Q3 in the Florida Keys: Sargassum Who?

If there’s one thing the third quarter has reminded us, it’s that summer in the Florida Keys is anything but boring.

From festivals and galas to community events, fundraisers, trivia nights and plenty of time on the water, there’s always something happening in our little corner of paradise.

One of the highlights of the season was the popular People’s Choice Awards, presented by the local Keys Weekly newspapers. It’s more than an opportunity to celebrate the businesses, organizations and people who make our community special. It’s also about giving back, with the event helping raise funds for a worthy charitable cause. Because around here, celebrating our community and supporting those who need it go hand in hand.

If you want to explore the results, you can view the People’s Choice Awards online at KeysWeekly.com, where you’ll find the best places, things to do, services, dining spots and more as voted by the community. It’s a great way to discover local favorites and plan your next Keys adventure.

And then there’s summer in the Keys.

Sargassum who?

Sure, there’s been plenty of it. But there’s also been plenty of sunshine, blue water and people enjoying our famous sandbars with friends and family. It’s hard to complain when you’re surrounded by that kind of beauty.

At the same time, enjoying paradise means taking care of it. Environmental sustainability and protecting our fragile ecosystems continue to be an important part of the conversation. Whether it’s our waters, reefs, wildlife or beaches, we all have a role to play in keeping the Florida Keys beautiful for generations to come.

Of course, we also know how to have a little fun.

Trivia night in the Keys comes with its own island twist. You might find yourself at Florida Keys Brewing Co. in Islamorada for plant trivia, putting your botanical knowledge to the test, or heading to Robbie’s for Trivia Tuesday while painting coconuts. Because apparently, that’s just what happens when you combine trivia with island life.

And honestly? We wouldn’t have it any other way.

Looking ahead, the excitement doesn’t slow down as we roll into the next season.

In October, Fantasy Fest takes over Key West, bringing its world-famous costumes, parades, street parties and creative chaos to the southernmost city. It’s one of the most iconic celebrations in the Keys and a true showcase of imagination, expression and island energy.

Meanwhile, in the Upper Keys, food lovers and visitors alike will be gearing up for Taste the Keys, a celebration of local flavor that highlights the incredible restaurants, chefs and culinary creativity throughout the island chain. From fresh-caught seafood to inventive island cuisine, it’s a delicious reminder of just how much the Keys have to offer.

The third quarter has been a wonderful reminder that the Florida Keys are about so much more than beautiful scenery. They’re about the people who live here, the businesses that keep our communities thriving, the organizations that give back and the experiences that bring us all together.

And we’re not slowing down anytime soon.

With the holidays right around the corner, the next quarter is already shaping up to be even busier. More events, more celebrations, more community fun and plenty of opportunities to experience all the things that make the Florida Keys such a special place to live, work and visit.

So stay tuned for everything coming up — and in the meantime, get outside, enjoy the water, support local and soak up a little island life.

After all, we’re pretty lucky to call this place home. 🏝️