Presented during the 2026 Florida Governor’s Conference on Tourism in West Palm Beach, Visit Florida Keys & Key West received two coveted Henry Awards, the highest award in their respective categories, and two Silver Awards. 

The recognition comes as Visit Florida Keys & Key West continues to evolve its approach to destination marketing, finding creative new ways to tell the Florida Keys story and connect with travelers while keeping conservation and stewardship at the heart of its work.  

“I’m incredibly proud of our team and what these awards represent,” said Kara Franker, president and CEO of Visit Florida Keys & Key West. “We’ve been very intentional about how we tell the Florida Keys story, and I love that these honors reflect so many different sides of that work. It’s incredibly rewarding to be recognized among the best in Florida while staying true to what makes the Florida Keys so special.” 

Now in its 26th year, the Flagler Awards are presented by VISIT FLORIDA to recognize outstanding tourism marketing throughout the state. Nearly 300 entries from large and small organizations competed in the 2026 awards program. 

An independent panel of 14 judges evaluated entries for creativity, innovation, production quality and effectiveness. Named in honor of Henry Flagler, the Henry Award goes to the highest-scoring entry in each category, with Silver and Bronze Awards presented to the next highest-scoring entries. 

Visit Florida Keys & Key West earned its two highest honors for work that reflects two important sides of destination marketing: stewardship and storytelling. The Integrated Ecotourism Program received the Henry Award for Sustainable Tourism Marketing, while “Destination Instant Experiences” took top honors in Social Media Marketing. 

The organization also earned a Silver Award for its next-generation destination website, recognizing the ongoing transformation of VisitFloridaKeys.com as a more dynamic and engaging resource for travelers, and a Silver Award for the “Key West Duo Scroller” in Mobile Marketing. 

For Franker, the four awards reflect the collaboration and ingenuity behind the team’s work spanning distinctly different areas of destination marketing. 

“What stands out to me is that these awards recognize four very different pieces of our work,” Franker said. “We’re being recognized for how we care for the destination, how we tell its story and how we connect with travelers. That takes a lot of creativity and collaboration, and it speaks to the talent of our team and agency partners and the care they bring to showcasing the Florida Keys.” 

Visit Florida Keys & Key West earned: 

• Henry Award — Sustainable Tourism Marketing: Integrated Ecotourism Program
• Henry Award — Social Media Marketing: “Destination Instant Experiences”
• Silver Award — Websites: “Next-Generation Website for the Future of Destination Marketing”
• Silver Award — Mobile Marketing: “Key West Duo Scroller” 

For more information about the Florida Keys & Key West, visit www.visitfloridakeys.com. 

Supporting high-res images and associated credit information is available HERE. 

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From left, Chip Wile, chair of the VISIT FLORIDA Board of Directors; Mary B. Haban, senior director of public relations for Visit Florida Keys & Key West; Kara Franker, president and CEO of Visit Florida Keys & Key West; Crystal Blaskis, vice president of marketing and communications for Visit Florida Keys & Key West; and Bryan Griffin, CEO of VISIT FLORIDA, celebrate four honors presented to the Florida Keys destination marketing organization at the 2026 Flagler Awards in West Palm Beach. Visit Florida Keys & Key West received two Henry Awards and two Silver Awards for work spanning sustainable tourism, social media, website development and mobile marketing. (Visit Florida)

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142

Story: A Message of Hope: 150-Pound Sea Turtle Overcomes the Odds and Returns to the Wild on September 11

Locator: Marathon, Florida Keys

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Video: B-roll of Turtle Hospital staff and local first responders carrying Hope, a 150-pound female loggerhead sea turtle, to the shoreline at Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida Keys; community members watching the public release; and Hope entering the Atlantic Ocean and swimming away. SOTs with The Turtle Hospital general manager Bette Zirkelbach (pronounced Betty ZIR-KULL-BACK).

Technical Data:

     TRT: 2:21

     Filename: KeysHopeTurtleRelease.mp4

     Audio: Stereo Mix

     SOTs: Clean / Isolated

     B-Roll: Nat. Sound

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

A Message of Hope: 150-Pound Sea Turtle Overcomes the Odds and Returns to the Wild on September 11

MARATHON, Florida Keys (September 11, 2026). Today, the community celebrated a powerful moment of survival and unity as Hope, a 150-pound adult female loggerhead sea turtle, swam back into her ocean home from Sombrero Beach. Local first responders joined the public release to honor a journey defined by grit, healing and second chances.

Returning Hope to the wild on September 11 carries profound meaning. Her return serves as a reminder that healing is possible after devastating loss and that strength can emerge from deep trials.

The Turtle Hospital general manager Bette Zirkelbach described Hope as “a story of resilience, second chances, and the unbreakable spirit of survival.”

Hope was rescued in early June after being found entangled in an anchor line. The line had wrapped tightly around her front flipper, causing critical trauma that required emergency veterinary surgery and amputation to save her life.

Following the procedure, Hope faced a difficult road to recovery. She initially refused to eat as she adjusted to her injury. Through specialized care, fluid treatments and dedicated rehabilitation at The Turtle Hospital, she fought her way back to health, showing an unyielding spirit of survival.

“Hope lost her front flipper to the anchor line entanglement. But we have seen successful rehabilitations with turtles. They go out and live their life with three flippers. She's swimming strong. She's able to chase her prey and eat lobster,” Zirkelbach said.

Surrounded by cheering community members and local first responders, Hope returned to the Atlantic Ocean at Sombrero Beach. The release was dedicated to first responders in gratitude for their daily bravery and for helping the community through its darkest hours and hardest times. “Today on 9/11, we want to honor all those lost on 9/11, but also our first responders,” Zirkelbach said. “We had some local first responders here today, but we are eternally grateful. We will never forget.”

Hope's return to the ocean stands as a living testament to resilience, the power of second chances and the spirit of survival.

Located in Marathon, The Turtle Hospital is the world's first veterinary hospital dedicated solely to the rehabilitation of sea turtles. For more information, visit turtlehospital.org.

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The journey home. The Turtle Hospital general manager Bette Zirkelbach, left, and a Turtle Hospital staff member guide Hope, a 150-pound adult female loggerhead sea turtle, into the Atlantic Ocean Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida Keys. Local first responders and community members gathered for Hope's return to the wild after months of rehabilitation from an anchor-line entanglement that required the amputation of her front flipper. (Mariela Care/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

The Turtle Hospital general manager Bette Zirkelbach, center, shares a final moment with Hope as children and other community members gather around to say goodbye Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida Keys. The 150-pound adult female loggerhead sea turtle was returned to the Atlantic Ocean after months of rehabilitation from an anchor-line entanglement that required the amputation of her front flipper.(Mariela Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A moment of remembrance. Turtle Hospital staff members, local first responders and community members bow their heads during a moment of silence honoring those lost on Sept. 11 before Hope's release Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida Keys. The 150-pound adult female loggerhead sea turtle's return to the wild was dedicated to first responders and celebrated her recovery from a severe anchor-line entanglement. (Mariela Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Ready to go home. Hope appears to smile from her transport tub before returning to the Atlantic Ocean Friday, Sept. 11, 2026, at Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida Keys. The 150-pound adult female loggerhead sea turtle recovered at The Turtle Hospital after an anchor line became wrapped around her front flipper, causing injuries that required the flipper's amputation. (Mariela Care/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

And this fall comes with a little extra value. A new initiative from Visit Florida Keys & Key West offers deals and savings across the island chain. Through Oct. 31^st, Keys Season spotlights a variety of lodging partners, restaurants, watersports operators and attractions with value offerings. Learn more at VisitFloridaKeys.com/KeysSeason. 

Why visit The Florida Keys & Key West this fall? 

• Great Weather – Warm days, balmy breezes and comfortable temperatures set the stage for effortless exploring.
• Award-Winning Dining – MICHELIN recognition of two Key West restaurants adds a new distinction to the culinary scene, earning praise for its fresh seafood, inventive chefs and mouthwatering local flavors.
• Stone Crab Season – Stone crab season kicks off Oct. 15, bringing sweet, locally harvested claws to plates and palates from Key Largo to Key West.
• Outdoor Adventures – Milder temperatures make fall ideal for snorkeling, boating and biking.
• World-Class Fishing – Fall brings excellent opportunities for anglers to catch a variety of prized game fish in the waters surrounding the Florida Keys. From sailfish to bonefish, permit, tarpon, snook and redfish, the opportunities are endless.
• Added Value – Keys Season brings extra perks to maximize your stay through Oct. 31. 

Fall also brings an array of events and experiences to the Florida Keys & Key West, including: 

Swim for Alligator Lighthouse 

Sept. 12 | Islamorada, Fla. Adventure seekers take on one of the Florida Keys' most iconic athletic challenges during the eight-mile Swim for Alligator Lighthouse. This is tropical open-water swimming at its purest, drawing participants from around the world for the challenging journey to the historic offshore lighthouse and back. Swimmers compete individually or as part of two-, three- or four-person teams, with kayakers providing support along the course. Learn more. 

Conch Scramble Charity Golf Tournament

Sept. 25 - 26 | Islamorada, Fla. Only in the Florida Keys can a golf tournament swap out golf carts for boats. The unique, island-style experience brings the bravado with floating greens, foursomes traveling by boat and biodegradable golf balls. Creative costumes, decorated boats, along with food, festivities and awards add to a day where watching the fun unfold is even better than being in the tournament. Learn more.  

Lower Keys Fall Migration Mania Birding & Nature Adventure

Sept. 27 | Lower Keys, Fla. At the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden, birders, butterfly enthusiasts, and nature lovers can explore one of the Lower Keys' premier wildlife habitats during the peak of fall migration. The day includes early access to the Garden, self-guided exploration, and optional guided birding and butterfly tours led by local experts. Learn more.   

Taste the Keys

Oct.1 - 31 | Upper Keys / Key Largo, Fla. Savor the flavors of paradise during Taste the Keys, a month-long culinary celebration showcasing the restaurants, chefs and culinary creativity of Key Largo and the Upper Keys. Throughout October, participating restaurants offer specially pricedprix-fixed menus inspired by local ingredients and island culture. Visitors will also enjoy signature dining experiences, chef-led events, trolley tours featuring tastings and cocktails, and the Signature Dish Showdown, where diners vote for their favorite culinary creation. The celebration is timed perfectly with Keys Season savings across the Upper Keys. Learn more. 

Key West oktoBREWfest

Oct. 3 | Key West, Fla.
Crack open a cold one and raise a glass to island-style fun during Key West oktoBREWfest. The annual celebration brings more than 50 breweries to the Southernmost Beach Resort for an afternoon of craft brews, local flavors, and live entertainment. Beer lovers can sample their way through an impressive lineup while soaking up the laid-back spirit of Key West with proceeds benefiting the Key West Sunrise Rotary scholarship fund. Looking to make the experience extra special?  VIP admission includes early entry, a Bavarian-style buffet, a commemorative poster and a stainless steel tasting mug. Learn more.

Celebrate Sunset on the Old Seven Mile Bridge

Oct. 10 | Marathon, Fla. Celebrate America’s 250^th birthday with a spectacular sunset gathering at the historic Seven Mile Bridge. This uniquely Florida Keys event will bring residents and visitors together for an evening of local food, live music, history, culture, and community spirit, featuring culinary creations from the Marathon High School Culinary Program alongside fresh offerings from Grimal Grove. Learn more. 

SOMO Half Marathon & 10K 

Oct. 11 | Key West, Fla. Runners and walkers are invited to experience the Conch Republic with a scenic race route along the waterfront. Whether chasing a personal best or a slice of Key lime pie after crossing the finish line, this tropical race offers breathtaking island views and a festive atmosphere that make it a bucket-list event for athletes and vacationers alike. Learn more. 

REEF Fest 

Oct. 15 - 18 | Key Largo, Fla. REEF Fest is a must-attend gathering for anyone who loves the ocean and all its creatures. The eco-conscious festival combines educational marine conservation programming with immersive outdoor adventures, social events and opportunities to connect with the underwater world that makes the Florida Keys a globally renowned destination for reef exploration. Learn more.  

Fantasy Fest 

Oct. 16 - 25 | Key West, Fla. For more than four decades, Fantasy Fest has transformed Key West into a colorful hub of self-expression and island spirit. The world-famous, 10-day extravaganza features more than 60 events, including themed parties, masquerade balls, art walks, street fairs and the spectacular Fantasy Fest Parade along Duval Street. From the Zombie Bike Ride and Pet Masquerade to the Royal Coronation Ball and Goombay Festival, Fantasy Fest offers a one-of-a-kind cultural experience where imagination takes center stage. Learn more. 

Trop Rock'N Duval 

Oct. 28 - Nov. 1 | Key West, Fla. Island music fans can experience five unforgettable days of live performances during Trop Rock'N Duval. More than 60 artists perform across 23Key West venues, creating a walkable, island-wide celebration of the sounds inspired by life on the water. With intimate bar performances, sunset sessions, sold-out theater shows and sing-along favorites, this annual event captures the welcoming spirit that defines Key West. Learn more. 

Race World Offshore Key West World Championship 

Nov. 1 - 8 | Key West, Fla. The waters surrounding Key West become a high-speed playground during the Race World Offshore Key West World Championship. As the season finale of offshore powerboat racing, the event attracts elite teams from around the world for a thrilling showcase of innovation, teamwork and raw horsepower. Learn more.  

9/11 Exhibit, Army Knights and Drone Shows

November 18 & 20| Islamorada & Big Pine Key, Fla. America’s 250th celebration continues across the Florida Keys this November with a powerful mix of remembrance, patriotism and only-in-the-Keys moments. Experience the Tunnel to Towers “Never Forget” traveling 9/11 exhibit, look to the skies for a U.S. Army Knights paratrooper drop-in and catch a spectacular drone show Nov. 18 at Founders Park in Islamorada. The celebration continues Nov. 20 at Big Pine Key Community Park with an evening of patriotic programming, followed by a 5K run the next day. Learn more. 

Key West Film Festival

Nov. 18 - 22 | Key West, Fla. Named one of MovieMaker Magazine's “25 Coolest Film Festivals in the World,” the Key West Film Festival brings cinematic excellence to paradise. The five-day event features premieres, filmmaker discussions, documentaries, feature films, student shorts, critics panels and awards presentations, all set against Key West's historic architecture, tropical beauty and vibrant arts scene. Learn more. 

Tour de Keys 

Nov. 21 | Key Largo/Islamorada/Marathon/Lower Keys/Key West, Fla. Join riders from across the country for a stunning charity ride from either Key Largo (100 miles) or Marathon (50 miles) to Key West. Tour de Keys is a journey through paradise with purpose, benefitting MARC House, a Monroe County organization that supports adults with developmental disabilities. Learn more.  

FISHING EVENTS 

Anglers of all skill levels can join in at these fall tournaments.   

Herman Lucerne Memorial Backcountry Fishing Championship

Sept. 18 - 20 | Islamorada, Fla. Honoring “Mr. Everglades” himself, this tournament challenges anglers to catch seven specific species within Everglades National Park waters. Learn more. 

Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge  

Sept. 25 - 27 | Key Largo, Fla. This catch-and-release tournament in Key Largo focuses on trout, snook, and redfish, all to support local vocational programs and scholarships for Upper Keys youth. Learn more.  

