Forty-one years after Jimmy Buffett served as a grand marshal of the Fantasy Fest Parade, Margaritaville Cafe, Just a Few Friends Key West and Caleb Hogan from “A Pirate Looks Back Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show” invite the public to partake in a rolling tribute to Buffett through the streets of Key West on Saturday, Oct. 24.
Each October, Fantasy Fest transforms Key West into a 10-day celebration of creativity, costuming and island spectacle, culminating in the world-famous parade down Duval Street. This year’s theme, “Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals,” offers an opportunity to honor one of the artists most closely connected to the island.
Buffett’s history with the Fantasy Fest parade dates back to 1985, when he and legendary Key West bar owner Captain Tony Tarracino served as co-grand marshals. The appearance coincided with the release of Buffett’s “Last Mango in Paris” album, and the longtime friends led the parade aboard a custom-designed float.
Now, 41 years later, “The Volcano Is Gonna Blow!” parade entry gives a nod to Buffett’s famous song “Volcano.”
“Forty-one years after Jimmy and Captain Tony led this parade, we get to bring his music back down Duval Street on a volcano with an entire krewe singing and dancing beside us,” said Hogan. “That’s more than a tribute. It’s Key West carrying the story forward in the loudest, most joyful way possible.”
This event is not affiliated with or endorsed by Buffett’s estate or Margaritaville Enterprises.
Hogan will perform as Buffett aboard a full-scale tropical float complete with music, lights and an oversized volcano. The entry will also feature a body-painted volcano goddess created by award-winning artist Pashur and the Margaritaville Second Line Krewe walking alongside the float.
“Watching the Fantasy Fest Parade is always fun, but there’s nothing like actually being in it,” said organizer and JAFF co-founder Jill Snodgrass. “We want to fill the street with music, bubbles, umbrellas, lights and people who love Jimmy and Key West. The more friends who join us, the more fun it will be.”
Visitors and locals alike may register for the Margaritaville Second Line Krewe for $50. Participants can join the decorated umbrella brigade, carry a Just a Few Friends banner or Jimmy Buffett memorial placard or dance along the route distributing leis to the crowd.
Registration includes an official Margaritaville badge, lanyard and souvenir cup, Fantasy Fest participant wristband, parade giveaways, a lighted lei and admission to the pre-parade tailgate at Truman Waterfront Park. The tailgate begins at 5 p.m. and includes complimentary cheeseburger sliders, volcano nachos, LandShark beer, margaritas and ice water. The parade begins at 7 p.m.
“Key West has always been an important part of the Margaritaville story, and Fantasy Fest is one of the island’s great traditions,” said Mike Griswold, general manager of Margaritaville Cafe Key West. “This is an opportunity to bring those two worlds together, celebrate Jimmy’s music and invite locals and visitors to be part of something that will be a whole lot more fun than simply watching from the sidelines.”
Costuming can be as easy or elaborate as participants choose. Tropical shirts, swimsuits, coconut bras, grass skirts, board shorts and vintage concert shirts all fit the theme, while sharks, parrots, pirates, salt shakers, volcanoes, cheeseburgers and bubbles offer plenty of inspiration. Light-up accessories are strongly encouraged.
Organizers are also recruiting volunteer wheel monitors to walk alongside the float and help maintain a safe area around the vehicle during the parade. There is no registration fee for wheel monitors, and volunteers receive a free official T-shirt and access to the pre-parade tailgate.
Advance registration is required to participate in the parade. All participants must be able to complete the 1.5-mile route and must complete the official Fantasy Fest participant waiver before parade day.
