Some 125 stocky, white-bearded men will soon be flocking to Ernest Hemingway's 1930s island retreat to compete in Sloppy Joe's 33rd annual "Papa" Hemingway Look-Alike Contest.
Set for Thursday through Saturday, July 18-20, the contest takes place at Sloppy Joe's Bar, 201 Duval Street, where the legendary author often enjoyed cocktails with literary and local cohorts.
The event is a highlight of the annual Hemingway Days celebration of his writing talent, sporting pursuits and colorful Key West lifestyle.
Ernest Hemingway's decade of residence in Key West ended late in 1939, but his literary legacy lives on – both in the island city and in the annual festival. Scheduled Tuesday through Sunday, July 16-21, Hemingway Days 2013 offers several events that celebrate Key West's rich literary tradition and the talents of writers both past and present.
The primary literary event is the announcement of the winners of the Lorian Hemingway Short Story Competition. Now in its 33rd year, the competition awards $2,500 annually to emerging writers of short fiction.
Its director, Lorian Hemingway, is Ernest Hemingway's granddaughter and the author of critically acclaimed books including "Walk on Water."
Literary aficionados can learn about Key West's two most famous resident writers in unique museum exhibitions. "Hemingway in Key West" is on display at the Key West Museum of Art & History at the Custom House, 281 Front St. An exhibit exploring Tennessee Williams' years on the island can be viewed at 513 Truman Ave. behind the Key West Business Guild Visitor Center. A festival museum day is scheduled Tuesday, July 16, but both exhibits are open daily.
Visit www.hemingwaydays.net for a schedule of events.
For more information about top events in Florida take a look at the Top Events USA selection of the annual main festivals and events in Florida.