2025 Guide to Fantasy Fest: Dates, Tickets, Lodging and the Real Details

What is Fantasy Fest?

Fantasy Fest is Key West’s most famous annual celebration, a 10-day festival known for its colorful costumes, themed parades, street parties, and unforgettable island vibes. Since 1979, this Florida Keys event has drawn crowds from around the world who come for live music, masquerade balls, fantasy-themed floats, and non-stop nightlife. Think of it as a tropical Mardi Gras, with a uniquely Key West twist.

Fantasy Fest 2025 Dates

Mark your calendar now: Fantasy Fest 2025 runs from October 17 – October 26, 2025.
The festival lasts 10 days, leading up to the world-famous Fantasy Fest Parade on Saturday, October 25, 2025.

Events include:

• Masquerade March – A fan-favorite walking parade through Old Town.
• Pet Masquerade – Costumes aren’t just for people! Pets strut their stuff too.
• Street Fairs & Concerts – Live music and entertainment all week.
• Fantasy Fest Parade – Floats, beads, costumes, and thousands of spectators.

Do You Need Tickets for Fantasy Fest?

The good news: many Fantasy Fest events are free, including parades and street performances. However, some headline parties and specialty events require tickets:

• Masquerade Balls – Iconic themed parties hosted at local venues.
• VIP Parade Viewing – Reserved seating with open bar and food.
• Private Yacht or Rooftop Parties – Limited-access events with amazing parade views.

Tickets for VIP and specialty parties sell out early, so secure them in summer 2025.

Where to Stay During Fantasy Fest 2025

Key West is a small island, and lodging sells out months in advance during Fantasy Fest. Book early to guarantee a room or rental.

Top Lodging Options:

• Duval Street Hotels – Stay in the heart of the action.
• Bed & Breakfast Inns in Old Town – Charming, walkable, and often themed for Fantasy Fest.
• Vacation Rentals – Great for groups who want more space and flexibility.
• Nearby Keys (Stock Island, Big Pine, Marathon) – More budget-friendly, but expect a 20–60 min drive. Check out Oceans Edge Resort and Marina on Stock Island!

What to Wear to Fantasy Fest

Costumes are the heart of Fantasy Fest. Each year has a theme, and 2025’s Fantasy Fest Theme will be announced in early spring.

Trending costume ideas for 2025:

• Glow-in-the-dark and neon body paint.
• Group costumes with matching tropical themes.
• Classic Key West looks: mermaids, pirates, sea creatures, and tropical fantasy characters.

👉 Don’t forget comfortable shoes — you’ll be walking Duval Street for hours.

Is Fantasy Fest Family-Friendly?

While Fantasy Fest is famous for adult fun, families often attend daytime events like the Pet Masquerade or parades early in the week. After dark, the festival leans heavily toward adult-themed parties and costumes, so families with young children may prefer to leave evenings to the grown-ups.

Getting Around During Fantasy Fest

Parking in Old Town is nearly impossible during Fantasy Fest week. The best options:

• Walking or biking – Most hotels near Duval make it easy to get around on foot.
• Pedicabs & taxis – Fun, quick rides for short distances.
• Shuttles from Stock Island – Often available if you stay outside Key West.

Insider Tips for Fantasy Fest 2025

-          Pack light & fun – Most costumes involve minimal clothing in the tropical heat.

-          Respect the rules – Body paint must follow Key West’s public nudity laws.

-          Hydrate – Between sun, costumes, and drinks, water is essential.

-          Plan events – The full 2025 Fantasy Fest schedule will be released by July.

Why Fantasy Fest 2025 is Worth the Trip

Fantasy Fest isn’t just a party — it’s a cultural event that captures the spirit of Key West. It combines the creativity of costuming, the energy of parades and live music, and the laid-back tropical lifestyle of the Florida Keys. Whether you’re attending for the first time or you’re a returning “Conch Republic” fan, Fantasy Fest 2025 promises to be bigger, brighter, and bolder than ever.