Squeeze the Day: Key Lime Pie Takes Over Key West July 3-7

Get ready to pucker up, Key lime pie enthusiasts! The annual Key Lime Festival is back in Key West from July 3-7, celebrating Florida's beloved tangy treat. This year's lineup is packed with quirky and delicious events that are sure to zest up your summer.

Pie-Eating Pandemonium The fun kicks off on July 3 at 5 p.m. with David Sloan, author of "The Key West Key Lime Pie Cookbook," at the historic Curry Mansion. But the real showstopper? The World Famous Key Lime Pie Eating Championship on July 4. Picture this: contestants face-planting into 9-inch pies, hands-free, to see who can gobble it down the fastest. It's messy, it's hilarious, and it's happening at the Southernmost Beach Café.

Family Fun and Festivities Alongside the pie-eating spectacle, enjoy a Key Lime Vendor Village, family-friendly games, and beachfront vibes starting at 11 a.m. on July 4. It's a day packed with activities and lime-inspired goodies that will keep everyone entertained.

Sip, Stroll, and Savor Friday brings the Key Lime Sip & Stroll, a cocktail sampling tour for those who like their citrus with a twist. Add to that a Key Lime Bike Tour and a tasting of locally distilled Key lime rum. Don’t miss the fundraiser where you might see a local celebrity get a pie in the face for a good cause.

Defying Gravity Saturday’s highlight is the quirky Key Lime Pie Drop at the Key West Lighthouse. Participants design contraptions to protect their mini pies as they drop them from the top, aiming to keep their pies intact. This free event is a spectator favorite, drawing crowds to witness the creative (and often hilarious) attempts.

More Limey Delights Throughout the festival, enjoy daily culinary experiences, a 5k run, a pool party, and a historical presentation on Key limes. Don’t miss the Key Lime Pie Hop on July 7, where you can sample five different takes on this classic dessert.

For more details, event schedule, and tickets, visit keylimefestival.com.

Squeeze in some fun this summer at the Key Lime Festival – it's the zest way to celebrate!