28th Annual Key West Lobsterfest
Key West Lobsterfest Serves Up Five Days of Island Flavor
Dive into one of Key West’s most anticipated culinary celebrations at Key West Lobsterfest, a five-day festival marking the official opening of Florida’s spiny lobster season. From freshly prepared lobster and chef-driven dinners to lively pool parties, a spirited pub crawl and a bustling Duval Street fair, the festival offers countless ways to savor the flavors and energy of the island.
Local restaurants, resorts and chefs showcase Florida spiny lobster through creative dishes, traditional preparations and exclusive dining experiences. With live music, refreshing cocktails, artisan vendors and festivities throughout historic Key West, Lobsterfest is the perfect summer escape for seafood lovers, foodies and fun-seekers.
Wednesday, August 5
The celebration begins with a Kickoff Party at Rick’s Entertainment Complex at 8 p.m., featuring lobster specials, live music and plenty of Key West energy. Earlier in the evening, head to Southernmost Beach Resort at 7 p.m. for lobster trivia and delicious lobster rolls.
Thursday, August 6
Experience a classic Florida lobster boil dinner in the picturesque Porter Mansion Courtyard beginning at 5 p.m. Guests can also enjoy the Flight of the Flamingos, an exclusive four-course dinner at Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa featuring celebrity chef Richard Blais. Multiple seating times are available.
Friday, August 7
Cool off at afternoon pool parties from 1 to 4 p.m. at both Hyatt Centric Key West Resort & Spa and The Marker Key West Harbor Resort. In the evening, explore the island’s lively bar scene during the Lobsterfest Pub Crawl along Greene and Duval streets beginning at 8 p.m. The Key West Cooking Show will also host a special Lobsterfest Dinner, with seatings at 5:30 and 7 p.m.
Saturday, August 8
The festival’s signature event takes over the 100 through 500 blocks of Duval Street from noon to 11 p.m. The Lobsterfest Street Fair features local restaurants and vendors serving an impressive variety of lobster dishes, along with artisan crafts, refreshing drinks and a free outdoor concert. Festivalgoers can also make a splash at the Dante’s Key West Pool Party from 1 to 4 p.m.
Sunday, August 9
Wrap up the weekend with a flavorful Lobster Brunch at First Flight Island Restaurant & Brewery beginning at 10:30 a.m. The festivities continue at Southernmost Beach Resort at 1 p.m. with a pool party and lively lobster roll eating contest.
Come hungry, bring your island spirit and get ready to celebrate Florida spiny lobster season in true Key West style.
Event funding provided by the Monroe County Tourism Development Council.