 Key West, FL — Just a Few Friends Key West has launched plans for its 2026 Labor Day Weekend festival with the release of Event Badges, Latitude Adjustment Hotel Packages, and the first round of programming announcements — highlighted by the news that acclaimed songwriter and performer Mac McAnally will headline the free Sunday Party in the Park concert.
Returning for its third year, the five-day island-wide celebration continues to grow while staying rooted in the storytelling, music, and community spirit that define the legacy it honors. Over Labor Day Weekend, visitors and locals alike gather across Key West for concerts, sunset sails, island tours, and cultural experiences, culminating with the Second Line Memorial Parade winding down Duval Street to Truman Waterfront Park for the free Party in the Park. Joining Howard Livingston and the Mile Marker 24 Band and celebrated songwriter Will Kimbrough, McAnally will take the Friends of Bubba Stage for what organizers expect will be one of the most memorable musical moments of the weekend. McAnally spent more than three decades performing alongside Jimmy Buffett as a member of the Coral Reefer Band while building a remarkable career of his own. A record-setting 10-time Country Music Association Musician of the Year, he is also a member of the Nashville Songwriters Hall of Fame and an inductee in both the Mississippi Musicians and Alabama Music Halls of Fame. A GRAMMY-nominated songwriter, producer, performer, and touring artist, McAnally’s songs have been recorded by artists including Jimmy Buffett, Kenny Chesney, Sawyer Brown, and Alabama, among many others. His musicianship has also appeared on recordings by artists including Dolly Parton, George Strait, and Toby Keith. The first of four free concerts begins Friday night with a new Duval Street party featuring Gary and the Landsharks Band, hosted by Sloppy Joe’s and Irish Kevin’s. The celebration nods to a legendary moment in island music history — the 1998 Meeting of the Minds “impromptu” street concert. Gary and the Landsharks served as the backing band for that historic performance and went on to become the house band for Margaritaville venues worldwide. Nearly three decades later, the street stage returns and visitors are invited to experience — or re-experience — it all. Additional free music will take place throughout the weekend, including a Saturday night Sunset Pier concert headlined by The Wheeland Brothers, the California duo known for their sun-soaked harmonies and beach-driven sound that has made them favorites with island and Trop Rock audiences across the country. Monday evening brings a waterfront show featuring local favorites Cayman and the Mango Men. Throughout the weekend, additional performances by local and touring musicians will fill stages across the island’s bars and music venues. Event Badges are now on sale as well. Priced at $35 through June 1 ($45 after), the collectible souvenir badge serves as the festival’s official credential and a charitable contribution supporting its community mission. Wearing one around town during the long weekend signals you’re a fellow “friend” when you cross paths with others celebrating the music and spirit of the festival. The badge is not a ticket to individual events; those experiences are purchased separately. Badge holders do receive special access to the Party in the Park viewing area, along with invitations to badge-holder gatherings, advance announcements for ticket opportunities before general release, and a QR code linking to exclusive offers from participating Key West businesses. In 2025, badge holders helped generate $45,447 for local charitable causes. Proceeds from 2026 will benefit Reef Relief, the Bahama Village Music Program, and scholarships for local high school students. Also now available are the festival’s Latitude Adjustment Hotel Packages, designed to simplify the weekend for visitors traveling to Key West. Rather than simply booking a room, guests can reserve curated stays at official partner hotels that bundle accommodations with early event access, reserved seating at Party in the Park, and private gatherings available only to package guests. The packages are intentionally limited and offer preferred hotel rates during one of the busiest weekends of the year in Key West. Guests also receive direct concierge support from the festival team to help plan their itinerary and secure tickets to high-demand events before the general public. Three tiers are available: the Ultimate Friend VIP experience at the host hotel Pier House Resort & Spa, Best Friend VIP packages at La Concha Key West, Margaritaville Beach House Key West, and Ocean Key Resort & Spa, and Loyal Friend packages offering preferred access with additional partner hotels throughout the island. Organizers say the packages have quickly become one of the easiest ways to experience the festival, providing guaranteed access, reserved seating, and exclusive programming while eliminating the uncertainty that can come with navigating a busy holiday weekend in Key West. More performances, collaborations, and experiences will be announced in phases as the festival approaches. Event badges, hotel packages, and festival information are available at www.justafewfriendskeywest.com All events not affiliated with or endorsed by Jimmy Buffett’s Estate or Margaritaville Enterprises.
