Fantasy Fest facts for kids
Fantasy Fest is a fun street party held every year in the last week of October. It takes place in Key West, Florida. People come from all over to enjoy the costumes, parades, and special 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 popular. By 1995, more than 60,000 people attended. The main parade featured 70 floats, bands, and groups in amazing costumes. In 2001, it was estimated that Fantasy Fest brought about $35 million to the Key West area each year.
The biggest part of Fantasy Fest is its grand parade. This parade has many funny and creative floats. One special float carries the Conch King and Queen, who are chosen each year. These floats can be very detailed and expensive to build. Groups of participants, called krewes, and their sponsors pay for the floats themselves.
In October 2005, a big storm called Hurricane Wilma hit Key West. Because of the damage, Fantasy Fest was moved to December that year. It was celebrated just before Christmas. The theme for that year was "Freaks, Geeks and Goddesses."
The 2020 event was planned to be the 42nd Fantasy Fest. However, it was cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The festival returned in 2021.
What Happens at Fantasy Fest?
Fantasy Fest is often compared to other big festivals like New Orleans Mardi Gras and Carnival in Rio de Janeiro. Many people gather in the area around Duval Street, where there are lots of shops and places to eat.
While some parts of the festival are for adults, there are also many fun events for families. For example, there is a special Children's Day with activities just for kids.
The King and Queen of Fantasy Fest
How the King and Queen Are Chosen
Each year, a King and Queen of Fantasy Fest are chosen. This happens at the Coronation Ball, which is a special event. The Coronation Ball also helps raise money for a local group that supports people with a serious illness. This event officially kicks off the festival.
The King and Queen are people who live in Key West. They are chosen after an 8-week fundraising effort. The people who raise the most money become the King and Queen.
The Royal Court and Their Role
Other candidates who also raised money, but not as much, are honored with titles like Duke and Duchess. For eight weeks, these candidates work as helpers for the non-profit group. This group has been helping people in the Keys since 1986.
The candidates organize many different events to raise money. These events include singing competitions, fun BINGO games, and a "Red Shirt Run" in September. They also have gatherings at popular spots around the island.
The King, Queen, and their Royal Court are a big part of the main Duval Street parade. They ride on a special float that shows how much money they helped raise for the community.
Main Events and Activities
- Goombay: This is a two-day street party in Key West's Bahama Village. It's named after the 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 Conch King and Queen are officially crowned.
- Zombie Bike Ride: A family-friendly event where people dress up as zombies and decorate their bicycles.
- Tutu Tuesday: An adult costume party where everyone wears tutus.
- The Pet Masquerade: A fun costume contest just for pets!
- Fogarty's Red Party: An adult party where people wear red costumes. It's one of the original "color" parties of Fantasy Fest.
- The Headdress Ball: A special event known for its amazing and creative headdresses.
- The Street Fair: You can find food, drinks, costumes, and handmade arts and crafts 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 games and contests for kids.
See also
