Key West Mayor Dee Dee Henriquez joined Good Morning Keys on Keys Talk 96.9/102.5FM this morning to talk about what’s going on in the city.
There is a full calendar of events ahead as city officials prepare for a week that includes community meetings, volunteer efforts, summer festivals and a major celebration of America’s 250th anniversary.
The city is preparing for a major celebration Saturday, June 27, marking the 250th anniversary of American independence.
Festivities will begin at 5 p.m. with family activities, vendor booths and children’s attractions near Truman Waterfront Park. A parade is scheduled to step off at 6 p.m. from United and Duval streets, travel down Duval Street to Southard Street and continue to Truman Waterfront Park.
Opening ceremonies are expected to begin around 6:30 p.m., followed by live music and a community celebration from 7 to 10 p.m.
Henriquez said city staff and volunteers have been working to ensure the event becomes a memorable kickoff to the national anniversary observance.
“We are so excited,” she said. “It’s going to be a wonderful celebration, and I cannot wait to kick off the 250th birthday for our country.”
Henriquez also reminded residents that the City Commission meeting originally scheduled for July 2 has been moved to Wednesday, July 1, due to the Independence Day holiday schedule.
The daytime session will begin at 9 a.m., with the evening session set for 5 p.m.
The mayor said city officials will spend the week preparing for that meeting and plan to discuss upcoming agenda items in advance during next week’s public updates.
Residents will also have an opportunity to meet directly with the mayor during the city’s “Meet with the Mayor” session from 2 to 4 p.m. today at City Hall.
Henriquez encouraged residents to stop by with questions, concerns or suggestions about city issues.
Additional meetings this week include the Citizens Review Board on Monday evening, the Historic Architectural Review Commission meeting Tuesday, the Development Review Committee meeting Thursday morning and a code enforcement hearing Thursday afternoon.
Henriquez is also scheduled to attend the Monroe County Tourist Development Council meeting Thursday in Marathon and welcome members of the Florida Restaurant and Lodging Association during their gathering at Casa Marina.
In addition to the America 250 celebration, Saturday will feature several other events throughout Key West.
The city’s Early Bird Cleanup is scheduled for 8 a.m. Friday at 1301 Atlantic Blvd., hosted by Island Girls Promotions.
Saturday’s schedule includes the 50th annual Swim Around Key West beginning at 6 a.m. at Higgs Beach, the Mango Fest from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Bayview Park, and the Mamey and Mojitos Ice Cream Social at the Alex Vega Fire House Museum starting at 5:30 p.m.
Henriquez said the wide variety of events reflects the city’s active summer calendar and encouraged residents to check the city’s website regularly for updates.
With outdoor events continuing through the summer, Henriquez also emphasized the importance of staying hydrated and taking precautions in the Florida heat.
“It’s very, very warm out there. The humidity is very high,” she said.
The mayor encouraged residents and visitors attending parades, festivals and cleanup events to drink water and be mindful of the heat.
Looking ahead, Henriquez also noted that Key West Day at the Miami Marlins is scheduled for July 11, with proceeds benefiting the Key West Police Athletic League.
As the city heads into a holiday week filled with meetings, celebrations and community events, Henriquez said residents should stay connected by checking the City of Key West website for the latest updates and schedule changes here: https://www.cityofkeywest-fl.gov/