As Earth Day 2026 approaches, the Village of Key Biscayne is gearing up for an exciting celebration at Paradise Park. This free event, titled Earth Day 2026 – Cape Chronicles: The Living History of Cape Florida & Key Biscayne, will take place from 3:00 PM to 8:00 PM on April 25, 2026. Attendees can look forward to a range of activities designed to educate and entertain while celebrating our planet.
The highlight of the event will be a keynote address by Bill Baggs, a prominent figure in environmental advocacy and journalism, taking the stage at 4:30 PM. Baggs will discuss his efforts to secure Cape Florida as a state park, a cause he championed throughout his influential career. Notably, attendees will also have the chance to meet local celebrities involved in the Cape Chronicles initiative, starting at the same time.
Activities and Attractions
A variety of engaging activities will be featured throughout the day, including a Recycled Fashion Show that promotes sustainability through creativity. Additionally, a mobile museum kiosk will provide fascinating insights into Cape Florida’s history, including the lighthouse, the Tequesta and Seminole tribes, and the Salt Water Underground Railroad. Bill Baggs himself will participate in the fashion show, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.
As a token of appreciation, all participants who register will receive free stickers. However, attendees should be aware that their participation implies consent for interviews, photography, and audio/video recordings by the Friends of Cape Florida Inc. (FOCF), which will be used for various promotional purposes. By joining in, participants waive any claims regarding these recordings and their subsequent publication.
Remembering Bill Baggs
Bill Baggs was not just a journalist; he was a force for change. As the editor of the Miami News from 1957 to 1969, he wrote over 3,000 columns and spearheaded discussions on contentious issues like environmental protection, school desegregation, and the Vietnam War. His dedication to preserving the natural beauty of the area led to the establishment of the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park. This park stands as a testament to his legacy, having been named in his honor after he successfully advocated against the development of the land into hotels and condominiums.
Baggs’ efforts to secure the park’s preservation included negotiating with landowners to reduce the purchase price, ultimately leading to the state acquiring the land in 1966. His work has been documented in the book A Nervous Man Shouldn’t Be Here in the First Place: The Life of Bill Baggs by Amy Paige Condon, which is available at the park’s Lighthouse Keeper’s Cottage.
A Glimpse into Cape Florida State Park
Located in Key Biscayne, Florida, the Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Recreation Area is a gem of natural beauty featuring the Cape Florida Light, the oldest standing structure in Greater Miami. Recognized as one of the best beaches in the country, the park offers over a mile of sandy shoreline for swimming, snorkeling, and a host of other outdoor activities such as boating, kayaking, and fishing.
With its rich biodiversity, the park is home to over 260 species of birds, including Piping Plovers and Peregrine Falcons, as well as various protected plants and animals like the Loggerhead sea turtles. The park also plays a vital role in preserving the region’s history, having been recognized as part of the National Underground Railroad Network to Freedom Trail in 2004.
As Earth Day 2026 approaches, the celebration will not only honor the environment but also pay tribute to the legacy of Bill Baggs, whose commitment to conservation has left a lasting impact on the community. Join us at Paradise Park for an unforgettable day filled with inspiration, learning, and fun!