What Events Are Taking Place During Fantasy Fest 2026 in Key West?

Fantasy Fest 2026 runs October 16–25 in Key West with the theme “Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals.” The strongest guest picks include the free Goombay Festival, the Fantasy Fest Artisan Market, the Headdress Ball, the Duval Street Fair and Costume Promenade, the October 24 Fantasy Fest Parade, Screaming Green Halloween and Children’s Day. Nightlife is a major part of the week, but families also have several genuinely good daytime options.

What are the Fantasy Fest 2026 dates and theme?

Fantasy Fest takes place Friday, October 16 through Sunday, October 25, 2026. This year’s theme is Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals, so expect costumes inspired by famous performers, legendary songs and memorable stage productions.

The official schedule changes as participating venues add details. Check the official Fantasy Fest schedule before heading out, especially for ticketed events and street closures.

Which Fantasy Fest events are best for families?

Bahama Village Goombay Festival — October 16 and 17, noon–midnight Bahama Village, centered near Petronia and Emma streets. This free celebration of Key West’s Bahamian heritage combines island food, arts and crafts, reggae, soca, dance and a Junkanoo parade.

Fantasy Fest Artisan Market — Sunday, October 18, 10 AM–2 PM Higgs Beach, 1707 White Street. Florida Keys makers, international food vendors, live music and official Fantasy Fest merchandise make this a relaxed daytime stop. Admission is free.

Screaming Green Halloween — Saturday, October 24, 10 AM–2 PM Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden, 5210 College Road. Children can enjoy trick-or-treating, crafts, games, costume contests and the garden’s Scarecrows and Skeletons display. Admission is $5 per child or $10 per family.

Children’s Day — Sunday, October 25, noon–5 PM Bayview Park at Truman Avenue and Eisenhower Drive. The closing-day family event features food, rides, games, arts and crafts and a children’s costume contest.

What are the best Fantasy Fest nightlife events?

That Arena Rock Show — Sunday, October 18, 7 PM Sunset Pier, 0 Duval Street. This free waterfront concert brings a theatrical tribute to classic rock anthems with one of Key West’s best sunset backdrops.

Swayzees Music Icons Pool Party — Wednesday, October 21, 2–5 PM SOMO’s Shores Pool, 1319 Duval Street. Les Greene and the Swayzees bring surf rock, doo-wop and rockabilly to a free daytime pool party.

Fantasy Fest Headdress Ball — Thursday, October 22; gates 6:30 PM, show 8 PM Coffee Butler Amphitheater. The signature spectacle features extraordinary wearable art, elaborate costumes, live entertainment and music. The 2026 event also incorporates the longtime Pretenders in Paradise costume competition.

Fantasy Fest Street Fair and Costume Promenade — Friday, October 23 Duval Street. Arts and crafts run from noon–10 PM, while food service continues from noon–2 AM.

When is the main Fantasy Fest Parade?

The Deep Eddy Vodka Fantasy Fest Parade begins at 7 PM on Saturday, October 24, 2026. The parade travels along Duval Street from the Gulf of Mexico toward the Atlantic Ocean, with floats, costumed groups, music and the largest crowds of the festival.

Arrive early if you plan to watch from the street. Reserved viewing parties and balconies may require advance tickets, and traffic and parking become difficult well before the parade starts.

What should guests know before going?

Plan on walking, biking or using a designated ride service when possible. Old Town street closures, heavy pedestrian traffic and limited parking make driving inconvenient during major events.

Fantasy Fest ranges from family-friendly daytime programming to adults-only parties. Check each event’s age limit and dress expectations before attending. Comfortable shoes, water, sun protection and a light rain layer are practical additions to any costume.

Choose one anchor event each day and leave room to explore. Some of the most memorable parts of Fantasy Fest happen between scheduled events as costumes, music and street life spill across Old Town.