Commissioners Approve America 250 Florida Keys Celebrations

The Monroe County Board of County Commissioners approved plans to participate in the nationwide America 250 celebration, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States, with a series of events and community-driven activities planned throughout the Florida Keys from May through November. America 250 Florida Keys is designed to celebrate the nation’s milestone while highlighting Monroe County’s unique history, culture, and sense of community. The effort will bring together residents, visitors, local organizations, and businesses to foster community pride and position the Florida Keys as a vibrant, historic destination tied to the broader American story. Visit Florida Keys/the Tourist Development Council (TDC) is providing the funding through its unappropriated fund balance and also logistical support for the events.  

The kickoff Paddleboard Proclamation event takes place on Monday, May 4, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Old Wooden Bridge Marina on Big Pine Key to celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week hosted by the TDC. Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln will be signing a proclamation on a stand-up paddleboard. The public is invited to wear their "business meets Keys casual" attire and join her on the water, BYOB (bring your own board). Live music, local food trucks, and a conch horn call will also highlight the event.

Other events in the planning process include:

• On June 14, Flag Day, the county is asking that businesses along U.S. 1 display American flags. Community partners have agreed to bring out their giant American flags that day to fly so drivers will see Red, White, and Blue along their drives. And, if able, keep the flags up throughout the week for Flag Week. 
• On June 27, the City of Key West will host a Duval Street Parade, ending with a party at the Truman Waterfront to celebrate America. 
• The county wants everyone to know that our communities do the best 3^rd and 4^th of July events, and to celebrate with your local rotaries and chambers on America’s 250th birthday. The Key West International Airport continues to support these events throughout the Florida Keys.
• The county is also in the planning phases for events in Key Largo on Saturday, Sept. 12, a sunset celebration at the Old Seven Mile Bridge on Saturday, Oct. 10, and bringing the 9/11 memorial exhibit from New York to the Florida Keys with a drone show in Islamorada and Big Pine Key on Nov. 17 and 21, respectively.
• More details will follow for all events. 

Residents and organizations will also be encouraged to participate through initiatives like volunteer service projects and local storytelling efforts that highlight the Florida Keys’ role in American history.

Follow www.monroecounty-fl.gov/250 for updates and opportunities to participate as the America 250 Florida Keys celebrations take shape.