Just a Few Friends, Key West Labor Day Memorial Celebration Honoring Key West’s Favorite Son on Track to Raise $30,000 for Local Charities
Just a Few Friends, Key West is excited to announce that the limited edition souvenir badges for the Key West Labor Day Memorial Celebration have been mailed out. Thanks to the UPS Store in Big Pine and the Community Foundation of the Florida Keys, nearly 1,000 badges have been processed and sent. Recipients should expect to see a blue envelope in their mailboxes within the next two weeks. Patience is appreciated as mail can take longer to arrive from the Conch Republic.
The organization extends its heartfelt gratitude to supporters whose badge purchases and contributions have helped raise almost $30,000. These funds are managed entirely by the Community Foundation and will benefit two notable non-profits: Reef Relief, dedicated to the stewardship of ocean resources, and the Bahamas Village Music Program, which provides music education to local youth.
While online donations for badges have closed, anyone interested in participating can still get a limited edition souvenir badge in person, while supplies last, at the Key West Legal Rum Distillery, located at 105 Simonton St, Key West. Badges are $30 each and can be purchased with cash or by check (made payable to CFFK) with all proceeds to the charities. Contributions are still being accepted for the charities online without badges.
Attendees are encouraged to personalize their parade lanyards with their name, city, number of shows attended, or any other creative touches. Wearing the badge throughout the weekend will grant access to special perks from event partners. Starting on August 29th, badge holders can access special offers and important information by scanning the QR code on the back of their badges. This QR code will also link to parade announcements, schedules, and virtual viewing options for those unable to attend in person.
The celebration will commence on Sunday, September 1 with the Second Line Memorial processional at 5 PM gathering in the 100 block of Duval Street. The procession will march up Duval to Southard Street, making stops at Sloppy Joe’s, Kilwins, The Greeen House and Big Cheezees to sing and celebrate along the way. Badge holders are invited to join the front of the march but everyone is welcome to participate or watch.
The parade will conclude at the Truman Waterfront, where the free Party in the Park will begin. Attendees can look forward to an evening featuring food trucks, bars, art vendors, free music, and stunning sunset views over the ocean. Will Kimbrough, long-time collaborator of Jimmy Buffett and the co-writer of Buffett’s last single release, “Bubbles Up,” will be performing on the Friends of Bubba stage along with some of the Keys’ best local singer-songwriters, including CW Colt, Zack Seemiller, Caffeine Carl, Mike Stack, and Howard Livingston and the Mile Marker 24 Big Band who will sing original music and trop rock favorites.
Historic Tours is providing a trolley to follow behind the parade for participants with mobility issues. For convenient transportation around Key West, Eaton Bikes is recommended. Participants can decorate their bikes and join the march, then enjoy an easy ride home. Other transportation options from the Party in the Park include rideshares, taxis, or the free Duval Loop.
Event organizers advise visiting the official website for links to all events and special hotel rates. Early ticket purchases are recommended as many events are expected to sell out. More information can be found at www.justafewfriendskeywest.com.
