Key Largo, the northernmost island in the Florida Keys, is renowned for its pristine waters, rich marine life, and thriving community spirit. Historically known as “Cayo Largo” by Spanish explorers, meaning “long key,” this island has evolved from a key maritime hub to a beloved modern-day destination. The island’s history is rich with tales of seafarers and settlers, adding a fascinating backdrop to its contemporary allure.
Today, the island stands out not only for its natural splendor but also for its cultural vibrancy. The Key Largo FL events calendar is brimming with a variety of activities that cater to diverse interests. This could be one of the reasons why potential homeowners and investors are drawn to Key Largo, alongside its unique combination of historical charm and modern amenities.
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Monthly Events In Key Largo, FL
Key Largo FL events and festivals encompass music, food, art, outdoor activities, and so much more. Frequent community events encourage social engagement, making it an attractive option for those looking to immerse themselves in an active and welcoming community.
When planning a visit to Key Largo, you need to consider the timing to fully enjoy the island’s vibrant event calendar. The best months to visit often depend on your interests. But regardless of the time of year, there’s always something happening in Key Largo to suit various interests.
Here’s a month-by-month list of Key Largo, FL events to help you plan your visit:
August
- The Fish and Friends Seminar. A monthly gathering at the REEF Campus in Key Largo, FL, featuring divers, snorkelers, and ocean enthusiasts of all stripes in an evening of mingling, light refreshments, and fascinating presentations.
- Miami Boat Rally. A fun round-trip boat event to and from Miami with stops in Key Largo and Islamorada.
- Comedy for a Cause. An evening of cocktails and entertainment to benefit Florida Keys Wild Bird Center and Pawsitive Beginnings.
- City Bikes Key Largo Triathlon. Choose the length and difficulty of your race at this event in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Swim across calm beach waters, cycle down Card Sound Road, and sprint along US1
September
- Florida Keys Lionfish Derby and Competition. An annual event aimed at controlling the population of invasive lionfish in the Florida Keys with teams of divers competing to capture as many lionfish as possible over a specified period.
- Reef Fish ID Citizen Workshops. These workshops aim to equip participants with the skills and knowledge necessary to identify different fish species and contribute to citizen science projects that help monitor and protect marine ecosystems.
October
- Take Stock in Children Backcountry Challenge. Anglers compete in this annual competition by catching various fish species, with proceeds aiding local students through scholarships and mentoring, promoting education and community involvement.
- Reef Fest. An annual celebration of marine conservation with snorkel and kayak trips, dives, seminars with ocean experts, social gatherings, and more.
- Various Halloween events. Check your local calendar for upcoming events like costume contests, trick-or-treat activities, and other spooky experiences.
November
- Private Fishing and Snorkeling Tours. No scheduled event? No problem! Book 4-hour, 6-hour, and 8-hour boat trips to waters with snappers, groupers, yellow tail, and barracuda. Explore snorkeling spots with sea turtles and other marine life. Inclusive of amenities.
- Key Largo Mangrove Eco-Tours. Guided kayak or paddleboard excursions glide through the scenic mangrove forests of the Florida Keys. Explore diverse ecosystems, encounter wildlife, and learn about the importance of mangroves in coastal protection and marine conservation.
- TBA. Check your local calendar for upcoming November events.
December
- Key Largo Christmas Bazaar. Local vendors offer holiday crafts, decorations, gifts, and baked goods.
- Additional events nearby: Art Basel Miami Beach Is a prestigious art show in Miami Beach, featuring modern and contemporary artworks by renowned artists.
- New Year’s Eve celebrations. Check your local calendar for upcoming November events in Key Largo and nearby cities.
2025
January
The following events made waves in previous years. Check your local calendar for what’s new and upcoming in January 2025.
- Key Largo Stone Crab & Seafood Festival. Celebrates local seafood with fresh stone crab, live music, and family-friendly activities.
- Everglades Ultramarathon. A challenging race through the Everglades terrain made for serious runners and nature enthusiasts.
- Key Largo Sailfish Challenge. A prestigious fishing tournament where anglers compete to catch sailfish, a highlight of the sport fishing calendar.
February
The following were top events in previous years. Check your local calendar for what’s new and upcoming in February 2025.
March
The following were top events in previous years. Check your local calendar for what’s new and upcoming in March 2025.
- Reef Fest. Highlights marine conservation through seminars, diving trips, and evening celebrations.
- Island Fest (Islamorada). Islamorada’s festival of arts, crafts, live music, and culinary delights, which is sometimes held in April.
- Florida Keys Wildlife Festival: Celebrates the diverse wildlife of the Florida Keys with educational programs, exhibits, and outdoor activities.
April
The following were top events in previous years. Check your local calendar for what’s new and upcoming in April 2025.
- Earth Day Celebrations. Key Largo’s activities for Earth Day include beach cleanups, educational workshops, and eco-friendly events.
- Conch Republic Independence Celebration (Key West). Commemorates the Florida Keys’ mock secession with parades, bed races, and various parties.
May
The following were top events in previous years. Check your local calendar for what’s new and upcoming in May 2025.
- Hawaiian Luau. A themed event with Hawaiian food, music, and dance to kick off the summer season.
- Memorial Day Ceremony. Honors fallen soldiers with a solemn ceremony, parade, and speeches.
June
The following were happening events in previous years. Check your local calendar for what’s new and upcoming in June 2025.
- Florida Keys Dragon Boat Festival. Teams compete in dragon boat races with vibrant decorations, food vendors, music, and activities.
- Fishing Derby. An annual competition for anglers of all skill levels to mark Key Largo’s fishing heritage.