IGFA Permit Invitational 

Sept. 29 - Oct. 2 | Lower Keys, Fla. This premier tournament celebrates world-class inshore game fish, the sport of fly fishing, the ethics and the programs of the International Game Fish Association. Learn more.  

Backcountry Fly Championship Series 

Oct. 2 - 3 | Islamorada, Fla. Compete to catch the most inches of snook and redfish in a challenge where one-inch equals one point. Learn more.  

Casting for Cats Backcountry Tournament 

Oct. 16 - 17 | Islamorada, Fla. This formerly all-female tournament is now open to everyone, with a co-ed division and a new junior division. The event is a major fundraiser to help control the feral cat population in the Upper Keys. Learn more. 

“Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing!” Florida Keys Saltwater Seminar and Fishing Tournament 

Oct. 16 - 18 | Islamorada, Fla. Female fishing fans can learn or polish angling skills during the award-winning weekend seminar with two days of optional charter fishing and the Fishing Fever Fun Tournament.  Learn more.  

Cheeca Lodge & Spa All American Backcountry Tournament  

Nov. 12 - 14 | Islamorada, Fla. Honor war heroes during Veterans Day weekend with this all-release tournament targeting snook, redfish, bonefish, tarpon, and permit. The event benefits the Bonefish & Tarpon Trust. Learn more.  

Sugarloaf Showdown  

Nov. 12 - 14 | Lower Keys, Fla.  Fish for bonefish, permit, and barracuda in this catch-and-release challenge hosted by the Lower Keys Guides Association. Proceeds support the Florida Keys Guides Trust Foundation. Learn more.  

Ready to plan your next trip? Get inspired at visitfloridakeys.com.  Supporting high-resolution images and associated credit information are available HERE.  

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Golf gets an island-style twist as a costumed participant takes aim at a floating green during the Conch Scramble Charity Golf Tournament in Islamorada in the Florida Keys. Foursomes trade golf carts for boats and traditional fairways for the water, teeing up biodegradable golf balls during the one-of-a-kind tournament, returning Sept. 25-26, 2026. (Courtesy of Conch Scramble)

Fantasy takes flight as Daniel Bitnar, center, leads a blue-winged group depicting the U.S. Navy's Blue Angels Flight Demonstration Squadron during a Fantasy Fest Masquerade March in Key West, Fla. The island city's anything-goes celebration of costuming, creativity and self-expression returns Oct. 16-25, 2026. (Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Things get wonderfully weird as colorful extraterrestrials and other out-of-this-world characters parade through Key West, Fla., during a Fantasy Fest Masquerade March. The island city's 10-day celebration of costuming, creativity and self-expression returns Oct. 16-25, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Only in Key West could the Kentucky Derby inspire a unicorn race. A group depicting an offbeat “Conch-tucky Derby” for unicorns performs on Duval Street during the Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West, Fla. The elaborate procession of fantastical floats and costumed marchers highlights the 10-day Fantasy Fest celebration, set for Oct. 16-25, 2026. (Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Duval Street gets a glow up after dark as participants in elaborate neon-accented costumes light up the Fantasy Fest Parade in Key West, Fla. Fantastical floats, marching groups and over-the-top characters fill the street during the signature procession of the 10-day celebration, set for Oct. 16-25, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Talk about a powerhouse pair. A costumed duo channels celebrity pals Martha Stewart and Snoop Dogg during the Fantasy Fest Pet Masquerade in Key West, Fla. Pets and their people share the spotlight in coordinated and themed costumes during the 10-day Fantasy Fest celebration, set for Oct. 16-25, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

The undead hit the road as thousands of costumed cyclists take over the streets of Key West, Fla., for the annual Fantasy Fest Zombie Bike Ride. The wildly imaginative, family-friendly ride is among more than 60 events planned during the island city's 10-day Fantasy Fest celebration, set for Oct. 16-25, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

The Tour de France meets the afterlife as Ryan Stachurski, left, and Tony Lopez pedal their Tour de France-inspired “Tour de Mort” creation during the Fantasy Fest Zombie Bike Ride in Key West, Fla. The quirky ride is among more than 60 events planned during the island city's 10-day Fantasy Fest celebration, set for Oct. 16-25, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Setting their sights on one of the Florida Keys' most recognizable landmarks, swimmers round the historic Alligator Reef Lighthouse during the 2025 Swim for Alligator Lighthouse off Islamorada. The eight-mile open-water challenge, which raises funds to help preserve the landmark, returns Sept. 12, 2026. (Christjen Johnson/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Kayak support teams are in it to win it as they guide swimmers past the historic Alligator Reef Lighthouse during the 2025 Swim for Alligator Lighthouse off Islamorada in the Florida Keys. The eight-mile open-water challenge combines endurance with a mission to celebrate and preserve the beloved offshore landmark and returns Sept. 12, 2026. (Steve Panariello/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A sure sign that fall has arrived in the Florida Keys: fresh Florida stone crab claws hit the table at Key Largo Fisheries. Stone crab season begins Oct. 15, bringing the sweet, locally harvested delicacy back to menus throughout the island chain. (Mary B. Haban/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Hollywood meets the subtropics as leading film critics gather to dish about movies and industry trends during the 2024 Key West Film Festival Critics Panel at Hank's Hair of the Dog Saloon in Key West, Fla. From left are moderator Shirrel Rhoades of The Key West Citizen, David Rooney of The Hollywood Reporter, David Fear of Rolling Stone, Stephanie Zacharek of Time and Lovia Gyarkye of The Hollywood Reporter. The five-day festival returns Nov. 18-22, 2026. (Larry Blackburn/Key West Film Festival)

Speed, spray and serious horsepower take over Key West Harbor as Stock 450-class raceboats make the turn during the 2023 Key West Offshore World Championship. The high-speed season finale, produced by Race World Offshore and featuring elite teams from around the world, roars back into Key West Nov. 1-8, 2026. (Andy Newman/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A prized permit provides a picture-perfect moment for an angler competing in the Sugarloaf Showdown in the Lower Keys. The catch-and-release challenge targeting bonefish, permit and barracuda returns Nov. 12-14, 2026, with proceeds supporting the Florida Keys Guides Trust Foundation. (Courtesy of Lower Keys Guides Association)

Hot from the oven, a wood-fired Neapolitan pizza draws smiles at Italian Food Company during a Taste the Keys trolley tour in Key Largo in the Florida Keys. The month-long culinary celebration is proudly presented by the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce and offers a variety of special menus and dining experiences throughout Key Largo and the Upper Keys Oct. 1-31, 2026. (Doug Finger/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Entrees like this herb-crusted shrimp at Sundowners restaurant are just some of the mouthwatering meals that have been offered during a Taste the Keys Foodie Trolley Tour in Key Largo. The month-long culinary celebration, presented by the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce, serves up a variety of special menus and dining experiences throughout Key Largo and the Upper Keys Oct. 1-31, 2026. (Doug Finger/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A 35.5-pound cobia earned Donna Jocelyn of Miami, Fla., left, Top Offshore honors during a previous Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing! event aboard Sea Horse with Capt. Rick Rodriguez. The Florida Keys Saltwater Seminar and Fishing Fever Inshore/Offshore Tournament returns Oct. 16-18, 2026, in Islamorada. (Photo courtesy of Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing)

Janet Steiner of St. Augustine, Fla., celebrates her first inshore fishing experience with a 33.5-inch snook release during a previous Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing! event. The catch earned her Top Inshore honors with Capt. Chris Hanson of Scales2Tales. The Florida Keys Saltwater Seminar and Fishing Fever Inshore/Offshore Tournament returns Oct. 16-18, 2026, in Islamorada. (Photo courtesy of Ladies, Let’s Go Fishing)

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142 

Story: Key West Raises a Glass to Jimmy Buffett and the Music  He Left Behind 

Locator: Key West, Fla. 

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Video: B-roll and drone aerials of thousands of Jimmy Buffett fans in tropical clothing and parrot hats marching on Duval Street in Key West, Fla., tossing beach balls, raising a toast outside Sloppy Joe's Bar and singing "Margaritaville" outside Margaritaville; SOTs with festival co-organizer Paul Menta and singer-songwriter and longtime Buffett collaborator Will Kimbrough. 

Technical Data: 

     TRT: 2:56 

     Filename: KeyWestBuffettParade.mp4 

     Audio: Stereo Mix 

     SOTs: Clean / Isolated 

     B-Roll: Nat. Sound 

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory) 

Key West Raises a Glass to Jimmy Buffett and the Music  He Left Behind 

KEY WEST, Fla. (September 6, 2026) — Thousands of Jimmy Buffett fans turned one of Key West’s most famous streets into a moving memorial Sunday. Marching. Singing. And raising a glass to the late singer-songwriter whose music continues to bring them together. 

Wearing tropical shirts and parrot hats, Buffett’s devoted fan base, known as ‘Parrotheads’, carried posters, tossed beach balls and celebrated down Duval Street in the Second Line Memorial Walking Parade. The procession paused outside Sloppy Joe's Bar to give Buffett another well-deserved toast. Then it was on to Margaritaville, where the crowd belted out Buffett’s signature hit by the same name as they searched for that proverbial lost shaker of salt.  

The Second Line is the signature gathering of Just a Few Friends Key West, a five-day festival over Labor Day weekend that honors Buffett’s life and legacy. Now in its third year, the celebration brings fans, locals and musicians together in the city where Buffett found his voice and island-inspired sound.  

"It's really just a cultural way to get together, feel some good energy and express maybe some of that sadness that we have and group-hug it together and say, 'Hey, man, thank you, Jimmy Buffett. You did a lot for us, and we're going to keep the party going,'" said Menta. 

Buffett arrived in Key West in the early 1970s. The island, its characters and its free-spirited way of life became part of his music and shaped his laid-back blend of country, folk, rockand Caribbean influences that became his signature sound known as Trop Rock. 

For Key West, Buffett's connection to the island went far beyond the music. He became part of its story and, through his songs, shared a little of its spirit with generations of fans around the world. 

Buffett died Sept. 1, 2023. Within hours, Key West residents organized an impromptu Second Line in his honor. That spontaneous community tribute grew into Just a Few Friends Key West — five days of music, storytelling and gatherings at some of the places that shaped Buffett's life and work. 

"So, he is our heart, just like Key West is our soul. There are different things that work out, and it just all comes together. And when you say Jimmy Buffett, I haven't met a person that doesn't just get a big grin. So, I mean, that's why we're Key West. I think that's why Jimmy Buffett was part of Key West," said Menta. 

Will Kimbrough, a longtime Buffett collaborator and co-writer of one of last songs Buffett recorded called "Bubbles Up," shares Buffett's Mobile, Alabama, roots. He said Key West felt like a homecoming for Buffett and recalled how the singer kept his humor through his final days. 

"He had joy at the end, you know, and, and he was entertaining his friends at the end of his life instead of, you know, 'Oh, poor me.' He was making them laugh, and that's what he did. So, yeah, he was the real deal," said Kimbrough. 

The procession ended at Truman Waterfront Park, with a free ‘Party in the Park’ Sunday evening featuring Kimbrough and longtime Coral Reefer Band member Mac McAnally. 

The five-day celebration continues through Labor Day with a sold-out concert featuring Kimbrough inside the famed Chart Room, the tiny Key West bar is where Buffett first played after arriving on the island in 1971. The audience is limited to 40 people, including the bartender.  

The festival's final day also includes the last Tales from the Chartroom storytelling session. At 6 p.m., the Cayman & the Mango Men are scheduled to close the celebration with a free sunset concert at Sunset Pier. 

For the full schedule, visit JustAFewFriendsKeyWest.com. 

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Cheers to Jimmy. Just a Few Friends Key West co-organizer Paul Menta, right, leads thousands of Jimmy Buffett fans in a toast outside Sloppy Joe's Bar on Duval Street in Key West, Fla., Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026. The gathering was part of the Second Line Memorial Walking Parade honoring the late singer-songwriter. (Terry Martin/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Parrotheads on parade. Jimmy Buffett fans in tropical shirts, flower leis and parrot-themed hats carry Buffett memorabilia and wave decorated umbrellas as they march along Duval Street in Key West, Fla., Sunday, Sept. 6, 2026. The Second Line Memorial Walking Parade was part of the five-day Just a Few Friends Key West celebration honoring the late singer-songwriter. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Thousands turn out. Jimmy Buffett fans fill Duval Street in Key West, Fla., Sunday afternoon, Sept. 6, 2026, for the Second Line Memorial Walking Parade. Dressed in tropical shirts, flower leis and parrot-themed attire, the crowd celebrated the late singer-songwriter during the five-day Just a Few Friends Key West festival. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

Thanks to Florida State Parks, park admission will be free, giving the community an opportunity to enjoy one of the Florida Keys’ most treasured natural resources as part of the yearlong America 250 Florida Keys celebration. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to sunset.

From 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., the event will feature:

• A Progressive Red, White, & Blue Paddleboard and Kayak Parade through the mangrove trail – kayaks and paddleboards provided
• Glass-bottom boat experiences at 12:15 p.m. and 3:15 p.m. (first come, first served)
• Snorkeling Experiences (fins and mask included; must buy or bring your own snorkel) at noon and 1: 30 p.m. (first come, first served)
• Hot dogs, chips, and a soda plus chocolate-dipped Key Lime Pie
• Live entertainment from local musicians
• Interactive activities from community partners

“America’s 250th birthday gives us a unique opportunity to celebrate our nation and our state's history throughout 2026, including the places, people, and experiences that make the Florida Keys so special,” said Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln. “This event brings our celebration to an incredible park and gives our community members a chance to see our natural history up close and personal.”

Pennekamp is known as the nation’s first undersea park and is home to mangrove forests, tropical hammocks, seagrass beds, and coral reefs.

“We are proud to welcome the community to John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park for this special celebration,” said Ann Helmers, president of the Friends group. “Pennekamp is an important part of our local history and identity, and there is no better place to celebrate than Pennekamp, a world-renowned destination and one of the Florida Keys’ most cherished treasures.”

The event is part of America 250 Florida Keys, which is Monroe County and the Tourist Development Council’s celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States of America. Several free events are being planned to highlight the islands’ history, culture, natural resources, and community spirit. On Oct. 10, a sunset celebration will be held at the Old 7-Mile Bridge in Marathon, and events in Big Pine Key and Islamorada are being planned for November.

More information and event updates will be available at www.monroecounty-fl.gov/250.

