Key Lime Festival 2026 — Love & Limes in Key West
Dates: July 1 – July 5, 2026
Location: Key West, Florida
The Key Lime Festival 2026 returns to the Florida Keys this Independence Week, delivering five days of citrus-inspired fun, culinary delights, and island culture. Known as America’s Favorite Citrus Celebration, this event highlights what makes Key West unforgettable: its eccentric characters, lively parties, and, of course, the iconic Key Lime Pie.
Daily Key Lime Highlights
Throughout July 1–5, festivalgoers can experience a vibrant mix of food, drink, and entertainment:
- Mini Pie Baking Classes at Key West Key Lime Pie Co.
- Specialty Menus featuring Key Lime Tiramisu at Better Than Sex, citrus-infused dishes at Café Sole, and tropical flavors at Kaya Island Eats.
- Rum Tastings at Key West First Legal Rum Distillery with award-winning Key Lime spirits.
- Happy Hours & Live Music at venues like The Alamo.
- Vendor Village at Southernmost Beach Resort with lime-themed art, jewelry, and gifts.
Signature Events Not to Miss
- Key Lime Kick-Off Party at The Avalon – Music and entertainment to start the celebration.
- Key Lime Pie Hop – Walk through town sampling pies while collecting a festival t-shirt.
- Key Lime Sip & Stroll – Taste and vote on the best lime cocktails across the island.
- World Famous Pie Eating Championship – Contestants attempt to devour a 9-inch pie the fastest.
- Pie Drop at the Lighthouse – Homemade contraptions tested in a zany pie drop challenge.
- Battle of the Bartenders – Six mixologists compete with Key Lime Liqueur creations.
- Family Fun Zone – Crafts, conch-blowing, games, and mermaid meetups for children.
Independence Week Celebrations
This festival also coincides with 4th of July traditions, giving visitors a patriotic and tropical holiday blend:
- 4th of July 5K Run/Walk – Start the day with energy and philanthropy.
- Stars & Stripes Pool Party at Dante’s – Celebrate with DJs, sunshine, and cocktails.
- Fireworks at Indigenous Park – A dazzling display under the island night sky.
Why Experience the Key Lime Festival 2026?
- Authentic Key West Flavor – Hosted in the birthplace of Key Lime Pie.
- Unmatched Culinary Variety – From pies to cocktails, every bite bursts with citrus.
- Island Culture & Entertainment – Music, comedy, cabaret, and family-friendly fun.
- Holiday Festivities – Celebrate July 4th in paradise with fireworks and local flair.
Plan Ahead: Select events sell out quickly. Tickets are available now, along with volunteer opportunities.