A Look at Fantasy Fest 2022

Daydreaming about the next Fantasy Fest in Key West? We don't blame you. In fact, we're here to add some fodder to your mind trip! As all Fantasy Fests are dubbed with a particular theme, the 2022 theme has been announced: 'Cult Classics & Cartoon Chaos'. Start planning your costumes now and check out this sneak peak of Fantasy Fest 2022.

While the schedule is still a work in progress, the dates are set for Oct. 21-30, 2022. The festival will kick off as usual with the annual crowning of the King and Queen of Fantasy Fest and the Goombay Festival in Bahama Village. The high-energy block party celebrating the cultural connection between Key West and the Bahamas features family-friendly entertainment, island arts and crafts, and food vendors.

Recurring events like the Zombie Bike Ride and Headdress Ball are expected to return, as well as the self-guided bar/art walk, known as the "Bart Walk," which debuted last year. Participants wandered the docks of the Historic Seaport between Conch Republic Seafood Company and Dante’s, checked in at participating bars like Half Shell Raw Bar, Waterfront Brewery, and Schooner Wharf Bar, and snapped photos of artworks to win Fantasy Fest swag.

Lest we forget, the Fantasy Fest Street Fair and spirited Fantasy Fest Parade are set to make their return after taking 2021 off. The bold parade draws national attention for its glittering floats, costumes, and overall showmanship on the world-renowned Duval Street. Secure VIP tickets to the Bourbon St. Pub’s grand balcony, 801 Bourbon Bar’s balcony, Hard Rock Café’s priority seats, or Mangoes Restaurant’s elevated patio for some of the best vantage points to see the parade below.

While Fantasy Fest 2022 provides fun for the whole family, many of the activities aren't for kids. In fact, there’s always a full schedule of “Little Black Book” events that are packed with debauchery. Past events included the Naughty Bike Ride and parties like ‘The Dungeon of Dark Secrets’, ‘Dirty Doctors and Naughty Nurses’, ‘Pajama and Lingerie’, ‘Anything But Clothes’, and the famous Fantasy Fest ‘Kinky Couples’ party.

If you're thinking of extending your stay and stretching out the party further, Parrot Heads in Paradise’s annual Meeting of the Minds will gather in Key West Nov. 2 - 6, 2022 to celebrate the music of Jimmy Buffett, the beloved island singer-songwriter, through dance and island pirate celebrations.

Be sure to add these annual Fantasy Fest 2022 events to your schedule:

-Smallest Parade in the Universe 

-Luv2Glow Party

-Fogarty’s Red Party

-Southernmost Scavenger Hunt’s Fantasy Fest Bar Crawl

-Dante’s Halos & Horns Pool Party

-White Party

-Sloppy Joe’s Toga Party

-Irish Kevin’s 80s Party

-Living Art Expo

-Masquerade March

Fantasy Fest season may seem far in the distance, but the 10-day event draws 75,000 revelers to Key West - so it's never too early to start planning your trip. Reserve your spot at Fantasy Fest 2022 ahead of time at The Gates Hotel, a Condé Nast award-winning hotel located in New Town. Enjoy the festivities of Old Town during your stay while having a base in New Town. The Gates Hotel offers shuttle services to Old Town, great amenities, on-site food and beverage options, and a spectacular swimming pool.

Plus, we’re one of the few hotels on the island that is absolutely dog-friendly! Bring along your best friend to Fantasy Fest’s Pet Masquerade at Truman Waterfront Park, a special event held every year during Fantasy Fest.

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