20 Best Events of Fantasy Fest 2024

Fantasy Fest 2024 runs Oct. 18 - 27, and there’s so much planned for this year’s theme of ‘It’s a 90s Neon Cosmic Carnival!’ that it’s hard to keep tabs on the must-see events and attractions. In addition to the always popular Fantasy Fest Parade, check out the complete Fantasy Fest schedule to see all there is to enjoy this year - and read on for the best events of 2024.

Although we strive to provide the most current information, events mentioned may be canceled without notice. We recommend checking the official Fantasy Fest website for updates before visiting.

[The Ultimate Fantasy Fest 2024 Guide]

But first, What’s New to Fantasy Fest 2024:

Kick it all off by snapping a selfie with the 90s Neon Mural for a chance to win parade VIP passes (find the mural at Sacred Space Gallery at 529 Southard Street). Also new this year, Cosmic Colors and Costumes: A Universe of Fashion and Fantasy by Guy Hermelin exhibition in the Sanger Gallery at The Studios of Key West, Star Wars Strips: A Burlesque Parody at the Key West Theater, Surf’s Up surfer-inspired party at Hog’s Breath Saloon, and the Baywatch and Babes Pool Party next door to us at The Gates Hotel.

1. The Rocky Horror Show, The Musical - Tues. Oct. 15 - Fri. Oct. 25

The popular musical comedy and Fantasy Fest production returns for the fourth time to the Waterfront Playhouse. The show begins nightly at 8 p.m.

2. Bum Farto, The Musical - Thurs. Oct. 17 - Sat. Oct. 26

Key West’s infamous fire chief who vanished in the 70s is the subject of this high-energy musical at the San Carlos Institute. The show begins at 8 p.m. Read more on this colorful character in our Key Weird Series: The Mysterious Disappearance of Key West’s Infamous Fire Chief, “Bum” Farto.

3. Bahama Village Goombay Festival - Fri. Oct. 18 - Sat. Oct. 19

The Bahama Village family-friendly street party features island arts and crafts, food, and live music from noon to midnight in celebration of the diverse Caribbean history and influence on the island.

4. Royal Coronation - Fri. Oct. 18

Cast your vote for the King and Queen of Fantasy Fest at this two-hour stage show which includes a seated multi-course dinner and live entertainment. The show starts at 7 p.m. at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater. Reserve your tickets in advance.

5. Baywatch and Babes Pool Party - Sat. Oct. 19

Join us at our sister hotel for the sizzling Baywatch and Babes Pool Party. Dive into 90’s fun with DJ Trippy Britty at the Rum Row Sandbar and Pool at The Gates Hotel. Enjoy food and drink specials including Dolce Vita and Empress Gin cocktails from 12 - 4 p.m.

6. Zombie Bike Ride - Sun. Oct. 20

Ride or die at this family-friendly event. Costumed bike riders leave Fort East Martello at 6 p.m. and head down A1A for the free Zombiefest Dance after-party at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater.

Stay Longer, Save, More. Gain Exclusive Savings when You Book Direct with 24 North Hotel

7. A Green Parrot Beatles Tribute - Mon. Oct. 21

Celebrate Beatles music with this tribute show at The Green Parrot (in case you don’t know, the Parrot knows how to throw a good party). Come dressed as your favorite Beatles member. Shows begin at 5:30 p.m., 9 p.m., and 11 p.m.

8. Fantasy Fest 5K Run/Walk - Mon. Oct. 21

Dress as your favorite superhero or supervillain (or just come to see the costumes) at the annual Fantasy Fest 5K Run/Walk (formerly the Heroes and Villains Run/Walk 5K). The race winds through Old Town. Register in advance and be sure to join your fellow caped contenders for Neon Jelly Shots at Mary Ellen’s Bar. The race starts at 6 p.m. at the Tiki House at 203 Duval St. Afterwards, celebrate back where you started at the Post-Race Party with signature Twinkies.

9. Kinky Carnival - Mon. Oct. 21

For those who dare, the 27th annual costumed adults-only Kink Party features interactive BDSM stations, fetish rooms, bondage, and more from 8 - 11 p.m.

