KEY WEST, Fla. – The Margaritaville state of mind will be alive and well in Key West this Labor Day weekend as fans, friends, and fellow Parrotheads gather for the inaugural Just a Few Friends Festival – Tribute to Jimmy Buffett, taking place August 29 through September 1, 2025.

The four-day celebration honors the life and legacy of beloved singer-songwriter Jimmy Buffett, whose music, mischief, and easygoing philosophy left a permanent mark on the island city he once called home—and endlessly sang about.

From a vibrant Second Line Memorial Parade down Duval Street to free concerts featuring members of Buffett’s Coral Reefer Band, the festival promises to be a laid-back, sun-soaked tribute filled with stories, songs, and salty breezes.

“Jimmy didn’t just perform in Key West—he lived it,” said festival organizer Marley Timmons, a longtime Buffett fan and local event planner. “This isn’t about big-ticket shows or over-the-top 

production. It’s about honoring the spirit of Jimmy in the places that inspired him.”

Festival Highlights:

• Second Line Memorial Parade (Friday, August 29, 6 p.m.): Inspired by New Orleans jazz funerals, the festival kicks off with a colorful procession along Duval Street. Attendees are encouraged to dress in island attire, wave white handkerchiefs, and toast to the pirate who never quite grew up.

• Free Coral Reefer Band Concerts: Performances throughout the weekend at venues including the Truman Waterfront Amphitheater, the Sunset Pier, and Smokin’ Tuna Saloon. Special guests and musical surprises are expected.

• Harbor & History Tours: Sailboat excursions and guided walking tours will showcase Buffett’s favorite haunts, from the chart-topping charm of Captain Tony’s Saloon to the back-alley bars where lyrics were born.

• Pop-Up Exhibits & Story Sessions: Locals and longtime fans will share personal stories of encounters with Buffett, and rare memorabilia will be displayed in venues throughout Old Town.

• Sunset Toast & Sing-Along (Sunday, August 31): A communal gathering at Mallory Square will close the weekend with a sunset toast, group rendition of “Margaritaville,” and ceremonial conch shell blowing.

• Buffett, who passed away in 2023, often credited Key West as his creative catalyst—where he found both his voice and his audience. From the release of A White Sport Coat and a Pink Crustacean to the opening of the original Margaritaville Café in 1985, his imprint on the Conch Republic remains indelible.

• “We’re not trying to throw a mega-festival,” Timmons added. “It’s called Just a Few Friends for a reason. Jimmy’s music brought people together—and that’s what this is all about.”

• The festival is open to the public, and most events are free or low-cost. Visitors are encouraged to book accommodations early, as the island is expected to sell out.

• For the full schedule and event updates, visit www.justafewfriendsfest.com.

• Fins up, Key West. Jimmy’s coming home—again.