JULY FOURTH PATRIOTIC PICNIC IN KEY LARGO RETURNS FOR THE FIRST TIME SINCE 2019

June 20, 2025

a woman standing in front of a table with a flag on it — Susan Bazin flies an American flag as the Keys Community Concert Band prepares to perform at the Fourth of July picnic at Key Largo Community Park in 2019.

With the 49th running of Key Largo’s July Fourth parade also comes the return of a patriotic picnic featuring music, food and activities for the family.

Organized by the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce, the procession of festive floats and classic vehicles — and the much-anticipated water gun battles — on U.S. 1 beginning at 10 a.m. will follow with a family picnic and festival starting at 11 a.m. at Key Largo Community Park, 500 St. Croix Place. The year 2019 was the last time the picnic was held, as COVID in 2020 disrupted plans.

“It was such a big hit with the community when it was last held,” said Suzi Youngberg, Key Largo Chamber of Commerce president. “Everyone liked going to the park right after the parade, so we’re thrilled to be bringing it back.”

a woman in a red shirt and white shorts standing in front of a blue table — Florida Keys Electric Cooperative’s Maria Jones dishes out hot dogs during the patriotic picnic in 2019.

a group of people playing instruments under umbrellas — The Keys Community Concert Band performs patriotic tunes.

The fun and excitement — as well as patriotism — return to the park in addition to new activities. Pickleball fanatics, as well as beginners, are invited to a pickleball clinic at the complex located near the park. The clinic is hosted by Keys Deep and Florida Keys Pickleball.

A super soaker area will be set up for kids to engage in some friendly water warfare. Bounce houses and other activities will be available for young ones to enjoy at the picnic.

Expect music all day and a variety of food vendors, including Cupacabana, Italian Food Company, Chames Tacos, Joey’s Mini Donuts, Shaka Fresh and Polar Ice. First Horizon Bank and Pirate’s Cove will be teaming up to provide a barbecue. Kids 18 and under can grab a free hot dog courtesy of Centennial Bank.

The picnic replaces the evening festivities that accompanied the fireworks at Rowell’s Waterfront Park.

“We felt the midday picnic was a little more family-oriented,” Youngberg said.

People are still invited to the park to watch the fireworks display, which begins once the sun sets. The fireworks are made possible thanks to the Key West International Airport.

Visit keylargochamber.org to sign up for the parade and learn more about the Key Largo Chamber of Commerce’s Fourth of July festivities. Those wishing to volunteer at the parade or picnic can also visit the chamber’s website to sign up for a shift.