Florida Keys Events Calendar

Florida Keys Calendar of Events for February, 2012

Key West / January 01 to December 31

Enjoy a fabulous tour of Key West...with a twist. A gay twist that is! Get a unique tour of Key West and learn about our colorful history that includes the famous and the infamous. Departs from the City Hall Parking Lot, located on the corner of Angela Street and Duval Street. Tickets $25, departs 4 p.m. every Saturday. Can be purchased ONLINE or at the trolley, our G&L Visitor Center (located at 513 Truman), and many of our distinguished gay and lesbian guest houses.

Islamorada / January 03 to March 27

Long Key Squares presents: Tuesday Round and Square Dancing

For residents and visitors who simply want to enjoy dancing, the nonprofit Long Key Squares continues a 30-year tradition, where square dance attire is not required ... but your attendance is desired! Held at Outdoor Resorts, mile marker 66, 65821 Overseas Highway, on Tuesday nights from 7-9:30 p.m. Cost is $5 per person. Lessons are also held for both beginners and plus dancers on Sundays from 2-4 p.m.
Contact: Joanne Prince 305-664-4060
Email: sylken-solutions@verizon.net

Key West / January 22 to March 25

Florida Keys Eco Discovery Center hosts: Sunday Free Environmental Film Series

Members of the public are invited to enjoy free environmental documentaries Sundays through March 2012 at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center in Key West, co-sponsored by the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary (NOAA). Doors to the center open Sundays at 1 p.m., show times are 2 p.m. & 4 p.m. Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center is located at 33 East Quay Road, on the Truman waterfront next to Ft. Zachary Taylor State Park. Films produced by PBS, National Geographic, Jean-Michel Cousteau Ocean Adventures and more. Visit website for complete details.
Contact: 305-809-4755
Email: karrie.carnes@noaa.gov

Key West / January 31 to February 18

Waterfront Playhouse presents: Dead Man’s Cell Phone

In a quiet cafe a cell phone rings. And rings. The stranger at the next table has had enough. She confronts the owner of the cell phone, but, well ... he's dead. She begins to answer his calls and suddenly finds herself enmeshed in his life and family. Unfortunately, the dead guy has quite a number of shady loose ends. This comic fantasy traces one woman's accidental quest to make a few people feel just a little bit better about themselves. Showtime 8 p.m.
Contact: Box Office 305-294-5015
Email: Box_Office@waterfrontplayhouse.org

Key Largo / January 31 to February 01

Poor Girls Sailfish Tournament

A large regional charity competition that typically draws more than 200 anglers, the challenge offers ten trophies, including first-, second- and third-place teams, grand champion and runner-up grand champion anglers, and the largest dolphin, kingfish and tuna. Entry fee is $95 per angler, including the kick-off party and awards banquet.
Contact: Sharon Mahoney Ellenwood 305-664-2012
Email: sharellen@netzero.net

Marathon / February 02

Sanctuary Friends in Focus Lecture Series

Martin Moe, a renowned local author and aquarist, for a discussion on Florida spiny lobster. These lobster support one the most important commercial and sport fisheries in Florida. He'll teach about the life cycle of this complex crustacean and you can find out why the tale of the spiny lobster is more than just "a tail." Social starts 6:30, lecture from 7-8 p.m. at the Marathon Power Squadron Education Building, 2011 Loggerhead Lane, behind Panda House restaurant (52nd St).
Contact: 305-289-2288
Email: info@sanctuaryfriends.org

Key West / February 03 to February 04

Cuda Bowl

Shallow water flats anglers and guides are invited to hook-up and fight their barracuda rivals. Event is to be headquartered at Hurricane Hole Marina, Stock Island. Prizes are to be awarded for top angler and guide in light tackle spin and fly divisions, including a substantial gift certificate to Hurricane Hole Restaurant & Bar plus a trophy. Entry fee is $250 for one angler, $300 for two anglers.
Contact: Justin or Loren Rea 305-744-0903
Email: info@cudabowl.com

