Florida Man Devours Key Lime Pie to Win 2025 Championship in Key West!

Southernmost Beach Resort, Key West, Florida, USA - This July 4th was not just a day of fireworks and patriotic celebrations but also a showcase of culinary prowess at the 13th annual Key Lime Festival in beautiful Key West. Taking place at the Southernmost Beach Resort, the World Famous Key Lime Pie Eating Championship drew in participants from across the nation. Twenty-five contestants put their appetites to the test in a spirited competition to devour a nine-inch Key lime pie. The pies featured a delectable graham cracker crust, creamy Key lime filling made from fresh juice, egg yolks, and sweetened condensed milk, all topped with a generous layer of whipped cream.

Among the competitors, Tom Luciano from Venice, Florida, emerged as the champion. His winning strategy, inspired by coaching from his wife, saw him using his chin effectively and mastering the technique of swallowing with minimal chewing. Luciano devoured the pie in an impressive 2 minutes and 46.49 seconds, securing his title and satisfying his taste buds in the process. He humorously noted that he plans to enjoy even more Key lime pie for dessert later that day, a well-deserved reward after his hard-fought win. As WGCU reminds us, his time is notable, but it’s still shy of the record held by Trey Bergman, who managed to finish in a jaw-dropping 40.57 seconds back in 2018.

Culinary Delight at the Festival

The Key Lime Festival is more than just pie-eating contests; it’s a five-day celebration packed with a plethora of activities. Events such as sip and strolls and even a quirky pie drop from the iconic Key West Lighthouse keep the spirit of fun alive during this festive period. As noted by KeysNews, festival-goers can immerse themselves in everything from live music to culinary delights, all with a zesty twist that pays homage to the beloved Key lime pie.

Contestants hailed from diverse backgrounds, including places as far as Chicago, Kentucky, and Texas, highlighting just how compelling this contest is to fans of the famed dessert. Each competitor brought their unique flair, but in the end, it was Luciano’s preparation that outshone the rest.

The lively atmosphere, complete with cheers and laughter, fosters a sense of community among locals and visitors alike. With the festival running through July 6, there’s still plenty of time to engage in the festivities and savor the iconic flavors that make this celebration a true Key West tradition.

As the enthusiasm for all things Key lime continues, the festival encapsulates the spirit of fun and community, reminding everyone involved that there’s plenty to savor, both literally and figuratively. Whether you’re indulging in a slice of pie or simply enjoying the vibrant festival atmosphere, Key West’s Key Lime Festival certainly lives up to its reputation as a must-visit event on Florida’s culinary calendar.