The 18th Annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration kicks off this evening, Friday, April 21. The 10-day celebration commemorates the republic's "secession" from the United States to form a "fifth world nation" recognized by international public law as "a sovereign state of mind."
The island republic, whose motto is "We Seceded Where Others Failed," was born following a 1982 US Border Patrol blockade of the Florida Keys. Its stated mission is to bring more humor, warmth and respect to the planet— and the featured events during this year's Conch Republic Independence Celebration are designed to do just that.
It all starts this evening with a major party at the Schooner Wharf Bar, the official headquarters of the celebration. Live music from 7p.m. by Strangeways, a six-piece ska-funk-reggae band with horns.
Also this evening, the Queen's Conch Republic Art Show opens at 6 p.m. at the Gallery on Greene, 606 Greene St. The Queen of the Conch Republic, her friends and courtiers will show off their Royal Artworks.
The Second Annual Conch Republic Beer Fest starts at Noon at the Conch Republic Seafood Co., Greene at Elizabeth Streets.
A three-part party starts at the Green Parrot Bar, Southard and Whitehead, at 3 p.m. with the Fifth Annual Conch Republic Tattoo Contest. At 8, you can help elect the Conch Republic Royal Family. The Danny Morris Band will be on stage, 10-2.
Beer Fest continues at the Conch Republic Seafood Co.
Heaven in the Conch Republic. Blue Heaven, corner of Thomas and Petronia Sts., 9-12. Dancing in the dirt and more.
At 8 p.m., the World's Longest Parade winds down Duval Street, from the Atlantic Ocean to the Schooner Wharf Bar on the Gulf of Mexico.