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Just a Few Friends Key West 2026 Announces March 15 Launch of Event Badges and Hotel Packages3/5/2026  Key West, FL — The countdown to Labor Day Weekend begins March 15 when confirmed programming for the 2026 Just a Few Friends Key West festival is released and Event Badges and the festival Latitude Adjustment Hotel Packages go on sale.
Returning for its third year, the island-wide celebration continues to grow while staying rooted in the storytelling, music, and community spirit that define the legacy it honors. Over Labor Day Weekend, visitors and locals alike will gather across Key West for concerts, culinary events, tours, and cultural experiences, culminating with the Second Line Memorial Parade winding down Duval Street to Truman Waterfront Park for the free Party in the Park and concert. Organizers hint the event will be headlined by a longtime collaborator, songwriter, and onstage sidekick who spent decades sharing stages and stories. The official announcement will be made March 15. Souvenir collectible badges will be available at the March 15 launch for $35 ($45 after June 1), and serve as the festival’s official credential and a charitable contribution supporting its community mission. Wearing one around town during the long weekend signals you’re part of the tribe. Badge holders receive special access to the Party in the Park viewing area, invitations to badge-holder gatherings, advance announcements and early purchase opportunities for select ticketed events, and a QR code linking to exclusive offers from participating Key West businesses. (Note: Badge isn’t admission to ticketed events offered separately). In 2025, badge holders helped generate $45,447 for local charities. Proceeds from 2026 badge sales will benefit Reef Relief, the Bahama Village Music Program, and scholarships for local high school students pursuing continuing education in music, music production and technical arts, or marine science and conservation. Funds are administered through the Florida Keys Community Foundation. Friday night will debut a throwback street party featuring Gary and the Landsharks Band, hosted on Duval Street by Sloppy Joe’s and Irish Kevin’s. The celebration nods to a legendary moment in island music history — the 1998 Meeting of the Minds “impromptu” street concert. Gary and the Landsharks served as the backing band for that historic performance and went on to become the house band for Margaritaville venues worldwide. Nearly three decades later, the street stage returns and you’re invited to experience — or re-experience — it all. Also launching March 15 are the festival’s Latitude Adjustment Hotel Packages, designed to simplify the weekend for visitors traveling to Key West. Rather than simply booking a room, guests can reserve curated experiences that bundle accommodation at official partner hotels with VIP access, early event entry, reserved seating and private gatherings available only to package guests. The packages are intentionally limited in number and offer preferred hotel rates during one of the busiest weekends of the year in Key West. Guests also receive direct concierge support from the festival team to help plan their itinerary and secure tickets to high-demand events before the general public. Three tiers will be available: the Ultimate Friend VIP experience at Pier House Resort & Spa, Best Friend VIP packages at La Concha Key West, Margaritaville Beach House Key West, and Ocean Key Resort & Spa, and Loyal Friend packages offering preferred access with additional partner hotels throughout the island. Organizers say the packages have quickly become one of the easiest ways to experience the festival, providing guaranteed access, reserved seating, and exclusive programming while eliminating the uncertainty that can come with navigating a busy holiday weekend in Key West. More performances, collaborations, and experiences will be announced in phases as the festival approaches. Event badges and hotel packages go on sale March 15 at www.justafewfriendskeywest.com. “All events not affiliated with or endorsed by Jimmy Buffett’s Estate or Margaritaville Enterprises.” Fans Salute Jimmy Buffett During ‘Just a Few Friends’ Festival in Key West, His Former Home9/2/2025 KEY WEST, FL – Several thousand Jimmy Buffett fans promenaded along Key West’s Duval Street Sunday, Aug. 31, during a Second Line Memorial Walking Parade saluting the life and legacy of the late musical icon on the island that inspired his signature “trop-rock” sound.
