Florida Keys Road Trip: Your Guide to Labor Day Weekend in the Florida Keys

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Brian Neff & Florida Keys Road Trip
August 28, 2024

Florida Keys Road Trip: Your Guide to Labor Day Weekend in the Florida Keys

Dear Road Trippers,

Welcome back to another edition of Florida Keys Road Trip! As we head into one of the most exciting weekends of the year, we’re here to help you navigate the best events, festivities, and tips to make your Labor Day weekend in the Keys absolutely unforgettable. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s no better place to celebrate the end of summer than in the sun-soaked paradise of the Florida Keys.

Kick Off Labor Day Weekend with BrewFest and a Special Jimmy Buffett Celebration

This year, Labor Day weekend in Key West is set to be one for the books, with the annual Key West BrewFest taking center stage. If you’re a fan of craft beer, live music, and vibrant island vibes, this is the event you won’t want to miss. Running from August 29 to September 2, BrewFest is packed with over 150 beers on tap from local and national breweries, as well as a series of events that range from beer dinners to pool parties.

But that’s not all—this year’s BrewFest coincides with the special memorial tributes for the legendary Jimmy Buffett, making it a truly unique weekend. As many of you know, Buffett’s passing earlier this year left a void in the hearts of Parrotheads everywhere, and Key West, the island he loved so much, is pulling out all the stops to honor his memory. From sunset celebrations at Mallory Square to live performances of his iconic songs at Margaritaville Café, the weekend promises a perfect blend of tribute and toast to the man who brought Margaritaville to life.

[Read more about BrewFest and the Jimmy Buffett celebration here.](https://keysweekly.com/42/brewfest-coincides-with-jimmy-buffett-celebration-aug-29-to-sept-2/)

Navigating the 18-Mile Stretch: Important Travel Tips

Before we dive deeper into the weekend’s festivities, a quick heads-up for those of you planning to drive down to the Keys. The Florida Department of Transportation has begun resurfacing the 18-Mile Stretch, the iconic roadway connecting the mainland to the Florida Keys. This project, while necessary for improving safety and infrastructure, is expected to cause delays for the foreseeable future.

If you’re hitting the road this Labor Day weekend, be sure to allow extra time for your journey. Consider leaving early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid peak traffic hours, and keep an eye on real-time traffic updates. While the drive through the Keys is always scenic, a little patience will go a long way in ensuring a smooth trip to paradise.

Other Exciting Events Around the Keys

Labor Day weekend isn’t just about BrewFest and Buffett—there’s plenty more happening throughout the Keys to keep you entertained. Here are a few more events to add to your itinerary:

  • "Just a Few Friends" Concert Series: For those looking to enjoy some live music in a more intimate setting, the Just a Few Friends concert series is a must-see. This exclusive event features live performances from talented local musicians in a relaxed, personal atmosphere that perfectly captures the laid-back spirit of Key West. It’s a great way to connect with the local music scene and experience something truly special.

    Check out the Just a Few Friends event here.

  • Music at the Green Parrot: For those looking for some local flavor, the Green Parrot Bar, a Key West institution, will host live music throughout the weekend. It’s the perfect spot to grab a drink, listen to some tunes, and soak up the island’s laid-back vibe.

  • Historic Tours of America: Explore Key West’s rich history with guided tours that take you through the island’s most famous landmarks, from the Ernest Hemingway Home to the Southernmost Point. It’s a great way to add a bit of culture to your weekend.

Planning Your Stay and Navigating the Keys

If you haven’t already booked your accommodations, now’s the time! With the influx of visitors for both BrewFest and the Jimmy Buffett tributes, hotels and rentals are filling up fast. Whether you’re looking for a luxurious resort, a cozy B&B, or a quirky vacation rental, there’s something for every taste and budget in the Keys.

While you’re in town, remember that parking can be tight, especially in Key West. Consider using local shuttles, renting bikes, or simply walking to get around—after all, there’s no better way to take in the island’s charm than by foot.

Final Thoughts

Labor Day weekend in the Florida Keys is always a special time, but this year promises to be particularly memorable. From the lively atmosphere of BrewFest to the heartfelt tributes to Jimmy Buffett, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate the end of summer in style. We hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in the Keys, whether you’re here for the beer, the music, or just the sunshine.

As always, thank you for joining us on this journey through the Florida Keys. We can’t wait to see you out there enjoying all that this incredible place has to offer.

Until next time, safe travels and sunny skies!

Warm regards,

~ Brian

Florida Keys Road Trip