Fantasy Fest fans far and wide, the future is in your hands – and heads! Now’s the time to dream up and submit your Key West Fantasy Fest theme ideas for 2025! The winning theme composer and a guest will score 2025 Fantasy Fest Parade Grand Stand seats among the parade’s judges and organizers, and bask in the glory of the world-famous spectacle marching to your theme. Some past year’s Fantasy Fest themes include: “Fantasy Fest B.C. (1988)” “Tinseltown Dreams (1995),” “Secrets of the Zodiac Revealed (2001)” and “Oh…The Games We Play (2018).” Email submissions to [email protected]; deadline to enter is October 4, 2024. Fantasy Fest is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and We’ve Got the Keys. For a full calendar of events, schedule updates, and a handy downloadable mobile APP visit http://www.fantasyfest.com.

​A recent announcement by organizers of Key West’s Fantasy Fest that author and paranormal specialist David Sloan, and Robert, one of the world’s most famous haunted dolls, are to be this year’s Key West Fantasy Fest Parade Grand Marshals has resulted in a flurry of public reaction, from celebratory huzzahs to “oh hell no!” to “I’m wrapping my house in foil right now!”

The wariness expressed by many concerning Robert is on account of the doll’s long and eerie history: Just after the turn of the 20th century, Robert was gifted to a young child named Gene Otto, son of a prominent Key West physician. Created by the Germany-based Steiff Company and standing 41-inches tall—about the same size as an average 4-year-old American boy—the sailor-suited toy soon established a reputation for creating supernatural mischief and mayhem in his families elegant Victorian mansion, and provoking strange behavior in young Gene. The child’s excuse for the bizarre household occurrences and his own naughty behavior: “Robert did it.”

David Sloan is an American publisher, artist, producer, and paranormal specialist recognized as the foremost authority on Robert, and is author of the book, “Robert the Doll,” published in 2014. We caught up with Sloan to learn more about his relationship with Robert and the lore concerning reports of misfortunes said to follow when a visitor takes a photo of Robert without first asking his permission.

Why were you and Robert the Doll selected as 2024 Key West Fantasy Fest parade Grand Marshals?
Robert is a powerful doll. He summoned Vince Neil from Mötley Crüe and Butch Patrick of The Munsters to his haunted living quarters in Key West, so I’m guessing he made this happen too. 
 
You and Robert have a unique bond. Why do you think that is?
I don't think I can take credit for it. Maybe Robert chose me. Maybe that's just how it was meant to be. My great-great-great-grandfather's Union Civil War Regiment helped build the fort where Robert lives but I never knew the connection until a few years ago. What are the chances of that? Perhaps there is a cosmic connection and this isn't our first time around together.
 
You reportedly launched an investigation during the 1990s into a mysterious portal believed to be contained within Robert, and in the course of that investigation “unleashed a curse into the island’s cosmic realm.” Is it true that you are seeking to reverse this curse during the Key West Fantasy Fest Parade?
If everyone along the parade route gets creative with their costumes and turns the celebration “up to 11,” we believe we can open the cosmic portal, transport Key West back to the 90s, and reverse the curse. Such magic is not uncommon in the Florida Keys.
 
Popular lore has it that if a person takes a photo of Robert without first asking his permission, misfortune may follow. How do you think this could impact all the people snapping photos during this year’s Fantasy Fest Parade? Are there any safeguards you’d recommend?
People who report that Robert has cursed them are often those who have been disrespectful to him. I’m talking about sticking out their tongues or giving him the finger. If people are respectful, they have nothing to worry about. If they want to play it extra safe for their own peace of mind, they can certainly ask permission by emailing him via a link at HauntedKeyWest.com. I’ll read those emails to him myself. Those who prefer snail mailing can send letters (and gifts!) to him c/o Fort East Martello Museum, 3501 S. Roosevelt Blvd., Key West, FL 33040.
 
Isn’t it unusual for a non-human to serve as a parade Grand Marshal?
Very unusual but not unprecedented. Kermit the Frog was Grand Marshal in the 1996 Rose Bowl Parade, but he was never reported to have cursed anybody. This is certainly the first time a haunted doll has been the Grand Marshal of a parade.
 