Marchers wearing tropical shirts and flower leis bounced beach balls, blew bubbles, and waved huge banners bearing Buffett’s likeness during the exuberant procession that highlighted the Just a Few Friends celebration staged over Labor Day Weekend. The parade was led by a group including Buffett’s youngest sister Lucy Buffett, a restaurateur and cookbook author; vocalist Nadirah Shakoor of his famed Coral Reefer Band; and Keys “trop-rock” musician Howard Livingston. Along the route, Shakoor and Livingston led march participants in a rousing version of Buffett’s best-known hit “Margaritaville.” Buffett, who passed away Sept. 1, 2023, discovered Key West in the early 1970s and its influence is widely credited with inspiring many of his classic songs. He called the island home for many years and frequently referenced its characters, landmarks and laid-back attitude in his lyrics. His first Margaritaville Store and Margaritaville Café debuted there in the mid-1980s, cementing Key West’s status as a mecca for his fans. “Key West is where Jimmy found his home in his heart, and where he found the niche of his creativity that spurred him into the masses,” said Lucy Buffett during the festival’s kickoff ceremony outside her brother’s Shrimpboat Sound recording studio. “And that's why all of you all got touched — because of the life that he found when he got here,” she added to the assembled crowd. Many participants in the Second Line Walking Parade were drawn by the chance to commemorate the role Buffett’s music played in their lives. Christine and Scott Springfield, who dressed themselves and their 12-year-old Golden retriever Captain Jack in tropical garb for the march, came to celebrate the man whose music sparked a life change that made them Florida Keys residents. “Jimmy is what inspired us to sell everything we had in Texas and buy a boat,” said Christine Springfield with a vivid smile. “Now we live on a boat in Marathon .” The procession ended at Key West’s Truman Waterfront Park, where the free “Party in the Park” concert featured Shakoor, Livingston & the Mile Marker 24 Band, and others who learned from or performed with Buffett. Among the open-air gathering’s additional attractions were an artisan market and food court, full bars, art exhibitions, selfie stations and an interactive remembrance area. Other festival events included walking and trolley tours of Buffett’s favorite places; sailing adventures on the waters he loved; a Cheeseburger on the Beach Contest and Margarita Bar Stroll; concerts by Will Kimbrough, co-writer of Buffett’s posthumous hit “Bubbles Up,” and former Coral Reefer guitarist Roger Bartlett; and a new look at the real-life renegade behind Buffett’s iconic song “A Pirate Looks at Forty.” Proceeds from the festival’s collectible event badges directly benefit three Key West organizations: Reef Relief, the Bahama Village Music Program, and the Key West High School Marching Band. The 2026 Just a Few Friends celebration is scheduled for Sept. 3-7, again over Labor Day weekend. “The greatest gift Jimmy ever gave me was bringing me to Key West,” said Lucy Buffett, who has owned a home on the island for many years. “And there's never any place I want to be on Labor Day weekend, ever again for as long as I have breath, except for Key West.” Five Days of Music, Memory, and Island Magic Begin Thursday, August 28 KEY WEST, FL – This Labor Day weekend, Just a Few Friends returns to Key West for its second year of unforgettable events celebrating the life, music, and laid-back legacy of the island’s favorite son. From Thursday, August 28 through Monday, September 1, the island will come alive with music, parades, and heartfelt gatherings that capture the spirit of the man who helped put Key West on the map.
