The Rotary Club of Key West is preparing for one of its largest Independence Day celebrations ever, combining the nation’s 250th anniversary with the club’s 50th year of hosting the city’s annual fireworks display.
The Key West Rotary Club President Sam Steele joined Good Morning Keys on Keys Talk 96.9/102.5FM this morning to talk about the event.
This year’s festivities will feature the organization’s largest fireworks show to date, along with a full day of family-friendly activities benefiting Rotary scholarships and community programs.
“This is America’s 250th birthday and Rotary’s 50th anniversary hosting the event,” Steele said. “We asked for the biggest and loudest fireworks package available.”
The celebration begins at 6:30 a.m. with the annual Key West Fourth of July 5K, organized by Troy Phillips. Proceeds from the race benefit the Edward B. Knight Vocational Scholarship Fund.
Beginning at 10 a.m., families can enjoy free activities at Higgs Beach, including bounce houses, beach games, shaded seating and children’s activities. Food and beverages will be available throughout the day, with proceeds supporting Rotary scholarships.
At noon, Casa Marina will host its “Red, White & Blue on the Beach” celebration, featuring live entertainment, barbecue, games and a cash bar. The event continues until 10 p.m. Admission is $20, while children 10 and under are admitted free.
Organizers have also arranged additional parking near Indigenous Park and the dog park to accommodate the anticipated crowds.
The day concludes with the annual fireworks display at 9 p.m., launched offshore near the Edward B. Knight Pier. Steele said spectators can expect the largest fireworks show in the event’s history.
“This is going to be a spectacular show,” Steele said. “Nobody is going to be disappointed.”
Steele credited numerous community partners for making the celebration possible, including Key West International Airport, the City of Key West, Casa Marina, Sawyer’s Party Rentals, Four Star Rentals and Imagination Station, which donated commemorative America 250-themed toys for children attending the event.
The Rotary Club will also sell commemorative America’s 250th anniversary T-shirts during the celebration, with proceeds benefiting the club’s scholarship programs and other community initiatives.
Steele said every dollar raised during the Fourth of July events supports Rotary’s mission of “Service Above Self” through scholarships and projects that benefit the Key West community.
For more information, click here: https://www.keywestrotary.com/