•WHAT ARE WE CELEBRATING?

The Conch Republic Independence Celebration is an annual celebration of the Independence of the Conch Republic of course...

•WHAT IS THE CONCH REPUBLIC?

The Conch Republic was established by secession of the Florida Keys from the United States of America, on April 23rd, 1982 in response to a United States Border Patrol Blockade setup on highway U.S.1 at Florida City just to the north of the Florida Keys. This heinous act effectively isolated Keys Citizens from the U.S. mainland since the blockade was on our only land artery to and from the mainland. This roadblock portrayed Keys residents as non-U.S. citizens who had to prove their citizenship in order to drive onto the Florida mainland! Hardly an American thing to do!

CLICK HERE FOR THE WHOLE HISTORY AT THE CONCH REPUBLIC WEBSITE

•BASICALLY...

So, there IS somewhat of a serious side to the Conch Republic Independence Celebration - the whole "secession from the union" thing, but basically it's another reason for the folks in Key West to have a party and celebrate their general wackiness.

•HOW DO WE CELEBRATE?

There's a Conch Shell Blowing Contest, a "Drag Race" (no NASCAR in Key West - we're racing Drag Queens!), a totally impromptu parade down Duval Street, The Conch Republic Naval Parade and Great Battle for the Conch Republic, a craft show - and the Red Ribbon Bed Race!

For more information on the Conch Republic Independence Celebration call The Office of the Secretary General of the Conch Republic at (t) 305.294.2298 (f) 305.296.8803

or log onto: www.conchrepublic.com