Fantasy Fest 2018

The 2018 Theme: “OH…THE GAMES WE PLAY!”

Whether you are a single player, multiplayer, or just a player, this year’s theme is sure to get your cranium creating some costume ideas. Become your favorite game show host, bring to life your childhood board games, or transport yourself into your most loved netherworld. The ideas are endless, so roll the dice on your favorite game to play and meet us in Key West for a game worth playing!  The official Fantasy Fest website has a lot of information about this year’s event, including the schedule of activities.

Fantasy Fest Background

Fantasy Fest is an annual 10-day party in paradise for grown-ups. Started in 1979 by a small group of Key West locals, the party was created to bring visitors to the island in what was a typically quiet, but beautiful season. It worked. Fantasy Fest has grown every year since its inception and is now the wildest extravaganza around! Fun-loving revelers from around the globe bring their creativity and imaginations as they descend upon Key West each year in October for 10 days filled with costuming, parades, libations, and excitement!

King and Queen

The King and Queen of Fantasy Fest are annual titles bestowed at the Coronation Ball, a fundraiser for a community AIDS care service, that marks the official beginning of the event.  The king and queen are residents of Key West, Florida, selected via an 8-week fundraising campaign.

Their Royal Court is subsequently composed of fellow Candidates who didn’t raise as much, but are still honored with the titles of Duke and Duchess. For 8 weeks, these candidates serve as ambassadors for AIDS Help, the non-profit Agency that has assisted those living with HIV/AIDS in the Keys since 1986.

Future Dates for Fantasy Fest

2019: 10/18 – 10/27
2020: 10/23 – 11/01
2021: 10/22 – 10/31
2022: 10/21 – 10/30
2023: 10/20 – 10/29