Fans and friends of the Conch Republic can celebrate the offbeat “nation’s” 42nd birthday April 19-28 in Key West, experiencing more than 20 colorful activities ranging from a pirate bash and quirky races to a “sea-to-sea” parade.
The Conch Republic Independence Celebration commemorates the Florida Keys’ symbolic secession from the United States — an act inspired by the 1982 establishment of a U.S. Border Patrol blockade at the top of the island chain that virtually stopped traffic on the only road connecting the Keys to mainland Florida.
Today the republic, whose motto is “We Seceded Where Others Failed,” is recognized around the world as the Keys’ irreverent alter ego. Both the Conch Republic and the festival it inspired honor the island chain’s freewheeling character and self-reliant characters.
Audiences in Islamorada can enjoy three days of multicultural music with an all-star lineup of Afro Roots artists April 26-28 during Afro Roots Fest. All performances take place on the outdoor beer garden stage at Florida Keys Brewing Company, and all are free to attend and open to music lovers of all ages.
Regardless of experience level, divers in the Florida Keys should exercise caution and awareness of their surroundings, and respect the underwater environment. Through continued education and shared information, Keys dive operators help enforce guidelines including strict “no touch” rules for everyone visiting the coral reef within the Florida Keys National Marine Sanctuary.
The Marathon Premier Sailfish Tournament was founded by Katie Lewis after she witnessed the transformative power of fishing experiences for kids and families. Supporting a great cause, the April 18-20 challenge also celebrates the friendly competition between seasoned and new angling teams, guided by Florida Keys captains experienced in the art of sailfishing.
Pedro Aviles, the creative spirit behind the popular dishes at Key West’s Nine One Five restaurant, has been a Florida Keys resident for 14 years. When he’s not at Nine One Five or dreaming up offerings to delight diners, the master chef enjoys easygoing activities and simple pleasures that enrich his Keys lifestyle.
Powerful offshore powerboats racing at high speeds near the world-famous Seven Mile Bridge are to show their muscle April 26-28, when the 7-Mile Offshore Grand Prix roars into the Middle Keys. The pedestrian-friendly Old Seven Mile Bridge, lying beside the contemporary one, is to be the primary viewing area for race fans.
Captain Frank Betz began fishing the Florida Straits in 2005 while working for the Boy Scouts of America at the Sea Base Camp on Summerland Key. Today he shares his passion for fishing the Florida Keys’ deep blue waters as a guide, offering Folklure Charters fishing trips from Summerland and Big Pine Key.
Limited to 1,500 entrants, Marathon’s world-renowned Seven Mile Bridge Run takes participants across one of the world’s longest segmental bridges. Stretching over seemingly endless water beside an older span, the landmark bridge is the centerpiece of the Florida Keys Overseas Highway. This year’s “bucket list” race is set for Saturday, April 13.
