Florida Keys to finish summer with flourish

Seven Mile Bridge in the lower Florida Keys.

The Florida Keys will celebrate the close of summer throughout August with cultural festivals, national park access, tribute events and fishing tournaments from Key Largo to Key West.

On Aug. 4, Dry Tortugas National Park and Everglades National Park offer free admission for the anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act.

Dry Tortugas, approximately 70 miles west of Key West and reachable only by boat or seaplane, offers snorkeling, Fort Jefferson and birdwatching across its small island group. Everglades National Park provides opportunities for hiking, paddling and fishing within a vast subtropical ecosystem that is home to mangroves, marshes and rare wildlife.

From Aug. 11 to 17, Key West hosts the second annual Rum Fest, a celebration of rum culture with live music and tastings. The festival’s main event, the Grand Tasting, is Aug. 16 at the Key West Theater, where guests can sample premium rums from over 30 vendors while enjoying entertainment and Caribbean cuisine.

Also on Aug. 16, artist Wesley Truman Daniel, great-grandson of President Harry S. Truman, leads a paint-and-sip workshop on the grounds of the Harry S. Truman Little White House. The event includes a donation-based bar and encourages participants to bring picnic supplies and painting materials for a relaxed outdoor art session that supports the preservation of Florida’s only presidential museum.

On Aug. 17, the City Bikes Key Largo Triathlon takes place at John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. Event formats include Olympic and sprint triathlons, duathlons, and an Aquabike race. All finishers receive coral-reef-themed medals and custom awards.

For Labor Day weekend Aug. 29 to Sept. 1, Key West hosts Just a Few Friends — A Jimmy Buffett Celebration, honoring the music and legacy of the singer-songwriter. The weekend includes a formal proclamation of Jimmy Buffett Day, pool parties, a beach gathering, film screenings, and a second-line parade that culminates in a free concert at Truman Waterfront Park, including food vendors.

On Aug. 30, the annual Key West BrewFest returns to Southernmost Beach Resort. Over 60 vendors will serve more than 225 craft beers. Proceeds benefit scholarship programs through the Key West Sunrise Rotary Club.

On Aug. 18, the Bartenders Dolphin Tournament gives Keys hospitality workers a chance to compete in a laid-back fishing competition. The same day, Islamorada holds a Hooked on Fishing seminar focused on tarpon and backcountry species with tips on gear and techniques.

Travelers can take advantage of Latitude Adjustment hotel packages, which include perks and access to select events. For more information on these and other activities, visit the Florida Keys Tourism Council website or the Visit Florida page for the Keys.