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An aerial view shows kayakers winding through the mangrove forests at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. The nation’s first undersea park will host America 250 Florida Keys Pennekamp Paddle Day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026. (Visit Florida Keys)

Two paddlers travel through the mangroves at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. Kayaks and paddleboards will be provided for the progressive red, white and blue paddle parade during America 250 Florida Keys Pennekamp Paddle Day Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026. (Stephen Flint/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Katherine Wieland, left, and Cody Wagner snorkel above the Christ of the Abyss statue, an underwater landmark at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park off Key Largo. Pennekamp Paddle Day will offer first-come, first-served snorkeling experiences at noon and 1:30 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026. (Stephen Frink/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Visitors relax on Cannon Beach at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. Florida State Parks will waive park admission for America 250 Florida Keys Pennekamp Paddle Day Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, with activities scheduled from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. (Bob Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Visitors aboard the Spirit of Pennekamp peer through glass-bottom viewing ports at the coral reef off Key Largo. First-come, first-served glass-bottom boat experiences are scheduled for 12:15 and 3:15 p.m. during Pennekamp Paddle Day Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026. (Bob Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

The Spirit of Pennekamp carries visitors toward the coral reef off Key Largo. Glass-bottom boat experiences are among the activities planned for America 250 Florida Keys Pennekamp Paddle Day from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026. (Bob Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

America 250 Florida Keys Pennekamp Paddle Day is set for 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 12, 2026, at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park in Key Largo. The free-admission event will include paddling, glass-bottom boat and snorkeling experiences, food, live music and activities from community partners.

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142 

Story: After Winning Hearts, Timmy the Larger-than-Life Loggerhead Returns to Sea in Key West 

Locator: Key West, Fla.   

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B-roll of Timmy, a 270-pound female loggerhead sea turtle estimated to be between 70 and 80 years old, being released into the Atlantic Ocean at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West. Additional footage includes the distressed turtle before being rescued, struggling to stay afloat. Turtle Hospital staff preparing Timmy for release, spectators lining the beach, Timmy crawling across the sand and entering the surf. SOTs with The Turtle Hospital general manager Bette Zirkelbach (pronounced Betty ZIR-KULL-BACK) and Florida RepresentativeJim Mooney. 

Technical Data:   

     TRT: 3:17 

     Filename: TimmyTurtleRelease.mp4   

     Audio: Stereo Mix   

     SOTs: Clean / Isolated   

     B-Roll: Nat. Sound 

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory) 

After Winning Hearts, Timmy the Larger-than-Life Loggerhead Returns to Sea in Key West

KEY WEST, Fla. (August 14, 2026) — It was the goodbye everyone had hoped for. Timmy, the larger-than-life loggerhead sea turtle...who won the hearts of her caregivers during weeks of rehabilitation, returned to her ocean home Friday in Key West. Hundreds gathered at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park to see Turtle Hospital staff carry the massive 270-pound turtle to the edge of the water and watch her make her way across the sand and back into the Atlantic.  

Timmy was rescued on July 19 after struggling to stay afloat and flailing in the ocean. Boaters found her about seven miles south of Sugarloaf Key and called for help. They stayed with the distressed turtle until a crew from the U.S. Coast Guard arrived. Timmy was then taken to the Turtle Hospital in Marathon for treatment. 

When she arrived, she made quite the impression. During the hour-long ride to Marathon, Timmy climbed out of her rescue container and sent equipment flying around the back of the turtle ambulance. That feisty streak continued during her rehabilitation and quickly endeared her to the staff caring for her. 

Timmy was treated with fluids and antibiotics and underwent a series of tests. As her health improved, so did her appetite. Squid, mackerel, shrimp and lobster tail were all on the menu. Staff even celebrated when Timmy finally went number two; an important indication that her digestive system was working normally. 

When Timmy was strong enough, she was moved into a 160,000-gallon tidal pool, where staff could watch how she swam and navigated deeper water. She passed the test. 

Timmy’s rescue wasn’t just memorable. It was important. The giant loggerhead is estimated to be between 70 and 80 years old and still actively nesting. In fact, she had already laid eggs three times this season, including 10 days before she was rescued, 

“Seeing a turtle like Timmy that has survived our oceans for so many decades, getting a reproductive female like her returned to her ocean home is most important for the survival of their species,” said Bette Zirkelbach (pronounced Betty ZIR-KULL-BACK), general manager of the Turtle Hospital. 

During her hospital stay, staff shared Timmy's progress with the public. And people from across the globe tuned in to see her every move, including watching her eat, swim and regain her strength. They got to know the old turtle with a big appetite and even bigger personality. They saw her enjoying back scratches and spa days. And by the time she was cleared for release, plenty of people were rooting for her. 

Florida Representative Jim Mooney, whose House District 120 includes the Florida Keys, was one of them. And said Timmy's release carried a deeper message for the next generation. 

“We have to maintain, through education, how important our environment is, not just for us, but for the future. The little kids that are walking around today, that's what this is about,” said Mooney. 

Friday morning, some of that community descended on Key West to see how Timmy's story played out. Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park waived admission fees for the special release, and spectators lined the beach as Turtle Hospital staff carried her toward the water. 

For Zirkelbach, the turnout showed how deeply Timmy's story connected with the public. 

“Seeing the hundreds of people coming out for Timmy's release today, it warms my heart. And I know that that compassion is contagious. The most important thing we can do to help save sea turtles is to fall in love with them,” said Zirkelbach. 

For the team that rescued and rehabilitated her, it was the kind of goodbye they worked so hard for. 

Mooney said today’s release confirmed that the place he grew up in still stands to protect our most precious resource. “Having been a ‘Keys kid’ my entire life, and still a ’Key’s kid,’ is to protect the environment. Because I know what the environment means to our tourism, to our tax dollars.” 

When Timmy finally reached the surf and swam away from Key West, she went back to doing what she'd been doing for most of the past eight decades…living wild in the sea. 

To learn more about the Turtle Hospital, visit TurtleHospital.org.  

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Timmy, a 270-pound female loggerhead sea turtle estimated to be 70 to 80 years old, touches her nose in the Atlantic Ocean Friday, Aug. 14, 2026, at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West, Fla. Recreational boaters found Timmy swimming abnormally July 19 about seven miles south of Sugarloaf Key. After weeks of treatment and rehabilitation at the Turtle Hospital, the actively nesting turtle was cleared to return to the wild. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Hundreds of spectators gather around Timmy as Turtle Hospital staff prepare the 270-pound female loggerhead sea turtle for release Friday, Aug. 14, 2026, at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West, Fla. The public followed Timmy's progress during weeks of rehabilitation after recreational boaters found her swimming abnormally July 19. The actively nesting turtle, estimated to be 70 to 80 years old, was cleared to return to the Atlantic Ocean. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Timmy crawls from her transport container onto the sand Friday, Aug. 14, 2026, as Bette Zirkelbach helps guide her release at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West, Fla. The Coast Guard assisted with Timmy's July 19 rescue after recreational boaters found the 270-pound female loggerhead swimming abnormally south of Sugarloaf Key. She returned to the Atlantic following weeks of rehabilitation. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Turtle Hospital staff and U.S. Coast Guard personnel carry Timmy through spectators toward the Atlantic Friday, Aug. 14, 2026, at Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park in Key West, Fla. The Coast Guard helped rescue the 270-pound female loggerhead July 19 after boaters found her struggling south of Sugarloaf Key. Estimated to be 70 to 80 years old, Timmy returned to the wild after weeks of rehabilitation. (Larry Blackburn/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Hosted by the Lower Keys Guides Association (LKGA), the Sugarloaf Showdown has grown from a small, homegrown tournament designed to bring anglers to the Lower Keys during the quieter fall season into one of the region's most anticipated fishing events. Known for combining friendly competition with community and a shared love for the Florida Keys flats fishery.

Registration will open exclusively to current LKGA members from August 1 through August 14. If space remains available, registration will open to the general public beginning August 15.

The Sugarloaf Showdown is a catch-and-release tournament featuring bonefish, permit, and barracuda, with both fly and spin anglers competing for top honors. A dedicated youth division also recognizes the next generation of anglers, making the tournament a favorite for fishing families and helping inspire future stewards of the Florida Keys fishery.

"The Sugarloaf Showdown has always been about more than the fishing," said Jessyca LaBadie, Tournament Director and Operations Manager of the Lower Keys Guides Association. "It's a chance for our community to come together, spend time on the water with family and friends, and celebrate the incredible fishery that makes the Lower Keys so special. Every year we're humbled by the enthusiasm surrounding this tournament, and we can't wait to welcome everyone back this November."

Proceeds from the tournament’s online auction will once again benefit the Guides Trust Foundation, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting Florida Keys fishing guides and their families during times of crisis. Last year, the Foundation provided financial assistance to multiple Lower Keys guides who were sidelined for months by serious medical issues, helping ease the burden while they focused on recovery.

The 13th Annual Sugarloaf Showdown will take place November 12–14, 2026, beginning with check-in and a rules meeting on Thursday evening, followed by two days of fishing and an awards celebration on Saturday.

The tournament entry fee is $350 per boat. With last year's tournament reaching capacity in less than 48 hours, anglers are encouraged to register early. Complete registration details, tournament rules, eligibility requirements, and the online registration form are available at SugarloafShowdown.com.

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The 13th Annual Sugarloaf Showdown is scheduled Nov. 12-14, 2026, in Sugarloaf Key in the Florida Keys. The catch-and-release tournament features bonefish, permit and barracuda, with fly, spin and youth divisions. Registration opens Aug. 1 for current Lower Keys Guides Association members and Aug. 15 for the general public if space remains. Tournament details and registration are available at SugarloafShowdown.com.

Guide Chad Huff, left, and his son, angler Zach Huff, celebrate their 2025 Sugarloaf Showdown spin division grand championship in Sugarloaf Key in the Florida Keys. Zach Huff caught and released all three targeted species, bonefish, permit and barracuda, to score 850 points. Last year's 30-boat field filled in less than 48 hours, underscoring the event's popularity with anglers and guides. (Photo courtesy Lower Keys Guides Association)

Fly division grand champion angler Stone Sacco, left, and guide Cameron Sharp celebrate after scoring 1,200 points with catches across two species during the 2025 Sugarloaf Showdown in Sugarloaf Key in the Florida Keys. The catch-and-release tournament targets bonefish, permit and barracuda. Proceeds from its online auction benefit the Guides Trust Foundation, which supports Florida Keys fishing guides and their families during times of crisis. (Photo courtesy Lower Keys Guides Association)

Spin division first runner-up angler Pat Bennet and guide Tim Carlile display their awards Saturday, Nov. 15, 2025, after scoring 1,100 points with catches across two species during the 12th Annual Sugarloaf Showdown in Sugarloaf Key in the Florida Keys. Registration for the 13th annual tournament, scheduled Nov. 12-14, 2026, opens Aug. 1 for current Lower Keys Guides Association members and Aug. 15 for the general public if space remains. (Photo courtesy Lower Keys Guides Association)

Youth grand champion guide Luke Benson, left, and angler David Ragsdale, both age 11, display their awards after teaming to catch and release a barracuda for 100 points during the 2025 Sugarloaf Showdown in Sugarloaf Key in the Florida Keys. The dedicated youth division returns in November, giving fishing families a way to introduce a new generation to the Florida Keys flats fishery. (Photo courtesy Lower Keys Guides Association)

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com

Story: Ready, Set, Dive: Mini Lobster Season Opens in the Florida Keys with a Safety-First Message

Locator: Key Largo, Florida Keys

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Video: B-roll of Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Officer Liam Rodriguez, the agency’s public information officer for Monroe County, demonstrating how to measure a spiny lobster and discussing harvest regulations and boating safety; Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary representatives participating in an annual preseason outreach event; and shoppers making last-minute lobster-season preparations at Divers Direct in Key Largo, Florida Keys. File footage of divers harvesting and measuring lobster underwater, with SOTs from Rodriguez.

Technical Data:

TRT: 2:44

Filename: KeysLobsterMiniSeason.mp4

Audio: Stereo Mix

SOTs: Clean / Isolated

B-Roll: Nat. Sound

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

Ready, Set, Dive: Mini Lobster Season Opens in the Florida Keys with a Safety-First Message

KEY LARGO, Florida Keys (July 27, 2026) — The countdown is over. And the hunt is on! Florida's annual mini lobster season opens this Wednesday, July 29 at one minute after midnight and ends just 24-hours later, at midnight July 30. That means thousands of divers and boaters are headed to the Florida Keys for one of the state's most anticipated recreational harvests. But before the first lobster is ever measured, officials are urging everyone to know the rules...and put safety first.

During an annual preseason outreach event at Divers Direct in Key Largo, the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) was on hand to encourage everyone on and under the water to familiarize themselves with Florida Keys regulations and check the boundaries of closed areas before leaving the dock.

“At the end of the day, we want you to come down to the Florida Keys. We want you to have fun, but most importantly, we want you to be safe,” said FWC Officer Liam Rodriguez, the agency’s public information officer for Monroe County.

FWC Officer Liam Rodriguez demonstrated how to properly measure spiny lobster while reminding harvesters about boating safety, licensing requirements and protected areas. Representatives from the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary also shared information with participants.

With hundreds of boats and divers expected on the water, officials say visibility is key. Divers and snorkelers must display a diver-down warning device and remain as close to it...and their vessel...as practical. That means within 300 feet in open water and 100 feet in rivers, inlets and navigational channels. Boaters approaching those areas must also slow to idle speed.

“We’re going to have heavy traffic, heavy boat traffic on the waters during mini season,” said Rodriguez. “So, it is recommended that you stay as close as you can to the boat.”

Unless exempt, each person taking or attempting to take lobster needs a recreational saltwater fishing license and a spiny lobster permit.

During the sport season, Monroe County regulations differ from those in most of Florida, including a lower daily bag limit, while the statewide minimum-size rule also applies.

“So, we have bag limits, we have size limits. Only six per person per day per licensed harvester. And the carapace must be longer than three inches long,” said Rodriguez.

On or after Thursday, a harvester may transport the two-day limit of 12 by car. Lobsters must be measured in the water; undersized or egg-bearing animals must be released unharmed, and recreational catch must remain whole at sea.

Night diving is strictly prohibited in Monroe County during mini lobster season. Lobster harvesting is also prohibited in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park during the two-day season, as well as year-round in Everglades and Dry Tortugas national parks, Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary no-take areas, and other protected waters. Since local shoreline, canal and marina rules vary, harvesters should check regulations before heading out.

If you’re not able to make it to mini-lobster season, the regular Florida spiny lobster season begins in about a week on Aug. 6, 2026, and continues through March 31, 2027.

For more information on current rules, closed-area guidance, boating and diving safety videos, measuring instructions, and the 2026 English and Spanish regulation brochures visit KeysLobsterSeason.com.

