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Fireworks, Fin-Tales & Key Lime Dreams: Celebrate the 4th of July the Island Way in the Florida Keys

June 16, 2025 • KW Concierge

This Independence Day, skip the crowded mainland parades and head south—way south—to where the party comes with a salty breeze and a slice of pie. The Florida Keys are putting their signature tropical twist on July 4th celebrations, blending beach vibes with Americana spirit for an unforgettable long weekend.

From July 2–6, 2025, the island chain rolls out a red, white, and aqua carpet of events. Expect mermaids, mouthwatering pies, rooftop fireworks, and enough conch-shell charm to make this the most memorable Fourth you’ve ever spent.

Here’s your guide to a star-spangled summer in the Keys:

🍈 Key West Key Lime Festival | July 2–6

A celebration as tart as it is sweet, this festival is all about Florida’s favorite dessert—and the quirky culture that surrounds it.

  • Tastings & Mixology Classes: Sip and savor your way through the Key Lime Cocktail Sip & Stroll.

  • Pie Hop: Stroll from shop to shop sampling the best slices on the island.

  • Pie-Eating Contest (July 4): Cheer (or compete!) as contestants go face-first into a nine-inch pie. No forks. No dignity. All fun.
    More info ➜ keylimefestival.com

🧜‍♀️ Key West Mermaid Festival | July 4–6

Where ocean advocacy meets whimsical fantasy.

  • July 4 – Splash Party at Lagerheads Beach Bar (10 a.m.–2 p.m.): Beach games, live mermaids, and family fun.

  • July 5 – Meet the Mermaids at the Florida Keys Eco-Discovery Center (10 a.m.–2 p.m.): Donuts, stories, face painting, and a chance to chat with mythical sea royalty.

  • July 5 – Mermaid Margarita Night at Shots and Giggles (7:30 p.m.): A playful, adults-only evening.

  • July 6 – Mermaid Pool Party at the brand-new Blue Flamingo Resort.
    More info ➜ facebook.com/keywestmermaidfestival

🌇 Glow Hours at Hugh’s View | July 4

Catch the city’s fireworks from above at this elevated celebration atop The Studios of Key West.

🎆 Fireworks Over the Water | July 4

Sponsored by Key West International Airport, this is the quintessential Fourth of July moment—with an ocean breeze.

  • Where: Edward B. Knight Pier (White St. & Atlantic Ave)

  • When: Fireworks begin at dusk; picnic from 5 p.m. at Higgs Beach

  • Hosted By: Rotary Club of Key West
    Details ➜ keywestrotary.com

🌴 Why the Keys for the Fourth?

Because nowhere does independence like the islands. With its laid-back spirit, creative culture, and stunning Gulf sunsets, the Keys offer more than just fireworks—they offer freedom. Freedom to celebrate in your flip-flops, freedom to cheer for pie-eating champions, and freedom to make Fourth of July memories that are as colorful as the sunset sky.