MONROE COUNTY’S KEY WEST INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT SPONSORS FIVE FIREWORK CELEBRATIONS THROUGHOUT THE FLORIDA KEYS

MONROE COUNTY, FL – For the sixth consecutive year, the Monroe County Board of County Commissioners approved Key West International Airport’s sponsorship of five Independence Day fireworks displays throughout the Florida Keys. Funds come from passenger user fees explicitly earmarked for promotional activities.

“Independence Day in the Florida Keys is more than fireworks; it’s a celebration of community, patriotism, and the traditions that bring generations of families together, especially this year, for America’s semi-quincentennial,” said Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln. “We appreciate the continued partnership of Key West International Airport, the municipalities, nonprofit organizations, and volunteers who help make these celebrations possible across the Florida Keys each year.”

“From Key Largo to Key West, these celebrations bring our communities together and showcase the unique spirit of the Florida Keys,” said Richard Strickland, airport Executive Director. “The airport is proud to support these longstanding traditions and the volunteers and organizations who work hard each year to create safe, memorable Independence Day celebrations for residents and visitors.”

County airport-sponsored Independence Day event plans include (subject to change):

Key West 
Since 1976, the Rotary Club of Key West has presented Key West’s annual fireworks show. Staged from the Edward B. Knight Pier overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, where White Street meets Atlantic Avenue, fireworks begin at 9 p.m. on Saturday, July 4. For information, visit keywestrotary.com.

Big Pine Key
The Lower Keys Rotary Club will host Independence Day festivities on Friday, July 3, starting at 5 p.m. at Monroe County-owned Big Pine Community Park, mile marker 31. There will be vendors, food, beverages, games, family activities, and entertainment. Fireworks will begin around 9 p.m. Admission is free. No coolers, pets, or personal fireworks are allowed. Visit facebook.com/LowerKeysRotary for more information.

Marathon
A full day of beachside activities begins with a patriotic parade at 11 a.m., July 4, from Marathon High School to Sombrero Beach, hosted by the Rotary Club of Marathon, with fireworks at approximately 9 p.m., hosted by the City of Marathon. US1 Radio 104.1 will play patriotic music along with the fireworks display. Viewers can watch from the beach or even offshore of Sombrero Beach by boat. Admission is free. Visit www.marathonrotary.org for more information. Monroe County operates the Florida Keys Marathon Airport in Marathon. 

Islamorada
The Upper Keys Rotary Club and the Village of Islamorada will co-host an Independence Day Celebration at Founders Park, mile marker 87, starting at 6 p.m., Saturday, July 4. Attendees are encouraged to bring chairs and blankets. Admission is free. Visit Islamorada.fl.us for more information. 
   
Key Largo
The Key Largo Chamber of Commerce hosts its 50th annual July 4 parade starting at 10 a.m. The parade will begin at mile marker 98.2 and end at mile marker 100. Northbound lanes will be closed from 9:45 to 11:45 a.m. Immediately following the parade, the community is invited to Key Largo Community Park for the Freedom Fest Picnic, featuring free hot dogs, kids' activities, food and drink vendors, and more. At approximately 9:30 p.m., the annual fireworks can be seen over Blackwater Sound, and the public is encouraged to view from their favorite bayfront establishment. Visit keylargochamber.org for more details.  
  
**Monroe County Fire Rescue reminds residents and visitors to leave fireworks to the professionals.

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