Key West The Newspaper

Come get your party on with one of Key West’s oldest cultural institutions on one of the prettiest verandas in Key West. Key West Art & Historical Society members and those with an interest in supporting Key West’s arts and history are invited to celebrate sunset and happy hour on Friday, November 18 from 5:00pm – 6:30pm while enjoying complimentary libations and refreshments at the 125-year-old Custom House.

For more than sixty years, Society members have helped promote the cultural heritage of the Florida Keys. Their annual membership and participation with Key West’s three award-winning museums support the arts and cultural programming offered within them— year-round exhibitions, educational programming, and special events designed to celebrate the unique culture of our community.

“Members are the first to hear about all of our exciting programming and events,” says Membership Coordinator Kim Livingston. “They get to share in the rich culture of our Florida Keys and belong to an organization that is always growing and offering new programs and education to our community.”

While anyone interested can benefit from what the organization offers, members reap much more, including: 5:30pm VIP access at exhibit openings with an open bar, delectable nibbles, and opportunities to meet the artist and curator before doors open to the general public at 6:00pm; Free admission to Custom House Museum, Fort East Martello Museum, & Key West Lighthouse Museum & Keeper’s Quarters, with reciprocal privileges at over 100 museums and historic sites in Florida and nationwide through the Time Travelers Program; advanced, discounted registration in educational programs like ArtCamp!, Holiday and Professional Day workshops and classes for children at the Fort, and their new cultural traveling programs to Cuba and the Dry Tortugas.

Members also enjoy discounts on nearly everything offered, including a 20% discount in each museum store plus additional discounts during special events, like the upcoming member shopping days throughout November and December leading up to the Society’s Holiday Shopping Bazaar.

New, upcoming events feature bi-monthly Member Breakfasts, quarterly Member Happy Hour Parties at all the museum locations, Archive Curator Tours, and Business Member Socials. Business Membership will also allow for extensive marketing opportunities for business branding through the Society’s ever-growing platform.

“It’s really become a “happening” organization,” says Livingston. “We love that and so do our members!”

The monthly Society members’ porch party is free for members and anyone interested in becoming a member. Please RSVP to [email protected] or call 305-295-6616, ext. 106 or visit kwahs.org. Your Museums. Your Community. It Takes an Island.