The weekend kicks off Friday morning with an all-volunteer effort led by Plogging the Keys and the City of Key West to pick up trash from the Historic Waterfront. At 11 am, a Proclamation Ceremony at Shrimp Boat Sound Studios, where Vice Mayor Donie Lee will officially declare August 30 Jimmy Buffett Day in Key West. The Key West High School Marching Band, one of the festival’s charity beneficiaries, will perform, and Lucy Buffett will accept the proclamation on behalf of her brother. On Sunday, August 31, the festival reaches its emotional peak with the Second Line Memorial Parade, starting at 5:00 p.m. in the 100 block of Duval Street. Fans in tropical wear, with instruments, bubbles, and placards in hand, will march through Old Town and arrive at Truman Waterfront Park for the free Party in the Park, presented by The Greeen House. The concert lineup features local trop rock musician Jocky Jord, Nadirah Shakoor, longtime Coral Reefer vocalist, Howard Livingston & the Mile Marker 24 Band, and special guest Lucy Buffett, who will greet the crowd following the parade. Festival goers can enjoy food trucks, bars, local artisans, interactive photo ops, the Greeen Bar hospitality tent, and the Friends of Bubba Memorial Wall, where attendees are encouraged to light a free candle and leave photos or mementos honoring the man who inspired the celebration. Other highlights include:
Collectible souvenir Event Badges are still available for a $45 donation and unlock access to both Sunset Pier concerts, exclusive areas at Party in the Park, a pool party at Margaritaville Resort and special offers from local businesses. Guests may order online now and pick up their badges by showing a receipt at Key West First Legal Rum during regular hours. Badge proceeds benefit Reef Relief, Bahama Village Music Program, and the Key West High School Marching Band. “This event is about remembering and celebrating a lifestyle that’s uniquely Key West,” said co-organizer Paul Menta. “It’s music, friends, and sunshine—what more do you need?” More than a tribute, Just a Few Friends is a community-driven celebration that brings locals and visitors together during one of Key West’s historically quietest weekends. Dozens of businesses—from bars and hotels to musicians, artisans, and nonprofit organizations—benefit directly and indirectly from the added foot traffic, bookings, and charitable contributions. As the summer season winds down, this event helps keep the island’s creative energy—and its economy—alive and thriving. Find the full schedule and badge info at www.justafewfriendskeywest.com.
KEY WEST, FL – On Sunday, August 31, the iconic Truman Waterfront Park will become the vibrant heart of the Just a Few Friends celebration during the second annual Party in the Park, presented by The Greeen House. This free, family-friendly gathering follows the spirited Second Line Memorial Parade, uniting music lovers, locals, and island dreamers for an evening of connection, reflection, and celebration under the setting sun.
The parade begins in the 100 block of Duval Street, where fans gather with instruments, placards, bubbles, and tropical attire. Together, they’ll wind through Old Town—singing, toasting, and honoring the legacy of Key West’s favorite son—before arriving at Truman Waterfront Park for the evening’s main event. On stage, Howard Livingston & the Mile Marker 24 Band, Nadirah Shakoor, and Jocky Jord will perform heartfelt tributes to the music that shaped multiple generations. Appearances by Lucy Buffett and other special guests add warmth and authenticity, making the night feel less like a concert—and more like a reunion of kindred spirits. The evening includes a pop-up Key West Artisan Market, food trucks, Milagro Margarita bars, and selfie stations, plus the “Greeen Bar” hospitality area offering a high-spirited welcome from the title sponsor. Over 400 chairs will be available to rent (cash only), or guests can bring their own. Free water stations will be provided by the Aqueduct Authority, and a fully air-conditioned City Bus Lounge offers a place to chill out. At the heart of the celebration is the Friends of Bubba Memorial, an interactive remembrance area where guests are invited to bring a photo, note, or small memento to honor the man whose music inspired a movement. Free candles will be available, and all items collected will become part of a special commemorative exhibit. Guests with official event badges receive access to a dedicated bar and priority area with first dibs at chair rentals, while those with Ultimate Friend Badges enjoy premium lounge seating and exclusive perks. Event badge donations directly to the Florida Keys Community Foundation benefit Reef Relief, the Bahama Village Music Program, and the Key West High School Marching Band. After the main event, the celebration continues at the official after-party hosted by The Backyard Bar at Kaya Island Eats, where Caribbean steel pan music and Buffett-inspired favorites will keep the vibe alive. There’s no cover, and the kitchen stays open until 10 PM. Transportation is easy with the Duval Loop Shuttle running late into the night for just $1, offering safe and convenient rides to and from the event. Guests can also rent bicycles from Eaton Bikes. This is just one event of many during the Labor Day weekend. For more information, a full schedule, or to secure a badge, visit: www.justafewfriendskeywest.com
Presented by The Greeen House | Sunday, August 31, 2025 | Truman Waterfront Park KEY WEST, FL – On Sunday, August 31, the iconic Truman Waterfront Park will become the vibrant heart of the Just a Few Friends celebration during the second annual Party in the Park, presented by The Greeen House. This free, family-friendly gathering follows the spirited Second Line Memorial Parade, uniting music lovers, locals, and island dreamers for an evening of connection, reflection, and celebration under the setting sun.
