Key West celebrates its “independence” every April during Conch Republic Days, a crazy 10-day birthday party which begins this year on Friday, April 18 and runs through Sunday, April 27.
Now in its 43rd year, the celebration commemorates the Keys’ infamous “Day of Secession” from the United States which occurred on April 23,1982 following a U.S. Border Patrol blockade of the Keys. Designed to ferret out smugglers, the blockade only served to derail the region’s emerging tourism-based economy and threatened the livelihood of Keys residents.
In protest, Key West staged a ceremonial secession, declared war on the mother country, surrendered 60 seconds later and then demanded one billion dollars in foreign aid.
The publicity stunt may have been done in jest, but it worked. The US Border Patrol suspended its controversial checkpoints and the “Conch Republic” was born. Today the Conch Republic continues to flourish with residents proudly flying Conch Republic flags, carrying Conch Republic passports and celebrating their eccentric spirit with a birthday party like no other.
This year’s celebration kicks off with an Opening Party and Conch Shell Blowing Contest at Schooner Wharf Bar on Friday, April 19 and continues with a slew of other fun happenings including a Tall Ship Sea Battle, Red Ribbon Bed Race down Duval St, a Pirates Ball & Pig Roast, Parade and a whole lot more.
For more info and a complete list of events call 305-304-2400 or hit up conchrepublic.com
