Nothing says Key West like Key lime and its namesake dessert, Key lime pie. In fact, the tart fruit has its own festival.
From July 3-7, Conchs and tourists alike celebrate with the annual Key Lime Festival. This year, Key West is planning five days of fruity festivities — from Key lime sip-and-strolls to a Key lime pie drop in which contestants must create a way to keep their pie from being destroyed after tossing it from the Key West lighthouse. There also will be a pie-making event, as well as a pie-eating contest.
On the off chance you have never sampled the tasty treat, you should know it’s made from condensed milk, egg yolks and Key lime juice. The filling is typically set in a graham cracker crust and topped with whipped cream or meringue.
Many of the local restaurants are getting in on the fun with special menus that include Key Lime French Toast. Key Lime rum-tasting events also are part of the celebration. And don’t forget to check out a refreshing Key Lime Lager.
It’s believed the Key lime pie was first made in the 1800s in the kitchen of the iconic Key West Curry Mansion and is so popular it was named Florida’s official pie by the state legislature in 2006. However, when Governor Ron DeSantis proclaimed Strawberry Shortcake as the state’s official dessert in 2022, it stirred up quite a hullabaloo. Despite the addition, most people still associate Florida with the Key lime pie, making it clear that some traditions are hard to shake. Can’t make it to the festival? Have no fear, Key lime pie is available year-round on the island.
Visit keylimefestival.com