The Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum invites residents and visitors to an old-fashioned Conch celebration at its annual Mamey & Mojitos Ice Cream Social on Friday, June 26, from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m.
Guests will be treated to Key West’s favorite ice cream, made from fruit harvested from the museum’s legendary state champion mamey tree. The tree has grown beside the historic firehouse since 1911, when its seed was reportedly smuggled out of Cuba in a brassiere.
Mojitos made with fresh mint and Key West First Legal Rum will also be served.
A highlight of the evening will be a book signing by Ernesto “Papo” Vildostegui, celebrating the release of his new memoir, “The Life We Had at the End of the Road,” a nostalgic look at old Key West and the Conch way of life.
Visitors will also have an opportunity to preview the museum’s upcoming America 250 exhibit, featuring a rare Centennial-era American flag with a fascinating Key West connection. Guests can even try their luck at a friendly game of bolita for a chance to win cash prizes.
Admission is free.
The museum is a nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving and sharing the history of Key West’s firefighters and first responders.