Key West / February 03 to February 25

Bye Bye Liver: The Key West Drinking Play

Combining sketch comedy and interactive drinking games to craft a uniquely formatted experience, BBL was originally launched by The Pub Theater Company in Chicago in 2006. Drawing from a large playbook of sketches and games, BBL aims creates shows that are fast, fun, intoxicatingly interactive and vary each night with the best and brightest performers from among the denizens of Key West nightlife. A colorful ensemble of local comedic talent, including Wayne Jarvela, Li Jones, Michele Meck, Chad Newman, "Cannonball" Katie Walker and Will "Happy Hour" Wilson. Shows are held at Hog's Breath Saloon, in the upstairs cabaret - 400 Front Street. Tickets are $20 person, show starts Fridays at 7:30, Saturdays at 7:30 and 10pm; shows on sale now for Feb 3, 4, 17, 18, 24 and 25.
Contact: (800) 650-6449
Email: cscott@hwykey.com

Islamorada / February 03 to February 05

Islamorada Women’s Sailfish Tournament

In this light-tackle challenge, awards await the grand champion team (boat), first runner-up and second runner-up team, captain and mate, as well as those recognizing the high-point angler, outstanding catch, largest tuna, dolphin and kingfish, most tagged sailfish and hard luck. Proceeds help breast cancer research.
Contact: Tammie Gurgiolo 305-240-9337
Email: fishnbully@msn.com

Key West / February 03 to February 15

"Journey" with Fran Decker: New Paintings at Frangipani Gallery

Come take a "Journey" with Fran Decker through her newest paintings at Frangipani Gallery February 3-15. Stop by and meet Fran at a reception from 6-9 pm at Frangipani, 1102A Duval the night of the First Friday Art Stroll on Upper Duval. Fran Decker invites the viewer on a journey through the Florida Keys. We'll start with an overview of our island home, visit some mangroves in the back country at night and at dawn, then head into town to visit some favorite haunts like No Name, Sarabeth's and Margaritaville. Then we'll spend a relaxing afternoon in some shady, cool backyards with friends and catch up on life. Finally, there is that house at the end of the road, with the sun shining off the ocean that you can see through the door. You just know once you pass through the big stone gates you'll find just what you were looking for.
Contact: Frangipani Gallery 305-296-0440

Islamorada / February 04 to February 05

Florida Keys Art Guild, Art Festival

From 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, enjoy a weekend of local and national artisans on display at Lorelei Restaurant, mile marker 82 bayside.
Contact: Joey Smith 305-897-9098 home
Email: sarasotajoe2000@yahoo.com

Key Largo / February 04 to February 05

Race the Keys: Bogey and Bacall Classic Paddle Festival

The Bogey 13.2 mile is a scenic race-course for single & double kayaks, surf skis. outrigger canoes and canoes that loops through mangrove creeks and across the open bay water of Blackwater Sound. The start and finish point will be from the shoreline of Florida Bay Outfitters. Cost is $45 per race or $60 for both days until Jan. 17; after Jan. 17, registration is $55 per race and $70 for both race days. Visit website for details.
Contact: Anite Allen 954-803-0028
Email: info@racethekeys.com

Big Pine & the Lower Keys / February 05

Super Sunday Spectacular

From noon to 5 p.m. at Big Pine Key's Watson Field, Key Deer Blvd. at MM 30.5, enjoy an island-style Super Bowl alternative, enjoy the Super Sunday Spectacular presented by the Big Pine & Lower Keys Rotary Club. Attractions include music, food, fun and kids' games, Admission is free.
Contact: Shana Casey
Email: ShanaC@KeysBank.com

Marathon / February 06 to February 09

Watercolor Painting Workshop

Internationally known artist/instructor Tony Couch is to conduct a watercolor painting workshop at the San Pablo Church, MM 53.5, daily from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Presented by the Florida Keys Watercolor Society, sessions begin each morning at 9 a.m., following Couch as he works on a painting, explaining his process as he paints. Students paint in the afternoons, whose work Couch will critique, including his own. An optional slide show/lecture on the principles of design - including color and composition - is to be presented in the afternoon of the first day. Tuition for the event is $425; anyone age 18 and up is eligible to enroll; beginners, students, hobbyists and professional artists welcome.
Contact: Karen Beauprie 305-517-6806

Key West / February 06

Waterfront Playhouse presents: Behind the Scenes

Get a free backstage tour of the Waterfront Playhouse with Artistic Director (Danny Weathers) and Technical Director (Michael Boyer). See the magic that happens "behind the scenes." Wine and light hors d'oeuvres served. Admission is free but reservations are required. Event time 6 p.m.
Contact: Terri Wilson (305-394-4106)
Email: pewtar@bellsouth.net