The parade begins in the 100 block of Duval Street, where fans gather with instruments, placards, bubbles, and tropical attire. Together, they’ll wind through Old Town—singing, toasting, and honoring the legacy of Key West’s favorite son—before arriving at Truman Waterfront Park for the evening’s main event. On stage, Howard Livingston & the Mile Marker 24 Band, Nadirah Shakoor, and Jocky Jord will perform heartfelt tributes to the music that shaped multiple generations. Appearances by Lucy Buffett and other special guests add warmth and authenticity, making the night feel less like a concert—and more like a reunion of kindred spirits. The evening includes a pop-up Key West Artisan Market, food trucks, Milagro Margarita bars, and selfie stations, plus the “Greeen Bar” hospitality area offering a high-spirited welcome from the title sponsor. Over 400 chairs will be available to rent (cash only), or guests can bring their own. Free water stations will be provided by the Aqueduct Authority, and a fully air-conditioned City Bus Lounge offers a place to chill out. At the heart of the celebration is the Friends of Bubba Memorial, an interactive remembrance area where guests are invited to bring a photo, note, or small memento to honor the man whose music inspired a movement. Free candles will be available, and all items collected will become part of a special commemorative exhibit. Guests with official event badges receive access to a dedicated bar and priority area with first dibs at chair rentals, while those with Ultimate Friend Badges enjoy premium lounge seating and exclusive perks. Event badge donations directly to the Florida Keys Community Foundation benefit Reef Relief, the Bahama Village Music Program, and the Key West High School Marching Band. After the main event, the celebration continues at the official after-party hosted by The Backyard Bar at Kaya Island Eats, where Caribbean steel pan music and Buffett-inspired favorites will keep the vibe alive. There’s no cover, and the kitchen stays open until 10 PM. Transportation is easy with the Duval Loop Shuttle running late into the night for just $1, offering safe and convenient rides to and from the event. Guests can also rent bicycles from Eaton Bikes. This is just one event of many during the Labor Day weekend. For more information, a full schedule, or to secure a badge, visit: www.justafewfriendskeywest.com Jimmy Buffett’s ‘Crazy Sista’ and Musical Friends to Lead Aug. 31 Tribute Events in Key West8/14/2025  Lucy Buffett (center front), shown with friends and fans of her late brother Jimmy Buffett during a past Second Line Memorial Walking Parade in Key West, Fla., will help lead the 2025 parade scheduled Sunday, Aug. 31. The event highlights the annual Just a Few Friends celebration that honors Jimmy Buffett on the island that inspired his signature trop-rock sound. (Photo by Virginia Wark) KEY WEST, FL – Restaurateur and author Lucy Buffett, sister of the late singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett, will join his Coral Reefer Band vocalist Nadirah Shakoor and musical friends Sunday, Aug. 31, to lead a memorial second-line parade on the island that inspired Buffett’s trop-rock sound.
