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Key West’s Most Loving Remembrance to Papa Hemingway

Held annually in sunny Key West, the Hemingway Look-Alike Contest celebrates Ernest Hemingway's life in Key West in a way that's as unique and spirited as the man himself. This event isn't just for Hemingway enthusiasts or look-alikes; it's a gathering that invites all to enjoy the energy of Key West. Whether you are a literature fan, a Hemingway admirer, or just searching for a good time, the Hemingway Look-Alike Contest is an experience you won't want to miss.

Details of the Look-Alike Contest

When signing up for the contest, please indicate whether you will compete in the first round on Thursday or Friday. Contestants each will have 15 seconds to speak to the judges and the audience. If wearing a hat, the contestants will be asked to remove it so that judges will be able to see their faces.

Judging is handled by former Look-Alike winners, whom we call Papas. They are looking for someone who looks like Ernest Hemingway-a mature, heavy-set man with a full beard-someone who will return each year to judge the contest, and someone with good moral character to represent the Hemingway Look-Alike Society.

About 24 contestants will be chosen from all the contestants to advance to the final round on Saturday, when they will be called up on stage and given one minute to present themselves to the judges. The title of Papa 2026 will be awarded from this group.

Schedule of the whole event

Date	Time	Events
July 23	11:00	"A Hemingway Feast" Cooking Class
18:30	Hemingway Look-Alike Contest-First Round
July 24	13:30	Papa Hemingway Look-Alike Fish-Off
18:30	Hemingway Look-Alike Contest-First Round
July 25	13:00	Annual "Running" of the Bulls
18:30	Hemingway Look-Alike Contest-FINAL ROUND
July 26	13:00	"Papa's Tales" Storytelling Competition