Where does Robert currently reside and can people visit him?
The Key West Art & Historical Society took Robert and his stuffed pet “Leo” into their care in 1994 and ensconced them comfortably in a protective glass case at Fort East Martello Museum, where he is visited by many hundreds of devoted fans each year. For those desiring an after-museum-hours experience, my company Ghost Key West operates nighttime ghost tours and The Robert the Doll Experience there.
 
Do you think Key West will ever be the same after this year’s Fantasy Fest Parade?
It never has been “the same.” It’s always been different. They say “2000-zero zero, party over, oops, out of time.” So this year I’m going to party like it’s 1999.
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The 2024 Key West Fantasy Fest Parade is set to launch in downtown Key West at 7:00pm, Saturday, Oct. 26, beating to the theme, “It’s a 90s Neon Cosmic Carnival!” Fantasy Fest 2024 is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and We’ve Got the Keys. For a full calendar of events, schedule updates, and a downloadable mobile APP visit http://www.fantasyfest.com.

​Robert the Doll, Key West’s world-renowned haunted historic toy, dares Key West and Stock Island residents and business owners to decorate your digs and enter Fantasy Fest 2024’s “Robert the Doll’s Frightful Façade Contest” for a chance to win cash prizes ranging from $100-$1000, along with everlasting glory.
 
Creep out your crib or businesses façade ghoulishly, roll with this year’s “It’s a 90s NEON Cosmic Carnival!” Fantasy Fest theme, go full-out “Tribute to Robert,” or create a mish-mash of all the above. The choice is yours, with Robert’s permission! Final day to register is Mon. Oct. 14; judging will take place Mon. Oct. 21.
 
And, beginning on Oct. 24, the living public is invited to select a “Community Favorite” by casting a vote. Community voting will be open from Oct. 24-29 with the locations that garner the most votes scoring a special gift package of treats and services. Winners will be announced on Oct. 30.
 
Fantasy Fest 2024 is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and We’ve Got the Keys. “Robert the Doll’s Frightful Façade Contest” is sponsored by Ghost Key West’s Robert the Doll Experience Ghost Tour and Key West Art & Historical Society. Get your competition entry form, plus viewing and voting information, at http://www.fantasyfest.com where you can also download the Fantasy Fest mobile app to view an interactive GPS map of the entries, a complete Fantasy Fest schedule, and more.

​Organizers for Fantasy Fest, Key West’s annual costuming extravaganza in Paradise, have announced that the out-of-this-world team of David L. Sloan and Robert, the island’s most famous haunted doll, are to serve as Grand Marshals of the 2024 Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade. The iconic 10-day festival’s centerpiece event is set to roll down Duval St. on Saturday, Oct. 26, beating with the electrifying theme, “It’s a 90s Neon Cosmic Carnival!”
 
Sloan is an American author, publisher, artist, producer, and paranormal specialist. Robert the Doll, a regular companion of Sloan’s, is an eerie 100+ year-old doll with a long and storied history of supernatural behaviors, who resides at Fort East Martello Museum.
 
In the 1990s, Sloan launched an investigation into a mysterious portal believed to be contained within Robert. In the course of his investigations, a curse was reportedly “unleashed into the island’s cosmic realm.” On Saturday, Oct. 26, as they traverse Duval St., Sloan, Robert the Doll, and their creepy crew of dancing dolls will attempt to open the cosmic portal, transport Key West back to the 90s, and reverse the curse with a Neon Cosmic Carnival that promises to be out of this world.
 
Fantasy Fest 2024 is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and We’ve Got the Keys. For a full calendar of events, a parade entry form, a handy downloadable mobile APP and other information, visit http://www.fantasyfest.com.

Neon celebrators and cosmic co-creators are invited to adorn themselves in their most inspired themed attire and immerse in 10 days and nights of kaleidoscopically stellar retro revelry for this year’s officially themed “It’s a 90s NEON Cosmic Carnival!” Fantasy Fest, set to run October 18-27, 2024.

