The Conch Republic Independence Celebration is an extraordinary event that captures the vibrant spirit and unique history of Key West. Every year, locals and visitors alike come together to commemorate the “independence” of this whimsical republic.

This annual festival, which takes place in April, is a rich tapestry of fun, history, and shared community pride in the beautiful backdrop of Key West.

History of Conch Republic

The birth of the Conch Republic is a tale of Key West’s resilience and humor in the face of bureaucratic adversity. The story begins in March 1982 when the U.S. Federal Government established a Border Patrol roadblock at the Last Chance Saloon in Florida City. With cars stopped and searched as though the Keys were a foreign country, the resulting traffic jam significantly disrupted the tourism industry, the lifeblood of the local economy. The community, led by Mayor Dennis Wardlow, sought legal redress but was rebuffed in federal court. Frustrated, Wardlow humorously declared Key West’s secession on April 23, 1982, birthing the Conch Republic. The symbolic flag was raised, and a playful “battle” was staged, involving water balloons and stale Cuban bread against a U.S. Coast Guard Cutter. This event ultimately led to the quiet removal of the roadblock, ushering in a new era of spirited independence for the citizens of Key West.

Schedule of Events

The Conch Republic Independence Celebration offers a plethora of Key West events designed to entertain and delight. At the heart of it all is the CRIC Welcome Center, located in the iconic Key West Historic Seaport. This is your hub for information and excitement throughout the festivities. The celebration kicks off on Friday, April 18th, with an exuberant Opening Ceremony at Mallory Square, featuring live music and a conch shell-horn salute. That evening, attend the famed Conch Shell Blowing Contest at Schooner Wharf Bar, where revelers can party with pirates under the stars. Saturday, April 19th, brings the 41st Annual Conch Republic Art & Craft Duval Street Fair, where you can peruse unique, locally-crafted treasures.

Alternatively, join the Conch Crawl Pub Stroll for cocktails at historic saloons. The day ends with the colorful CR Drag Races on Duval Street. Sunday, April 20th, offers a more relaxed atmosphere with the KW Artisan Market at Higgs Beach, featuring local artists and specialty foods. End the day with world-class jazz at The Gardens Hotel’s Jazz in the Gardens. Don’t miss Hot Havana Night on Tuesday, April 22nd, at Kaya Island Eats. Enjoy rum cocktails, live salsa music, authentic Cuban cuisine and other restaurants in Key West, all to benefit the TREE Institute International.

Friday, April 25th, features the playful reenactment of the Great Sea Battle near Mallory Square, where the Conch Republic’s “forces” humorously clash with the U.S. Coast Guard. On Saturday, April 26th, the Julie Hansen Memorial Bed Races on Duval offers a whimsical contest where decorated beds race down the street. Enjoy further excitement with Ricky Jackson’s Brawl on Duval later that evening. Finally, on Sunday, April 27th, celebrate the 40th Annual Schooner Wharf Wreckers Cup Race Series. This event concludes with a festive awards party with a BBQ dinner and live music.

How Can You Join?

Most of the Conch Republic Independence Celebration events are free, making it easy for everyone to join in the fun. You can also obtain a Conch Republic passport as a unique keepsake, complete with themed stamps from participating events.

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