The biggest costume party for adults kicks off on October 23rd. Fantasy Fest has been taking place since 1979. This event is not for the tame at heart. It features elaborate costumes, lots of skin and gallons of alcohol on hand.
The Costumes
This year’s theme for Fantasy Fest is “All Hallows Intergalactic Freak Show”. While individuals are supposed to wear something that goes with the theme, participants can wear whatever they like. Many individuals choose to not actually wear costumes and cover themselves with body paint. Some of the favorite costume themed events include Tutu Tuesday, Captain Tony’s Party In Plaid and Zombie Bike Ride. It’s important to note that nudity is not allowed. If you do plan on going to Fantasy Fest and wearing a costume, make sure you can easily get around in it as you will probably be doing a lot of walking.
The Parade
The parade is one of the best parts of Fantasy Fest. The Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest Parade tasks place on Saturday night at 7 p.m. You can either try to catch a spot on the parade route or attend a party at one of the local establishments that will be having a parade party- although you will probably have to purchase an advance ticket. The parade consists of over 50 floats with some of them being two stories tall.
The Masquerade March
This event takes place on Friday night. It starts at the Key West Cemetery and is fairly laidback. It travels in two opposite directions and participants stop at various spots along the way for refreshments.
Tips For Attendees
-Finding a parking spot can be difficult in Key West and even more so during Fantasy Fest. Your best bet is to park at Key West High School and take a shuttle to the event. There are some other paid lots, but they tend to fill up very quickly. Never park illegally as your car will be towed.
-During the day, take in some of the beauty of Key West. Participate in some of the many watersports or lounge around on the beach. Just make sure you plan enough time to get back to your hotel room for a nap before heading out to the night’s festivities.
-There will be a lot of picture worthy opportunities. However, it’s always a good idea to ask before snapping a picture of someone. Just because someone is dressed in an outlandish costume it doesn’t mean that they want you to take their picture.
The party goes from October 23rd through November 1st. If you plan on attending make sure you book your accommodations soon as hotel rooms are already starting to sell out.