- World Oceans Day Celebration. Marine life exhibitions, workshops, and beach cleanups promotes ocean conservation, highlighted by Coralpalooza™. Organized by the Coral Restoration Foundation, this event includes activities such as coral planting and reef restoration and offers participants the hands-on opportunity to contribute to marine conservation efforts.
- Eco-Adventures Kayak Tour. Guided tours exploring Key Largo’s mangroves and coastal ecosystems offer an eye-opening and immersive experience.
July
The following were top events in previous years. Check your local calendar for what’s new and upcoming in July 2025.
- Fourth of July Celebrations. Key Largo hosts fireworks, parades, and family activities. The highlight is the fireworks display over Blackwater Sound, creating a stunning show.
- Lobster Mini-Season. A two-day event where divers catch lobsters in Key Largo waters. It’s a lively competition attracting participants eager for adventure and delicious rewards.
- Key Largo Original Music Festival. Features performances across various genres by local and national musicians in picturesque outdoor settings.
Year-Round Family-Friendly Activities
Key Largo, FL events don’t end there. There are a wealth of family-friendly activities that promise excitement and immersive experiences year-round. Here are some things to do in Key Largo, FL anytime you like, promising thrills, magical moments, and an inspiring sense of occasion:
- Dolphin encounters. Spend a day at one of Key Largo’s dolphin research centers where families can learn about marine life and conservation efforts. These encounters allow children to interact with dolphins in a safe and educational environment and leave them with unforgettable memories.
- Florida Keys Wild Bird Rehabilitation Center. Visit this sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating wild birds. Meet the birds under the facility’s care and find out the importance of bird conservation. It’s an inspiring experience for all ages.
- Pirate’s Cove Water Park. Spend a fun-filled day at this water park with slides, a lazy river, and splash zones. Pirate’s Cove offers a great way for families to cool off under the Florida sun.
- Sunset cruises. End your day with a relaxing sunset cruise. Many tour operators offer family-friendly cruises with spectacular views of the sunset over the Gulf of Mexico, along with live music and refreshments.
Celebrating Art And Culture
Artistic expression flourishes in Key Largo, with numerous exhibitions and craft fairs held throughout the year.
- Art walks provide a way for local artists to showcase their work, attracting art enthusiasts and collectors with paintings, sculpture, and handmade crafts on offer.
- Cultural festivals in Key Largo also highlight the area’s rich heritage and diverse traditions. These events often feature performances, workshops, and displays that celebrate the cultural contributions of various communities. The Key Largo Heritage Festival, which showcases the history and traditions of the local population, includes historical reenactments, traditional music and dance, and local cuisine, aims to deepen the understanding and appreciation of the region’s cultural fabric.
Museums And Historical Sites
In and around Key Largo, several museums and historical sites provide insight into the area’s storied past.
- The Florida Keys History & Discovery Center in Islamorada features exhibits on the rich history of the Keys, from Native American settlements to the wrecking and salvaging era.
- The History of Diving Museum introduces a fascinating look at the evolution of underwater exploration and diving technology.
- The Spiegel Grove is a massive ship, intentionally sunk to create an artificial reef, is a diving spot near Key Largo.
- The African Queen, an iconic boat from the 1951 movie of the same name, is available to enjoy in a charming canal cruise.
Hiking And Nature Trails
Key Largo’s natural landscapes provide a stunning backdrop for hiking and nature exploration. Discover lush mangroves, scenic beaches, and breathtaking coral reefs. It’s also ideal for birdwatching and spotting local wildlife. Pro tip: Early mornings are ideal for hikes to enjoy cooler temperatures and active wildlife.
Trails you can explore include:
- Mangrove Trail. This short but fascinating trail allows hikers to immerse themselves in the lush environment with ample opportunities to observe the intricate ecosystem of the mangroves up close.
- Wild Tamarind Trail. A moderate hike through hardwood hammocks showcasing a diverse array of native plants and animals. Expect encounters with local wildlife and serene natural beauty.
Relocating To Key Largo
With its dynamic cultural scene, numerous outdoor activities, and a strong sense of community, it’s easy to feel at home in Key Largo – with plenty of opportunities to get involved and make new friends. The diverse range of activities ensures that there’s something for everyone, whether you’re a fan of outdoor adventures, culinary delights, or cultural experiences.
Key Largo’s thriving culture and steady visitor influx boost real estate demand and property values. As of 2024, the median listing home price is about $1.4 million, with prices averaging $930 per square foot. This represents a year-over-year decrease of about 10%, indicating a slight cooling in the market, but values remain high due to the desirable location and amenities. Thus, there are ample opportunities to seek out deals.
The peak tourist season from December to May enhances local businesses and real estate demand, while off-season offers a quieter atmosphere.
Benefits Of Investing In Key Largo Real Estate
Key Largo’s popularity among tourists ensures a strong market for short-term rentals, providing reliable income for property owners. The island is a hotspot for vacation rentals, with high demand year-round and average nightly rates ranging from $150 to $600, depending on the property type and location. Beachfront homes and properties with premium amenities such as pools or direct ocean access command higher prices. On platforms like Airbnb, there are over 1,100 rental properties available, with many boasting high occupancy rates and excellent reviews.
Owning a home in Key Largo means enjoying a high quality of life, surrounded by natural beauty and a thriving community. The combination of outdoor activities, cultural events, and community spirit makes it a place where living and investing are truly rewarding.
Invest In Key Largo, FL Real Estate With Top Realtor Angel Digiorgio
Browse Key Largo homes for sale here
Looking to expand your asset portfolio with a real estate investment in the Florida Keys? Work with Angel DiGiorgio, the best and most trusted Realtor in the region. A luxury property specialist and a Florida Keys resident for over 25 years, Angel and her team of experts possess in-depth knowledge of the area and insight into properties with the highest growth potential. Their incomparable services ensure a seamless and stress-free home-buying journey.
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