26th Annual Key West Lobsterfest: A Crustacean Celebration


The Florida Keys are set to celebrate the 26th annual Key West Lobsterfest, an event dedicated to the local specialty, the spiny lobster, from Thursday, Aug. 10 to Sunday, Aug. 13. This popular festival commemorates the start of the Florida Keys lobster season on Aug. 6 and offers a variety of events, with an open-air lobster feast on the famous Duval Street being a notable highlight.

Flavorful Crustaceans Take Center Stage

The spiny lobsters of the Keys, known for their clawless structure, are lauded for their sweet and tender meat. They can often be found served in a variety of ways:

  • Steamed with drawn butter
  • Baked and stuffed
  • In creamy bisque
  • Cold in savory salads

Festivities Kick-Off at Historic Porter Mansion

The festival begins on Thursday evening, Aug. 10, with a lobster boil at Caroline’s Café, situated in the courtyard of Key West’s historic Porter Mansion. The feast will include:

  • Jumbo local shrimp
  • Fresh corn on the cob
  • Redskin potatoes

In addition to the sumptuous food, there will also be live entertainment and special deals on drinks to kickstart the celebration.

Street Fair Extravaganza

On Saturday, Aug. 12, lobster enthusiasts are invited to attend the free Key West Lobsterfest Street Fair, taking place from noon to 11 p.m. in the 100 through 500 blocks of Duval Street. Here, attendees will be able to:

  • Sample a variety of lobster dishes and other food and drink offerings from local restaurants and bars, all prepared using fresh crustaceans caught by Florida Keys lobster fishermen.
  • Browse and purchase from a selection of arts, crafts, and merchandise offered by several vendors.

Music and Entertainment

To keep the festive spirit alive, a free outdoor concert is scheduled from 1-11 p.m., featuring regional favorites such as Just George, Fried Newt, and The Durtbags. This musical performance will take place at the intersection of Duval and Greene streets.

More Lobster, More Fun

The Lobsterfest continues to deliver an immersive lobster experience with additional events, including:

  • A pool party and pub crawl scheduled for Friday, Aug. 11
  • A lobster brunch on Sunday, Aug. 13

The festivities will conclude on Sunday with a pool party and lobster boil at the Southernmost Beach Resort, from 1-4 p.m.

Festival With A Cause

The Key West Lobsterfest not only indulges the taste buds of the attendees but also benefits a scholarship fund for Key West High School students.

For more information about the event and ticketing, visit the official website: keywestlobsterfest.com. The Key West Lobsterfest promises a grand celebration of the beloved crustacean, presenting an opportunity for everyone to savor, celebrate, and support the local community.