What is what does it mean when you get the key to the city?

Receiving a key to the city is a ceremonial honor bestowed by a city upon an individual deemed to have made significant contributions or achieved extraordinary accomplishments. It is largely symbolic, granting no actual privileges or access to areas unavailable to the general public.

Here's a breakdown of what it signifies:

• Honor and Recognition: The primary purpose is to publicly acknowledge and celebrate the honoree's achievements and their positive impact on the city or the wider world. It signifies the city's gratitude and appreciation.

• Symbolic Gesture: The key itself is a symbolic representation of trust and welcome. Historically, it represented the freedom to enter and leave the city at will, but this meaning is largely historical.

• No Real Power: It's crucial to understand that the key does not grant any special legal rights or access. It's a symbolic gesture.

• Varied Criteria: The criteria for receiving a Key to the City vary from city to city. Honorees can include athletes, artists, philanthropists, public servants, and others who have brought distinction to the city or served its citizens in an exemplary way.

• Presentation Ceremony: The presentation is usually a public event, often attended by city officials and community members. It's an opportunity for the city to highlight the honoree's accomplishments and express its gratitude. The Mayor or another high-ranking city official typically presents the key.