The Best Things To Do In Key West January 2023
New year, same island. Kick off the season with outdoor festivals and jam packed foodie events ranging from the Key West Food & Wine Festival to races on land and sea. Don’t miss the hottest events happening in Key West this January.
1. Key West Food & Wine Festival
Photo // foodandtravelmagazine.com
Get ready to wine and dine during the Key West Food & Wine Festival, with over 30 events “including waterfront tastings, winemaker/chef collaborations, and local events that present an authentic taste of Key West.” We’re looking forward to having Conch Fritters paired with Rosé.
2. Explore The “Brooklyn Of Key West”
Stock Island, our closest neighbor, is sometimes lovingly referred to as an old Key West, what the town felt like in the 70s. January (TBA), Stock Island will come alive with a 3 day event, both free and ticketed, showcasing the community’s culinary, entertainment, artistic, cultural & historic gems. See the list of events here.
3. Mile Zero Fest
4. Attend a Literary Seminar
Source // kwls.org
Once a year writers and readers congregate in the warm weather for the literary seminar, a 4-day event with “presentations by some of the best writers of our time.” this year’s theme is “A Seminar Named Desire”. The seminar is sold out, but there is still a free event open to the public on a first come, first seated basis.
5. Quantum Race
Photo // quantumsails.com
Stand along the harbor and watch a fleet of more than 100 racing boats compete for the tittle of the Quantum Key West Race. It’s truly a sight to see.
6. Southernmost Food Tour
Discover the local side of Key West on our signature food tasting & cultural walking tour. With a progressive lunch, you’ll experience regional, local dishes and the history behind them. Why have lunch at one place when you can dine at six?
7. House Tours
Photo // rentkeywest.com
Do you daydream about living in Key West? Check out the house tours, presented by the Old Island Restoration Foundation, and walk through five houses and gardens in old town Key West. Creative restorations, renovations, and unique interiors will have your imagination running wild.
8. Party “Back in Time”
Party into the new year while giving back to a great cause! The Key West Art and Historical Society (known as KWAHS) hosts their annual “Back in Time” Fundraiser at the end of January. Its themed and costumes are encouraged. Check back here for more details as the date approaches.
9. Seafood Festival
Photo // wlrn.org
Stone crab, our favorite sustainable seafood headlines this year’s (and every year’s) Seafood Festival. A two day gathering of likeminded seafoodies, local fisherman provide the best cuisine the ocean has to offer. More info here!
10. Half Marathon
Photo // historichideaways.com
Burn off all that food on a half marathon! The 22nd annual scenic 13.1 mile competition is a favorite bucket list race for runners around the world. If you’re not feeling like a marathoner, there’s also a 5k.
11. Craft Show
Photo // fleetwing.blogspot.com
More than 100 local artisans unite at the Key West Craft Show, now in its 32nd year. A popular show with locals and tourists, (the attendance was estimated at 25,000 people in 2016), all types of artwork including handmade pottery, jewelry, glass, fabric and wood will be on display.
12. Master Chef Classic
Photo // marchouse.org
Did we mention that January is packed with culinary festivities? The Master Chefs Classic brings out the crème de la crème to compete for the best dish in the appetizer, entrée and dessert category. A benefit for the Marc House, this is one of the most prized food events all year.
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