Visit Key West's Fantasy Fest

Image by zamiro from Pixabay

With so many events going on all over Florida, it’s easy to forget there’s a little set of islands connected to the tip of the state. Key West is a beautiful place to relax, unwind and rest up to party! Every year during the last week of October, people from all over the world come to celebrate the Key West Fantasy Fest. Primarily for the grown-up set, it’s a street party that has all the intrigue and mystery of Halloween with a festive mood. People travel by the boatload just to take part in this yearly festival.

What’s So Special About Key West?

Fantasy Fest has been around since 1979 and is continuously growing. It was founded with a goal to bring life to an otherwise quiet time of year in Key West. There is one travel route in and out so you’ll get to experience all the beauty of the remote parts of Florida on the way. The great expanse of water going across the 7-mile bridge is an adventure in itself, but it opens the doors to exploring all the area has to offer. The architecture of the buildings in the Keys is quite different than the rest of the state but just as elegant and beautiful.

The Fantasy Fest Experience

Fantasy Fest provides a great opportunity for residents and visitors to enjoy the festival atmosphere and explore Key West in all its beauty. Imagine an amplified version of Mardi Gras with an island flair, that’s a little of what you'll experience at Fantasy Fest. Full of parades, elaborate costumes, and parties, you will not have a hard time finding something fun to do. 

What to Expect at Fantasy Fest?

Festival activities span a 10-day period with different themes selected each year. From the King and Queen campaign to daily activities like the Bahama Village Goombay Festival; Royal Coronation; Bike Ride; parades every day, concerts, contests and more, there’s no limit to the action. Check out the street fair to shop with artisans from near and far. While you shop, sample many delicious food offerings from traditional Caribbean fare to food trucks.

Keep in mind that the majority of the events are adults-only,  but there are events like Children’s Day and other types of events where children are welcome.