Staged on Key West’s famed Duval Street, the march highlights the annual Just a Few Friends celebration of Buffett’s music and the carefree lifestyle he enjoyed in his longtime island home. The festival is scheduled Aug. 29 through Sept. 1, saluting Buffett while encouraging fans to immerse themselves in the place where he penned his most enduring songs. Lucy Buffett, known as both LuLu and the “crazy sista” of the Buffett clan, is the owner of three successful “LuLu’s” restaurants and authored books including “Crazy Sista Cooking: Cuisine and Conversation with Lucy Anne Buffett” and “LuLu’s Kitchen: A Taste of the Gulf Coast Good Life.” At 11 a.m. Friday, Aug. 29, she will accept a proclamation from Key West city officials designating Jimmy Buffett Day on the island. Open to the public, the proclamation ceremony takes place outside the late singer’s Shrimpboat Sound recording studio in the Key West Historic Seaport. With Shakoor and trop-rock all-star Howard Livingston, Lucy Buffett is to lead Sunday’s Second Line Memorial Walking Parade that typically draws thousands of her brother’s colorfully dressed “Parrot Head” fans. Participants can expect live music, impromptu singalongs and a joyful tropical tribute. The parade starts at 5 p.m. in the 100 block of Duval Street, and proceeds along Duval to Truman Waterfront Park for the night’s Party in the Park. The open-air party features nonstop live music, an appearance by Lucy Buffett, an artisan market and food court, full bars, interactive art exhibitions and selfie stations. Highlighting the entertainment is to be a soulful performance by Shakoor — former lead singer for the Grammy-nominated group Arrested Development and longtime member of Buffett’s Coral Reefers — and tunes by island troubadour Livingston and his Mile Marker 24 Band. Other festival events include walking and trolley tours of Buffett’s favorite places; a Cheeseburger on the Beach Contest and Margarita Bar Stroll; concerts by his musical cohorts Will Kimbrough and Roger Bartlett; and a new look at the real-life renegade behind Buffett’s “A Pirate Looks at Forty.” For details, festival badges and ticketing, visit www.justafewfriendskeywest.com. “All events not affiliated with or endorsed by Jimmy Buffett’s Estate or Margaritaville Enterprises” Labor Day Weekend Tribute Features Musical Friends and Immersive Experience
KEY WEST, FL – Fans of the late singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett can celebrate his legacy over Labor Day Weekend in Key West, his former home and the island that inspired his most enduring songs, during the immersive Just a Few Friends festival. Set for Aug. 29 through Sept. 1, the gathering is part memorial, part music festival, and a unique opportunity to experience the place where Buffett developed his famed “trop-rock” sound.
The five-day gathering offers attendees a chance to walk the same streets Buffett sang about, visit the bars and marinas where his stories began, and hear the musicians who knew him best perform in intimate settings. “This is about more than music,” said co-organizer Paul Menta. “We honor Jimmy’s memory by immersing people in the island he loved — the people, the history, the sunsets, the flavors. It’s a celebration of the way of life he enjoyed here and made his own.” The heart of the weekend is Sunday’s Second Line Memorial Parade, a jubilant procession that winds down Key West’s Duval Street and ends at Truman Waterfront Park. There, the free “Party in the Park” concert will carry the tribute past sunset with Howard Livingston & the Mile Marker 24 Band, vocalist Nadirah Shakoor from Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band, and a stage full of his musical friends. Concerts also are scheduled starring former Coral Reefer guitarist Roger Bartlett & the Nautical Wheelers on Saturday evening, and Buffett’s “Bubbles Up” co-writer Will Kimbrough Monday night. Both take place at the Ocean Key Resort’s Sunset Pier overlooking Key West Harbor. Beyond music, the festival weaves in experiences that could only happen in Key West. For example, Scott Atwell is to reveal the true story behind the colorful life of Phil Clark, the subject of Buffett’s classic song “A Pirate Looks at Forty,” in a panel discussion that debuts his book “Buffett Backstories: The Pirate Edition.” Sailing adventures on schooners, luxury catamarans and floating tiki boats offer a taste of the island from the water, while guided walking and trolley tours spotlight Buffett’s favorite places in Key West. Festival attendees can also enjoy book signings, brunches, a 5k race, pool parties, a waterfront cleanup, and even a mustache look-alike contest at the legendary Chart Room Bar where Buffett hung out and Clark poured drinks. Two ticketed highlights round out the weekend. Friday’s Cheeseburger on the Beach Contest