It’s definitely summer, and the news has been full of record heat temperatures all over the U.S.  I must admit the mercury has risen a bit higher than we’d like a few days in Key West, but all in all, I feel blessed that we haven’t had heat indices over 100 like some of our northern neighbors.

Key West’s saving grace… we are surrounded by water and island breezes.  Not to mention sparkling swimming pools around every corner, like the one at Pearl’s where locals can get a daily pool pass.  It’s easy to find a way to beat the heat.

So what keeps us entertained during the summer slog?  I plan to give you the rundown right here in my blog, as I present my top five things to do in Key West each week.  Don’t agree with my choices?  Tell us about your plans.

There is never a shortage of fun in Key West, as this week’s list proves.

5 - Captain Tony Days – For the first time, Key West is hosting this celebration of the life of one of Key West’s most colorful and beloved characters, Captain Tony Tarracino. Festivities span the weekend and include Captain Tony’s birthday celebration, a Tall Tale contest, a street fair, and a mini-film festival.

4 – 801 Bingo – As they always warn, “This is not your mother’s bingo!” Hosted by a drag queen every Sunday at 5 PM at 801 Bourbon Bar, this not-for-the-faint-hearted bingo game benefits local charities; August’s beneficiary is local women’s healthcare provider WomanKind.

3 – Yappy Hour – For the third year in a row, happy hour is going to the dogs. There will be food and drink specials (for the people) and prizes for best costume, cutest, and best trick. Aqua Nightclub is hosting this benefit on Saturday afternoon 4-6 PM for HSMAI of the Florida Keys and Samuel’s House, a shelter for women and their families.

2 – Susie Comet Live at Pearl’s Patio – Friday night at the Patio is always the place to enjoy live music and the company of locals. Susie Comet seems to be one of the favorites.

An English rocker from Liverpool, Susie’s love for learning, song writing and performing led to multiple bands and a record debut of ‘The Good, the Bad & the Truth’ in 2009 - a combination of raw truth with a healthy dose of sarcasm and just a hint of sweetness.

1 – Lobsterfest – Oh so many people flock to the Keys early for mini-lobster season, risking life and limb in hopes of grabbing a few bugs before the commercial fishermen get their fill. For me, I prefer to wait a few weeks, and leave it all to the professionals.

The highlight of Lobsterfest is Saturday, when several blocks of Duval Street are closed to traffic, and local restaurants line the street with choice after choice of fresh lobster feasts, at prices you won’t find on any menu. Add to that live music by local acts such as Howard Livingston and Mile Marker 24, and this festival always tops my list.

See you in paradise soon!

Paige