2027 Schedule
Celebration Schedule
April 16-25, 2027
EVENT TICKETS & SIGN UP FORMS
available online Jan 10
2026 Celebration Events In Pictures
Celebration Schedule
DAILY
* Denotes Tix available online JAN 10
SAIL ABOARD MAJESTIC HISTORIC SCHOONERS including Danger Charters Danger and Sunset Sail Key West’s When & If, Malabar X; Jolly II Rover and Spirit of Independence.
SPECIAL EVENTS AT UNIQUE & HISTORIC VENUES
FRIDAY, APRIL 16th
CRIC 2027 HQ & WELCOME CENTER at the Key West Historic Seaport, foot of Elizabeth & Greene. Stop by and get your Celebration Pocket Guide, stock up on T-shirts, Flags and Souvenirs.purchase an Official Conch Republic Passport and become a Conch-stituent!
SAIL ABOARD MAJESTIC HISTORIC SCHOONERS, including Danger Charter’s Danger’s Prize, Danger’s Pearl, and Sarah; Sunset Sail Key West’s When & If and Malabar X, Jolly II Rover, Spirit of Independence and America 2.0; sail the Luxury Catamaran Argo Navis.
DAY & SUNSET SAILS, SNORKEL TRIPS & ALL-DAY ADVENTURES AT SEA – ON & IN THE WATER aboard Danger Charters, Sunset Sail Key West’s sloop High Tide, and Cruisin’ Tiki’s — shallow draft vessels – ideal for snorkeling, kayaking.*
12th Annual CONCHY BEACH CLEANUP AT HIGGS BEACH with Key West Ploggers, Keep Key West Beautiful, and the Conch Republic’s Green Ops and Aerospace Program. Meet at KW Bocce Court parking lot, 1801 White Street, across from the Atlantic Ocean. FREE.
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
LEGENDS OF KEY WEST & The CONCH REPUBLIC OLD TOWN WALKING TOUR with Island Audio Tours Magic Frank and Josh Koerpel. Learn the real stories behind Captain Tony, Mel Fisher and Captain Finbar, three of the saltiest characters who once called Key West home. COST: $49. Advanced reservations required. For more info, visit: legendsofkeywestwalkingtour.carrd.co *Get Tickets online!
OPENING CEREMONY & RAISING OF THE COLORS at Mallory Square, 400 Wall St. Lighthearted Ceremony with Conch Republic Military & Island Dignitaries at Mallory Square celebrates the official start of our 45TH Independence Celebration. Festivities include Color Guard, Conch Republic Pledge of Allegiance and Battle Hymn, Conch Shell-Horn Salute & Live music with CR Royal Minstrel, Sir CW Colt. FREE
7:00 PM
43RD SCHOONER WHARF KICK-OFF PARTY & CONCH SHELL BLOWING CONTEST hosted by Schooner Wharf Bar & Galley, CRIC 2027 Party HQs, KW Historic Seaport, 202 William St. Party with Pirates & Island Dignitaries. Dance Under the Stars. Learn the ‘real history’ behind our Secession! Conch Shell contest at 9PM. FREE (Cash Bar) Info: SchoonerWharf.com
SATURDAY, APRIL 17th
8:00 AM
27th Annual EARTH DAY 5K starts at Truman Waterfront Park, foot of Southard St., and benefits the Conch Republic Marine Army’s Ocean & Mangrove Clean Up program. Sign up online.
10:00AM – 3:00PM
OCEAN & MANGROVE WEEKLY CLEANUP WITH THE CR MARINE ARMY Join the Conch Republic Marine Army for their weekly clean up, dedicated to helping preserve our natural ecosystem and surrounding waterways, and restoring the mangrove habitats of the Florida Keys.
Everything provided – just bring your enthusiasm & sunscreen.
Sponsor a Weekday Private Charter. To sign up for weekly Saturday trips and/or sponsor a charter, visit ConchRepublicMarineArmy.org.
