Hemingway 5K Sunset Run Returns To Key West This Weekend

July 24, 2025

Two unique challenges will celebrate Ernest Hemingway’s exuberant outdoor lifestyle and passion for sporting pursuits

KEY WEST, Fla. (July 24, 2025) /ENDURANCE SPORTSWIRE/ — On July 26, the 36th edition of the Hemingway 5K Sunset Run will return as part of Key West’s annual Hemingway Days celebration. The festival, which takes place each July, salutes the life and work of the author who lived and wrote on the island in the 1930s. The 5K Run/Walk is to begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Southernmost Point in the continental United States and will take runners on a fast, flat 3.1-mile route through Key West’s historic Old Town past landmarks including the Ernest Hemingway Home & Museum. Registration to participate remains open for runners, walkers and fans of Hemingway.

“The Hemingway 5K, now in its 36th anniversary year, is the oldest ongoing race in Key West, and we typically have more than 800 competitors,” said event organizer Barbara Wright. “When it comes to summer running, this nationally acclaimed event is a truly unique experience with history, fitness and fun all in one!”

A post-race awards party is scheduled on the beach beside the Southernmost Beach Café with food, libations and raffles. Entertainment is to be provided by steel drum player Van Bertie.

Awards in the 5K await the top three male and female overall finishers, top three male and female masters and top male and female finishers in age categories ranging from nine and under to 80 and over.

In addition to the 5K, the Beach N’ Beer Mile is set for noon on July 27, the 126th anniversary of Ernest Hemingway’s birth. Participants in this race will be challenged to complete four loops around the course and four beers. This casual, novelty running event takes place on the beach at the Southernmost Beach Cafe, and costumes are encouraged.

The event is sponsored by Monroe County Tourist Development Council, Southernmost Beach Resort and Beach Café, Islamorada Brewery & Distillery, Hemingway Home & Museum, Sunshine Scooters, Blue Flamingo Key West Resort, Key West Half Marathon & RunFest and other in kind sponsors.

Both events are organized and produced by the same team behind the Key West Half Marathon & Runfest, which will be returning for its 28th annual event on Jan. 16-18, 2026. For more information about the Key West Half Marathon, please visit www.keywesthalfmarathon.com, and follow them on Facebook and Instagram.

About Key West Half Marathon & Runfest

The Key West Half Marathon is renowned for its beautiful course, which winds through historic landmarks, lively streets and Key West’s waterfront. With its vibrant atmosphere, enthusiastic spectators and well-organized event, the race attracts participants of all levels from all 50 States and 37 countries on average. Participants can expect a fun race experience, complete with top-notch amenities, unique race shirts and finisher medals, entertainment on the course, professional timing and a festive post-race celebration including food, beverages and concerts.