It happens once a year. During the last week of October, Key West’s population swells and revelers descend on our island paradise to play out their wildest fantasies. That’s right, Fantasy Fest is right around the corner. From body paint and scandalous costumes to wild parties and the big parade, the week of Halloween is never more fun than in Key West. With this year’s theme: Villains, Vixens, & Vampires, the Fury crew is excited about the possibilities.
Whether you’re a Fantasy Fest diehard or considering joining the fun for the first time this year, we’d like to give you the inside info on the best parties that locals love every year. Start thinking about your costumes now… and as the saying goes, “Less is more!”
Friday & Saturday October 23 & 24
Goombay Festival
The Fantasy Fest pre-party begins on Petronia Street in the heart of historic Bahama Village. This all day street fair features food and drink vendors, craftspeople, and live music and entertainment. The Fury crew flocks to husband and wife duo and Fury mates, Eli and Kenna’s drink stand, where they serve delicious rum punch and mojitos. Blue Heaven, the eponymous backyard bar and restaurant, always rocks a lively Goombay scene too.
Wednesday October 28
Hog’s Breath Homemade Bikini Contest
This contest holds a special place in our hearts as our own Fury Girl is Homemade Bikini Contest royalty. Come to compete or to cheer the girls on as they strut their stuff in the most creative bikinis you’ve ever seen. We’re still waiting for someone to top Fury Girl’s snorkel masks and dive flag!
Fogarty’s Red Party
Fogarty’s is a hot spot amongst locals throughout the week of Fantasy Fest, but nothing compares to Wednesday night’s Red Party. Wear your best and brightest red and dance the night away to a live DJ. This is the party you will be talking about all year long.
Thursday October 29
Sloppy Joe’s Toga Party
Whether you’re inside the most famous bar in Key West or crawling down Duval Street, Thursday night Fantasy Fest always means toga. Strip the sheets, wrap yourself up, and head downtown!
Saturday October 31
The Parade
This year’s parade falls on Halloween (and check-in girl Becky’s birthday) and is certain to inspire wild costumes. Last year, savvy Fury crew members managed to watch the parade twice. Catamaran/parasail mate Zac and girlfriend Katie’s family always rent a condo in Truman Annex where the parade begins. Once it’s run its course, the crew heads over to parasail mate Stephen’s apartment at the end of the parade route. His balcony, overlooking lower Duval Street, has VIP written all over it!
These parties are only the icing on the cake and there is certainly more debauchery to be found throughout the week of Fantasy Fest. Come on down and don’t be afraid to let your freak flag fly! |