Stars, Stripes & Saltwater
Florida Keys Leaders Take to the Water to Launch America 250 During National Travel & Tourism Week
WHAT: The Most Florida Keys Proclamation Ever: Stars, Stripes & Saltwater
Only in the Florida Keys would a mayor sign a proclamation while standing on a paddleboard surrounded by a bevy of elected officials from all over Monroe County. That is exactly how Visit Florida Keys is kicking off America's 250th anniversary and National Travel and Tourism Week. As one of Florida's first America 250 kickoff celebrations, the event brings residents, businesses and visitors together in a uniquely Keys way, on the water, in the sun and in the spirit of the nation's 250th birthday.
WHEN:
. Monday, May 4, 2026
. 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.
WHERE:
. Old Wooden Bridge Marina
. 1791 Bogie Drive
. Big Pine Key, FL 33043
WHO:
· Michelle Lincoln, Monroe County Mayor
· Kara Franker, President & CEO, Visit Florida Keys & Key West
· Clinton Curry, Master of Ceremonies
· Local officials, tourism partners, residents & visitors
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS:
On Monday, May 4, Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln will paddle into the turquoise waters off Big Pine Key, in full business attire, to sign the official National Travel and Tourism Week proclamation alongside local officials and community leaders. A traditional conch horn call will open the event, followed by a community paddle (aka lots of politicians on SUPs), live music from Florida Keys artists and lunch from local food trucks at Old Wooden Bridge Marina.
VISUALS FOR MEDIA:
· Officials paddleboarding in full business attire
· Proclamation signing on the water
· Sweeping marina and ocean views
· Conch shell call to open the event
· Lively crowd, music, and food vendors
· America 250 kickoff moments with a distinct Florida Keys twist
WHY IT MATTERS:
National Travel & Tourism Week celebrates the impact of travel on communities nationwide. And nowhere is that impact more visible than in the Florida Keys.
The celebration reflects everything that makes the Florida Keys unmistakable: saltwater, sunshine, a sense of humor and a deep respect for the natural environment that draws more than 5 million visitors each year. Conservation and ecotourism partners will be on hand to highlight how environmental stewardship and tourism work hand in hand across the island chain.
To learn more about this event, and all the America’s 250 celebrations throughout the Florida Keys, go to visitfloridakeys.com/industry-partners/NTTW2026
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ABOUT THE FLORIDA KEYS & KEY WEST
The Florida Keys & Key West is a premier getaway destination located at the southernmost tip of Florida and the continental United States. The Keys stretch over 125 miles connected by 42 bridges and bordered by the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf. Discover the spectacular array of diverse activities offered in the Florida Keys like fishing, diving, natural wonders, fine dining and cultural heritage. From large resorts, secluded waterfront hideaways and courtyard guest houses, visitors can uncover the perfect place for their vacation. Restoration, renovation and preservation have become a way of life in the Florida Keys. Whether you’re driving or flying into the Keys, one thing is for sure: there’s simply no place quite like it. Want more reasons to visit The Florida Keys & Key West? Get inspired at visitfloridakeys.com and follow us @thefloridakeys on social media.
MEDIA CONTACTS
Mary B. Haban
Senior Director of Public Relations
Visit Florida Keys & Key West
(305) 394-3142
Visit Florida Keys & Key West PR Agency Team (TURNER)