Following are some of this year’s highlights. Complete information for events, times, locations, and contest entry links can be found at http://www.fantasyfest.com:

• Robert the Doll’s Frightful Façade Contest: Robert the Doll, Key West’s world-renowned haunted historic toy, dares Key West residents and business owners to decorate your digs for a chance to win cash prizes and everlasting glory. Go ghoulish, go “Tribute to Robert,” or roll with this year’s “It’s a 90s NEON Cosmic Carnival!” Fantasy Fest theme. The choice is yours, with Robert’s permission! Final day to enter is Mon. Oct. 14; judging will take place Oct. 21.
• Oct. 15-25: Don’t dream it – be it! “The Rocky Horror Show – The Musical” brings the infamous cult favorite to the Waterfront Playhouse stage.
• Oct. 18: The Royal Coronation event to crown Fantasy Fest’s 2024 King and Queen at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater is a fabulous 2-hour stage show that features entertainment by the competitors along with a line-up of local celebrities. Benefits the Florida Keys SPCA.
• Oct. 18 and 19: The Bahama Village Goombay Festival welcomes revelers of all ages to celebrate island arts and crafts, music and food in Key West’s historic Bahama Village neighborhood.
• Oct. 18-24: “Star Wars Strips: A Burlesque Parody” at the Key West Theater offers light-sabers and laughs with a cheeky twist on some of the “space opera’s” most popular story episodes.
• Oct. 20: Brain food anyone? The annual Zombie Bike Ride kicks off at Fort East Martello in the afternoon with fun and entertainment, including body painting, food and beverage vendors and a kids zone. In the evening, thousands of zombies of all ages bike to the Coffee Butler Amphitheater for a free Zombiefest Dance Party presented by Rams Head Presents.
• Oct. 21: Mrs. Roper’s Romp: Break out your colorful caftan’s and that signature curly red wig for a groovy “Three’s Company” inspired party at the Sunset Pier filled with music, photo ops, dancing, games, and prizes.
• Oct. 21: Sloppy Joe’s Comic Book Cape-ers Party: Come dressed as your favorite caped superhero or villain and groove to live music, dancing, and a costume contest with prizes for 1st-3rd place winners.
• Oct. 22: Florida Keys Council of the Arts Fantasy Fest poster-signing event at the La Concha Hotel. Buy your poster and have it signed by winning design competition artist Theresa Chiechi, and stock up on other collectable Fantasy Fest 2024 t-shirts and swag.
• Oct. 22: It’s Tutu Tuesday with its annual epic dance party that happens across multiple Caroline St. district area venues. Tutu required!
• Oct. 23: Costume yourself and your critter(s) to compete, or applaud from the audience at the annual wild and wacky Pet Masquerade at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater. Registration fees benefit the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Animal Farm.
• Oct. 23: The 12th Annual LUV2GLOW Party: Experience Rick’s Upstairs on Duval St as the LUV2GLOW team transforms it into a glowing universe. Think aliens, 90s rave gear, planets, stars, astronauts and deep space as you plan your galactic UV black-light reactive costumes around this year’s Fantasy Fest theme.
• Oct. 24: The 41st Annual Key West Headdress Ball, presented by the Key West Business Guild at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater showcases a galaxy of out-of-this-world headdresses modeled by their creators, along with exciting entertainment by some of the island’s best local talent.
• Oct. 25: All-hands-on-deck for the Captain Morgan Masquerade March, as costumed creatives parade through Old Town Key West, stopping along the route for adult beverage samples provided by selected guest houses.
• Oct. 26: It’s the world famous Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade in Old Town Key West, featuring fabulous floats, magnificent marching groups, cool kinetic contraptions, and neon cosmic creativity. An awesome island tradition since 1979!
•  Oct. 27: Children’s Day from noon to 5pm at Bayview Park features food, rides, games, arts and crafts, and a costume contest for the kids.
• Oct. 27: Don your fabulous feathers for “The Fat Lady Sings” Tea Dance from 4-8pm at La Te Da on Duval Street—the final official Fantasy Fest celebration.
• Oct 28: The 2025 Fantasy Fest theme will be announced.