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Scott Sexton of Fort Myers, Fla., holds several lobster lassos while browsing a display of lobster harvesting gear at Divers Direct in Key Largo, Florida Keys, on Monday, July 27, 2026. Sexton is among shoppers making final preparations for Florida's two-day recreational spiny lobster mini-season, which opens at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, July 29, and runs through Thursday, July 30. The regular spiny lobster season begins Aug. 6. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Julia Shinkle and Levi Lien, 11, of Jacksonville, Fla., examine lobstering nets at Divers Direct in Key Largo, Florida Keys, Monday, July 27, 2026. Their shopping comes two days before Florida’s recreational spiny lobster mini-season opens, when Monroe County’s six-lobster daily limit applies to each active harvester. The regular spiny lobster season begins Aug. 6. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Divers Direct sales associate Dave Madison, left, discusses specialized lobstering equipment with Wesley and Michelle Shaw of Tampa Bay, Fla., at the Key Largo, Florida Keys, store Monday, July 27, 2026. Madison holds a lobster hotel, while Shaw holds a lobster lasso. The Shaw’s are among shoppers making final preparations for Florida’s two-day spiny lobster sport season, which opens at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, July 29, and continues through Thursday, July 30. The regular season begins Aug. 6. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Officer Liam Rodriguez uses a lobster gauge to demonstrate how to measure the carapace of a spiny lobster Monday, July 27, 2026, during an annual preseason outreach event at Divers Direct in Key Largo, Florida Keys. Regulations require the carapace to be longer than three inches from the area between the horns to the rear edge, and measured while the lobster is in the water. The two-day sport season begins at 12:01 a.m. Wednesday, July 29, and continues through Thursday, July 30. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Officer Liam Rodriguez discusses correct lobster harvesting techniques with Missy DuBois of Stuart, Fla., Monday, July 27, 2026, during an annual preseason outreach event at Divers Direct in Key Largo, Florida Keys. The outreach helps residents and visitors review bag and size limits, protected areas, and boating and diving safety before the two-day lobster mini-seasonbegins Wednesday, July 29. (Mary B. Haban/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Officer Liam Rodriguez, left, demonstrates proper lobster measurement for Kimn Chartier, center, of Palm City, Fla., and Missy DuBois, right, of Stuart, Fla., Monday, July 27, 2026, during an annual preseason outreach event at Divers Direct in Key Largo, Florida Keys. The outreach focused on correct harvesting techniques, Florida Keys regulations, and boating and diving safety before the two-day mini-season begins Wednesday, July 29. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Perseverance paid off Saturday night in Key West, as Chris Dutton made history becoming the first "Young Hemingway" ever to win Sloppy Joe's 45th Annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest. The 39-year-old lawyer from Tampa captured the title, joining a brotherhood dedicated to preserving Ernest Hemingway's legacy through friendship, tradition and service.

Dutton’s road victory was far from easy. He emerged from a field of 134 registered contestants, in two preliminary rounds before defeating 23 other finalists to claim the title on his seventh attempt.

And while most contestants portray the older, white-bearded version of Hemingway, Dutton embodies the younger writer who lived and worked in Key West during the 1930s. Other "Young Hemingway’s" had reached the finals over the years, but none had ever won...until now.

The judges, each a former Look Alike winner known affectionally as a "Papa", look for more than a familiar face. They evaluate resemblance to Hemingway, stage presence, character and the ability to represent a society devoted to preserving the celebrated author's legacy. Twenty-four finalists each had one minute to make their case before the top five earned two additional minutes on stage. In the end, the Papas chose Dutton.

Dutton credited seven years of unwavering family support, a keepsake from a past winner, and one well-kept secret for helping him capture the prestigious title.

"Papa David Douglas gave me this sweater,” said Dutton. “I've had it for a few years and I never told anybody.”

Douglas, the contest's 2009 winner, passed down his trusted sweater to Dutton, who wore it with pride as he took the title Saturday night. But winning, he says, wasn’t the best part of the experience.

After his first appearance at the look-alike contest, he discovered what keeps generations of contestants coming back: the friendships. In 2019, a past Papa invited him on a trip to Cuba, where Hemingway also briefly lived. Experiences like that, he said, revealed the true spirit behind the competition.

"It's about the brotherhood, the friendship, and that's why we all keep returning," Dutton fondly recalled.

Dutton's new role is only beginning.

He now moves from contestant to judge, helping select future winners while supporting the Hemingway Look-Alike Society's scholarship program, which has awarded more than $350,000 to Florida Keys students. He also becomes one of the tradition's ambassadors, helping ensure Hemingway's enduring influence continues for future generations. Dutton said he would do everything in his power to keep the tradition going.

Hemingway lived and wrote some of his most famous works in Key West through much of the 1930s and was a regular at Sloppy Joe's Bar, where the contest was held. Today, the annual contest remains the signature event of the six-day Hemingway Days celebration honoring the 127th anniversary of his July 21 birth.

The new Papa admitted the victory still hadn't fully sunk in.

"I haven't completely digested it yet. But I'm ready. Ready to get to work."

To learn more about Hemingway Days and the Look-alike Contest, visit KeyWestLookAlikes.com.

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Chris Dutton of Tampa, Fla., raises his arms in victory after being announced winner of the 2026 Hemingway Look-Alike Contest at Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. At 39, Dutton is the youngest winner in the contest’s 45-year history. The contest, a signature event of the six-day Hemingway Days festival, has drawn contestants and fans from around the world since 1981 to celebrate the author’s enduring legacy. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau).  

A kiss for the new Papa. Former Hemingway Look-Alike Contest winners welcome Chris Dutton, 39, of Tampa, Fla., into their ranks at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, Fla., Saturday, July 25, 2026, after he became the youngest winner in the contest’s 45-year history and the first “Young Hemingway” to claim the coveted title. Organizers registered 134 contestants across two preliminary rounds before Dutton defeated 23 other finalists to claim the title. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau).  

Surrounded by previous winners of the Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, 2026 champion Chris Dutton, a Tampa, Fla., attorney, hoists his trophy, a bronze bust of Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway, outside Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla., where the annual contest was held. At 39, Dutton is the youngest winner in the contest's 45-year history and roughly the age Hemingway was during his final years in Key West. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau).

Left to right, Skylar Massella of Delray Beach, Fla., Mari Portal of Miami, and Allison Plumadore of Key West, Fla., raise a glass during the final round of the 2026 Hemingway Look-Alike Contest held at Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. The three friends said they dressed up because they thought it “would be fun to be silly and match all the ‘Papas’ we knew would be in town!” The contest, a signature event of the six-day Hemingway Days festival, has drawn contestants and fans from around the world since 1981 to celebrate the author’s enduring legacy. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau).  

As one of five finalists, Chris Morris of Sugarloaf Key, Fla., center, presents his case before the judges as fellow finalists Jay Fleece of St. Petersburg, Fla., left, and Ray Faubion of Bonita Springs, Fla., look on during the final round of the 2026 Hemingway Look-Alike Contest at Sloppy Joe's Bar on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. Contestants vie for the title each year during the six-day Hemingway Days festival, which celebrates Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway and his enduring connection to Key West. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau).  

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142

Story: The Bulls Are Back in Town: Hemingway Look-Alikes Take Key West

Locator: Key West, Fla.

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Video: B-roll of past Hemingway Look-Alike Contest winners and contestants taking part in the 45th Annual 'Running' of the Bulls outside Sloppy Joe's Bar and through Old Town in Key West, Fla., Saturday, July 25, 2026. Visuals include participants in traditional white clothing and red berets or bandanas, wooden sawhorse bulls on wheels, the procession through the streets and crowd reaction.

Technical Data:

     TRT: 1:47

     Filename: KeyWestBulls.mp4

     Audio: Nat. Sound - Stereo Mix

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory)

NOTE TO EDITORS/PRODUCERS: The final round of Sloppy Joe's 45th Annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest begins at 6:30 p.m. Saturday, July 25. Twenty-four finalists selected during two preliminary rounds are competing for the title of "Papa 2026." Separate Florida Keys News Bureau coverage of the winner is planned for distribution Sunday morning.

The Bulls Are Back in Town: Hemingway Look-Alikes Take Key West

KEY WEST, Fla. (July 25, 2026) — Beards, berets and wooden bulls rolled through Old Town Key West Saturday afternoon during the 45th Annual 'Running' of the Bulls event...one of Hemingway Days' most recognizable traditions.

Calling it a “run” may be a bit of a stretch. While the ‘Papas’, as Hemingway was often called, sauntered down the one block route, the crowd erupted in cheers just like it was the real deal in Pamplona, Spain.

Dressed in crisp, white clothing with bright, red berets and bandanas, past winners of the Hemingway Look Alike Contest joined hundreds of "Papas," for the signature stroll down some of Key West’s most famous streets. They set out from Greene Street, just outside Sloppy Joe's Bar, crossed Duval Street, looped through Old Town and returned to the bar where Hemingway often hung out.

Five bulls joined in on the makeshift run adding a bit of levity to the day. Wooden sawhorse replicas mounted on wheels and built for considerably less danger than their Spanish counterparts.

The procession spoofs the famed “running of the bulls” in Pamplona, Spain, and is a notable nod to Hemingway's fascination with Spain and its bullfighting traditions. The Key West version borrows the white clothes and red accents but leaves the live animals back in Spain.

While the afternoon belonged to the bulls, Saturday night belonged to the beards.

Twenty-four finalists selected during preliminary rounds Thursday and Friday are competing at 6:30 p.m. in the final round of Sloppy Joe's 45th Annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest. Past winners will narrow the field to five before one contestant is crowned "Papa 2026."

The six-day Hemingway Days, which marks the 127th anniversary of Hemingway’s July 21^st birthday, continues through Sunday with several signature events. Highlights include the Papa Birthday Bash at Sloppy Joe's, Museum Day featuring the Hemingway Collection at the Custom House, and the "Papa's Tales" Storytelling Competition at the Hemingway Social Club.

To learn more, visit KeyWestLookAlikes.com.

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Scores of Ernest Hemingway look-alikes sporting red berets and neckerchiefs “stampede” past Sloppy Joe's Bar with a contingent of faux bulls the 45th annual Running of the Bulls on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. The playful homage to Pamplona's famed bull run is a signature event of Hemingway Days, celebrating the Nobel Prize-winning author whose frequent Key West watering hole attracted generations of admirers after he made the island his home through much of the 1930s. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Calling it a run may be a stretch. A crowd of Hemingway look-alikes and scores of fans fill Duval Street just outside Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Saturday, July 25, 2026, during the 45th Annual ‘Running’ of the Bulls in Key West, Fla. Dressed in white with red berets and bandanas, the would-be “Papas” joined the lighthearted procession as spectators lined the route and cheered them on. (Terry Martin/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A Honk to Hemingway! David “Bat” Masterson of Daytona Beach, Fla., the 2024 winner of the annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, blows a conch shell while riding a faux bull just outside of Sloppy Joe’s Bar on Duval Street during the 45th annual Running of the Bulls on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. Inspired by Hemingway’s own experiences with the famed bull run in Pamplona, Spain, and the scenes he brought to life in famous novels like “The Sun Also Rises,” the island’s signature send-up is a popular part of the annual Hemingway Days festival honoring the Nobel Prize-winning author, whose Key West years remain central to his literary legacy. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Sporting red berets and neckerchiefs James “Iceman” Teele, of Melbourne, Fla., leads a sea of Ernest Hemingway look-alikes from atop a faux bull through downtown Key West during the 45th Running of the Bulls on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. Inspired by Hemingway’s own experiences with the famed bull run in Pamplona, Spain, and the scenes he brought to life in novels like “The Sun Also Rises,” the island’s riotous send-up is a signature event of the annual Hemingway Days festival honoring the Nobel Prize-winning author, whose Key West years remain central to his literary legacy. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Hemingway Look Alike finalists carry more than banners and flags during the 45th annual Running of the Bulls on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. They carry on a tradition inspired by Hemingway’s own experiences with the famed bull run in Pamplona, Spain, and the scenes he brought to life in his novel “The Sun Also Rises.” The island’s signature event is part of the annual Hemingway Days festival honoring the Nobel Prize-winning author, whose Key West years remain central to his literary legacy. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Lyra Bolling, 5, and her real life ‘papa’, Michael Bolling, of Weston, Fla., strike a pose with faux bulls and a pack of “Papa’s” during the 45th annual Running of the Bulls event on Saturday, July 25, 2026, in Key West, Fla. The playful homage to Pamplona's famed bull run is a signature event of the six-day Hemingway Days festival, which celebrates Ernest Hemingway, the Nobel Prize-winning author who made the island of Key West his home through much of the 1930s. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142 

Story: The Papas Are Back: Hemingway Hopefuls Return to Key West 

Locator: Key West, Fla. 

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital) 

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Photo Captions Below 

Video: B-roll from the opening preliminary round of Sloppy Joe's 45th Annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest at Sloppy Joe's Bar in Key West, Fla., on July 23, 2026. Visuals include contestants crossing the stage, longtime competitors greeting one another, audience reaction, judging by past winners and crowd support for would-be "Papas." 

Technical Data: 

     TRT: 1:53 

     Filename: HemingwayLookAlikeRoundOne.mp4 

     Audio: Nat. Sound - Stereo Mix 

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory) 

NOTE TO EDITORS/PRODUCERS: The Florida Keys News Bureau plans additional Hemingway Days video coverage: 

Saturday, July 25: Coverage of Key West's 1 p.m. "Running" of the Bulls outside Sloppy Joe's Bar. Inspired by the renowned run in Pamplona, Spain, the Key West version features costumed Hemingway look-alikes parading with manmade bulls on wheels. 

Sunday, July 26: Coverage of Saturday night's final round of the Hemingway Look-Alike Contest and the crowning of "Papa 2026." B-roll and a SOT with the winner are planned. 

The Papas Are Back: Hemingway Hopefuls Return to Key West 

KEY WEST, Fla. (July 24, 2026) — In most places, wearing a thick wool sweater in the dead of summer may raise a few eyebrows. In Key West, it's all part of the “uniform.” 

White beards, broad smiles and a carefully crafted swagger. That’s what rolled into one of Key West’s most legendary bars Thursday night, as the opening round of the 45th Annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest got underway at Sloppy Joe’s. 

Contestants took the stage at the Duval Street saloon, the very place Ernest Hemingway used to hang out during the 1930s while living in Key West. 

Some rocked safari attire. Others...his iconic fisherman sweaters. But nearly all brought those signature beards, bravado and the brave face needed to convince a panel of past winners that they were worthy of advancing to the final round. 

The “hopefuls” were judged on more than their physical resemblance to Hemingway. They also considered how well they captured the “Papa” persona (as Hemingway was affectionately called), their stage presence and ability to win over the room. 

When the night was over, twelve contestants advanced to Saturday night's final round. A second preliminary round is scheduled for tonight, with the 2026 winner crowned Saturday evening at Sloppy Joe's. 

For many competitors, the annual contest is as much a reunion as it is a competition. It's an annual pilgrimage to Key West, where they can reconnect with friends who understand the walk, the crowd and the dedication required to dress like Ernest Hemingway in July. 

The contest is the highlight of Hemingway Days, an annual Key West celebration of the author's literary legacy, sporting pursuits and island years. The 2026 festival continues through Sunday with events including the lighthearted "Running" of the Bulls outside Sloppy Joe's, a dockside fish-off, a street fair and a belated birthday bash marking the 127th anniversary of Hemingway's July 21 birth. 

Beyond the fun, the look-alikes also carry a cause beyond the stage. The Hemingway Look-Alike Society, formed by past winners and contestants, raises money for scholarships for College of the Florida Keys students and has awarded more than $350,000 since its inception. 

To learn more, visit KeyWestLookAlikes.com. 