10:00AM – 6:00 PM
43rd Annual CONCH REPUBLIC ART & CRAFT DUVAL STREET FAIR between Eaton & Greene. Purchase one-of-a-kind artworks from local artists you will treasure for a lifetime. For more info, visit: SunsetCelebration.org FREE
Signup HERE.
CONCH CRAWL PUB STROLL ON DUVAL includes libations at EIGHT historic saloons. Sponsored by Mutiny Island Vodka, KW Trading Co., KW First Legal Rum Distillery, Mutiny Island Vodka, and Papa’s Scooters, tickets include …a complimentary Collectible Conch Crawl T-shirt (while supply lasts.)
Proceeds benefit the Conch Republic Military Forces. For more info email: [email protected] Tickets $50 ($60 if reserved no later than April 1.) Rain or Shine.*
Proceeds benefit CR Military Forces. EARLY BIRD Advanced Tickets available March 13. Rain or Shine. GET TICKETS HERE.
SUNDAY, APRIL 18th
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
KW ARSTISAN MARKET Conch Republic Edition at Higgs Beach, 1801 White St. Shop local artists & specialty foods. Enjoy live music and Easter Egg Hunt. For more info, visit Facebook.com/KeyWestArtisanMarket FREE.
HIGH NOON
COW KEY CHANNEL BRIDGE ZERO-K Meet at the Key West side of the bridge. Pre-Race Registration Party starts at 10AM. Open to all ages. Awards Ceremony 1:30 PM – 3:30 PM at KW Power Squadron, 5205 College Road. Proceeds benefit Alex Vega Key West Firehouse Museum. Learn more about the race and Volunteer opportunities at phantompress.com/cow or email Reverend Gweko at [email protected]. Sign up form online.
4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
PRIME MINISTER’S BALL, location and details TBA
JAZZ IN THE GARDENS, at The Gardens Hotel, 526 Angela St. The d’vine Wine Gallery, set amongst an enchanting tropical garden, is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine while listening to great live music with world-renowned jazz artists. For more info, visit: GardensHotel.com. FREE (Cash Bar).
7:00PM – 9:00PM
Magic Of Key West Magic Show at Key West Theater, 512 Eaton St
TUESDAY APRIL 20th
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
SUNSET CONCH-TAIL PARTY, LIVE & VIRTUAL TOAST at Ocean Key Resort & Spa ZERO Duval St. Enjoy Conch-Tails and delicious food with a breathtaking harbor view. Hosted by The Sunset Pier.
Win raffle prizes, enjoy live music with Reggae Lou Band with special guest star CR Minstrel Sir CW Colt, and Toast to 45 Years of FUN-dependence (7:30 PM.) Sponsored by Ocean Key Resort & Spa Sunset Pier, Mutiny Island Vodka & Key West First Legal Rum Distillery. Proceeds benefit the Conch Republic Military Forces – Defending the Conch Republic from Key to Shining Key. COST: $60 / $50 if tickets are purchased by April 10. (Cash Bar)*
MANDATORY CAPTAINS’ MEETING FOR CR NAVAL PARADES at Schooner Wharf Bar, CRIC 2027 Party HQs, Historic Seaport, 202 William St. Show your Conch Republic Patriotism and enter your vessel in our CR Naval Parade on April 24. FREE (Cash Bar) Register your boat online at ConchRepublic.com.
WEDNESDAY, APRIL 21st
12:30 PM – 5:30 PM
Community Blood Drive Sponsored by the Conch Republic Aerospace Program (C.R.A.P.) at Key Plaza, N. Roosevelt. FREE
HOT HAVANA NIGHT CONCERT & DANCE PARTY Find your authentic Cuba treasure at our silent auction.
General Admission starting at $20. VIP Tables for 2, 4, 6, or 8 persons also available. Purchase tickets HERE.
Sponsored by The Backyard Bar at Kaya and Rent KW Vacations. Proceeds benefit TREE Institute Int’l.
