Key West mourns Jimmy Buffett with a blast of his greatest hits in the streets

Jimmy Buffett’s music helped brand Key West as a laid-back paradise. So it’s only fitting that in the Southernmost City, his greatest hits can be heard booming from speakers outside City Hall.

Buffett spent years developing his signature sound in Key West — his band was known as the Coral Reefers — and he became one of the most beloved entertainers in America with hits like “Margaritaville” and “Cheeseburger in Paradise.”

Here’s what to know about tributes in Key West:

▪ Musical tribute: Buffett’s greatest hits were booming on repeat from speakers as the city mourned his death. Buffett died late Friday at age 76.

▪ Procession: At 5 p.m. Sunday, a procession will celebrate Buffett’s life, starting at Duval and Front streets, and then continuing down Duval Street.

▪ Symbolic stop: There will be a stop at Margaritaville, his restaurant and boutique, with the event ending at the corner of Truman Avenue.

▪ Benefit: Proceeds from the event will go to the Bahama Village Music Program.

▪ Flag salute: Key West city offices will also be flying their flags at half-staff.

This story was originally published September 2, 2023 at 5:21 PM.