10. TuTu Tuesday - Tues. Oct. 22

Celebrate the glory of the tutu at the 14th annual event, this year at the Caroline Street district. Participating locations include General Horseplay, Smokin’ Tuna, First Flight Brewery, and Hank’s Hair of the Dog Saloon, which will all feature different musical styles and unique set designs with the 2024 theme, ‘Into the Looking Glass.’ Doors open at 6 p.m.

11. Capt. Tony’s Party in Plaid - Tues. Oct. 22

Dress in your favorite criss-crossing print for Capt. Tony’s annual Party in Plaid. The party will have live music, cold drinks, and plenty of people bedecked in their best plaid outfit. The party starts at 8 p.m.

[5 Tips for Surviving Fantasy Fest]

12. Pet Masquerade - Wed. Oct. 23

A carousel of costumed pets and their human companions take the stage at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater for a delightful show for all ages. Categories include Pet/Owner Look Alike, Most Exotic, Best Theme Adaptation, and Best in Show. The show begins at 6:30 p.m.

13. Wharfstock - Wed. Oct. 23

Travel back to the 60s with Schooner Wharf, where it’s all things tie-dye, flower power, peace, and love at this groovy gathering. Dress in your best hippie outfit for a chance to win prizes. Wharfstock begins at 7 p.m.

14. Southernmost Scavenger Hunt and Bar Crawl - Thurs. Oct 24 and Sat. Oct. 26

Gather your scavenger hunt team and visit Key West’s most popular watering holes. You’ll follow creative clues, solve riddles, and get tons of perks along the way. Plus there are prizes for the top teams. Get your tickets ahead of time and may the best team win. The bar crawl begins at 2:30 p.m. on Oct. 24 and 26.

15. Sloppy Joe’s 45th Annual Toga Party - Thurs. Oct. 24

The “original Fantasy Fest event” will have live music, dancing, and a house DJ. Don a traditional ancient toga or create your own using the Fantasy Fest theme ‘It’s a 90s Neon Cosmic Carnival.’ Festivities begin at 5:30 p.m. Stick around for the Toga Contest and a chance to win prizes.

16. 41st Annual Headdress Ball - Thurs. Oct. 24

The premier LGBTQ+ event of Fantasy Fest has competitors vie for the $3,000 prize for best headdress at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater. The 8 p.m. show also features several acts, bar and food service, and female impersonator Randy Robers as host. Make sure to get your tickets ahead of time.

17. Fantasy Market - Fri. Oct. 25

Food vendors, arts and crafts, food and libations, and “costumed frivolity” abound at the Conch Republic Seafood Company from 10 - 4 p.m. Don’t miss your chance to shop and support local.

18. Fantasy Fest Parade - Sat., Oct. 26

Join 70,000 costumed (or just barely dressed) partygoers for the parade of the year down Duval Street. The parade starts at 7 p.m. before snaking through Old Town. Participants go all-out in hopes of winning prizes.

19. Irish Kevin’s Annual 80’s Party - Thursday, Oct. 27

The annual party features 80s jams and live entertainment. Dress in your best 80s costume (think spandex, leg warmers, shoulder pads, and big hair) for a chance to win prizes. The party runs all day (Irish Kevins opens at 11 a.m.), with live 80s music at 10:30 p.m.

20. “The Fat Lady Sings” Tea Dance - Sun. Oct. 27

Witness the last official event of Fantasy Fest at La Te Da from 4 - 8 p.m. The closing is signaled by the ‘Fat Lady’ and tunes by DJ Rude Girl.

Now all you have to do is put this information to good use with a trip to Key West, where summer never ends. 24 North Hotel has a low-key vibe and offers shuttle service to Old Town. An on-site Starbucks, awesome pool area, and other amenities makes 24 North Hotel your best choice for Fantasy Fest. Check out our special offers and don’t forget to secure your spot for the Baywatch and Babes Pool Party next door at The Gates Hotel on Oct. 19.