A morning parade down Sombrero Beach Road kicked off one of Marathon’s signature yearly events, as the beach and park played host to the Marathon Rotary Club’s Fourth of July celebration. Out of dozens of cars, floats and official vehicles from government agencies and professional organizations, the Marathon BPW took home the Best Overall award, followed by the Marathon Rotary Club golf cart as the Most Patriotic and Florida Keys Window Tinting’s Most Spirited crew. The afternoon gave way to music and food on the beach, culminating in the best fireworks display in the Keys as the City of Marathon put on its annual Sky Concert once the sun set. The event was a record fundraising year for Rotary, as the club secured $100,000 in donations before its holiday concession sales even began. The six-figure sum represented a 44% increase over prior years.