Fantasy Fest facts for kids
Fantasy Fest is a super fun street party that happens every year in Key West, Florida. It takes place during the last week of October. People dress up in amazing costumes and enjoy many exciting events.
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History of Fantasy Fest
Fantasy Fest started in 1979. Four friends, Bill Conkle, Tony Falcone, Joe Liszka, and Frank Romano, created it. They wanted to bring more visitors to Key West during a quieter time of the year.
The festival quickly became very popular. By 1995, over 60,000 people came to enjoy it. The main parade had 70 floats, many bands, and groups in costumes. Fantasy Fest helps the local economy a lot.
The biggest part of Fantasy Fest is its amazing parade. It features funny and creative floats. One special float carries the annually chosen Conch King and Queen. These floats can be very detailed and cost a lot to build. Groups of friends, called krewes, and their sponsors pay for the floats themselves.
In 2005, a big storm called Hurricane Wilma hit the island. Because of the damage, Fantasy Fest was moved from October to December that year. The theme was "Freaks, Geeks and Goddesses."
The event was supposed to celebrate its 42nd year in 2020. However, it was cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. It was then held again in 2021.
What to Expect at Fantasy Fest
Fantasy Fest is often compared to famous parties like New Orleans Mardi Gras and Carnival in Rio de Janeiro. Many people gather on Duval Street, where there are lots of fun activities. Most of the events are for grown-ups. However, there are also special events that are perfect for families and kids.
The King and Queen of Fantasy Fest
Every year, a King and Queen of Fantasy Fest are chosen. They get their titles at the Coronation Ball. This special event kicks off the festival. It also raises money for a local group that helps people with certain health conditions in the community.
The King and Queen are people who live in Key West. They are chosen after an 8-week fundraising challenge. The people who raise the most money become the King and Queen. Other candidates who raise a lot of money are honored as Duke and Duchess.
These candidates work as helpers for the non-profit group. They organize many different events to raise money. These events include singing contests, fun BINGO games, and a "Red Shirt Run." They also have get-togethers at popular places on the island.
The King and Queen, along with their helpers, ride on a special float in the big Duval Street parade. This float celebrates all the money they helped raise for the community.
Exciting Events
Here are some of the fun events you can find at Fantasy Fest:
- Goombay - This is a two-day street party in Key West's Bahama Village. It's named after Goombay drums, which make the party's music. It celebrates the culture of Key West's Bahamian community with food, art, and lots of dancing.
- The Royal Coronation Ball - This is where the new Conch King and Queen are officially crowned.
- Zombie Bike Ride - A family-friendly event where people dress up like zombies and decorate their bicycles.
- Tutu Tuesday - A fun costume party where everyone wears tutus.
- The Pet Masquerade - A costume contest just for pets!
- Fogarty's Red Party - A party where everyone dresses in red, with red decorations and fun activities. It was the first "color" party at Fantasy Fest.
- The Headdress Ball - A special event where people show off amazing headdresses, organized by a local business group.
- The Street Fair - You can find food, drinks, costumes, and arts and crafts all along Duval Street.
- The Masquerade March - A daytime parade through the streets of Key West.
- The Fantasy Fest parade - This is the biggest event and the grand finale of the festival.
- Children's Day - A family-friendly event held at Bayview Park with fun activities and contests for kids.
See also
- Folsom Street Fair
- Mardi Gras
