Key West Celebrates Hemingway Legacy with Annual Festival

KEY WEST, Fla. — The vibrant island city of Key West continues to honor the legacy of literary giant Ernest Hemingway, who resided there during the 1930s. Since its inception in 1981, Hemingway Days has attracted fans, scholars, and family members to celebrate the author’s adventurous life and acclaimed works. The festival features a variety of events, including a short-story competition and a look-alike contest, drawing participants who embody the spirit of Hemingway, known for his love of bullfighting, baseball, boxing, and nightlife. Hemingway's time in Key West was marked by his passion for big-game fishing, a pursuit that he embraced after acquiring his boat, the Pilar, in 1934. During this period, he developed innovative fishing techniques and became an advocate for the Florida Keys and its residents. Despite the popular image of an older, bearded Hemingway, many look-alike contestants reflect the author’s youthful years spent in the vibrant community, where he often mingled with locals and fellow fishermen. The festival also serves as a reminder of the historical context of the region, particularly the impact of the construction of the Overseas Highway, which resulted in significant loss of life among World War I veterans. Michael Morawski, CEO of the Hemingway Home & Museum, highlights the contributions of his great-aunt, Bernice Dixon, in preserving Hemingway’s legacy in Key West. David Douglas, president of the Hemingway Look-Alike Society, has been a part of the festivities since 2000 and won the look-alike contest in 2009, further solidifying the festival's role in celebrating the enduring influence of Hemingway’s life and work.