“Jimmy Buffett Day” Announced In The State Of Florida
Just six months after his death, the state of Florida has established “Jimmy Buffett Day” to honor the life and legacy of the “Margaritaville” singer.
Buffett passed away on September 1, 2023 at the age of 76. He’d been privately battling a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer called Merkel-cell carcinoma for four years.
Tributes to Buffett poured in from around the world following his death. One of the most touching tributes came from the residents of Key West, Florida, a place that Buffett held dear to his heart.
Buffett moved to Key West in 1972. The island inspired many of his songs, and he even met his wife, Jane, while living there.
Although Buffett eventually moved away, Key West was always a beloved “home” to him. And Key West loved him in return.
That became clear when thousands of people marched in a parade down Key West’s Duval Street to honor Buffett after his death.
He Had A Profound Impact On The Sunshine State
Beyond living there, Buffett also went above and beyond to help the people (and animals) in Florida. He famously co-founded the Save the Manatee Club with Governor Bob Graham in 1981.
Save the Manatee Club’s mission “is to protect manatees and their aquatic habitat for future generations.” The organization aims to fulfill this mission by protecting and recovering manatee habitats, reducing manatee harassment, and ensuring the animals’ protection.
“Jimmy didn’t merely lend his name to the cause; he rolled up his sleeves and took action. He starred in public service announcements, used his concerts to raise funds and awareness, and directed resources toward essential waterway signs to protect manatees from speeding boats” Save the Manatee Club wrote on its website after Buffett’s death. “In 1984, he conceived the Adopt-A-Manatee® program, a groundbreaking initiative that engaged the public and provided crucial funds for manatee conservation. The program not only saved manatees but also educated and inspired countless individuals.”
August 30 Will Now Be “Jimmy Buffett Day” In The State Of Florida
Recently, the Florida legislature declared that August 30, 2024 will now be known as “Jimmy Buffett Day.” The singer’s “Margaritaville” brand shared the news on its social media pages.
“The date celebrates the life and music of Jimmy Buffett, whose free-spirited life and significant contributions to national and state culture are commended and celebrated,” read the post.
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It only seems fitting for Buffett to be honored in such a way. Considering how many fans he has in Florida, it’s sure to be a fun-filled celebration in honor of his extraordinary life and songs.
Watch one of Buffett’s final performances in Key West, Florida by tuning in to the video below.
Jimmy Buffett was devoted to philanthropy. He founded two charitable organizations, Singing for Change and Save the Manatee Club. He also had a company called Last Mango Boatworks that sells apparel and accessories. Items sold from Last Mango benefit Singing for Change and Freedom Fighter Outdoors. Learn more about Jimmy’s philanthropic efforts or donate to one of the above-mentioned organizations here.