In most places, Labor Day marks the end of summer. It’s a three-day weekend to barbeque, visit the beach, and relax. As usual, Key West isn’t like most places - Labor Day isn’t the last hurrah before winter (because there is no “winter” here in the Conch Republic). Taking it easy, beachtime, and barbecues are just typical weekend activities. Although, Labor Day in Key West does mark our humid months coming to an end, the excellent weather to come, and an excuse to celebrate the extended weekend.

Still haven’t made plans for Labor Day weekend in Key West? Plan a short visit to the southernmost city in the continental United States. Crowds are moderate this time of year, so it’s a good time to relax and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. Book at The Gates Hotel Key West for shuttle service to Old Town, on-site dining, bike rentals, and excellent lodging.

Many Floridians choose a last-minute trip down to Key West during Labor Day weekend if the weather is fair. If you’re a Florida or Georgia resident considering exactly this, plan to book with our Florida & Georgia Residents’ Escape package. Guests can enjoy up to 20 percent off booking and other treats with a valid ID.

Key West Labor Day Weekend Events

Labor Day weekend on the island always marks the return of Key West BrewFest. BrewFest runs every Labor Day weekend in Key West, bringing over 50 breweries and 150 beers to the island. Sip your way through the tasting festival and enjoy events across the island during the long weekend. Read more about the Key West BrewFest on our blog. (Aug. 31 - Sept. 4, 2023)

The Gates Hotel is hosting a Sunset Green Biergarten, in conjunction with Key West BrewFest! Join us on the Sunset Green Event Lawn from 6 - 10 p.m. for live music by local legends Nick Norman and The Marshall Morlock Band. Enjoy brews from several breweries, lawn games, great food, and more. Proceeds benefit local scholarship programs. (Sept. 1)

Did you lack time spent on the water this summer? Before end-of-year activities and holidays begin to fill your schedule, put in some time on the water in Key West. Fury Catamaran has several Labor Day Weekend Cruises planned, like the ‘Ultimate Adventure’ which includes breakfast, snorkeling the third largest reef in the world, a picnic lunch, and an open-sea water park complete with a wide variety of watersports. Or, for something a little more mellow, book Fury’s evening sail outing to watch the sunset one final time this summer. During your visit to Key West see the front desk at The Gates - we’ll help you book your Labor Day sail.

Take advantage of our water sport special offers, from amazing experiences with Fury to discounts on dives and excursions at Southpoint Dives.

[Tips for Setting Sail in Key West]

While Labor Day may be the unofficial “Sunset of Summer”, we all know that it’s an endless summer in Key West. Unfortunately, fall and winter schedules don’t always provide that blissful summer feeling. Make the most of your three-day-weekend and enjoy one last hurrah before the end of summer.

Traveling to Key West this Labor Day? Check out rates at The Gates Hotel.