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Photo Captions:  

HemingwayRoundOne_01.jpg  

Chris Dutton of Tampa, Fla., strikes a pose on stage at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, Fla., after announcing to the judges and audience of the 45^th annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest his goal of becoming the youngest winning “Papa” in the competition’s history. The first round of this contest took place on Thursday, July 23, 2026, with contestants vying for the title as part of the six-day Hemingway Days festival celebrating Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway and his enduring connection to the island. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

HemingwayRoundOne_02.jpg  

Peter McHugh of Tucson, Arizona, makes his case to the judges during the opening round of the 45^th annual “Papa” Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, Fla. The contest is a signature event of the six-day Hemingway Days festival that has attracted contestants and fans from around the world since 1981 to celebrate Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway’s legacy. Events continue through Sunday, July 26, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

HemingwayRoundOne_03.jpg  

Don Weinstein of Ocoee, Florida, channels Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway’s safari persona during the opening round of the 45^th annual “Papa” Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, Fla. The contest is a signature event of the six-day Hemingway Days festival that has attracted contestants and fans from around the world since 1981 to celebrate Hemingway, whose Key West home remains one of the island's best-known historic landmarks. The festival continues through Sunday, July 26, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

HemingwayRoundOne_04.jpg  

Twelve finalists from a field of more than sixty competitors, enjoy a moment of triumph at the conclusion of the opening round of the 45^th annual “Papa” Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, Fla. The competition, a signature event of a six-day Hemingway Days festival, continues with a second round on Friday, July 24, and with the final round on July 25. Events continue through Sunday, July 26, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

Chris Dutton of Tampa, Fla., strikes a pose on stage at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, Fla., after announcing to the judges and audience of the 45^th annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest his goal of becoming the youngest winning “Papa” in the competition’s history. The first round of this contest took place on Thursday, July 23, 2026, with contestants vying for the title as part of the six-day Hemingway Days festival celebrating Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway and his enduring connection to the island. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Peter McHugh of Tucson, Arizona, makes his case to the judges during the opening round of the 45^th annual “Papa” Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, Fla. The contest is a signature event of the six-day Hemingway Days festival that has attracted contestants and fans from around the world since 1981 to celebrate Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway’s legacy. Events continue through Sunday, July 26, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Don Weinstein of Ocoee, Florida, channels Nobel Prize-winning author Ernest Hemingway’s safari persona during the opening round of the 45^th annual “Papa” Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, Fla. The contest is a signature event of the six-day Hemingway Days festival that has attracted contestants and fans from around the world since 1981 to celebrate Hemingway, whose Key West home remains one of the island's best-known historic landmarks. The festival continues through Sunday, July 26, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Twelve finalists from a field of more than sixty competitors, enjoy a moment of triumph at the conclusion of the opening round of the 45^th annual “Papa” Hemingway Look-Alike Contest, Thursday, July 23, 2026, at Sloppy Joe’s Bar in Key West, Fla. The competition, a signature event of a six-day Hemingway Days festival, continues with a second round on Friday, July 24, and with the final round on July 25. Events continue through Sunday, July 26, 2026. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau)

From destination insights and itinerary inspiration to insider tips and practical sales tools, the recently relaunched Key Lime Academy helps travel advisors not only sell with confidence but deliver vacations their clients will remember for a lifetime.

The self-paced, online certification program is organized by region…giving advisors a deeper understanding of what makes each district unique. From Key Largo, to Islamorada, Marathon, to the Lower Keys and Key West, advisors get an in-depth look into the islands’accommodations, transportation options, accessibility offerings, signature experiences, seasonal travel opportunities and hidden gems.

Upon completing the program, advisors earn the designation of Conch-Star Specialist, recognizing their expertise in planning and promoting travel throughout the Florida Keys & Key West. Graduates also receive access to curated itineraries tailored to a variety of traveler interests, including families, couples, honeymooners, adventure seekers, solo travelers and active adults. The designation signals an advisor's ability to recommend the right island, experiences and pace of travel while showcasing a deeper understanding of one of Florida's most diverse destinations.

"As travelers continue seeking authentic, personalized vacations, travel advisors remain one of our most valuable partners in helping them discover everything the Florida Keys & Key West have to offer," said Ed Simon, Chief Operating Officer and Executive Vice President of Visit Florida Keys & Key West. "The reimagined Key Lime Academy gives advisors destination expertise can immediately put into play to create unforgettable client experiences that grow their business."

Travel advisors interested in earning the Conch-Star Specialist Designation can enroll at www.KeyLimeAcademy.com.

High-resolution images, photo credits, and captions are available at this link.

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The relaunched Key Lime Academy from Visit Florida Keys & Key West is a self-paced online certification program designed to help travel advisors learn more about the island chain and match clients with the right Florida Keys vacation experience. Advisors who complete the program earn the Conch-Star Specialist designation. (Graphic courtesy of Visit Florida Keys & Key West)

The Key Lime Academy website gives travel advisors access to destination training, itinerary ideas, insider tips, promotional materials and sales resources for the Florida Keys & Key West. The relaunched program is organized by region, with information about Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon, the Lower Keys and Key West.(Screenshot courtesy of Visit Florida Keys & Key West)

Those officers were recently recognized for that extraordinary dedication when Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln presented them with a replica of the U.S. Travel Association's Travel Hero Award. The honor recognizes frontline aviation professionals who continued reporting for duty during the federal government shutdowns of 2025 and 2026, ensuring millions of Americans could travel safely despite the personal financial hardship they faced.

While the nation debated budgets and funding in Washington, TSA officers across the country remained focused on the people standing in front of them at airport security checkpoints. They continued screening passengers, protecting the traveling public and keeping the nation's aviation system operating...not because they were being paid, but because they believed in the responsibility entrusted to them.

"It is my privilege to present the U.S. Travel Association's Travel Hero Award to the TSA officers of Key West International Airport," Mayor Lincoln said during the presentation. "These men and women demonstrated remarkable dedication to public service by continuing to protect travelers and keep our airport operating during an incredibly challenging time. Their professionalism, resilience and selflessness deserve our gratitude and recognition."

The impact of that commitment was especially evident at Key West International Airport, where TSA officers continued protecting travelers and keeping flights moving throughout the 76-day shutdown. Airport leaders say their efforts were critical to maintaining the safe, reliable operation visitors and residents depend on.

"Over the course of the 76-day shutdown, our TSA officers were responsible for the screening and safety of more than 200,000 outgoing passengers and an untold number of commercial airline personnel," said Richard Strickland, Executive Director of Airports. "Their dedication is a major part of Key West International Airport's continued success, and this award is a token of our appreciation for all that they do."

For every visitor arriving in the Florida Keys, TSA officers are among the first faces they encounter. Their dedication not only keeps travelers safe, it helps create a welcoming first impression and supports the tourism industry that powers the Keys' economy.

"Tourism is the lifeblood of the Florida Keys, and TSA officers play an essential role in every visitor's journey," said Kara Franker, President & CEO of Visit Florida Keys & Key West. "During the federal government shutdowns, they continued showing up every day despite the personal sacrifices they faced, ensuring travelers could safely reach our destination. Their professionalism, resilience and commitment to serving others helped keep the Keys connected, and we're proud to recognize them as true travel heroes."

Their dedication was especially meaningful in the Florida Keys, where tourism generates approximately $3.6 billion in annual visitor spending and supports more than 19,700 local jobs. At Key West International Airport, TSA officers helped keep one of the region's most important gateways operating during a period of record travel demand. From January through May 2026, EYW welcomed 777,943 passengers, a 6.9 percent increase over the same period the previous year. In March alone, the airport recorded its busiest month in history, serving 175,779 passengers.

The U.S. Travel Association first presented the national Travel Hero Award during Destination Capitol Hill, its annual legislative event in Washington, D.C., in April. The award honored TSA officers and air traffic controllers whose commitment ensured the nation's aviation system continued operating throughout the federal funding lapses.

The national TSA award was accepted by Ha Nguyen McNeill, Senior Official Performing the Duties of TSA Administrator. U.S. Travel subsequently invited destinations across the country to recognize their local TSA officers with replica awards as part of a nationwide tribute to these frontline public servants.

The July 8 ceremony marked Monroe County's participation in that nationwide recognition effort, honoring the local officers whose quiet acts of service kept the Florida Keys connected to the rest of the country during an extraordinarily challenging time. While travelers may never have known the personal sacrifices taking place behind the checkpoint, the dedication of these officers ensured that vacations could begin, loved ones could reunite and the traveling public could continue to move safely through Key West International Airport.

High-resolution images, photo credits, and captions are available at this link.

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Even as federal paychecks stopped, TSA officers at Key West International Airport kept reporting for duty, screening passengers and helping keep the Florida Keys connected. Pictured during recognition of local TSA officers with a U.S. Travel Association Travel Hero Award are, from left, Richard Strickland, Monroe County Executive Director of Airports; Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln; and Kara Franker, president and CEO of Visit Florida Keys & Key West. (Mark Funkhouser/Florida Keys News Bureau)

From left are Kara Franker, president and CEO of Visit Florida Keys & Key West, and Richard Strickland, Monroe County Executive Director of Airports, presenting TSA representatives Joshua Pedowitz, Daniel Shook and Leo Green with a U.S. Travel Association Travel Hero Award. The award recognizes officers who continued showing up for passengers during federal funding stoppages, helping keep travelers moving safely to and from the Florida Keys. (Mark Funkhouser/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Late summer and early fall offer travelers a more relaxed side of the island chain. When life slows down. The sunsets linger. And there's more time to discover the local restaurants, waterfront hideaways and unforgettable experiences that give each island its own personality. 

That's the inspiration behind Keys Season, a new promotion from Visit Florida Keys & Key West featuring exclusive offers from Key Largo to Key West. From Aug. 1 through Oct. 31, travelers can enjoy special values on a variety of accommodations, attractions, fishing charters, diving adventures, eco-tours, restaurants and cultural experiences throughout the island chain. 

"Our first Keys Season celebrates one of the most rewarding times to visit the Florida Keys," said Kara Franker, President and CEO of Visit Florida Keys & Key West. "This is when visitors can truly settle into the island lifestyle; whether that's watching the sunset from a waterfront tiki bar, diving North America's only living coral barrier reef, casting a line offshore or discovering the personality of each island community.” 

From Key Largo to Key West, every stop along the iconic Overseas Highway offers something different to discover…and during Keys Season, something special to save on. 

Many participating lodging partners are also offering a Flexibility Promise, providing free cancellation and rebooking options should travel plans change. And some offers extend beyond the Keys Season timeframe, giving visitors even more flexibility when planning their escape. 

Across the island chain, local businesses, chambers of commerce and tourism partners have come together to create exclusive offers that encourage visitors to explore beyond a single stop. Whether discovering Key Largo's underwater wonders, Marathon's family-friendly adventures or Key West's legendary sunsets, Keys Season celebrates the unique personality of each island community. 

"We’re proud to support the Keys Season campaign and the opportunity it creates for both visitors and our local business community,” said Suzi Youngberg, President & CEO of the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce. ‘One Road...Miles of Savings' showcases the incredible value available throughout the Florida Keys, encouraging travelers to experience more while supporting locally owned businesses. It's another great reason to visit and discover why the Florida Keys remain one of the world's most treasured destinations." 

The beauty of Keys Season is that travelers can shape the experience however they choose. Spend a morning on the water. Wander through an art district in the afternoon. Settle in for fresh local seafood as the sun slips below the horizon. Every island offers something different, making it easy to build an itinerary that's uniquely your own. 

"Keys Season is one of those rare opportunities where visitors truly get the best of everything," said Daniel Samess, CEO of the Greater Marathon Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center. "The waters are just as beautiful, the fishing is world-class, the restaurants serve incredible fresh seafood, and our island communities are as welcoming as ever. Add in exclusive savings, fewer crowds and a relaxed pace, and it's easy to see why this is one of my favorite times of year to experience Marathon and the entire Florida Keys." 

As summer transitions into fall, the Florida Keys' event calendar shifts into high gear, giving visitors even more reasons to plan an escape. Celebrate the life and music of Jimmy Buffett during Just a Few Friends, then return a few weeks later for the legendary Fantasy Fest, where dazzling costumes, colorful parades and boundless creativity transform Key West into one of the country's most unforgettable celebrations. 

"The best way to experience Key West is to slow down and live like a local," said Paul Menta, owner of Key West First Legal Rum Distillery. "Keys Season makes it easier to experience more of what makes this island special, and it comes at the perfect time with signature events like Just a Few Friends and Fantasy Fest bringing incredible energy to Key West. It's one of the most fun times of the year to be here." 

Whether you’re dreaming of a spontaneous weekend getaway, an unforgettable fishing trip, a culinary adventure or a front-row seat to one of the Florida Keys' signature festivals, Keys Season proves that ‘One Road. Miles of Savings.’ can lead to countless adventures like these: 

• Wake Up to Island Mornings. Start each day with ocean views, gentle sea breezes and special lodging offers at waterfront resorts, boutique hotels and charming island inns, including discounted stays, midweek rates and complimentary nights. Explore lodging offers. 

   

• Spend Your Days on the Water. Snorkel or dive North America's only living coral barrier reef. Paddle through winding mangrove trails. Reel in mahi-mahi, tarpon or snapper with experienced local guides. Or simply climb aboard a sunset cruise and let the islands do the rest. Explore outdoor adventures. Explore fishing offers. 

• Savor the Flavors of the Keys. From fresh-off-the-boat seafood and dockside fish shacks to craft cocktails, tiki bars and rooftop happy hours, Keys Season serves up exclusive dining offers that celebrate the island chain's vibrant culinary scene. Explore dining offers. 

   

• Discover the Culture That Makes Each Island Unique. Browse colorful galleries, tour museums and historic landmarks, visit local distilleries, meet artists and makers, and experience the creative spirit that flows throughout the Keys. Explore arts & culture offers. 

Ready to discover exclusive Florida Keys offers and start planning your island-inspired getaway? Learn more at VisitFloridaKeys.com.

Supporting high-resolution images and captions are available HERE.  

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Keys Season gives travelers more ways to experience the Florida Keys & Key West from the water, including kayaking, eco-tours and other outdoor adventures featured among exclusive late-summer and early-fall offers throughout the island chain. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

Keys Season invites travelers to explore the Florida Keys & Key West at a more relaxed time of year, with exclusive offers that make it easier to plan days on the water, island-to-island discoveries and scenic stops along the Overseas Highway. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

Diving North America's only living coral barrier reef is among the signature Florida Keys experiences featured during Keys Season, with late-summer and early-fall offers designed to help travelers discover more of the island chain. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

Mangrove eco-tours and quiet paddling trails are part of the relaxed island experiences travelers can enjoy during Keys Season, when Visit Florida Keys & Key West highlights exclusive offers throughout the destination from Aug. 1 through Oct. 31. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

Keys Season gives visitors more ways to spend time on the water, from paddling and family-friendly adventures to attractions, dining, lodging and cultural experiences across the Florida Keys & Key West. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

Guided fishing trips are among the outdoor adventures included in Keys Season, a new Visit Florida Keys & Key West promotion encouraging travelers to experience the island chain's waters, local businesses and relaxed late-summer pace. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

From offshore fishing charters to waterfront dining and island events, Keys Season highlights the variety of experiences travelers can build into a Florida Keys getaway while taking advantage of exclusive late-summer and early-fall offers. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

Keys Season celebrates one of the most rewarding times to experience the Florida Keys & Key West, with special offers that invite visitors to slow down, get on the water and discover the distinct personality of each island community. Credit: Visit Florida Keys

The recognitions were first announced May 28, when MICHELIN released its inaugural statewide Florida Guide. They placed Key West among the Florida destinations recognized by the international restaurant guide and bring new attention to the Florida Keys' 125-mile island chain, connected by 42 bridges. 

