Key West will celebrate the 42nd anniversary of the Conch Republic, with 10 days of only-in-Key-West misadventures April 19-28.
The celebration honors the island’s eccentric community and is a testament to the uniqueness and independent nature of the people who call the Florida Keys home.
This celebration features outdoor events held throughout Key West in waterfront parks, storied saloons,and unique island venues.
Key West’s 42nd annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration honors the founding of the Conch Republic, in 1982, in response to actions of the U.S. government, which installed a blockade at Florida City heading into the Keys. The blockade was taken down several weeks later due to the protests of the people who reside in the Keys.
The fun begins on Friday, April 19, with the opening ceremony and the raising of the Conch Republic flag at Mallory Square.
Visitors can cheer on or take part in competitions, including Great Drag Races on Saturday, April 20; the Blue Ribbon Bed Races on Saturday, April 27; and the Wrecker’s Cup Sailing Race Series to Sand Key Lighthouse on Sunday, April 28.
The Conch Republic Independence Parade marches down Duval Street on Thursday, April 25, while the Conch Republic Naval Independence Parade in Key West Harbor is on Friday, April 26.
The celebration also offers plenty of opportunities to party with pirates and members of the Conch Republic High Command.
The week includes craft fairs, art shows, bar strolls and Earth Day cleanups.
The signature event of the celebration is the 39th reenactment of the Great Battle of the Conch Republic, an “all in fun” skirmish on Friday, April 26 that pits a Coast Guard cutter against the mighty fierce power of the Conch Republic military forces.
Like the first Great Sea Battle of the Conch Republic, which was fought aboard the Schooner Western Union in 1982, the ammo of choice includes water cannons, Cuban bread, Conch fritters and, most importantly, humor.
The best viewing for the Great Sea Battle is at Mallory Square. After the battle, head to Schooner Wharf Bar at the Key West Bight Historic Seaport for the annual Surrender Ceremony & Victory Party.
Local charities will conduct fundraisers.For a full schedule, event tickets and more, visit ConchRepublic.com.
