THIS WEEKEND – A Day of Rest

THIS WEEKEND – A Day of Rest - A glass of beer on a table - Key West

Labor Day in the United States is a public holiday celebrated on the first Monday in September. It honors the American worker and their contribution to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of the United States. It all started with a parade in New York City way back in 1882. Canada also celebrates Labor Day in September, but most of the rest of the world honors workers on May 1.

In the Keys, visitors and locals will pause to remember the devastating hurricane of 1935 that claimed the lives of more than 400 in the islands. On a lighter note, many celebrate an extra day of recreation with a variety of activities. Read on.

— Weekly Staff report

KEY WEST

BrewFest, through Monday, Sept. 6

Beer aficionados can sample more than 150 varieties at the annual Key West BrewFest that runs through Monday. The schedule features brew-focused gatherings, the signature beachfront tasting festival and other enticements. For more details, see www.keywestbrewfest.com.

MIDDLE KEYS

Heroes Weekend, through Monday, Sept. 6

Military, fire rescue, police and medical personnel are to be honored at Hawks Cay Resort near Marathon this weekend. Highlights include an American-style barbecue, a live concert featuring Howard Livingston and the Mile Marker 24 Band and a fireworks show. For more details, see floridakeysheroes.com.

BIG PINE KEY

Wetstock, Monday Sept. 6

This year marks the 11th anniversary of Wetstock, held at Picnic Island off Big Pine Key. There’s no sponsorship, no cost and it generates nothing more than an afternoon of fun and music. Organized by “Flip Flop Bob,” expect hundreds at this sandbar party complete with makeshift floating stages featuring local musicians.

UPPER KEYS

Labor Day Hurricane memorial, Monday, Sept. 7

Beginning at 9n a.m., the Matecumbe Historical Trust will hold its annual Labor Day Service at the Florida Keys Memorial known locally as the Islamorada Hurricane Monument in memory of the civilians and veterans who perished in the 1935 Hurricane.  This year is the 80th anniversary of the Labor Day Hurricane making landfall on September 2, 1935. The service will include the presentation of colors, followed by guest speakers Mayor Mike Forster and State Representative Holly Raschein. For more information please contact Barbara at 305-393-0940.

Also happening

  • Saturday, Sept. 5: Young Professionals Network luau party all day (late-night party starts at 10 p.m.) at Marathon Grill and Ale House to benefit Marathon Youth Club.
  • Saturday, Sept. 5: Free movie on the beach (“Finding Nemo) at 8 p.m. at Glunz Ocean Beach Club, Key Colony Beach.
  • Sunday, Sept. 6: Free locals’ day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Key West Botanical Garden, Stock Island.