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Mile 0 Fest (2026): What to Expect

Mile 0 Fest (2026): What to Expect

It’s music meets the ocean — Mile 0 Fest is one of Key West’s biggest and most popular music festivals, bringing together musicians and music lovers from all around the country for 5 days of sun, fun, music, and all-around good vibes.

Whether you’re coming to see your favorite bands play or are just looking for something fun to do during your January trip to Key West, Mile 0 Fest is always a good time.

Grab your favorite band tee and some sunglasses, book that tropical vacation villa, and get ready to rock out by the ocean. Here’s everything you need to know about Mile 0 Fest 2026 in Key West!

Mile 0 Fest 2026: Must Knows

  • When: January 27th – January 31st, 2026
  • Where: Most events are held atthe Truman Waterfront Park Amphitheater and Lawn (end of Southard Street, Key West) and (Downtown Key West (Duval Street)
  • Cost: Single-day, VIP packages, multi-day passes, and special experiences are also available

2026 marks the 9th year that Mile 0 Fest will grace the sunny, beautiful shores of Key West, and it was just recently voted the #1 Best Music Festival in the Reader’s Choice Awards 2025.

This year’s festival is shaping up to be the biggest and best yet!

2026 Mile 0 Fest Lineup

The 2026 Mile 0 Fest will feature headliner Cross Canadian Ragweed, along with returning favorites Shane Smith & The Saints, The Randy Rogers Band, American Aquarium, Silverada, Cody Canada & The Departed, Stoney LaRue, Band of Heathens, Kaitlin Butts, Tanner Usrey, and Stephen Wilson Jr.

New artists that will be taking the stage this year at Mile 0 Fest also include:

  • Paul Cauthen
  • The Droptines
  • Suzanne Santo
  • Kashus Culpepper
  • And more!

Over 50 Red Dirt and Americana artists are set to take the stage this year, for what’s sure to be a rockin’ good time! For the full lineup, schedule, band bios, and more, check out the Official Mile 0 Fest Lineup here.

Things to Do at Mile 0 Fest Key West

It goes without saying, there will be incredible music every day of the festival, but in addition to the jam-packed schedule of performances across multiple stages, you’ll find other unique events such as:

  • Hank’s Hair of the Dog Duval Street Kickoff Party
  • Mile 0 Fest Charity Fishing Derby*
  • Mile 0 Fest Listening Room at Sea*
  • Live Music Sunset Sail*
  • Pool parties
  • And much more

Throughout the festival, you’ll also find plenty of food, drink, vendors selling band merch, and more. And of course, being in Key West, you’ll enjoy the crystal-clear waters, colorful sunsets, and laid-back island vibes that make this destination so special.

*Some events require separate tickets; see Mile 0 Fest Packages & Passes for more details.

Where to Stay for Mile 0 Fest Key West

As one of Key West’s biggest events, Mile 0 Fest is known for drawing a crowd, so local hotels can be busier (and noisier) than usual. For a more relaxing experience, we recommend staying in a private vacation rental.

Book your Mile 0 Fest stay with Vacation Homes of Key West to enjoy a quiet, fully furnished space with added perks like private pools, hot tubs, and more. Nothing beats taking a relaxing soak in your own private hot tub after a long day of walking around Mile 0 Fest.

And the best part — with locations in Truman Annex, Historic Seaport, and Downtown Key West near Duval Street, you’ll be just minutes, and in some cases, steps, from the festival.

What to Bring to Mile 0 Fest

Since this is an outdoor festival and you’ll likely spend at least a few hours here, it’s good to be prepared. We recommended bringing:

  • Comfy clothes and shoes for walking around
  • Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun
  • Your photo ID and tickets
  • Cash/credit cards for food, drinks, and merch
  • A portable phone charger if you plan to spend the whole day

Inside the festival, you are allowed to bring a standard-size bag or purse, as well as a non-metal folding chair, a blanket, and a basic camera. Outside food and drink, oversized bags, camping equipment (such as foldable tents or canopies), coolers, umbrellas, drones, weapons of any kind, and professional cameras and/or tripods are not permitted.

All bags are subject to search by event security, and rules can be subject to change. For a full list of prohibited items, visit the Mile 0 Fest FAQs page.

Know Before You Go: Mile 0 Fest Key West FAQs

You asked, we answered — here’s everything you need to know about attending this year’s Mile 0 Fest Key West!

What kind of music festival is Mile 0 Fest?

Mile 0 Fest is a premier boutique music festival centered around Red Dirt and Americana music. These genres generally encompass a blend of country, folk, blues, soul, rock, and bluegrass. Artists playing at Mile 0 Fest can range from big-name bands to indie artists. Most often, you’ll find a mix of the two, providing a wide range of musical talents to enjoy.

What’s the weather like in Key West for Mile 0 Fest?

The weather in Key West in early January is as close to perfect as you can get! It’s typically cool and breezy, with plenty of sunshine and little to no rain. Average temperatures tend to fall in the mid-70s, with occasional higher temperatures in the low 80s, and occasional lower temperatures in the upper 60s. Overall, Key West usually has great weather for an outdoor music festival in January.

Is Mile 0 Fest family-friendly?

While children are welcome at Mile 0 Fest (with paid admission), per festival organizers, the event is geared towards an adult audience. But don’t worry; if you are traveling with children, there are plenty of kid-friendly things to do in Key West.

How do I get around Mile 0 Fest?

If you are staying on the west side of the island, you might be able to walk, bike, or utilize public transportation such as the Duval Bus Loop, which has stops very close to Truman Waterfront and the Downtown Key West area. If you’re staying further away, it’s recommended to use a taxi or rideshare service, as there is very limited parking near the festival grounds.

What else is there to do at Mile 0 Fest?

While the festival itself is mainly centered around the music performances and special events outlined above, there are plenty of other fun things to do during your stay in Key West. The island offers beautiful beaches, boating excursions, and watersports, like kayaking, snorkeling, and jet skiing, historic landmarks and museums to explore, unique restaurants, and a vibrant nightlife scene.

Ready to Rock Out at Mile 0 Fest Key West?

Music fans, get ready, this year’s Mile 0 Fest in January is almost here! Make the most of your visit to Key West for Mile 0 Fest by booking your stay with VHKW. You’ll enjoy rockstar-level accommodations with fully furnished vacation homes, private pools and hot tubs, ocean views, and more.

December 20, 2025