Blue Heaven, the landmark Bahama Village restaurant, earned a place on the MICHELIN Recommended list. Moondog Café & Bakery, near the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, received a Bib Gourmand, a distinction for restaurants that serve high-quality food at a good value. 

At Blue Heaven Monday afternoon, partner Ricky Hatch proudly accepted then hoisted the restaurant's plaque at the open-air restaurant his family opened in 1992. 

"For my parents, I think it's a massive recognition of the hundreds of thousands of hours of hard work. Breakfast, lunch and dinner, 7 days a week, for over 30 years," said Hatch. 

He said the recognition also carries meaning for the next generation of the family business. 

"For me, it's legacy. It's an honor. It's a challenge. I don't want to mess it up, in the best way," said Hatch. 

Blue Heaven has long been known for its shaded courtyard, Caribbean-inspired dishes, fresh seafood and Key lime pie. The historic property has operated over the years as a dance hall, billiard hall, playhouse and ice cream parlor. 

At Moondog Café & Bakery, the kitchen staff gathered on the outside patio as the restaurant received its official Bib Gourmand plaque. For General Manager Eric Koch, the recognition began with a call that did not immediately reveal where it was headed. 

"When MICHELIN reached out to us, I thought it was just another one of those media videos that somebody wanted to shoot. I didn't really put together what they were trying to do," said Koch. "We didn't learn about the award until everybody else did. That was exciting, and now we keep getting other opportunities to talk about it." 

Visit Florida Keys & Key West President & CEO Kara Franker, who personally delivered the plaques, said these recognitions show a side of the destination that visitors have long experienced. 

"The restaurant scene in Key West has been incredible for a long time," said Franker. "It's a culinary culture that people don't know exists here in the Florida Keys, and now they know." 

Moondog Café & Bakery has built a following for its bakery case, comfort food and cafe setting just steps from the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum. 

Monroe County Commissioner Jim Scholl, who lives just blocks from the restaurant, said the awards reflect a broader dining culture in Key West. 

"Key West is a culinary experience from one end to the other," said Scholl. "These are worldwide destinations. It's not just Florida...it's not just the U.S.; it's from all over the world." 

The MICHELIN Guide's restaurant selections are based on five criteria: quality products, harmony of flavors, mastery of cooking techniques, the voice and personality of the chef as reflected in the cuisine, and consistency between visits and throughout the menu. Restaurants are inspected several times a year, according to MICHELIN. 

Hatch said he hopes the recognition helps bring more attention to restaurants throughout the island chain. 

"We're honored to be part of this inaugural class, but let's get more of our friends on this list," said Hatch. "We have great food in the Florida Keys." 

Visit Florida, the statewide tourism agency, established the program with MICHELIN to review the entire state.  

For more information on the Florida Keys & Key West, go to VisitFloridaKeys.com 

High-resolution images, photo credits and captions are available at this link. 

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From left, Visit Florida Keys & Key West President & CEO Kara Franker, Blue Heaven partner Ricky Hatch, Monroe County Commissioner Jim Scholl, District 3, and Rachel Oropeza, a Monroe County Tourist Development Council board member, share a special moment with Blue Heaven’s official MICHELIN plaque Monday, July 13, 2026, at Blue Heaven in Key West, Fla. The restaurant earned a place on the MICHELIN Recommended list in Florida’s first statewide MICHELIN Guide, released May 28, 2026. (Natalie Danko/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

From left, Visit Florida Keys & Key West President & CEO Kara Franker, Blue Heaven Chef David Dorsty, Blue Heaven partner Ricky Hatch, Monroe County Tourist Development Council board member Rachel Oropeza and Monroe County Commissioner Jim Scholl, District 3, celebrate with Blue Heaven's official MICHELIN plaque Monday, July 13, 2026, at Blue Heaven  in Key West, Fla. Blue Heaven earned a place on the MICHELIN Recommended list in Florida's first statewide MICHELIN Guide, released May 28, 2026. (NATALIE DANKO/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

Visit Florida Keys & Key West President & CEO Kara Franker presents Moondog Cafe & Bakery's official MICHELIN Bib Gourmand plaque to prep leader, Adelina Perez, as General Manager, Eric Koch looks on. The honors took place Monday, July 13, 2026, at the Key West restaurant near the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum in Key West, Fla. Moondog Café & Bakery received a Bib Gourmand in Florida's first statewide MICHELIN Guide, released May 28, 2026. (NATALIE DANKO/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142 

Story: Underwater Music Festival 

Locator: Looe Key Reef, Florida Keys 

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital) 

Video Link: Click Here 

Photo Link: Click Here 

Photo Captions Below 

Video: B-roll and photos of mermaids and scuba divers playing instruments while underwater during the 42^nd Annual Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival July 11, 2026, in the Florida Keys.  

Technical Data:  

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     Filename: KeysUnderwaterMusicFest.mp4 

     Audio: Stereo Mix 

     SOTs: Clean / Isolated 

     B-Roll: Nat. Sound 

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory) 

An Underwater Encore 

The Florida Keys’ Beloved Underwater Music Festival Returned With Mermaids, Melodies and a Mission to Protect Coral Reefs

 LOOE KEY REEF, Florida Keys (July 11, 2026) – The Florida Keys cranked up the volume this weekend. And the audience had fins! 

Divers and snorkelers took the plunge and descended beneath the waves for the Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival. Ocean-themed favorites streamed through underwater speakers as dancing mermaids strummed guitars, plucked harps and sounded trumpets...all in the name of coral reef conservation. 

Colorful tropical fish swam through the melodies, transforming Looe (Pronounced Loo) Key Reef, located in the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary, into one of nature's most unforgettable concert stages. 

But this celebration wasn't all about fun. It carried an important message. Between songs, divers heard reminders about protecting fragile coral reefs by respecting marine life, using mooring buoys, and practicing responsible diving and snorkeling. 

Now in its 42nd year, the annual festival once again proved that music can and does do more than entertain. It inspires people to celebrate, appreciate and protect the only living coral barrier reef in the continental United States. 

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These creatively costumed divers hit all the right notes at this makeshift concert on Looe Key Reef in the Florida Keys during the Lower Keys Underwater Music Festival on July 11, 2026. (Frazier Nivens /Florida Keys News Bureau)

Donna Whitney of Miami, Florida, strums her trusty harp, playing all the right chords during the Underwater Music Festival on Looe Key Reef in the Florida Keys on July 11, 2026 (Frazier Nivens /Florida Keys News Bureau)

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142 

Story: From Fishing Line to Starting Line: Girl Power Returns to the Sea 

Locator: Marathon, Florida Keys 

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Video: B-roll and photos of the July 10, 2026, release of Girl Power, a rehabilitated juvenile green sea turtle participating in Sea Turtle Conservancy's Tour de Turtles, at Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida Keys. Includes video of Girl Power being fitted with a satellite transmitter and returning to the ocean. SOTs with Turtle Hospital manager Bette Zirkelbach (pronounced Betty ZIR-KULL-BACK) and Daniel Evans, research biologist with Sea Turtle Conservancy. 

Technical Data:  

     TRT: 2:18 

     Filename: KeysTourDeTurtles.mp4 

     Audio: Stereo Mix 

     SOTs: Clean / Isolated 

     B-Roll: Nat. Sound 

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory) 

NOTE TO EDITORS/PRODUCERS: Fibropapillomatosis is pronounced "FIE-bro-pap-ah-low-muh-TOE-sis." 

From Fishing Line to Starting Line: Girl Power Returns to the Sea 

MARATHON, Florida Keys (July 10, 2026) - Some heroes wear capes. This one has flippers...and a really cool name! 

A juvenile green sea turtle named Girl Power returned to the Atlantic Ocean Friday after overcoming injuries so severe she wasn't expected to survive. 

Rescued in the Florida Keys around International Women's Day, Girl Power arrived at The Turtle Hospital tangled in fishing line and covered in life-threatening tumors. 

Four months later, she proved resilience can be stronger than any obstacles in her way. 

"Girl Power was a long shot," said Bette Zirkelbach (pronounced Betty ZIR-KULL-BACK), manager of The Turtle Hospital. "When a turtle ingests fishing line, it can become a mortality event. Also, she had tumors not only on her body but covering her eyes, so she overcame the odds. We got rid of the fishing line, she passed the fishing line that she ingested, tumor-free, had good, strong eyes, and back at sea." 

With a satellite transmitter attached to her shell, Girl Power was released from Sombrero Beach in Marathon. As the Turtle Hospital's official competitor in the Tour de Turtles race, she will be tracked by Sea Turtle Conservancy, a global research and education program that tracks sea turtle migrations and allows the public to follow each turtle's remarkable journey. 

Her road to recovery was anything but easy. 

Veterinarians and staff performed multiple tumor-removal surgeries, carefully removed fishing line, treated infections with antibiotics, provided fluids, vitamins and chemotherapy following eye surgery, and helped nurse her back to health with a steady diet of fresh greens and seafood.  

For Girl Power, Friday wasn't just a release...It was a comeback! 

As she journeys out to sea. Girl Power's satellite tag will transmit her location whenever she surfaces, allowing scientists to study her migration while giving people around the world a front-row seat to cheer her on. 

"The satellites that are attached to the sea turtles send a signal every time they come up to breathe, and that signal is then relayed to a station to give us basically a GPS location for the turtle," said Daniel Evans, a research biologist with Sea Turtle Conservancy. 

For many watching on the beach, Girl Power's story became something even bigger than sea turtle conservation. 

For roughly three months, she will compete against other rehabilitated sea turtles to see who swims the farthest in this year's Tour de Turtles. 

For more than 40 years, the Turtle Hospital in Marathon has rescued, rehabilitated and returned thousands of injured sea turtles to the wild, giving threatened and endangered species a second chance at life. 

And if you want to follow along in Girl Power's journey visit TourDeTurtles.org 

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Bette Zirkelbach, left, general manager of The Turtle Hospital, and Jory Geib, a rehabilitation specialist at The Turtle Hospital, release Girl Power, a rehabilitated juvenile green sea turtle, Friday, July 10, 2026, at Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida Keys. Girl Power was fitted with a satellite transmitter before entering the Atlantic Ocean as The Turtle Hospital's official competitor in Sea Turtle Conservancy's Tour de Turtles program. (Natalie Danko/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Bette Zirkelbach, general manager of The Turtle Hospital, talks with children gathered around Girl Power, a rehabilitated juvenile green sea turtle, Friday, July 10, 2026, at Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida Keys. Before Girl Power was released into the Atlantic Ocean, Zirkelbach shared the turtle's recovery story and spoke with children about sea turtle conservation. (Natalie Danko/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

Bette Zirkelbach, left, general manager of The Turtle Hospital, and Jory Geib, right, a rehabilitation specialist at The Turtle Hospital, show Girl Power to children and beachgoers before the rehabilitated juvenile green sea turtle's release Friday, July 10, 2026, at Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida Keys. Girl Power was released as The Turtle Hospital's official competitor in Sea Turtle Conservancy's Tour de Turtles program. (Natalie Danko/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Bette Zirkelbach, left, general manager of The Turtle Hospital, and Jory Geib, right, a rehabilitation specialist at The Turtle Hospital, carry Girl Power past beachgoers after the rehabilitated juvenile green sea turtle arrived Friday, July 10, 2026, at Sombrero Beach in Marathon, Florida Keys. The crowd gathered to see Girl Power before her return to the Atlantic Ocean as The Turtle Hospital's official competitor in Sea Turtle Conservancy's Tour de Turtles program. (Natalie Danko/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142 

Story: King of Key Lime: Kevin Renly Wins Key West's Sweetest Crown 

Locator: Key West, Fla. 

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Video: B-roll of contestants eating 9-inch Key lime pies hands-free, crowd reactions and winner moments at the Key Lime Pie Eating Championship at Southernmost Beach Café in Key West, Fla., with natural sound. SOTs with Liz Love Key Lime festival Co-Manager and Kevin Renly, Key Lime Pie eating Champion. 

Technical Data: 

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    Filename: KeyLimePieChampionship.mp4 

    Audio: Stereo Mix 

    SOTs: Clean / Isolated 

    B-Roll: Nat. Sound 

Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory) 

King of Key Lime: Kevin Renly Wins Key West's Sweetest Crown 

KEY WEST, Fla. (July 4, 2026) — While the rest of America celebrated the Fourth of July with parades, hot dogs and fireworks, Key West celebrated the only way it knows how... by diving face-first into Key lime pie.

Twenty-five fearless competitors squared off Saturday at the Southernmost Beach Café in Key West for the annual Key Lime Pie Eating Championship. The rules? No hands. No forks. Just whipped cream, determination... and absolutely no dignity! 

One by one, contestants disappeared into 9-inch Key lime pies as more than a hundred cheering spectators watched the whipped cream fly. Goggles were allowed. Table manners were not. 

Key lime pie is the island's signature slice, tied to Key West lore and defended on menus all over town. Florida made it the official state pie in 2006. So yes, this counts as history. Sticky history, but history. 

"Key lime pie was originated in Key West. And so, every year we pay homage to our ancestors by shoving our faces in 9-inch Key lime pies to see who can eat them the fastest," said Liz Love, event co-manager. 

Love said the event also offers its own answer to the summer heat. 

"So, this heat wave on the East Coast. We have figured it out. Down here in Key West, we just slam our faces into cold Key lime pies. It's very refreshing. And it's so good for the complexion," Love said. 

When the last bite landed, Kevin "The Key Lime Forkless Wonder" Renly of Summerland Key, in the Florida Keys, took the title in 59.60 seconds. Fast, but not the fastest. That title belongs to Trey Bergman. In 2017, the Houston attorney took the title in just 51:92 seconds. 

Renly, who moved to the Florida Keys from San Diego and operates Southernmost Bees, was making his third run at the title. Third time? Charm. 

Past Key Lime Pie Eating champions have come from Key West, Venice, Seattle, Iowa, Honduras and Houston, turning a local dessert into a very specific hall of fame. 

So, what’s the winning strategy? 

"My advice is to dive right in. Eliminate the whipped cream. Mix up the crumb with the pie and start sipping it up," said Renly. 

Now in its 14th year, this tart and tasty Florida Keys tradition is the centerpiece of the annual Key Lime Festival, which runs five days July 1-5.  

For the full schedule, visit KeyLimeFestival.com. 

