Advertisement

Hemingway look-alikes gather in Key West for annual contest

Click to play video: 'Hemingway look-alikes gather in Key West for annual contest'
Hemingway look-alikes gather in Key West for annual contest
WATCH ABOVE: Scores of Ernest Hemingway look-alikes took to the Key West streets in Florida on Saturday for the "Running of the Bulls," a zany (and much safer) take-off on the annual run held in Pamplona, Spain – Jul 21, 2018

Nearly 150 stocky, bearded men, resembling legendary American author Ernest Hemingway, are in Key West competing in the 38th annual Hemingway Look-Alike Contest.

The competition began Thursday evening at Sloppy Joe’s Bar, frequented by Hemingway when he lived on the Florida island during the 1930s.

READ MORE: What type of drunk are you: a Hemingway or a Mr. Hyde?

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.

Get breaking National news

For news impacting Canada and around the world, sign up for breaking news alerts delivered directly to you when they happen.
By providing your email address, you have read and agree to Global News' Terms and Conditions and Privacy Policy.

Hopefuls came from as far away as Australia and Norway to compete, parading across Sloppy Joe’s stage before a adjudicating panel of former winners.

Thursday’s entrants included repeat contender Michael Groover, husband of celebrity chef Paula Deen, who cheered him from the audience.

READ MORE: Ernest Hemingway look-alike contest won by Hemingway (no relation)

The contest highlights Key West’s Hemingway Days festival, celebrating the late author’s writing talent and colourful lifestyle.

Story continues below advertisement

After a second preliminary round Friday, the 2018 winner is to be chosen Saturday, the 119th anniversary of Hemingway’s birth.

Hemingway Days continues through Sunday.

Sponsored content

AdChoices