What and Where is the Sunset Celebration?
Mallory Square sits at the northern end of Duval Street and looks out on the beautiful waters of the Gulf of Mexico and sits adjacent to the cruise ship port, the Opal Key Resort and Marina and Key West's Old Town. Sunset Celebration is a nightly arts festival at Mallory Square, where hundreds come every night to mark the passing of yet another day in paradise. Folks usually start arriving about 2 hours before the official sunset. Though the cruise ships do dock right next door, since 1984 they have been required to leave port at least 2 hours prior to the sunset and may then return again, if they are spending the night.
The nightly festival hosts visitors from all over the world who come to take part in the magicians, jugglers, clowns, psychics, local musicians, artists, and food vendors that combine for an incredible cultural experience.
Credit: Mallory Square Key West
In addition to it's names sake appeal, the area is also home to the Memorial Sculpture Garden. Here you'll find bronze busts of 39 men and women that have had a significant impact on the islands life and heritage. Not to mention a 20' monument commemorating the island rich history of shipwreck salvaging. The artist responsible for the sculptures, is James Mastin.
Additionally, you'll find the Key West Shipwreck Historeum / Museum, the Old Post Office & Customs House Museum (which serves as the Key West Museum of Art & History), the oldest attraction on Key West the Aquarium, as well as, a number of fantastic restaurants.
So, when taking in this beautiful, nightly show, be sure to stop an any of the numerous craft and souvenir booths, for that special Key West memento. Not to mention grabbing a tasty beverage to help wash it all down, with.
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