July 4 Festivities for the Family Planned Throughout Florida Keys

Local parades, beach parties and on-the-water fun topped off by fireworks displays are to highlight Independence Day celebrations throughout the Florida Keys. As well as an annual salute to the United States’ freedom, some activities surrounding the July 4 holiday also illustrate the island chain’s quirky independent spirit. Highlights include:

The Key Lime Festival is a culinary and libation adventure that takes place from June 30th to July 4th. The highlight of the festival is the Key Lime Pie Eating Championship, which takes place on July 4th at the Southernmost Beach Cafe. Participants must eat an entire 9-inch Key lime pie in order to win. The event is free for spectators and gates open at 12:30 p.m.

Mermaids are expected to make an appearance at the “4th of July Mermaid Splash” event, which will take place at Lagerheads Beach Bar. The event will include a meet and greet with the mermaids, as well as the opportunity to swim with them. Tickets must be purchased in order to swim with the mermaids. The event is part of the Key West Mermaid Festival, which is a family-friendly event that raises awareness about oceans and salty shores.

The Rotary Club of Key West will be presenting the island’s annual fireworks show on July 4th. The show will take place at the Edward B. Knight Pier and will begin at 9 p.m. Attendees can purchase drinks and food at a booth across from the pier, with proceeds going to the Rotary Club’s scholarship fund. Alternatively, attendees can celebrate before the fireworks at a catered, ticketed “Patriotic Dinner Under the Fireworks” on the pier at 7 p.m. Dinner proceeds will also go to the Rotary scholarship fund.