The Florida Keys’ creative character was on full display in an out-of-this-universe moving pageant on Oct. 26 as the world famous Key West Fantasy Fest parade made its way down Duval Street, celebrating its 45th year and the 2024 theme, “It’s a ’90s Neon Cosmic Carnival.”
Each year, following the parade, prizes are awarded by a panel of judges to multiple “Best Of” entries in a variety of categories, followed by announcement of the following year’s Fantasy Fest theme.
This year, nearly 50 entries competed for $20,000 in prizes, and the winners are:
$6,000 Best Overall: “Flagler’s 1890s Fantasy” by Jaimie Gwidt’s Key West Kreatives.
$3,000 Best in Entertainment: “Cosmic Neon Lambada — 90s and Forever!” by Pamela Stephenson Connolly’s Key West International Dance Co.
$3,000 Best in Costume: “Cosmic Vortex” by Daniel Bitnar.
$2,500 Best Interpretation of Theme: “Fantasy Quest” by the Lower Keys Fluffers.
$2,000 Best Walking Group: “DJ Time Warp and the Power Ravers” by Guy Hermelin.
$1,500 The Green Parrot’s Best Live Music Award: “Space Force X” by Stan Shaw.
$1,000 Best Bicycle Award: “Cosmic Carnival” by Southernmost Slow Riders.
$1,000 Directors Choice Award: “Grand Marshal” by David Sloan.
The winning theme for Key West Fantasy Fest 2025, which is scheduled for Oct. 17-26, is “Bedtime Stories & Magical Monsters.” Ellen LaMoia of Key West has scored Fantasy Fest Parade grandstand seats, where she will enjoy the 2025 spectacle seated among the parade’s judges and organizers, for her contribution to the theme.
“‘Bedtime Stories & Magical Monsters’ elicits enchanting and deliciously scary imaginings — from fresh twists on historic fables to new takes on mythical beasts. such as the ones that might be found hiding under beds,” said Nadene Grossman Orr, Fantasy Fest director and president/CEO of We’ve Got the Keys.