Key West / February 07 to March 10

Red Barn Theatre presents: God of Carnage

Great comedy, bad manners. This Broadway smash hit is a ninety-minute thrill ride that takes you into the most dangerous place on earth: parenthood. A civilized discussion over a playground fight becomes a rumble in the living room between two couples. Crackling wit and raucous physical comedy abound in this production of grownups behaving badly. Visit website for show times and tickets.
Contact: 305-296-9911
Email: info@redbarntheatre.com

Marathon / February 09

Sanctuary Friends in Focus Lecture Series

Enjoy a fast-paced satire of the 1950s travelogues, exploring the unconventional island with honesty and humor. Hear the natives tell about life, death, art, architecture, tourists and sex drive in the tropics! Social starts at 6:30 p.m., film presentation 7-8:30 p.m. at the Marathon Power Squadron Education Building, 2011 Loggerhead Lane, behind Panda House restaurant (52nd St gulfside).
Contact: 305-289-2288
Email: info@sanctuaryfriends.org

Key West / February 10 to February 12

Civil War Days Heritage Festival

Colorful Civil War re-enactments and tours of Key West's historic Civil War-era Fort Zachary Taylor highlight the journey into the island's past.
Contact: 305-292-6850

Marathon / February 11 to February 12

18th Annual Pigeon Key Art Festival

Held at the Marathon Community Park, MM49, from 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. both Saturday and Sunday. Admission fee $7 per adult, 12 and under are free. Free parking; kids corner, free hourly t-shirt drawings, food vendors, live music and silent auction.
Contact: Kristin Artz 305-396-7076
Email: info@swankeyevents.com

Key West / February 12

Impromptu Classical Concerts presents: Marina Lomazov

Marina Lomazov, returns to Key West as an Impromptu Classical Concerts' featured guest at St. Paul's Church. Performance starts at 4 p.m. Ukranian-American Lomazov has established herself as one of the most passionate and charismatic performers on the international concert circuit. Tickets are $20, free for ages 19 and under. Purchase in advance at classicalconcertskw.com or on the day of the concert, at St. Paul's church door located at Duval and Eaton Streets, beginning at 3 p.m.
Contact: Tickets: 305-296-1520

Marathon / February 13

Florida Keys Concert Association presents: Marina Lomazov

Praised by critics as "a diva of the piano" and "a mesmerizing risk taker," Ukranian-American pianist Marina Lomazov has established herself as one of the most passionate and charismatic performers on the concert scene today. Tickets $30, purchased at the door. Seasonal tickets available for $85 general admission and $150 preferred seating; visit website for details. Performance takes place at the San Pablo Catholic Church of Marathon, 550 122nd St. oceanside, off U.S. Highway 1 at mile marker 53.5. Doors open 7 p.m., showtime 7:30 p.m.
Contact: Lynda Berrigan 305-743-4687

Key West / February 14

Wesley House Family Services presents: 29th Annual Valentine’s Day Gala

From 6:30-9:30 p.m., on the grounds of the historic Curry Mansion Inn, 511 Caroline St., in Key West. Starring Master of Ceremonies Howard Livingston, music and dancing with Raven Cooper and Honey Mouth, a world-class dinner buffet, open bar and the island's largest and most anticipated annual silent auction. General admission $40 in advance, $50 at the door; limited VIP seating $90. All proceeds benefit Wesley House Family Services. Tickets available at KeysTix.com.
Contact: 305-809-5000
Email: info@welesyhouse.org

Islamorada / February 16

Morada Way Arts & Cultural District presents: Third Thursday Art Walk

Showcasing the fine arts, music and culinary nuances of the Purple Isles, the Morada Way Arts & Cultural District features national and local artisans who are showcased in galleries at Morada Way between mile marker 81 and 82 - formerly named Industrial Road - as well as "culinary art" and live music from 6-10 p.m. In addition to individual artists, participating galleries include the Redbone Gallery, Gallery Morada, Pasta Pantaleo Signature Gallery and Bluewater Potters. Free admission. Art Walk is held the third Thursday of each month. This month, ceramic artist Samantha Decker-Hoppen will demonstrate her unique pottery wheel throwing techniques; the Art Walk is to reveal new look, creative artists, and fantastic musicians.
Contact: Daniela Woody 305-664-9100
Email: Daniela@MoradaWayArts.org

Key West / February 17 to February 18

52nd Annual Key West House & Garden Tour

Tour a series of elegant and unique homes of Key West. Proceeds help benefit the Old Island Restoration Foundation. Presented by the Old Island Restoration Foundation, this house and garden tour offers a rare opportunity to see inside some of Key West's magnificent, charming and tropical residences.
Contact: 305-294-9501
Email: tickets@oirf.org