at Southernmost Beach Resort pairs delicious competition with live music from the Margaritas in Paradise tribute band. Saturday’s Milagro Margarita Bar Stroll is a lively tasting tour where 22 bars compete for the title of Key West’s Best Margarita. While the festival typically draws visitors from across the country, its heart remains local. Proceeds from collectible Event Badges directly benefit three Key West organizations: Reef Relief, the Bahama Village Music Program, and the Key West High School Marching Band. Last year the badges raised more than $34,000, with every dollar going back into the community. For Jimmy Buffett fans who want to do more than listen, Just a Few Friends offers the chance to become immersed in the island that gave birth to a state of mind. Details, badges and ticket information are available at www.justafewfriendskeywest.com. “All events not affiliated with or endorsed by Jimmy Buffett’s Estate or Margaritaville Enterprises”  Key West, FL – The highly anticipated Just a Few Friends, Key West festival returns August 28 – September 1, 2025, bringing together music, camaraderie, and a celebration of the island spirit inspired by Key West’s favorite son.
This multi-day event will feature an exciting lineup of live performances, unique island experiences, and signature gatherings, culminating in the Second Line Memorial Walking Parade and Party in the Park on Sunday. This year’s festival introduces a new way for attendees to enhance their experience with the Latitude Adjustment Hotel Packages and the Ultimate Friend Badge, both offering exclusive perks and premium access to select events. "We created this event to bring people together in the spirit of music, storytelling, and community, just as Jimmy did," said festival organizer Paul Menta. "It’s an event made by friends, for friends, and every year, we aim to make it bigger and better while keeping the heart of Key West at its core." Menta is teamed up with Jill Snodgrass and Sean Krikorian of Daily Plan-it for event coordination and Jordan Upchurch of Its Social Time to oversee the festival’s digital presence and engagement. Festival Highlights Attendees can enjoy a carefully curated schedule of events, including:
Event Badges Now Available Limited-edition souvenir Event Badges are now on sale for $35 until June 1 ($45 after), through the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys, with proceeds directly benefiting Reef Relief, Bahama Village Music Program, and the Key West High School Marching Band. Last year's activities raised more than $34,000. While the Second Line Parade and many other events are free to attend, badge holders who make this tax deductible donation receive exclusive perks, including early access, entry to a reserved viewing area at Party in the Park, special offers from sponsors and local businesses, and free admission to Sunset Pier concerts featuring:
Latitude Adjustment Hotel Packages New for 2025, the Latitude Adjustment Hotel Packages offer festivalgoers a seamless and enhanced experience with accommodations at some of Key West’s premier resorts. Packages include a three-to-five-night stay at one of the event’s partner hotels, first access to purchase special event tickets, and a collectible swag bag filled with exclusive offers from festival sponsors. For those seeking an elevated experience, guests who book at Pier House Resort & Spa or Ocean Key Resort & Spa will have the exclusive opportunity to purchase the Ultimate Friend Badge, which is limited to just 50 attendees. This $500 badge provides priority access to select events, reserved seating at key performances, premium swag, and a higher charitable contribution to the festival’s supported organizations. "We want this festival to be an experience that brings people together, not just for the music and events, but to share in the Key West way of life. That's why our charity contributions play such a big part of the celebration," Menta added. "Whether you're a longtime visitor or coming for the first time, you’ll feel like part of the island family." Join the Celebration With an expanded lineup, enhanced experiences, and a deep commitment to honoring Jimmy Buffett’s legacy, Just a Few Friends, Key West 2025 promises to be an unforgettable Labor Day Weekend celebration. For event details, Event Badge purchases, and Latitude Adjustment Hotel Packages, visit www.justafewfriendskeywest.com. Key West, FL – This week, the organizers of the Just a Few Friends Festival, held over Labor Day weekend, proudly presented checks totaling $34,000 to two local charities, thanks to the generosity of festival attendees who purchased souvenir badges. The proceeds from the event were managed by the non-profit Community Foundation of the Florida Keys and will benefit Reef Relief and the Bahamas Village Music Program.
