What’s Happening This March in Key West and The Florida Keys

by Noreen Kompanik
Last updated: 1:55 PM ET, Thu February 26, 2026

Spring has sprung, and the Florida Keys are heating up with a host of vibrant traditions and tropical vibes in March 2026.

America’s southernmost city offers an exciting lineup of festivals and island traditions throughout the month, including the following slate of events.

Only In the Florida Keys Experiences

Islamorada's Bacon, Beer & Seafood Festival (March 1)—Hosted by the Islamorada Moose Lodge and Florida Keys Brewing Co., the festival serves up fresh seafood, crispy bacon bites, craft beer, cocktails, live music, and Junkanoo beats from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. With free parking and a $5 suggested donation benefiting local charities and Coral Shores Scholarships, it’s a delicious way to give back while soaking up the island vibes.
Key West Orchid Festival (March 6-8) at the Key West Garden Club event features stunning orchid displays, expert presentations, plant sales, and local art, creating a serene, colorful celebration of tropical beauty.
Conch Shell Blowing Contest (March 7), a beloved decades-long Key West tradition, brings history and humor together at the lush garden of the Oldest House on 322 Duval Street. Open to all ages and free to attend, this quirky event invites both seasoned shell blowers and first timers to transform the iconic conch shell into a musical instrument.
34th Annual Florida Keys Island Fest (March 28-29)—Held at Islamorada’s Founders Park, the fest delivers two days of free waterfront fun with juried fine art, live music, local cuisine, family activities, and vintage cars. Highlights include an Arts & Crafts Show with more than 100 artists, the Smoked Fish Dip Contest, the All-American Road Vintage Cruisers Car Show, and the whimsical “What Floats Your Boat?” homemade boat race.

St. Patrick’s Day Fun Runs

St. Paddy’s Island 5K/10K (March 13-16)—Wear your best green and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day Islamorada-style during the event held along Old Highway, followed by a festive post-race party at The Florida Keys Brewing Company.
Irish Kevin’s 13th Annual Shamrock Shuffle (March 14), a lively 5K/10K (plus kids’ 1K) in Key West, supporting local charities, starts and finishes on Duval Street and wraps up with a street party featuring live music, breakfast buffet, a free drink (21+), medals, and awards.

Food & Drink Festivals

The Original Marathon Seafood Festival (March 14-15)—Celebrating its 50th year, the event is the oldest seafood festival in the Keys, featuring fresh local seafood, live music and arts and crafts as well as a myriad of activities for all ages.
Taste of Key West (March 23) is a lively waterfront festival showcasing the best of local restaurants, chefs, and beverage partners. Set against the stunning backdrop of Truman Waterfront Park, attendees sample dishes from Key West’s finest chefs and sip carefully curated wines, craft beers, and spirits, all in support of health, housing, and hope across the Florida Keys.

Fishing Tournaments

March Merkin Invitational (March 9-12)—Fly-fishing enthusiasts experience world-class permit fishing in the waters of the Florida Keys, combining competitive angling with camaraderie and coastal beauty.
Key West Sailfish Tournament (March 26-28)—World-class teams converge on the sparkling blue waters of Key West and the lower Keys for two days, battling it out for the top place and prize money, bringing teams from all over Florida and beyond.