Four events to celebrate Florida Keys’ bicentennial

Florida Keys is set to celebrate its bicentennial in style with a host of top events.

Visitors are invited to join in with a sunset celebration on the Middle Keys’ Old Seven Mile Bridge, a gala sea-to-table dinner, plus festivities and fireworks.

The activities salute the 200th anniversary of the Florida Territorial Legislature’s founding of Monroe County, which contains the entire Florida Keys, on July 3, 1823.

As well as recognizing the historic anniversary, they spotlight unique aspects of the Keys’ vibrant two-century history.

Commemorative events begin Friday, May 19, with a 6 pm gathering on the Old Seven Mile Bridge, once the centerpiece of the Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad that operated from 1912 to 1935. Attractions include live music and dancing, local artists, catered tidbits by the Marathon High School culinary class and a sunset toast with vodka distilled from breadfruit. Past and present commissioners who helped guide Monroe County are to be honored during the evening.

Next on the schedule is a culinary event that highlights Florida Keys seafood, the talents of celebrity and local chefs. Set for Saturday, June 10, the Sea to Table Dinner takes place at Bud N’ Mary’s Marina in Islamorada. A rooftop sunset reception is set for 6:30 pm, while the dinner begins at 7:30 pm in the property’s spacious Boat Barn. As well as fine cuisine, attendees can discover Keys artists’ work, historic photos and the coral nursery at Bud N’ Mary’s. Local fishing captains are to host each table.

The following Saturday, June 17, Keys residents and visitors can enjoy a picnic at Rowell’s Waterfront Park, located in Key Largo. There is live music by the Mangrove Swamp Band and others, and activities such as swimming and sailing. In addition, a fire truck will be on hand to provide cooling water spray and fun for kids.

Bicentennial celebrations culminate July 3 — 200 years to the day after Monroe County’s 1823 establishment. A family-friendly gathering takes place at Big Pine Community Park. Highlights include the creation and serving of the world’s largest Key lime pie — expected to measure 13feet in diameter and prepared with a traditional graham-cracker crust and whipped cream topping. The evening will feature live music by Brian Roberts and the Prime Movers, as well as former American Idol finalist and Keys resident Kristen McNamara. Also planned are a bounce house, slide and games for kids, food trucks, and a glittering fireworks and laser light show.

Throughout 2023, museum exhibits and festivals are being themed to commemorate the anniversary