The influence of Cub
an culture on the lifestyle in Key West can be found from the strains of Latin music in the air to the artwork and architecture on the streets. Thousands of Cubans fled to Key West during Cuba’s War of Independence from Spain in 1868. With the arrival of these many people seeking freedom, the population in Key West grew from 2,800 to over 18,000.
Many of the Cubans who came to Key West were skilled cigar makers and the area became the cigar capital of the world by the late 1800’s. Today visitors can see many cigar factories that remain throughout the island from the days when over 1 million cigars were produced each year.
The economic and cultural impact of Cuban Americans in Key West will be celebrated at the 11th annual Cuban American Heritage Festival from May 27-29. This popular festival preserves Key West’s rich legacy of Cuban history and culture for residents and visitors. The events start with a Coast to Coast Conga Line at 8:00 p.m. on Friday, May 27th. The public is invited to gather by the Southernmost House where the conga line will wind from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico and end at Mallory Square.
A local favorite restaurant, El Meson De Pepe which houses memorabilia showcasing Cuban heritage will host a Latin dance party after the conga line. The El Meson De Pepe features a large artwork display by renowned Cuban American artist, Mario Sanchez, and festivities will continue at the restaurant on Saturday, May 28th. Guests will enjoy a full dinner, wine, and fine cigars. The dinner charge is $75.00 and all proceeds will be donated to the Cuban American Heritage Foundation Scholarship Fund.
Check out some of the fun at one of the previous Cuban American Heritage Festivals! Festival Video
This is a great lifestyle! Isn’t it time to join the fun? Give me a call and we’ll get started. Jimmy Lane 305-766-0585.