THURSDAY, APRIL 22nd
TRUMAN WATERFRONT FARMERS MARKET – CONCH REPUBLIC EDITION at Truman Waterfront Park foot of Southard St. KW’s Farmer’s Market offers fresh produce, specialty foods, and unique handmade arts & crafts. Info: visit: Facebook.com/KWFarmersMarket FREE
8:00 PM – 9:00 PM
44th Annual WORLD’S LOOOOONGEST PARADE on Duval – From the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico. Sponsored by The Greeen House, this world-famous, quirky, and colorful parade celebrates Conch Republic Independence. Come early and visit our Celebration Tent for Conch Republic flags and other items. Meet parade participants and their unique & quirky modes of transport. Sponsored by The Greeen House. FREE. REGISTER YOUR float, marching unit, or vehicle and join the Parade! Parade Entry Forms are available online DEC 1.
43rd Annual SCHOONER WHARF PARADE AFTER-PARTY, at Schooner Wharf Bar, CRIC 2027 Party HQs, KW Historic Seaport, 202 William St. Dance to great live music under the stars, mingle with Conch Republic VIPs, CR Military Brass, Pirates and Conch-Stituents.
Info: SchoonerWharf.com. FREE (Cash Bar)
FRIDAY, APRIL 23rd
8:00 AM – 9:00 AM
MALLORY SQUARE CLEAN UP, 400 Wall Street. Join members of KW Ploggers, Keep Key West Beautiful, Conch Republic Green Ops, and Conch Republic Aerospace Program for their weekly clean up. FREE
10:00 AM – 11:30 AM
LEGENDS OF KEY WEST & The CONCH REPUBLIC Old Town Walking Tour with Island Audio Tours Magic Frank and Josh Koerpel. Learn the real stories behind Captain Tony, Mel Fisher and Capt Finbar, three of the saltiest characters who once called Key West home. COST: $49. Advanced reservations required. For more info, visit: IslandAudioTours.com
45th Annual INDEPENDENCE DAY CEREMONY at Mallory Square, honors the founding of our Tiny Island Nation. Join Conch Republic dignitaries Prime Minister and former Key West Mayor, Dennis Wardlow, Speaker of the House Paul Menta, Secy James Gilleran and the Military High Command for 21 Conch Shell Salute, Color Guard presentation and Conch Republic Pledge of Allegiance. FREE
44th Annual Conch Republic INDEPENDENCE NAVAL PARADE in Key West Harbor is not to be missed and includes majestic historic tall ships, luxury catamarans and Tiki Boat passenger vessels, private boats of all sizes and everyone is welcome to participate.
The good-natured foes represent the USCG Cutter Diligence, attacked April 23, 1982, by the Schooner Western Union, the first Flagship of the Conch Republic. The best free viewing is at Mallory Square (where Conch Republic Land Forces are set up), Ocean Key Resort & Spa Sunset Pier and Opal Resort & Marina,. FREE (Cash Bar)
44th Annual REENACTMENT OF THE GREAT SEA BATTLE OF THE CONCH REPUBLIC. In, alongside and above Key West Harbor, the Battle is a highlight of our celebration. This large scale, hilarious harbor battle pits the Conch Republic’s Military Forces (Air Force, Army, and Navy) and Conch Republic Privateers of all shapes and sizes against their valiant foe, none-other than the United States Coast Guard.
The good-natured foes represent the USCG Cutter Diligence, attacked April 23, 1982, by the Schooner Western Union, the first Flagship of the Conch Republic. The best free viewing is at Mallory Square, Opal Resort & Marina, Ocean Key Resort & Spa Sunset Pier. FREE (Cash Bar)
9:00 PM
43rd Annual SCHOONER WHARF “SURRENDER CEREMONY & VICTORY PARTY” Schooner Wharf Bar, at CRIC 2027 Party HQ, 202 William St. After the Great Battle, join the Conch Republic Military & ‘Coasties’ for a Tongue-in-Cheek Surrender Ceremony of the US Coast Guard to the Conch Republic Armed Forces – “A Farce to be Reckoned With!” Info: SchoonerWharf.com. FREE (Cash Bar)
SATURDAY, APRIL 24th
OCEAN & MANGROVE WEEKLY CLEANUP WITH THE CONCH REPUBIC MARINE ARMY leaving from Perry Hotel Marina, 7001 Shrimp Road, Stock Island,and Isla Bella Resort, 1 Knight’s Key Blvd, Marathon. Join them for their weekly clean up, dedicated to helping preserve our natural ecosystem & surrounding waterways, and restoring the mangrove habitats of the Florida Keys.
