As of Sunday, 200,111 people have tested positive for COVID-19 in Florida. The recent spike led officials to only recently close bars and beaches. Yes, that meant no public spaces for Floridians on the 4th this year. The decision has also impacted an annual look-alike contest and festival: the Hemingway Days.
image via irishtimes.com
Called the “ultimate destination event for literary enthusiasts,” the Hemingway Days is an annual meet-up in Key West during late July (21-26). The recent news of its cancellation comes from a surge in coronavirus cases around the entire state of Florida. Goers will have to wait until next year to attend. But what’s up with the festival? Should you book your 2021 tickets?
image via old town manor
Pulitzer-prize winning author Ernest Hemingway left a “considerable legacy” in his long-time residence of Key West. He was known to have frequented Sloppy Joe’s bar, now the famous meet-up for the look-alike contest and festival parties. The festival celebrates everything Hemingway, from his literary gifts to his lifestyle; events include a look-alike contest, a three-day marlin fishing tournament, readings (and book signings before the author’s passing), a 5k run and paddleboard race, a “Key West style” running with the bulls, and more.
The Days are planned out in a chock-full itinerary, always making their way back to first rounds or Bloody Marys with “Papa” at Sloppy Joe’s bar on Duval St.
