Conch Republic Independence Celebration

Celebrate the spirit of independence—Key West style—at the Conch Republic Independence Celebration, a one-of-a-kind, week-long festival filled with humor, history, and island energy. Born from a playful protest in 1982, this iconic event honors the day Key West “seceded” from the United States (April 23, 1982) with a full schedule of festivities that blend satire with serious fun. Expect costumed revelers, live music, local vendors, and spontaneous moments of island mischief around every corner—especially along Duval Street and throughout Old Town.

Friday, April 17 – Opening Day

• Opening Ceremony & Raising of the Colors (4:30 PM, Mallory Square)

• Kick-Off Party & Conch Shell Blowing Contest (7 PM, Schooner Wharf)

Official kickoff to 10 days of festivities

Saturday, April 18 – Street Fair & Duval Takeover

• Conch Republic Art & Craft Fair (10 AM–6 PM, Duval Street)

• Conch Crawl Pub Stroll (1–4 PM)

• Drag Races on Duval (2–6 PM)

A full day of shopping, cocktails, and over-the-top fun

Sunday, April 19 – Local Flavor

• Key West Artisan Market (10 AM–2 PM, Higgs Beach)

• Zero-K “Fun Run” (Cow Key Bridge)

• Jazz in the Gardens (Evening)

Relaxed island vibes + live music

Tuesday, April 21 – Sunset Celebrations

• Sunset Conch-Tail Party & Toast (6–9 PM, Sunset Pier)

• Captain’s Meeting for Naval Parade (9 PM)

One of the best waterfront social events of the week

Wednesday, April 22 – Havana Night

• Hot Havana Night Party (6–10 PM, Duval Street)

Salsa, rum cocktails, and Cuban-inspired fun

Thursday, April 23 – Independence Day (Main Event)

• Independence Ceremony (4:30 PM, Mallory Square)

• World’s Looooongest Parade (8 PM, Duval Street)

 Celebrates the original “secession” of April 23, 1982

⚓ Friday, April 24 – The Big Show

• Naval Parade & Great Sea Battle (7 PM, Key West Harbor)

• Victory Party (9 PM, Schooner Wharf)

The festival’s most iconic event—don’t miss it

Saturday, April 25 – Quirky Key West

• Ocean Fest (10 AM–3 PM, Truman Waterfront)

• Bed Races on Duval (3 PM)

• Pirate Ball & Costume Contest (Evening)

 Pure Key West chaos—in the best way

Sunday, April 26 – Closing Celebrations

• Artisan Market (10 AM–2 PM)

• Wreckers Cup Race (1–4 PM)

• Awards Party (Evening)

A scenic and festive finale on the water

View full official schedule:
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