Each year the public gets to submit concepts for the following year’s Fantasy Fest theme. About this year’s, Fantasy Fest Director Nadene Grossman Orr said, “Key West is well known for being electrifyingly colorful and alive with celebration, as well as embracing past, present and future. So when it was time to choose, our panel of judges agreed that “It’s a 90s NEON Cosmic Carnival!” perfectly conjured up a Carnival inspired celebration of cosmic proportions—especially since 1990 was the year the Hubble Space Telescope was launched! And don’t forget, anyone who wishes to submit a theme idea for 2025 has until October 4 to do so. There will of course be prizes, fame and glory involved for the winner.”
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Fantasy Fest 2024 is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and We’ve Got the Keys. For a full calendar of events, schedule updates, contest details, and a handy downloadable mobile APP, visit http://www.fantasyfest.com.

Do you revel in being in the thick of things and making things happen? Are you up for an out-of-this-world time? If yes, then Fantasy Fest invites you to join the volunteer “ground control” Ambassador team for the 2024 Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade, set for Saturday, October 26. More than 150 Ambassadors will have their fingers on the pulse of the Parade, helping to guide and pace the “It’s a 90s NEON Cosmic Carnival!” themed spectacle as it makes its way down Duval Street, and helping ensure that everyone has a safe and sensational time. Volunteers will have a pre-event meeting and are invited to join the Fantasy Fest team for their annual Ambassadors social mixer. Fantasy Fest 2024 is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and We’ve Got the Keys. For complete information and to fill out an Ambassador volunteer form, visit www.FantasyFest.com/Parade.

Cosmic creators, float fabricators, and costuming artists – it’s time to fill out and submit your 2024 Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade entry forms and prepare to put your ingenuity on display in this year’s “It’s a 90s NEON Cosmic Carnival!” themed parade down Duval Street, set to take place Saturday, October 26, in Key West, Florida.


The world-famous parade is open to entries large and small: wild walking groups, fabulous floats, bicycle brigades, and even human-powered kinetic machines. Cash prizes totaling $20,000 will be awarded in categories including “Best Interpretation of Theme,” “Best in Entertainment,” “Best in Costume,” “Best Overall,” “Best Walking Group,” “Best Bike,” “Green Parrot Best Live Music Award,” and “Directors Choice.” Some just-for-locals love means that entry fees are completely waived for Monroe County residents who submit their parade applications on or before August 30, and discounted 50% for those who apply before September 20. Non-Monroe County residents who register no later than September 20 get a 25% discount. Final deadline to apply is October 14.


Fantasy Fest 2024 is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and We’ve Got the Keys. For complete information and to download a Parade application form, visit www.FantasyFest.com/Parade. ​

“It’s a 90s NEON Cosmic Carnival!” is the official theme for Fantasy Fest 2024 –Key West’s annual multi-day, immersive costuming extravaganza in Paradise. From October 18-27, revelers can explore a kaleidoscopic selection of events, including the world-famous Bud Light Fantasy Fest parade, the all-hands-on-deck Captain Morgan Masquerade March (aka “Locals Parade”), the exuberant Goombay Festival in the streets, Royal Coronation of the 2024 Fantasy Fest King, Queen, and royal court, plus concerts, pool parties, theater productions, a neon-themed 5K run/walk, the ever-enchanting Key West Pet Masquerade, the 41st annual Headdress Ball pageant, and much more. Fantasy Fest 2024 is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and We’ve Got the Keys. For a full calendar of events, visit http://www.fantasyfest.com

Decorate your digs to win big! The Key West Chamber of Commerce Fantasy Façades Competition offers awesomely decorated Key West homes and businesses the opportunity to compete for cash prizes and glory. Think ghoulishly magical, think Conch Republic, and think this year’s “Uniforms & Unicorns—200 Years of Sailing into Fantasy” Fantasy Fest theme. Final day to enter your home or business is Oct. 16; judging is Monday, Oct. 23, with winners to be announced on Oct. 24.
 
And, beginning on Oct. 24, this year for the very first time, the living public (not open to vampires or the “undead”) is invited to select a “Community Favorite” by casting a vote. Community voting will be open from Oct 24-29, with the decorated digs that garner the most votes scoring a special gift package of treats and services from Key West Chamber of Commerce members.
 
Fantasy Fest 2023 is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and We’ve Got the Keys. Get your Key West Chamber of Commerce Fantasy Facades Competition entry form at http://www.fantasyfest.com and download the new Fantasy Fest mobile app to view an interactive GPS map of all the entries, a complete Fantasy Fest schedule, and more.