Key West / February 18 to February 19

Gardenfest Key West

South Florida's top nurseries are to show bromeliads, orchids, fruit trees, palms, tropical flowers and natives at the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden's annual plant sale. Other attractions include landscaping workshops, garden supplies booths, and arts and crafts and docent tours.
Contact: 305-296-1504

Islamorada / February 18

Keys Community Concert Band presents: Animal Fair

Woof! Growl! Roar! Bring the entire family to a musical tribute to our animal friends. Dogs on leashes are invited to attend! The free, outdoor performance is at Founders Park, mile marker 87, at 4 p.m. Performances are outdoors; please bring blankets or lawn chairs. Admission free for all concerts.
Contact: Donna Heiner 305-853-7294
Email: heinerdonna@yahoo.com

Key Largo / February 18 to February 20

Florida Keys Art Guild, Art Fest at Waldorf Plaza

Thirty-plus local and national artists are to be on display with items ranging from fine jewelry, sculpture, paintings, photography and fine crafts. A free event, open to the public, open 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily.
Contact: Joey Smith 305-897-9098
Email: sarasotajoe2000@yahoo.com

Big Pine & the Lower Keys / February 18

Blimp Road Four Mile Walk/Run

Join the 6.5K (four mile) Run/Walk that benefits the SeaBee Foundation. The 5th annual race begins at 8 a.m., and follows along Blimp Road. Pirate Wellness Center is hosting the event on Cudjoe Key MM21.5. Advance registration $20, $25 Race Day. Children under 18 only $10, Registration forms available online.
Contact: 305-304-0091
Email: leslies@stpeterbpk.com

Marathon / February 18

Pigeon Key Foundation presents: Flagler and the Florida East Coast Railway Extension

Presented by Prof. Seth Bramson, company historian with FEC Railway, an evening of history regarding the Miami to Key West extension, how it came to be, who the prominent characters were and how it was operated for the 23-plus years of its existence, culminating with the September 2, 1935 hurricane. Show starts 8 p.m., tickets $10. After the show, Bramson will host a book signing of his new release, ""The Greatest Railroad Story Ever Told: Henry Flagler and the Florida East Coast Railway's Key West Extension."
Contact: Box office: 305-743-0994

Islamorada / February 18

Third Annual Chili Cookoff

The public is welcome to attend and vote for the best chili at this tasty event from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. as local competitors ratchet up the rivalry for the best chili in town. The chili-chowing competition helps benefit local charities. Entrants can compete for a $10 entry fee; to taste, $10 admission allows tastes of all chili entrants. To be held at the Islamorada Moose Lodge.
Contact: Entrants: Nancy Laxe 305-664-1086
Email: BuckiNancy@aol.com

Key West / February 19 to February 20

Red Barn Theatre presents: Love Letters

Details to come soon! Visit website for show times and tickets.
Contact: 305-296-9911
Email: info@redbarntheatre.com

Marathon / February 19

Heart Health Walk, Run & Bike on Old 7

From noon to 1 p.m., join the Friends of Old Seven for a special kickoff fundraiser to be held at Sunset Grille & Raw Bar, at 7 Knights Key, at the base of the historic Old Seven Mile Bridge. From 1-4 p.m., participants can enjoy "Sunday Funday" activities. A 50/50 raffle, silent auction and prizes highlight the afternoon fun. All ages welcome to participate. Proceeds to benefit Friends of Old Seven.

Marathon / February 20

Florida Keys Concert Association presents: Foothills Brass

Enjoy a quintet of exceptional and versatile musicians who originate from all corners of North America. Quality, entertainment, variety and high-energy have been trademarks of this rare ensemble for three decades. Clap your hands and stomp your feet as you hear music from Broadway, Bourbon Street and beyond. Tickets $30, purchased at the door. Seasonal tickets available for $85 general admission and $150 preferred seating; visit website for details. Performance takes place at the San Pablo Catholic Church of Marathon, 550 122nd St. oceanside, off U.S. Highway 1 at mile marker 53.5. Doors open 7 p.m., showtime 7:30 p.m.
Contact: Lynda Berrigan 305-743-4687

Big Pine & the Lower Keys / February 20 to February 26

Winter Star Party

Approximately 600 astronomers from around the world gather to view southern constellations, comets and stars in the Lower Keys' clear night skies — virtually the only place in the continental U.S. where they can be viewed. Lectures, programs and workshops round out the event.
Contact: 305-661-1375
Email: heinrich1@windstream.net

