost Turkey Trot 5k and 1-mile Rooster Romp benefiting Reef Relief. Gather your flock and make this the start of a new family tradition to Run Now – Gobble Later! The races start and end at the Southernmost Point buoy. Both runs begin at 8 a.m. Prizes will be awarded to the top three male and female winners of the 5K. There will be a Best Dressed Costume Contest and a post-race party at the Southernmost Point Bar, 1327 Duval Street. Register online for complete information.

BLACK FRIDAY SHOPPING EXTRAVAGANZA – November 24

Find one of a kind gifts, unique handmade items, exquisite art and awesome people along with delicious culinary delights, yummy beverages and the views you won’t find at any mall make this a can’t-miss shopping event. Find this holiday shopping extravaganza featuring local vendors from the Key West Artisan and Waterfront Markets from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. along Weech Way at Truman Waterfront Park.

TROPIC CINEMA: SUNSET SALSA CLASS & FREE FILM – November 24

To kick off the annual Cuba Connection weekend celebration of Cuban arts and culture, a free sunset salsa class is to be held in the street front of Tropic Cinema, 416 Eaton St., at 5:30 p.m — followed by a free outdoor screening of the classic music documentary Buena Vista Social Club at 7:15 p.m.

TROPIC CINEMA: LIVE PERFORMANCE BY RAUL MALO – November 25

A Night of Cuban Song, a live performance from Grammy and CMA Award-winning singer Raul Malo of the Mavericks, takes place in Tropic Cinema’s Carper Theatre at 7:30 p.m. During this rare opportunity to attend an intimate concert with Raul, he is to offer a taste of the sounds and rhythms that define Cuban culture. Tickets $125. Show at 7:30 p.m. 416 Eaton St.

HOG’S BREATH 29TH ANNUAL 5K HOG TROT – November 25

The Hog Trot is back — start with a run, end with a beer. Participants 21 years old and older will receive one free beer along with post-race snacks. The race starts at Hog’s Breath, 400 Front Street, at 8 a.m. You can keep the party rolling with food and drink specials after the race until 11 a.m. Prizes are to be awarded for overall male and female winners, and 1st, 2nd and 3rd place awards for male and female winners in multiple age categories. Register online in advance or in-person starting at 6:30 a.m. the morning of the race.

THE STUDIOS OF KEY WEST: HOLIDAY ARTISAN MARKET – November 25

Kick off the holiday season by supporting your community artists as part of Small Business Saturday. The Studios makes holiday shopping fun and easy. Enjoy cookies and coffee as you stroll through a friendly, festive indoor market. We’ve gathered over 20 artisans to present unique and locally produced gifts: jewelry, textiles, home accessories and quality crafts. Free to attend in the Helmerich Theater. 533 Eaton St.

Island Art Festival – November 25

Get your holiday shopping off to a musical start at the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce’s Island Art Festival. Find beautiful, one-of-a-kind, hand-crafted art items by many talented artisans from both near and far at reasonable price points. Enjoy great music and food throughout the event from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Located at the Chamber of Commerce grounds, MM 31 oceanside.

Green Turtle’s Monthly Comedy Night at The Nest – November 25

Enjoy the comedy of Chris Robinson at the monthly comedy show at The Nest at Green Turtle Inn. Showtimes 6 and 8:30 p.m. Seating starts one hour before showtimes, when you can enjoy homemade barbecue and drinks. Tickets $20. Mile marker 81.2.

Florida Keys Community Concert Band: Pops in the Park – November 25

Don’t miss the Pops-in-the-Park season premiere on Saturday, Nov 25 from 4 to 5 p.m. at Founders Park, mile marker 87 bayside. Admission is free to this outdoor band concert of “Not-So Fast and Furious” train, plane and automobile music. Along with the music, enjoy a car show by Sunshine Corvette Club and family sack races. Special guest performers are Ukulele Joy.

SHERIFF’S ANIMAL FARM OPEN HOUSE – November 26

Visit the animals at the farm, including miniature horses, a steer, pigs, goats, bunnies, alligators, tropical birds, kinkajous, a capybara, lemur, alpaca, skunk, prairie dog, tortoises and turtles, snakes and many more. It is free of charge, but donations are welcomed because that is how the farm is sustained. The farm is located at 5525 College Rd. on Stock Island at the Sheriff’s Office Headquarters complex. The family-friendly Sheriff’s Animal Farm is open 1 – 3 p.m the second and fourth Sundays of the month.

KEY WEST HOLIDAY TREE LIGHTING – November 27

The City of Key West holiday tree is to be illuminated at Bayview Park, corner of Truman Avenue and Eisenhower Drive during this free celebration from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

REEF RELIEF: ANNUAL MEETING – November 29

Reef Relief invites the public to its 36th annual meeting, to be held from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. at Margaritaville Beach House, 2001 S. Roosevelt Blvd. Hear the coral restoration organization’s annual report and find out about recent research findings regarding our marine ecosystems. There is to be a cash bar and complimentary hors d’oeuvres. The event is free to attend but donations are welcomed.

Waterfront Playhouse: Little Shop of Horrors – November 29 – December 16, 2023

The deviously delicious Broadway and Hollywood sci-fi smash musical Little Shop of Horrors comes to Waterfront Playhouse for a three-week run. Tickets range from $40 to $75. Showtimes at 8 p.m. along with an additional 2 p.m. matinee on Dec. 9. 407 Wall Street at Mallory Square.

History of Diving Museum: Aquanauts to Astronauts Exhibit – through December 31, 2023 – Islamorada

The Aquanauts to Astronauts exhibit focuses on the fascinating relationship between diving and space travel, how NASA uses diving to train future astronauts, and the incredible people who have both been to space and visited the bottom of the sea. The exhibit includes artifacts from NASA. The museum is located at 82990 Overseas Highway bayside.

Scarecrows in the Forest Art Exhibit and Contest – through November 30, 2023

The Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden is showcasing local artists’, community members’ and local students’ unique versions of the fall season’s Scarecrows in the Tropical Forest. The scarecrows, made from natural and recycled materials, may be discovered throughout the 15-acre garden. The exhibit, open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily, will be a lesson in recycling, art talent and a contest with cash prizes for the entries. The Garden is located at 5210 College Road.