Hemingway Days

Step into the vibrant world of Ernest Hemingway during Hemingway Days. This annual celebration honors the legacy of the American literary giant who lived and wrote on the island for most of the 1930s, where he penned many of his best-known works including "Death in the Afternoon," "For Whom the Bell Tolls," "The Snows of Kilimanjaro," and "The Short Happy Life of Francis Macomber" in his second-story studio at 907 Whitehead Street.

Key West transforms into a vibrant literary and cultural hub during this five-day festival on iconic Duval Street, paying tribute to Ernest Hemingway's enduring legacy and island spirit. The celebration features the world-famous Hemingway Look-Alike Contest at Sloppy Joe's Bar, 201 Duval Street, a frequent hangout for the legendary writer during his Key West years.

Festival Highlights Include:

The renowned Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition, which has supported emerging writers since 1981, coordinated by Ernest's granddaughter. Daily tours of Hemingway's historic home provide a captivating glimpse into his fascinating life.

The thrilling Key West Marlin Tournament offers $50,000 in cash prizes and attracts up to 75 registered boats and their crews, recalling Hemingway's passion for deep-sea angling. The wacky "Running of the Bulls" features past contest winners dressed in their Pamplona best with a breed of "bull" found only in Key West.

The lively Caribbean Street Fair showcases local artisans and delectable cuisine, benefiting Literacy Volunteers of America Monroe County. The festivities culminate in the Papa Birthday Bash featuring signature drinks and a spirited Hemingway Rum Bar Stroll across eight distinct Key West locations, each serving a signature rum drink.

Additional events include literary readings, a 5K run and paddleboard race that salute Hemingway's sporting interests, and a presentation on 1930s Key West commemorating the 126th anniversary of Ernest's July 21 birth.

This isn't just a contest of physical resemblance; it's a celebration of Hemingway's larger-than-life persona, where contestants are judged not only on their physical similarity but also on their embodiment of his spirit and zest for life. This Key West cultural festival seamlessly blends literary homage with island charm, offering a dynamic experience for both literary enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike.

Join us for this internationally recognized celebration where the spirit of Ernest Hemingway lives on in paradise!