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King of the Key Lime. Kevin "The Key Lime Forkless Wonder" Renly of Summerland Key, in the Florida Keys, plunges face-first into a 9-inch Key lime pie Saturday, July 4, 2026, during the Key Lime Pie Eating Championship at Southernmost Beach Café in Key West, Fla. Renly cleared his pie in just 59.60 seconds to win the 14th annual contest, a centerpiece event of the five-day Key Lime Festival. (Mariela Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Victory...with witnesses. Kevin "The Key Lime Forkless Wonder" Renly of Summerland Key, in the Florida Keys, center, celebrates after winning the Key Lime Pie Eating Championship Saturday, July 4, 2026, at Southernmost Beach Café in Key West, Fla. Also pictured are Crystal Fitzgerald of Fort Myers, Fla., left, and Martin Huddleston of Chico, Calif., right. Renly cleared his 9-inch pie in 59.60 seconds to win the 14th annual contest. (Mariela Care/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

Kevin “The Key Lime Forkless Wonder” Renly of Summerland Key, in the Florida Keys, raises his championship belt while holding the winner’s trophy Saturday, July 4, 2026, after winning the Key Lime Pie Eating Championship at Southernmost Beach Café in Key West, Fla. Renly cleared his 9-inch pie in 59.60 seconds on his third try at the annual contest. (Mariela Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

A table full of competitors dives into 9-inch Key lime pies Saturday, July 4, 2026, during the Key Lime Pie Eating Championship at Southernmost Beach Café in Key West, Fla. The hands-free, no-holds barred contest drew 25 competitors and more than 100 spectators as part of the five-day Key Lime Festival. (Carol Tedesco/Florida Keys News Bureau) // HANDOUT - RIGHTS CLEARED 

Googles on. Hands off! Jordan Haugen of Charlotte, N.C., goes “all in” on Saturday, July 4, 2026, during the Key Lime Pie Eating Championship at Southernmost Beach Café in Key West, Fla. Haugen, listed as "JJ the Pie Guy" on the contestant roster, was one of 25 competitors in the hands-free contest, a signature event of the five-day Key Lime Festival. (Mariela Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Another chance at glory! Former champion Elliot Zeller of Cooper City, Fla., works through a 9-inch Key lime pie Saturday, July 4, 2026, during the Key Lime Pie Eating Championship at Southernmost Beach Café in Key West, Fla. Zeller, listed as "The Iron Guy" on the contestant roster, won the contest in 2016 and returned for the 14th annual hands-free championship. (Mariela Care/Florida Keys News Bureau)

The milestone event, held recently in Marathon, drew 30 teams and 90 anglers from across the country for three nights of tarpon fishing at Marathon-area bridges.

Tournament organizer Gary Leone presented the donations to The Turtle Hospital, represented by founder Richie Moretti and manager Bette Zirkelbach; and to Dolphin Research Center’s VP of finance and administration Shane Keween, during the event's awards banquet at Florida Keys Steak & Lobster House.

Pennsylvania-based tournament founder David Breznicky said the event has grown from a small group of Northeastern anglers to 90 participants nationwide this year. "We wanted to give back to the community that has welcomed us for the past 20 years with these donations, and we plan to continue with our local philanthropic efforts in the years to come."

This year's first-place team included Anton Krucky of Hawaii, Wayne Adkins of Virginia and Wayne Adkins III of California.

Next year's Tarponian Tournament takes place April 24-28, 2027.

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(From left) Shane Keween of the Dolphin Research Center, Gary Leone representing the Tarponian Tournament, and Bette Zirkelbach alongside Richie Moretti from The Turtle Hospital smile during a donation presentation in Marathon, Fla. The tournament, celebrating its 20th anniversary in Marathon, started a tradition of giving back to wildlife rescue and other non-profits in the Middle Keys community.

And while July 4 is the centerpiece, celebrations stretch well beyond a single day. Throughout the summer, communities throughout the island chain will mark the nation's milestone. 

Key West Celebrates America 250 

June 27 

The festivities kick off in Key West at 5 p.m. at Truman Waterfront Park with an all-ages celebration featuring live music, community spirit and a tribute to America’s 250^th anniversary led by local military leaders and elected officials. At 6 p.m., military personnel and first responders will parade through downtown Key West before the evening continues with waterfront entertainment, food vendors and activities for children. Learn more.  

Independence Day Weekend 

• Sloan Centennial Flag Display (July 2-4): A rare 12-by-18-foot, 13-star American flag believed to date to the nation's 1876 Centennial will be on public view from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum in Key West. Preserved by six generations of the Sloan family and last displayed publicly during the Bicentennial in 1976, the flag connects America's Centennial, Bicentennial and 250th anniversary. Learn more.
• Declaration of Independence Cookout (July 3): Celebrate America’s 250^th anniversary in presidential style at a free, family-friendly cookout on the lawn of the Truman Little White House in Key West. Learn more.
• Big Pine Key Independence Day Celebration (July 3): Hosted by the Lower Keys Rotary Club, festivities begin at 5 p.m. at Big Pine Community Park and include food vendors, beverages, games, family activities and live entertainment. Fireworks begin around 9 p.m. Learn more.
• First Friday on the Promenade with Live Music (July 3): Live music. Cold cocktails. And wicked waterfront backdrops. What more could you want as you slide into the July 4^th holiday? Hosted by Hawks Cay Resort & Marina, the free event runs 5 – 9 p.m. and encourages guests to don their most festive red, white, and blue attire for the chance to win a bevy of prizes. Learn more.
• America 250 5K (July 4): Held at Higgs Beach in Key West, the Rotary Club of Key West’s annual July 4 5K offers participants of all ages the chance to celebrate independence with a scenic run while supporting the Edward B. Knight Vocational Scholarship Fund. Learn more.
• World Famous Key Lime Pie Eating Championship (July 4): Devotees of pie and Florida’s sensational citrus gather on the sun-kissed sands of the Southernmost Beach Café in Key West, where up to 25 competitors will dive face-first into an equal number of whipped-cream crowned Key Lime pies. No hands allowed! Learn more.
• Key Largo Fourth of July Celebration (July 4): The Key Largo Chamber of Commerce’s 50^th annual Independence Day parade begins at 10 a.m., followed by the Freedom Fest Picnic at Key Largo Park with complimentary hot dogs, family activities, food vendors and entertainment. The day concludes with fireworks over Blackwater Sound. Learn more.
• Marathon Fourth of July Celebration (July 4): A patriotic parade begins at 11 a.m. and travels from Marathon High School to Sombrero Beach. Evening festivities culminate with a fireworks display over Sombrero Beach right around 9 p.m., accompanied by patriotic music broadcast by US1 Radio 104.1. Learn more.
• Islamorada Independence Day Celebration (July 4): The Village of Islamorada and Upper Keys Rotary Club will host an evening celebration beginning at 5 p.m. at Founders Park, featuring community activities, entertainment and a festive fireworks display. Learn more.
• Fireworks & Flavors at Mercado Morada (July 4): Guests enjoy a lively oceanfront atmosphere, indulging in a delicious BBQ-style feast, sipping refreshing cocktails, and taking in spectacular fireworks over the water in Islamorada. Learn more.
• VIP 4^th of July Fireworks Viewing Party at Little Limon (July 4): Elevate the 4^th of July with an exclusive rooftop experience at Little Limon, perched above Islamorada’s coast with a panoramic view of the fireworks. Learn more.
• Key West Fireworks Spectacular (July 4): Continuing a tradition that dates to 1976, the Rotary Club of Key West presents its annual fireworks show at 9 p.m. from the Edward B. Knight Pier overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Learn more.  

Marathon’s America-Fest: Celebrating 250 Years of Independence 

Aug. 1 

The celebration continues into August with the City of Marathon’s America-Fest, a family-friendly evening at Marathon Community Park and the adjacent marina beginning at 6 p.m. Guests enjoy games, live music, an interactive American-history treasure hunt, complimentary food and beverages, children’s activities and an outdoor screening of the adventure classic National Treasure. It’s a fitting finale to a summer of patriotism, community and island-style celebration in the Florida Keys. Learn more.  

For more information about Fourth of July and America 250 celebrations throughout the Florida Keys, visit visitfloridakeys.com/insiders-guide/americas-250-in-the-florida-keys.  

Supporting high-res images and associated credit information is available HERE. 

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Tom Luciano of Venice, Fla., center, raises his arms in victory after winning the Key Lime Pie Eating Championship in Key West on July 4, 2025. Luciano outlasted 24 other competitors in the hands-free contest, among them U.S. Coast Guard Petty Officer Lyndon Engle, left, and Duncan Barks of Key West, right. The championship is a highlight of the annual Key Lime Festival, set for July 1-5, 2026. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Contestant Jesse Ka, his goggles covered with key lime pie, competes in the Key Lime Pie Eating Championship in Key West on July 4, 2025. Ka was one of 25 competitors in the hands-free contest, a highlight of the annual Key Lime Festival, set for July 1-5, 2026. (Mark Hedden/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Celebrate the Fourth of July in the Florida Keys, where fireworks reflect over calm waters and the holiday unfolds at a laid-back island pace. From Key West to Key Largo, each community offers a unique show with unforgettable waterfront views. (Larry Blackburn/Rotary Club of Key West)

On July 4, fireworks over Key West’s Edward B. Knight Pier cap off a full day of island celebration. Sponsored by the Key West International Airport and hosted by the Rotary Club of Key West, the show brings together community spirit with distinctive Keys flair. (Larry Blackburn/Rotary Club of Key West)

An approximately 12-by-18-foot 13-star Centennial Flag, associated with America’s 1876 Centennial, is displayed at the Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum in Key West, Fla. The flag, preserved by six generations of the Sloan family, will be on public display July 2-4 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the museum. The flag was last publicly displayed during the nation’s Bicentennial celebration in 1976. (Photo courtesy of Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum)

Fire rescue stations and utility crews will raise oversized flags from ladder and bucket trucks along U.S. 1, joined by private businesses and homes up and down the island chain. The event marks both National Flag Day and the approaching 250th anniversary of American independence.

Confirmed large flag display locations along Overseas Highway include fire rescue stations in Key Largo, Islamorada, Marathon and Cudjoe Key, along with Hurricane Boat Lifts, the Islander and Cheeca Lodge resorts in Islamorada, and utility company displays in Tavernier, Marathon, and at the entrance to Key West near the Key West Golf Course. 

Visitors stopping by the Key Largo Fire Rescue Station at 220 Reef Drive at the entrance to the Keys are invited to pay respects at the station’s September 11 memorial and see their oversized flag raised high on the station’s ladder truck. Residents and businesses throughout the Florida Keys and Key West are also expected to fly American flags in celebration of Flag Day.

Large flag display locations include:

• Fire rescue stations on or near U.S. 1 including Key Largo Fire Rescue (mile marker 106), Islamorada Fire Rescue (mile marker 81), Marathon Fire Rescue (mile marker 54), and Monroe County Fire Rescue at Cudjoe Key (mile marker 20);
• Florida Keys Electric Cooperative will have bucket trucks with flags flying in front of offices in Tavernier (mile marker 91) and Marathon (mile marker 34).
• Keys Energy will station a truck and flag in front of Key West Golf Course (mile marker 4).
• Businesses that always fly large flags include Vicky Bakery in Key Largo; Hurricane Boat Lifts and the Islander and Cheeca Lodge resorts in Islamorada; and others throughout the Keys.

Residents and businesses throughout the Keys are also expected to fly flags in observance of Flag Day.

Link to media assets: https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1imXgCKbhlNfHF4KAhwlUUw5zQOULj6sU?usp=sharing

Photo & Video Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau

DMAP accreditation recognizes a destination organization’s commitment to industry excellence and its adherence to global standards for performance and accountability. “Accreditation with Distinction” signals that an organization exceeded the minimum requirements and that the independent DMAP Board found no opportunities for improvement in its responses to the required standards.  

"On behalf of the Monroe County TDC Board, we are thrilled for Kara Franker and her team. We set DMAP accreditation as a primary goal because we knew they were capable, and they delivered Accreditation with Distinction, a mark few destinations reach,” said Diane Schmidt, TDC Board Chair. “It is a proud moment for the entire Florida Keys."  

To earn accreditation, a destination organization must comply with rigorous mandatory and voluntary standards spanning governance, finance, human resources, sales, communications, destination development and research. Visit Florida Keys is among nearly 200 organizations that have earned DMAP recognition.  

Accreditation with Distinction sets a higher bar. An organization must meet more than 100 standards with none marked “compliant with opportunity for improvement,” document evidence of compliance for each, earn at least one “compliant exemplary” mark and satisfy at least 10 of 20 aspirational standards.  

"This recognition belongs to our team. They set an exceptionally high bar for themselves, worked in record time and delivered, and the result is a designation only a handful of destinations worldwide can claim, said Kara Franker, president and CEO of the organization.  

“We are pleased to have Visit Florida Keys & Key West in our distinguished group of accredited organizations,” said Don Welsh, president and CEO of Destinations International. “The industry distinction defines quality and performance standards for destination organizations, and they are a valued member of the DMAP community.”  

For more information visit: www.visitfloridakeys.com.   

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Kara Franker, President & CEO, Visit Florida Keys & Key West.

Diane Schmidt, Monroe County Tourist Development Council Board Chair.

DMAP Seal of Distinction

On May 28, 2026, MICHELIN's inaugural statewide Florida Guide confirmed what locals have known all along: the destination has amassed some serious culinary cred. Blue Heaven earned a spot on the coveted MICHELIN Recommended list, while Moondog Café & Bakery received a Bib Gourmand, which recognizes restaurants that deliver exceptional food at a great value. 

The recognition marks a historic first for the Florida Keys and places Key West among an elite collection of culinary destinations celebrated by the world's most respected restaurant guide. 

"Having two beloved, locally owned restaurants recognized on a global stage is an incredible honor for our destination and a testament to the talented people who bring our culinary culture to life every day," said Kara Franker, President & CEO of Visit Florida Keys & Key West. “Michelin is helping us tell another chapter of the Florida Keys culinary story centered around extraordinary food, passionate hospitality and the independent spirit that makes this island unlike anywhere else.” 

Nestled beneath shady trees and wandering roosters in the heart of Old Town Key West, Blue Heaven has long embodied the island's artistic soul and free-spirited charm. The historic eatery whose colorful past includes a dance hall, billiard hall, playhouse and ice cream parlor, has become synonymous with inventive Caribbean-inspired cuisine, fresh seafood and one-of-a-kind island ambiance. And according to its owner, has put in the work to realize this moment.  

"We feel lucky and honored," said Richard W. Hatch III, owner of Blue Heaven. "Thousands of hours of hard work have been rewarded by the premier restaurant rating service in the world. I remember sweeping the brick patio and hoping for a customer." 

Just steps from the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum, Moondog Café & Bakery has also amassed a devoted fan following for its eclectic atmosphere, inventive comfort food and legendary bakery offerings. Equal parts neighborhood gathering place and culinary destination, the restaurant serves dishes that reflect the creativity, authenticity and warmth that authentically define Key West. 

"To say we're honored to receive this recognition, and to be the first restaurant in the Florida Keys awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand, is an understatement," said Moondog Café owners Jamille Cucci and Dominique Falkner. "We are grateful to our guests and to our entire team, from our dishwasher heroes to management, for making this and every day possible. We've always focused on honest food, genuine hospitality and creating the kind of place we'd want to eat at ourselves. It's incredibly rewarding to see that resonate beyond our little corner of the world." 

The Michelin recognition signals a new chapter for the Florida Keys' culinary landscape. While visitors have long traveled to the island chain for fresh seafood, waterfront dining and iconic Key lime pie, today's dining scene reflects a deeper story...one shaped by a rich fishing heritage, multicultural influences from the Caribbean, Cuba and the Bahamas, and chefs committed to showcasing local ingredients and authentic island flavors. 

