About Key West's Bicentennial Celebration
In 1822, John Simonton purchased the island of Key West from Juan Pablo Salas. He, along with many other merchants, immediately settled the island. Following soon was Lt. Matthew C. Perry who planted the United States flag on the island on March 25, 1822, claiming it as American soil. This solidified Key West's special place in history and has given the island reason to commemorate its Bicentennial in 2022.
Thank you for joining us as we celebrated our history, architecture, food, culture, art, industries, residents and so much more!
Get Involved In Key West's Bicentennial
A Full Year of Events & Programs
See the time capsule that will be opened in 2072 for the 250th celebration on display now at Mallory Square
The week of March 20th- 26th, 2022 was the main event week but other amazing events happened all year!
Lots of great special events were planned including during the Heritage Festival. Drone fireworks. Guests watched the sky light up on March 26th, 2022 with these silent, eco-friendly and pet friendly drones.