Fantasy Fest 2024
- TBA
- Key West, FL
If you’ve ever spent any time on Key West’s Duval Street, you’d imagine there’s always a party going on, but that wasn’t always true. Back in the 1970s, despite reliably beautiful weather, from a retail and tourism standpoint October was dead. Shops up and down Duval, put out the “gone fishing” signs and closed up for months at a time.
A group of local business owners started thinking about what they could do to change that by attracting visitors and tempting snowbirds to return sooner for an earlier start of the lucrative winter season. Bill Conkle, Tony Falcone, Joe Liszka and Frank Romano decided a big party might just do the trick — and taking advantage of the popularity of Halloween and the tradition of fanciful costuming locally, in 1979, they threw a parade.
That first parade, small, but absolutely outrageous, has in time grown to be Fantasy Fest®, a festival of costumed parties in true Key West style. Over the years, Fantasy Fest, has become the premier masking and costuming extravaganza, like nothing else you’ve ever seen. The festival has grown to encompass more than 60 parties, costumed marches, street fairs, and glamorous balls, as well as the show-stopping Fantasy Fest parade.
Since its inception, Fantasy Fest has continually boosted the economy by filling up hotel rooms and showcasing local businesses, restaurants, and bars during the two weekends closest to Halloween. Bringing in as many as 75,000 revelers each year, it’s an event that invites grown-ups out to play and celebrates our Florida Keys culture. Fantasy Fest is committed to extending the time that visitors stay by encouraging the creation of diverse events throughout the 10-day festival. The opportunity to show off the imaginative and resourceful spirit that defines the Keys excites local participants and visitors.
Many Fantasy Fest events and activities serve as important fundraisers for local non-profit organizations, including the iconic King & Queen of Fantasy Fest campaign. Over the past 30 years The Royal campaign for King & Queen raised over $5 Million Dollars for A.H. Monroe of the Florida Keys and starting in 2023 the event will benefit The Florida Keys SPCA!
Here is a list of gay-friendly hotels in Miami:
- Dream South Beach: This stylish hotel is located just steps away from the beach and caters to a diverse clientele, including lgbtq+Q+ travelers. It features luxurious rooms, a rooftop pool, a bar, and a restaurant. Check Availability and Prices: Link
- The Betsy Hotel: Situated in the historic Art Deco district, The Betsy Hotel is known for its elegant ambiance and welcoming atmosphere. It offers luxurious accommodations, a rooftop pool, a spa, and several dining options. Check Availability and Prices: Link
- The Marlin Hotel: Nestled in the heart of South Beach, The Marlin Hotel offers a boutique experience for all guests. It provides beautifully designed rooms, a rooftop terrace, and a bar serving handcrafted cocktails. Check Availability and Prices: Link
- The Sagamore Hotel: A luxurious hotel located in Miami Beach, The Sagamore Hotel offers spacious suites, an outdoor pool, an art gallery, and a beachfront terrace. It welcomes all guests to enjoy its elegant accommodations. Check Availability and Prices: Link
- The Plymouth Miami Beach: Located in the Collins Park neighborhood, The Plymouth Miami Beach offers a sophisticated retreat for all travelers. It features elegant rooms, a courtyard pool, a restaurant, and a rooftop lounge. Check Availability and Prices: Link
- The Catalina Hotel & Beach Club: Situated just steps away from the beach, The Catalina Hotel & Beach Club welcomes all guests to experience its vibrant and stylish atmosphere. It offers comfortable rooms, a rooftop pool, multiple bars, and a restaurant. Check Availability and Prices: Link