Key West’s Party in the Park Honors Music, Memory, and Community with Sunset Celebration and Memorial Tribute

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