Sponsor a Weekday Private Charter. To sign up for weekly Saturday trips and/or sponsor a charter, visit ConchRepublicMarineArmy.org.
10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
OCEAN FEST – A COMMUNITY CELEBRATION, NOT CONFIRMED
44th Annual Julie Hansen Memorial CONCH REPUBLIC BED RACES ON DUVAL 801 Duval St. (between Olivia & Southard.) Said to be “The most fun you can have with your clothes on,” this zany race takes place on Duval between Olivia and Southard. Put together your own team and decorate a bed to compete for prizes in this hilarious race.
Come early to meet the teams and stroll the crazy, colorful beds competing for the ‘BLUE RIBBON.’ Proceeds benefit Key West’s Sister Season Fund, “Locals Helping Locals.” Registration is 1-3 PM, Race at 3 PM, Awards Ceremony at 6 PM. Entry forms online. For more info, visit: SisterSeason.org
43rd ANNUAL “SCHOONER WHARF WRECKERS CUP RACE” CAPTAINS’ MEETING at Schooner Wharf Bar, CRIC 2027 Party HQs, KW Historic Seaport, 202 William St. Mandatory meeting for April 25 race in the Sail Loft. Info and Sign up: SchoonerWharf.com. FREE (Cash Bar).
43rd Annual SCHOONER WHARF PIRATE BALL & COSTUME COMPETITION at Schooner Wharf Bar, CRIC 2027 Party HQs, KW Historic Seaport, 202 William St. Yo Ho Ho! And a Bottle of Rum – It’s a Pirate’s Life for You! Witness swashbuckling sword play, enjoy sea shanties. Live Music, food & drink. For more info, SchoonerWharf.com. FREE (Cash Bar)
SUNDAY, APRIL 25th
10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
KEY WEST ARTISAN MARKET – CONCH REPUBLIC EDITION at Higgs Beach, 1801 White St. Where the locals meet! Shop local artists, specialty food vendors, and enjoy live music. For more info, visit Facebook.com/KeyWestArtisanMarket FREE
43rd Annual SCHOONER WHARF “WRECKERS CUP RACE” 2027 SEASON Race to Sand Key Lighthouse with the Schooner Wharf Wreckers Fleet. Or enter your own vessel in the final race of the 2027 season! Enjoy a delightful afternoon at sea on the waters off Key West aboard a majestic schooner, sloop, or multi-hull. This ‘all-in-fun race series’ recalls the tradition of the wreckers during the 1800s. Best viewing. for Race Start is at Mallory Square. For more info, visit: SchoonerWharf.com.
JAZZ IN THE GARDENS, The Gardens Hotel, 526 Angela St., 526 Angela St. The d’vine Wine Gallery, set amongst an enchanting tropical garden, is the perfect place to enjoy a glass of wine while listening to great live music with world-renowned jazz artist Scott Marischen. For more info, visit: GardensHotel.com. FREE (Cash Bar).
43rd Annual SCHOONER WHARF “WRECKERS CUP RACE” 2027 SEASON AWARDS PARTY, Schooner Wharf Bar, CRIC 2027 Party HQs, KW Historic Seaport, 202 William St. View video of the race while enjoying a BBQ dinner and live music with race participants. For more info, visit: SchoonerWharf.com. FREE (Cash Bar)
Long Live the Conch Republic… We Seceded Where Others Failed!
