Memorial Day – Things to Do in Key West [2025]

Memorial Day is the unofficial Kick-off to Summer. Come enjoy the sun, sand, water, and fun!

Memorial Day is not just about barbecues; it’s a day to honor and remember those who have died in military service to the United States.

Key West Cemetery at the USS Maine Memorial

The Navy League hosts a ceremony at the USS Maine Memorial in the Key West Cemetery.

Historic Key West Cemetery Info…

Annual Schooner Wharf Minimal Regatta

To compete in the wacky challenge, each six-member team must construct a craft out of the most minimal supplies: a single sheet of 4-by-8-foot plywood, two 8-foot-long 2-by-4s, a pound of fasteners and a trusty roll of duct tape. Regatta rules even forbid the use of caulking or adhesives, though epoxy paint is permitted. The “sink or swim” challenge is a Memorial Day Weekend tradition in the Florida Keys, with Sunday’s fun scheduled to begin at 11 a.m. when teams can register at the Schooner Wharf Bar, 202 William St.

Live Music at the Green Parrot

A diverse group of people standing together in a spacious, well-lit room during a social gathering.

The Resolvers Reggae

The Resolvers draw influences from classic Jamaican Reggae, Rocksteady, and Ska along with American Rock, Jazz, Funk, and Soul. Their live show has been described as explosive with up to 10 musicians on stage, including a full horn section, and led by the powerful brother & sister duo of Ojay & Sahara Smith on lead vocal roles.

Get Out to a Sandbar!

Spend your vacation like a local, at the sandbar!

Skip the beach as Summer winds bring in sargassum and head out to a sandbar that’s sargassum free.

Be your own captain with a boat rental or let us do the driving and take one of our sandbar charters.

Animal Farm Open House

Visit the family-friendly Monroe County Sheriff’s Animal Farm, open the second and fourth Sundays of each month from 1 to 3 p.m. Visits are free of charge, but donations are always welcomed. Stock Island Detention Center, 5501 College Rd.