Key Largo Pops on 4th of July

Key Largo 4th of July Parade
Photo by Claudia Miller

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Key Largo denizens take Independence Day celebrations seriously, starting bright and early at 10:00 a.m. with an old-fashioned parade. Now in its 37^th year, the event draws thousands of locals and visitors. I went to my first 4^th of July Parade in Key Largo last year and was impressed with the fervor of the locals, who stake out a shady spot along the northbound lane of U.S. Highway 1 an hour before the parade starts. Tents and umbrellas were pitched, lawn chairs unfolded. Barbecues were lit and bloody marys passed. Adults, kids and even dogs were decked out in red-white-and-blue attire, including pompoms, leis, necklaces, hats, and of course, American flags. A procession of fire engines, wrapped in bunting and balloons, kicked off the parade with sirens and lights. Floats and trailered boats were decorated to the theme, “Flagler’s Railroad to the Sea,” and included a train engine, caboose and costumed characters from 1912. This year’s theme, "America: Yesterday, Today and Forever," should prove equally entertaining. The best viewing spot for the fireworks at 9:00 p.m. is Blackwater Sound along mile marker 103. Boat owners can watch the pyrotechnic display just feet from the floating fireworks barge. 

Traveler's tip: If you drive through Key Largo on July 4, keep in mind that the northbound lane of U.S. Highway 1, from mile marker 98.2 to mile marker 100, is closed from 10:00 to 11:30 a.m. Traffic will be rerouted onto the southbound lane. If you get stuck, just pull over and enjoy the parade. You won’t regret it.

Not in Key Largo? Check out these other 4th of July events throughout Florida, along with these Keys-wide activities.

Tags: family | Florida Keys | Fourth of July | Key Largo | news-events