Stars, Stripes & Saltwater

Old Wooden Bridge Marina Hosts America 250 Florida Keys Kickoff with Paddleboard Proclamation

At Old Wooden Bridge Marina, a uniquely Florida Keys tradition takes center stage as Monroe County launches the nation’s 250th anniversary celebration with a waterfront proclamation unlike any other. Set for Monday, May 4, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM, this America 250 Florida Keys kickoff transforms Big Pine Key into a vibrant gathering of civic leadership, tourism professionals, and the local community—blending official ceremony with the unmistakable energy of island life.

The highlight of the event features Monroe County Mayor Michelle Lincoln signing the National Travel and Tourism Week proclamation while standing on a paddleboard, surrounded by the clear waters of the Lower Keys. The ceremony begins with a traditional conch shell call, signaling the start of a celebration deeply rooted in regional culture. Joining the moment are key figures including Kara Franker, President & CEO of Visit Florida Keys & Key West, alongside local officials and community participants.

Following the formal proclamation, the marina comes alive with a community paddleboard gathering, live music performances, and dockside food vendors, creating an engaging waterfront atmosphere. The open views across the marina showcase the natural beauty of Big Pine Key, reinforcing the connection between tourism, environment, and local identity.

As one of Florida’s earliest America 250 events, the celebration underscores the importance of tourism throughout the Florida Keys, where millions of visitors each year contribute to the region’s economy, cultural preservation, and conservation initiatives. With participation from environmental and tourism organizations, the event also highlights the ongoing balance between protecting the Keys’ ecosystem and delivering unforgettable visitor experiences.

From elected officials navigating the water in business attire to the unmistakable sound of the conch horn echoing across the marina, this paddleboard proclamation captures the spirit of the Florida Keys—authentic, engaging, and deeply tied to the surrounding waters—setting the tone for the nation’s 250th anniversary in a way only the Keys can deliver.