March 13, 2023

Get ready to soak up the vibrant energy of Key West this spring with an exciting lineup of festivals and events. Celebrate 200 years of the Florida Keys, experience the thrilling Blue Angels air show, indulge in unforgettable culinary experiences at the Taste of Key West, and get swept away by singer-songwriters at the Key West Songwriters Festival. There’s even the quirky, fun-filled 41st Conch Republic Independence Celebration. The island is buzzing with excitement, and we're showcasing the top festivals and events that will make your visit to Key West unforgettable. Photo credit: Coffee Butler Amphitheater.

200 Years of Paradise Kick-off Concert

March 25th

To kick off the celebration, head to Key West's Coffee Butler Amphitheater at Truman Waterfront Park for the "200 Years of Paradise Kick-off Concert." This exciting event will take place on Saturday, March 25th, featuring performances by local musician Nick Norman and regional trop-rock all-star Howard Livingston. South Florida PBS' documentary, "The Florida Keys: 200 Years of Paradise," will also be shown. Gates will open at 5 p.m., and the program will begin at 6 p.m. Admission is free, so arrive early to get a good spot! Wait, there’s more! A drone "fireworks" display is scheduled to cap the evening’s attractions. Plans call for 250 drones illuminating the sky over Truman Waterfront Park with imagery highlighting the Keys and their bicentennial.

NAS Key West Southernmost Air Spectacular

April 15th-16th

air - spectular

Naval Air Station Key West is hosting the Southernmost Air Spectacular on April 15th and 16th, featuring the renowned U.S. Navy Blue Angels. Gates open at 10 a.m., with the air show starting at 11 a.m. Make sure to catch the Blue Angels' performance at 2:30 p.m. There will be spectacular flying, static displays, Kid’s Zone, souvenirs and concessions, and another way to make memories in paradise.
Learn more about the Southernmost Air Spectacular.

41st Annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration

April 21st-30th

Photo courtesy of the Conch Republic Independence Celebration

Join the wacky and fun-filled celebration of the 41st Annual Conch Republic Independence from April 21-30 in Key West! This unique event features a plethora of crazy and exciting activities, such as the Raising of the Flags at Mallory Square, Bed Races, the World's Longest Parade, Drag Races on Duval, and the Pirates Ball.

Be sure to get your hands on the official Conch Republic Passport, complete with the official seal and signed by the Secretary-General. This nostalgic item symbolizes Key West's 1982 succession from the Union and is a rite of passage for any true Key West lover! As the Conch Republic proudly declares, "We seceded where others failed!"
Learn more about the Conch Republic Independence Celebration.

27th Annual Key West Songwriters Festival

May 3rd-7th

songwriter

Over five days and nights, live music bliss introduces crowds to the faces, voices, and stories behind the songs. Welcome to the 27th Annual Key West Songwriters Festival where 150 + performers and 50 + shows will be entertaining our island.. A music fest you don’t want to miss and the largest festival of its kind in the world.

As singer Jake Owen puts it, "When you see someone who's so talented play a song that they wrote or created, it's like art — it lives forever."

With many free shows at various venues, the festival features an array of the island city's most popular beaches, boats, bars, resorts, and theaters.

This year's Key West Songwriters Festival lineup includes Jelly Roll, Elle King, Mitchell Tenpenny, Rivers Rutherford, Raul Malo, The Love Junkies, Robert Randolph, and many more. A free show on the Duval Street Stage featuring Michael Ray is May 6th, and the festival lineup continues to drop daily, so stay tuned for more updates, including live performances at our resort.

The Marker Key West Harbor Resort is a proud sponsor of this event.
Learn more about Key West Songwriters Festival.

Taste of Key West

April 24th

taste-of-way
Photo courtesy of Taste of Key West

Get ready to tantalize your taste buds at Taste of Key West 2023! On April 24th, indulge in an array of small plates from the best restaurants and food vendors in the Lower Keys and Key West, offering a diverse range of cuisines, including seafood, tropical and Caribbean flavors, European dishes, vegetarian options, and desserts. Wine connoisseurs will be impressed by the variety of wines from around the world provided by Republic National Distributing Company, while beer enthusiasts can choose from a vast selection to complement the food. Gates open at 6 PM for FREE general admission, with food and beverage tickets and packages available for purchase. Don't miss out on the opportunity to indulge in some of the best food, drinks, and wine the island offers, all while supporting a good cause - The SMART Ride, benefiting Florida agencies specializing in healthcare and assistance for people living with HIV/AIDS.

Taste of Key West takes place at Truman Waterfront Park. Buy Tickets Here and learn more about the Taste of Key West.

From epic air shows, culinary events, and music festivals to wacky and colorful celebrations, Key West has something for everyone this spring. Experience the best of the island and join the fun! #lovethemarker

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