Islamorada / February 23 to February 25

Backcountry Fly Championship

Tournament anglers are to compete to catch the most inches of snook and redfish on fly in a competition where one inch equals one point. Rules mandate that only two catches of each species over the two days of fishing can be counted toward an angler's total inches. Awards are to be given for grand champion, runner-up to grand champion, and largest snook, redfish and tarpon.
Contact: Paul Tejera
Email: captbackbone@gmail.com

Islamorada / February 24

Annual Upper Keys Garden Walk

Visitors can stroll among and view native plants and lush landscaping, while getting ideas for tropical gardening, during the annual Garden Walk, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., presented by the Upper Keys Garden Club.
Contact: 305-332-0535
Email: dbarreto@bellsouth.net

Key Largo / February 24

Upper Keys Garden Club Annual Garden Walk

Visitors can stroll among and view native plants and lush landscaping among private, resort and public gardens while getting ideas for tropical gardening. Event tickets with a map of featured garden locations are available, hours open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Contact: Dee Dee Barreto 305-332-0535

Marathon / February 24 to February 25

Murder Mystery Dinner Theater

Crane Point, presents this popular 'whodunit' event; this year's production is 'Bebopped at the Sock Hop' by Paula Hilton, to be held at Key Colony City Hall. Someone is going to die during the evening ... and someone in the room is the killer! You have to help us solve the mystery. The evening will begin at 6 p.m. with a wine and cheese reception followed by dinner at 7 p.m. The show begins at 8:00 p.m. Tickets are on sale now for $60 per person or tables of 8 for $450. Ticket price is all-inclusive. Tickets are available at the Crane Point Museum Gift Shop, or by telephone. Proceeds benefit Crane Point Museum & Nature Center.
Contact: Audrey Moir 305-393-6967

Key West / February 25

Presidential Descendants to Recall First Ladies

Descendants of three former United States presidents are to share memories and insights about their "first lady" forebears during a presentation at Key West's Harry S. Truman Little White House, Florida's only presidential museum. The unique event is scheduled for 4 p.m., on the west lawn of the 111 Front St. residence where former President Truman spent 11 working vacations during his 1945-1953 administration. Tickets available at keystix.com.
Contact: 305-294-9911

Islamorada / February 25 to February 26

17th Annual Upper Keys Gigantic Nautical Flea Market

Find hundreds of marine- and watersports-related vendors offering wares to thousands of buyers seeking deals on new and used boats, marine equipment, electronics, fishing tackle, dive gear, nautical arts and crafts, and more. Located at Founders Park, MM 87 bayside, on Plantation Key.
Contact: Mark Kohl 305-664-3210

Key West / February 25 to February 26

Old Island Days Art Festival

The 47th annual juried fine art show is set on lower Whitehead Street and Caroline Street in historic Old Town. The highly acclaimed show, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, features oil paintings, watercolors, sculpture, photography and other offerings by artists from around the United States.
Contact: Lois Songer 305-294-1243
Email: kwartctr@earthlink.net

the Florida Keys / February 26 to February 27

Red Barn Theatre presents: Kathleen ... Peace, Love and Jazz

Details coming soon! Visit website for show times and tickets.
Contact: 305-296-9911
Email: info@redbarntheatre.com

Key West / February 27

Waterfront Playhouse presents: Dinner and Disco at the Flamingo Diner

Get your tickets early because this event is a sell-out every year. Disco, famed diner food, drink and ambiance meld together. Come dressed as your favorite cook, waitress, diner patron, disco diva or dude. Who's going to win the costume prize this year? At the home of Bert Whitt and Dennis Beaver. Showtime 7 p.m.
Contact: Box Office 305-294-5015
Email: Box_Office@waterfrontplayhouse.org

Islamorada / February 29

Diving History Research Library Opening Event

History of Diving Museum will hold a special event open to the public to dedicate the Bauer Diving History Research Library. The community is invited attend the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony, which will take place from 6-8 p.m. RSVP is required, as space is limited. Named after the museum's founders, Drs. Joe and Sally Bauer, the new facility serves as the repository of the Bauer Library Collection, which consists of approximately 2500 volumes. It is one of the most comprehensive collections of rare books relative to the story of undersea exploration and was amassed by the Bauer's over a span of four decades.
Contact: 305-664-9737
Email: info@divingmuseum.org