Festival founders Paul Menta, Jordan Upchurch, Jill Snodgrass, and Sean Krikorian expressed their gratitude for the support from the guests. “It’s incredible to see how a first-year event can raise such significant funds. We are thrilled to be able to donate $17,000 to each charity,” said Menta. “Our goal is to continue helping the community and make even bigger contributions in the future.” Reef Relief expressed profound appreciation for the donation. Dora DeMaria, Assistant Executive Director noted, “We are so grateful for the folks at Just a Few Friends and all of those who bought passes to support our mission. With this generous donation, we will be able to bolster our education and outreach programs.” Last school year alone, Reef Relief's education program reached over 15,500 students from 45 states and 20 countries, with over 250 children participating in their spring and summer camp programs. Since the beginning of September, they have already reached over 3,000 students through free marine science programs. The funds from the festival will enable Reef Relief to continue offering quality marine science information to students worldwide, ensuring accessibility regardless of location or background. Additionally, proceeds will support camp expenses, allowing fees to remain low and affordable while also funding scholarships for local underprivileged youth. Funds will also engage volunteers in community projects, including marine debris removal and storm drain stenciling events. The Bahamas Village Music Program, under the leadership of Executive Director Kawana Staffney-Ashe, will utilize their generous donation to support the establishment of a new music studio within the upcoming Frederick Douglass Community Center in Bahama Village, Key West, Florida. This state-of-the-art community center, which is set to open in January 2025, will feature a gym, classrooms, music rooms, and various other resources for the community. The new studio will serve as a vibrant hub for recording, mixing, and other vital functions, equipping local artists with the necessary tools to flourish in the music industry. “It is crucial to help young students thrive and promote their musical talent,” Staffney-Ashe emphasized. “This donation will provide them with opportunities to express themselves and develop their skills in a supportive environment.” The mission of the Bahamas Village Music Program is to deliver high-quality music education to children who may otherwise lack access to private music instruction. As the festival organizers reflect on the success of the inaugural event, they are already planning for future iterations that will aim to make an even greater impact on the community. The Just a Few Friends Festival stands as a testament to the power of community support and the positive change it can bring. Next year's festival is scheduled for August 29 through September 1, 2025. For more information about the Just a Few Friends Festival and its charitable contributions, please contact Jill Snodgrass at 305.731.5780. About Just a Few Friends Festival: The Just a Few Friends Festival is an annual celebration in Key West, FL, that celebrates Jimmy Buffett's legacy by bringing together fans and community members to enjoy music, culture, and fun while raising funds for local charities. https://www.justafewfriendskeywest.com/ https://medium.com/@PRHORSE/jimmy-buffetts-very-second-key-west-memorial-parade-celebration-b98627b804af About Reef Relief: Reef Relief is a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring coral reefs through education, advocacy, and community involvement. https://www.reefrelief.org/ About the Bahamas Village Music Program: The Bahamas Village Music Program provides music education and opportunities for local youth, helping to foster creativity and talent in the community. https://bvmpkw.com/ About Community Foundation of the Florida Keys: The Community Foundation of the Florida Keys is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enhancing the quality of life in the Florida Keys. By supporting local initiatives and charitable projects, the Foundation aims to strengthen the community and address pressing needs through strategic grantmaking. Their work empowers individuals and organizations to create positive change, fostering a vibrant and sustainable future for the Florida Keys. https://cffk.org/ |
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