Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA Resort Blog
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KOA Resorts offer a carefree vacation in the great outdoors. Enjoy robust recreation and staff-led activities, kick back and relax by the resort-style pool, or grab a bite to eat, all while never leaving the campground. And with plenty of RV Sites with KOA Patios® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths to meet your needs, it’s the ultimate camping getaway.
KOA Resorts offer a carefree vacation in the great outdoors. Enjoy robust recreation and staff-led activities, kick back and relax by the resort-style pool, or grab a bite to eat, all while never leaving the campground. And with plenty of RV Sites with KOA Patios® and Deluxe Cabins with full baths to meet your needs, it’s the ultimate camping getaway.
Located at Mile Marker 20 on US-1 in the Florida Keys.
Left on Old State Rd 4a/State Road 939.
Dates: Oct. 17–26, 2025
Theme: Bedtime Stories & Magical Monsters
Fantasy Fest is Key West’s most iconic annual event — a 10-day celebration of creativity, costumes, parades, music and pure island energy. From whimsical fairytale characters to spooky mythical creatures, this year’s theme invites you to dream big and dress even bigger.
Use this guide to learn more about the ins and outs of Fantasy Fest, from what to wear to the event itinerary.
Since its inception in 1979, Fantasy Fest has been a hallmark of Florida's Key West culture. People from across the country flock to Duval Street and downtown Key West for this 10-day party during the Halloween season.
With a coronation of the King and Queen of Fantasy Fest, tutu-toting bar crawls and even a 5k, the schedule is jam-packed with so much to do and experience. More importantly, this is a party with a purpose, continuing its tradition of raising money for local nonprofits across the Keys.
Whether you are coming for the legendary parade or just want to experience the one-of-a-kind Key West atmosphere, Fantasy Fest is a trip worth planning.
Mapping out your itinerary can help you hit your top priority parties and parades. Here are some iconic events you may want to experience.
This free street party in Bahama Village features Caribbean food, live music and family-friendly fun.
A local tradition, the Fantasy Fest King and Queen are crowned during a night of performances and fundraising.
Thousands of participants dress as zombies and ride along the coast into Old Town for an unforgettable kickoff.
Everyone, from locals to first-timers, dons a tutu and hits the town for this colorful, carefree celebration.
Creative costumes take center stage, but this time, it is all about the pets.
A grassroots walking parade through Old Town that is filled with quirky costumes, music and impromptu parties.
The main event, elaborate floats, music and high-energy performances take over Duval Street in front of massive crowds.
The downtown area is overall accessible, and the festival events tend to be close to one another. With so many visitors, navigation and parking can be a bit challenging, so using public or private transit can save you from searching for a spot.
Once you are at Fantasy Fest, the destinations are typically a 15-minute walk away from each other, allowing you plenty of time to get your steps in as you party. If walking is not your style, renting a bike can help you ride in style. Just make sure to ask for a light for evening rides!
A reliable way to get to and from Key West without the stress of parking, the Lower Keys Shuttle runs throughout Key West and the Lower Keys. Viewing the routes in advance can help you plan your trip to and from your lodging location.
Once downtown, the Duval Loop is a free, air-conditioned shuttle that circulates around Old Town Key West with frequent stops near major Fantasy Fest events. It runs daily throughout the festival.
Rideshare services are available, but be sure to budget some extra time to account for delays during high-traffic times.
Here are some tips to help you enjoy your time at Fantasy Fest:
If you are looking for a convenient and quiet place to stay during Fantasy Fest in Key West, Florida, Sugarloaf Key is just 19 miles from downtown and offers two great options: Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA Resort and Sugarloaf Key Hotel.
Sugarloaf Key / Key West KOA Resort features full hookup RV Sites, tent camping and a range of amenities including a pool, waterfront access, a bar and a boat ramp. It is a relaxing home base where you can unwind after a day of festivities.
Right next door, Sugarloaf Key Hotel offers modern, comfortable rooms for guests traveling without an RV.
Both properties are located along the Lower Keys Shuttle route, making it easy to get to and from the Fantasy Fest action without worrying about parking or traffic. Learn more about these lodging options and start planning your trip to Fantasy Fest in the Keys today!
Below are some frequently asked questions about Fantasy Fest.
This party is full of different events for everyone. Events include parades, contests and live music. Some of the popular legacy events include the Royal Coronation, Pet Masquerade and the Toga Party.
The 2025 Fantasy Fest is happening from Oct. 17-26.
Though Fantasy Fest is catered toward those who are over 21, there are some family-friendly events on the schedule, like the Goombay Festival and Children's Day.
You may bring a small bag, but larger items like coolers and backpacks are not allowed.
Costumes can vary, aligning with the overall theme and the individual events. If you are planning on using body paint, make sure to bring items like cover-ups and pasties to align with public decency rules.
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