Fantasy Fest Highlights October Keys Events

Fantasy Fest Parade
The (Florida Keys and Key West)

(Press Release) FLORIDA KEYS  (September 24, 2025) From flamboyant costumed parades to oceanfront races, foodie feasts, and even a Jimmy Buffett–inspired tour, October in the Florida Keys & Key West is packed with creativity, culture, and fun. Dive into the over-the-top revelry of Fantasy Fest, savor the flavors of Taste The Keys, or join in a roster of music, running, fishing, and family-friendly events that make this destination the place to celebrate all month long. 

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FANTASY FEST 

Taking place October 17-26, 2025, Fantasy Fest is a one-of-a-kind celebration where wild creativity, costuming, and Key West’s famously quirky spirit collide in a 10-day extravaganza of freedom and self-expression. Unlike any other festival — though it can rival Mardi Gras in bacchanalian energy — Fantasy Fest has a distinctly tropical, free-spirited twist that makes it uniquely Key West. First celebrated in 1979, it attracts over 75,000 revelers each year.  

From the family-friendly Goombay Festival (October 18) kicking things off in Bahama Village with Caribbean music and food, to the glitzy Headdress Ball (October 23), and the famously flamboyant Fantasy Fest Parade (October 25), the festival embraces both outrageous adult revelry and all-ages fun.

Where else can you find a Pet Masquerade, a Zombie Bike Ride, body painting contests, and a Masquerade March of costumed characters banging on drums through the streets? Whether you're covered in feathers, body paint, or a tutu, Fantasy Fest invites everyone to shed their inhibitions and celebrate life island-style. This year’s theme is “Bedtime Stories & Magical Monsters” — so dress accordingly! 

Good to know: If you’re staying in Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Marathon, Duck Key, or somewhere in between, you can get to Fantasy Fest easily via an air-conditioned Up The Keys van. Learn more.  
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For a complete schedule of events and more information, visit fantasyfest.com.