From dock-to-dish seafood experiences and family-owned fish houses to innovative chef-driven kitchens, the Florida Keys & Key West offers a culinary journey as memorable as its sunsets. Now, with Michelin's endorsement, the rest of the world is discovering what locals have savored for years: Key West is not only a haven for creativity and culture, but also a destination worthy of culinary distinction. 

The MICHELIN Guide’s recognition further highlights the Florida Keys & Key West as one of the United States' most distinctive dining destinations, where culinary experiences are shaped by a deep connection to the water, a working fishing heritage and flavors influenced by Bahamian, Cuban and Caribbean cultures. From Key Largo to Key West, visitors can move from tiki bars and waterfront fish houses to chef-led restaurants serving locally and sustainably caught seafood alongside quintessential Keys traditions such as dock-to-dish dining and a slice of Key lime pie enjoyed feet from the water.  

For more information visit: www.visitfloridakeys.com.   

Additional Media Assets courtesy of the MICHELIN Guide: 

Article: Florida's Most Affordable Restaurants in 2026 

YouTube video: New Bib Gourmand in Florida: Moondog Cafe - YouTube 

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MICHELIN Guide History and methodology: The restaurant selections follow the MICHELIN Guide’s historical methodology based on five universal criteria, to ensure each destination’s selection equity: 1) quality products; 2) the harmony of flavors; 3) the mastery of cooking techniques; 4) the voice and personality of the chef as reflected in the cuisine; 5) consistency between each visit and throughout the menu (each restaurant is inspected several times a year). 

The MICHELIN Guide remains a reliable companion for any traveler seeking a great meal. The Guide was first published in France at the turn of the 20th century to encourage tire sales by giving practical advice to French motorists. Michelin’s Inspectors still use the same criteria and manner of selection that were used by Inspectors in the very beginning, now applied in destinations around the world. 

Learn more about the MICHELIN Guide by visiting guide.michelin.com. 

Rooster Royalty. A free-roaming Key West rooster crosses beneath the vintage neon sign at Blue Heaven on Thomas Street in Key West, Fla. The longtime local favorite earned a spot on the MICHELIN Recommended list in the inaugural MICHELIN Florida Guide, announced May 28, 2026, a historic first for the Florida Keys. (Nick Doll/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Island Icon. Guests gather beneath the hand-painted entrance sign at Blue Heaven on Thomas Street in Key West, Fla. The Bahama Village landmark earned a spot on the MICHELIN Recommended list in the inaugural MICHELIN Florida Guide, announced May 28, 2026, a historic first for the Florida Keys & Key West. (Nick Doll/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

Tropical Legacy. The hand-painted Blue Heaven sign hangs amid the tropical canopy above the open-air dining area on Thomas Street in Key West, Fla. Blue Heaven landed on the MICHELIN Recommended list in the inaugural MICHELIN Florida Guide, announced May 28, 2026, the first Florida Keys restaurant recognized by the guide. (Nick Doll/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Courtyard Charm. A server takes an order in the tree-shaded courtyard at Blue Heaven, framed by the restaurant’s gallery of Key West rooster art, on Thomas Street in Key West, Fla. Blue Heaven earned a spot on the MICHELIN Recommended list in the inaugural MICHELIN Florida Guide, announced May 28, 2026, a historic first for the Florida Keys. (Nick Doll/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Sweet Fame. A slice of Blue Heaven’s famous Key lime pie, crowned with its signature tower of toasted meringue, is served to awaiting appetites in this eclectic space in Key West, Fla. Blue Heaven earned a spot on the MICHELIN Recommended list in the inaugural MICHELIN Florida Guide, announced May 28, 2026. (Mike Marrero/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Brunch Brilliance. Blue Heaven’s famous lobster Benedict, seafood and poached eggs under a blanket of hollandaise, is served with fresh fruit at Blue Heaven in Key West, Fla. The iconic eatery earned a spot on the MICHELIN Recommended list in the inaugural MICHELIN Florida Guide, announced May 28, 2026, a historic first for the Florida Keys & Key West. (Mike Marrero/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Ocean Harvest. Pan-seared grouper rests over coconut rice in a golden sauce at Blue Heaven in Key West, Fla. The longtime local favorite was named to the MICHELIN Recommended list in the inaugural MICHELIN Florida Guide, announced May 28, 2026, making it a historic first for the Florida Keys to earn this esteemed honor. (Mike Marrero/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Historic Honor. Guests gather outside Moondog Café & Bakery beneath a blooming royal poinciana tree, near the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum in Key West, Fla. Moondog received a Bib Gourmand in the inaugural MICHELIN Florida Guide, announced May 28, 2026, the first Florida Keys restaurant to earn the distinction, which recognizes exceptional food at a great value. (Mike Marrero/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

Affordable Excellence. The hand-lettered sign outside Moondog Café & Bakery greets guests as they enter the restaurant, which sits next door to the famous home Ernest Hemingway once resided in. Moondog earned a Bib Gourmand in the inaugural MICHELIN Florida Guide, which was announced May 28, 2026. The honor makes this unique culinary space the first Florida Keys restaurant to receive the award, which honors exceptional food at a great value. (Mike Marrero/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

Seafood Showcase. A seafood stew of mussels, clams, shrimp and crab in a tomato broth is served with a smile at Moondog Café & Bakery in Key West, Fla. Moondog received a Bib Gourmand in the inaugural MICHELIN Florida Guide, announced May 28, 2026, making it the first Florida Keys restaurant to earn the distinction, which recognizes exceptional food at a great value. (Mike Marrero/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Breakfast Bounty. A savory stack of pancakes topped with fresh blueberries and powdered sugar is served at Moondog Café & Bakery in Key West, Fla. Moondog just earned a Bib Gourmand in the inaugural MICHELIN Florida Guide, announced May 28, 2026, making it the first Florida Keys restaurant to receive the honor, which recognizes exceptional food at a great value. (Mike Marrero/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

Chef's Kiss. Pan-seared grouper is plated with capers, tomato, broccolini and grilled lemon and served with handmade gnocchi at Moondog Café & Bakery in Key West, Fla. Moondog received a Bib Gourmand in the inaugural MICHELIN Florida Guide, announced May 28, 2026, the first Florida Keys restaurant to earn the distinction, which recognizes exceptional food at a great value. (Mike Marrero/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Sweet Finish. A chocolate dome dessert with gold dust is served alongside a macaron and an iced coffee at Moondog Café & Bakery in Key West, Fla. Moondog earned a Bib Gourmand in the inaugural MICHELIN Florida Guide, announced May 28, 2026, the first Florida Keys restaurant to receive the award, which recognizes exceptional food at a great value. (Mike Marrero/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142 

Story: Duct Tape Dreams Set Sail at Key West’s Minimal Regatta 

Locator: Key West, Fla. 

Usage: HANDOUT / RIGHTS CLEARED (Unlimited Broadcast & Digital) 

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Video: B-roll of homemade plywood-and-duct-tape boats competing in the Schooner Wharf Minimal Regatta at the Key West Historic Seaport in Key West, Fla., along with crowd reactions, costumed paddlers, and capsizing vessels. 

Technical Data: 

    TRT: 2:10 

    Filename: KeysMinimalRegatta.mp4 

    Audio: Nat. Sound - Stereo Mix 

    Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory) 

Duct Tape Dreams Set Sail at Key West’s Minimal Regatta 

KEY WEST, Fla. (May 24, 2026) — If you’ve ever wondered what happens when you combine plywood, duct tape and a little too much confidence…welcome to Key West. 

The island’s famously quirky Schooner Wharf Minimal Regatta returned Sunday afternoon to the Key West Historic Seaport, where 20 homemade boats launched into the harbor for one of the Florida Keys’ most beloved Memorial Day weekend traditions. 

Now in its 35th year, the Minimal Regatta challenges teams to build a working vessel using only a single 4-by-8-foot sheet of plywood, two 8-foot two-by-fours, one roll of duct tape, a pound of fasteners and epoxy paint.  

And while some competitors arrived with carefully crafted strategies, others appeared to rely mostly on luck, costumes and blind optimism. 

The result? Maritime mayhem.  

Cheering crowds lined the waterfront as captains and crews paddled, splashed and occasionally sank their way through the course in front of Schooner Wharf Bar. Some boats glided surprisingly well across the finish line. Others folded like lawn chairs before ever leaving the dock. A few made dramatic mid-race exits straight into the harbor. 

But in the Minimal Regatta, sinking is not failure...it’s entertainment. 

Over-the-top themes and outrageous costumes are part of the tradition, with teams embracing the anything-goes spirit that has made the event a local favorite for decades. Pirates, tropical misfits and floating comedy acts all took their turn battling wind, waves and basic physics. 

Hosted annually by Schooner Wharf Bar in the Key West Historic Seaport, the Minimal Regatta has become one of the island’s signature events, drawing locals and visitors together for an afternoon of laughter, creativity and spectacular nautical mishaps. 

Awards recognize not only the fastest boats, but also the most imaginative designs, best costumes and most memorable wipeouts. Because in Key West, style points matter just as much as staying afloat. 

Organizers say the event continues to celebrate the island’s free-spirited personality and offbeat charm, proving once again that you don’t need a luxury yacht to make waves in the Florida Keys. 

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A competitor discovers her “unsinkable” vessel had other plans during the 35th annual Schooner Wharf Minimal Regatta on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the Key West Historic Seaport in Key West, Fla. The boat technically stayed afloat — just upside down. (Mark Funkhouser/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

Fueled by adrenaline, questionable engineering and absolutely no fear of sinking, two competitors sprint across the harbor during the Schooner Wharf Minimal Regatta on Sunday, May 24, 2026, in Key West, Fla. Team Mauricio lead Key West Paddle Hut down the home stretch. And against all odds...and likely several maritime recommendations ...both boats were still floating at press time. (Mark Funkhouser/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Twisted Tiki blows past Dos Amigos as one paddler throws an oar overhead in full rock-star celebration during the Schooner Wharf Minimal Regatta on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the Key West Historic Seaport in Key West, Fla. In a race where half the boats sink, a little trash talk while still floating is completely justified. (Mark Funkhouser/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

Straight out of “Jaws,” a competitor dressed as Captain Quint paddles Quint’s Revenge — a shark-painted plywood boat complete with a giant harpoon on the bow — during the Schooner Wharf Minimal Regatta on Sunday, May 24, 2026, in Key West, Fla. Somehow, the boat survived longer than most horror movie characters. (Mark Funkhouser/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Team Bucksnort learns an important lesson about homemade boat design as its psychedelic plywood racer flips just seconds into the Schooner Wharf Minimal Regatta on Sunday, May 24, 2026, at the Key West Historic Seaport in Key West, Fla. The crowd loved it. The boat did not. (Mark Funkhouser/Florida Keys News Bureau) 

Contacts: Chad Newman, Chad@fla-keys.com (310) 283-8441 or Mary B. Haban, Mary@fla-keys.com (305) 394-3142 

Story: World Turtle Day Brings Hope to the Shores of Key West 

Locator: Key West, Fla. 

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Video: B-roll of Lily J, the juvenile green sea turtle, being released on World Turtle Day on Higgs Beach in Key West, Fla. SOTs with Bette Zirkelbach, General Manager of the Turtle Hospital and Key West Resident, Stephanie Wise. 

Technical Data: 

    TRT: 2:37 

    Filename: KeysWorldTurtleDay.mp4 

    Audio: Nat. Sound - Stereo Mix 

    SOTs: Clean / Isolated 

    B-Roll: Nat. Sound 

    Credit: Florida Keys News Bureau (Screen credit appreciated, not mandatory) 

World Turtle Day Brings Hope to the Shores of Key West  

KEY WEST, Fla. (May 23, 2026) — A heartwarming story unfolded in the Florida Keys this World Turtle Day, as a juvenile green sea turtle named Lily J returned home after surviving a devastating boat strike. 

Back in February, Key West resident Stephanie Wise and her partner were taking a walk along Truman Waterfront Park when just before sunset, they noticed something wasn’t right. 

A young turtle who was struggling to stay underwater crossed their path.  

"She'd get down for a little bit and then pop right back up again and just looked exhausted,” recalls Wise. 

The couple immediately called the Turtle Hospital in Marathon, Florida. And because the turtle was stranded in protected waters, got a helping hand from the Coast Guard who quickly arrived in to help. 

"Everybody on the boat looked so excited to be a part of it. And they scooped her up, put her in the boat, and the whole seawall cheered. It was cool,” exclaimed Wise.  

The turtle, later named Lily J by both Wise and the Coast Guard, arrived at the Turtle Hospital suffering from a severe propeller strike and buoyancy issues that left her unable to dive. But thanks to the exceptional care she received at the Turtle Hospital, Lily J was able to recover and be released on World Turtle Day.  

"Every day at the Turtle Hospital is turtle day, but on World Turtle Day, the whole globe takes notice of sea turtles. So, what a perfect day to return Lily Jay to her ocean home," said Bette Zirkelbach, General Manager of the Turtle Hospital. 

For Wise, following Lily J’s journey from rescue to release became something deeply personal — a connection she says she’ll never forget. 

"I think being a rescuer really made it extremely personal, and I was very, very connected to the whole process,” she said. "We've lived in Key West for almost eight years, and this was the coolest thing we have ever been a part of. It was really incredible to get to watch her go home."  

As summer boating season begins across the Florida Keys, Lily J’s story is also serving as a reminder that these waters are shared with incredible marine life fighting to survive. Sea turtles, dolphins, and manatees all surface for air — and rescuers say staying alert on the water can save lives. 

"It's so important as boaters that enjoy the water to keep your eyes out for marine life,” said Zirkelbach. “Sea turtles, manatees, dolphins...they all breathe air like we do, so they have to surface for a breath. Sometimes that's unfortunate timing with a prop, like with Lily Jay. So, it's important to wear polarized glasses, be on the bow of the boat looking out for that marine life, and go slow, especially in the shallows because there's nowhere for those animals to get away."  

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Miraculous moment! Hundreds gathered along the shoreline at Higgs Beach in Key West, Florida as Lily J, a juvenile green sea turtle rescued after a devastating boat strike, made her emotional return to the Atlantic Ocean on Saturday, May 23, 2026. The World Turtle Day release, led by the Turtle Hospital’s General Manager, Bette Zirkelbach (left) celebrated not only Lily J’s remarkable recovery but also the community effort that helped save her life.(Mark Funkhouser/Florida Keys News Bureau)

One last look. Children and families gather around Lily J moments before her release at Higgs Beach in Key West, Florida on Saturday, May 23, 2026. The World Turtle Day celebration gave the next generation a close-up look at sea turtle conservation and highlighted the importance of protecting marine life throughout the Florida Keys. Here, Bette Zirkelbach, General Manager of the Turtle Hospital, educates the next generation about the importance of protecting our turtles and environment. (Mark Funkhouser/Florida Keys News Bureau)

Almost home! Lily J, a juvenile green sea turtle recovering from severe injuries caused by a boat propeller strike, rests in a transport tub before her release at Higgs Beach in Key West, Florida on Saturday, May 23, 2026. After months of rehabilitation at the Turtle Hospital in the Florida Keys, Lily J’s return to the ocean became a powerful World Turtle Day symbol of resilience, hope, and ocean conservation. (Mark Funkhouser/Florida Keys News Bureau)