1. Pigeon Key Art Festival
City: Marathon, FL
Category: Annual Events & Festivals
Telephone: (305) 743-5999
Address: MM 49 Oceanside
Description: Hundreds of artists from throughout the country apply to display their works in this annual early Feb show, but only 70 are selected by the judges to participate. The festival is typically held at the Marathon Community Park. Live entertainment features the music of steel-drum bands, jazz groups, classical ensembles, and country-and-western performers. Local restaurants sell food, and raffle drawings include original artwork donated by each participating artist. All proceeds are donated to the Pigeon Key Foundation for restoration of the island. Artists pay entry fees, and half the show’s work has a Florida theme.
2. Star Spangled Event At Sombrero Beach
City: Marathon, FL
Category: Annual Events & Festivals
Telephone: (305) 743-5417 or (800) 262-72
Address: MM 50 Oceanside
Insider Pick:
Description: On July 4 follow a parade to the beach, where fireworks decorate the sky, and enjoy all-American hot dogs, hamburgers, and fish sandwiches. Live entertainment is provided, games are available for the kids, and an afternoon volleyball tournament welcomes last-minute sign-ups. Many people see the fireworks display from the decks of their boats, anchoring offshore for the extravaganza. No admission or entry fee is required. Food and games are priced individually.
3. Florida Keys Birding And Wildlife Festival
City: Marathon, FL
Category: Annual Events & Festivals
Telephone: (305) 289-2690
Address: MM 56.2 Bayside
Description: Held at Curry Hammock State Park in Marathon, this exciting annual event celebrates nature with guided kayaking tours, birding talks, field trips, and astronomy. There are guest speakers throughout the event offering expert presentations on various bird-related topics. The festival is usual held the last weekend of Sept, which coincides with Florida wildlife at the peak of the birding season.
4. Christmas Around The World At Marathon Garden Club
City: Marathon, FL
Category: Annual Events & Festivals
Telephone: (305) 743-4971
Address: MM 50 Bayside
Description: This monthlong, annual display by the Marathon Garden Club features more than a dozen Christmas trees, each decorated in the traditional style of a different country. Expect to pay an admission fee.