Fantasy Fest
Don’t miss our infamous annual homage to debauchery.
Fantasy Fest isn’t for the faint of heart – it’s a crazy party where literally anything can happen!
Key West Fantasy Fest
Key West Fantasy Fest is going to be lively this year! Charge your creative juices during the craziness that is Fantasy Fest, and enjoy some partying, playing and plain old having a great time! Fantasy Fest occurs near Halloween every year and is now one of the busiest times of the year in Key West. Thousands of people participate, bringing great costumes and great times! Looking for fun accommodations in Key West near the heart of the action? Ocean Key Resort is your hotel. And when you’re not celebrating at Fantasy Fest, Ocean Key guests can relax at the foot of Duval Street, just steps from the action in a beautiful setting perched over the harbor.
What is Fantasy Fest?
Fantasy Fest is the premier costume and masked spectacle in South Florida. The 10-day themed festival for grown-ups includes street fairs, costumed processions, glamorous balls and over 60 parties all culminating in the Fantasy Fest Parade on the penultimate day. As many as 75,000 partygoers participate in the festivities by expressing their creativity through costumes, partying and general excitement.
The origins of Fantasy Fest date back to 1979 when a group of business owners decided to come up with an event to attract visitors during the slow season. What began as a simple, yet audacious costume parade has since turned into a multi-day event. The festival has since added several events and activities that serve as fundraisers for community groups and non-profit organizations.
What to Do at Fantasy Fest
Fantasy Fest has a jam packed, 10-day schedule that features parades, carnivals, pool parties, luaus, musical performances, open house events, dances, contests, balls, pub crawls and a whole lot more. To say that you won’t be at a loss for something to do at Fantasy Fest is an understatement. Events can be attended depending on your choice of costume (the Toga party, Bowties and Birthday Suits, Tutu Tuesday, the Venetian Masquerade Ball), activity (the Naughty Bike Ride, the Heroes and Villains 5k Run/Walk) or theme (Cheraoke, Beach Bash, Rock and Roll pool party.) In addition to festivities during the entire week, most of the attendees make sure to stick around for the final weekend for the Fantasy Fest Street Festival and Parade. Get your costumes ready and prepare to get weird!
Where to Eat and Drink
If you’re looking for some excellent dining near Fantasy Fest, check out the mélange of tastes from Florida and the Caribbean at Hot Tin Roof. Also open for breakfast, the restaurant offers beautiful harbor views overlooking the iconic Sunset Pier.
If you’re looking for some lighter fare, try the food at Sunset Pier Tiki Bar & Grill. The tropical Caribbean menu features seafood, burgers, sandwiches and fresh salads. Sip frozen tropical drinks while enjoying the nightly music, dancing and the most epic sunsets.
LIQUID is our poolside bar exclusive to hotel guests. Take pleasure in luxury VIP service, a dipping pool for cooling off and a large whirlpool for extra relaxation. Offering the best views on the island along with a premium cocktail bar and snacking menu, LIQUID is a delightfully secluded spot.
Where to Stay
Staying at the Ocean Key Resort close to Fantasy Fest in Key West means you can enjoy all of the crazy activities without a long walk. And when you’re not celebrating, relax in your Keys chic room with a balcony overlooking the water.
ADDRESS
Ocean Key Resort & Spa
0 Duval Street
Key West, FL 33040
Map & Directions
HOTEL DIRECT
ROOM RESERVATIONS
AWARDS & PRESS
Conde’ Nast Traveler
Readers’ Choice Awards, Top 10 Resorts in the Florida Keys – 2024
Travel & Leisure
World’s Best Awards – Top 10 Resorts in Florida
2024