Fantasy Fest in Key West is a magical escape for costumers and revelers from all over the world, but it’s the locals whose creative genius and behind-the-scenes wizardry bring the spectacle to life. Whether you prefer to build it, stitch it, imagine it, guide it, paint it — here are four opportunities to get involved in the 2025 “Bedtime Stories & Magical Monsters” themed extravaganza:
- Create a Fantasy Fest parade float, march in costume, or roll with style: The parade is open to entries large and small: floats, marchers, kinetic creations and wheeled wonders. $20,000 in cash prizes will be awarded in categories including “Best Interpretation of Theme,” “Best in Entertainment,” “Best in Costume,” and more. Entry fees are waived for Monroe County residents and non-profits who submit their applications on or before Aug. 22, and discounted 50% for those who apply before Sept. 19.
- Be a Fantasy Fest ambassador: The volunteer ambassador crew helps guide the parade down Duval Street and ensures that everyone has a safe and enjoyable time. Includes a pre-event planning meeting and an invite to join the Fantasy Fest team for the annual ambassadors social mixer.
- Go big with the Fantasy Facades Contest: Deck out your Key West or Stock Island home or business facade and enter the 2025 Fantasy Facades contest for a chance to win cash prizes ranging from $100-$1000. Reflect this year’s “Bedtime Stories & Magical Monsters” theme, channel traditional Halloween ghoulishness, or concoct a combination of both. Entry form available Sept. 1; deadline to enter Oct. 13; judging Oct. 20.
- Name the 2026 Fantasy Fest theme: The future is in your hands. Submit your idea for the 2026 Fantasy Fest theme by Sept. 3. The winner and a guest will score 2026 Fantasy Fest parade grandstand seats with judges and organizers.
More information is at fantasyfest.com/getinvolved. Fantasy Fest is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and We’ve Got the Keys.
