Red Shoe a Real “Shoe-In” for 2025 Key West Fantasy Fest Parade Grand Marshal

Key West’s iconic red high-heeled shoe has been named 2025 Fantasy Fest Parade Grand Marshal. Drag queen Christopher Peterson, who rode the sassy stiletto on New Year’s Eve 2023, will accompany the pump in the persona of Dorothy, from “The Wizard of Oz.” (Photo: Carol Tedesco)

Question: What dazzling ruby-hued object best captures the essence of one of the world’s most celebrated stories and Key West, Florida’s passion for self-discovery, transformation and flamboyant self-expression?

If this were “Jeopardy!” the correct response would be: What is the sparkling, larger-than life, world-renowned red high-heeled shoe that descends from the upper balcony of the Bourbon St. Pub each Dec. 31, with a glamorous drag queen onboard?

Today, in a nod to the crimson cultural symbol and its capacity to spark excitement and joy, organizers for Fantasy Fest have announced that Key West’s red high-heeled shoe has been selected as this year’s Fantasy Fest Parade Grand Marshal.

Accompanying the sensational sculpture – which was partly inspired by the famous ruby slippers of “Wizard of Oz” story fame - will be drag queen Christopher Peterson outfitted as “Oz” heroine Dorothy, along with a costumed cast of characters from the book and subsequent film starring Judy Garland.

The red shoe has figured large in Key West’s mystique for decades, having made its first appearance back in 1997, brainchild of Bourbon St. Pub owner Joey Schroeder and drag queen Sushi, who was the descending pump’s sole occupant for 25 years.

“This shoe is more than a symbol – it’s a glittering tribute to Key West’s unapologetic spirit, inspiring awe and celebration from Duval St. to across the globe” said Schroeder.

The 2025 Fantasy Fest Parade, centerpiece of the annual 10-day festival, is set to march down Duval St. on Saturday, Oct. 25, conjuring this year’s theme of “Bedtime Stories and Magical Monsters.”

 “Like Dorothy’s ruby slippers, bedtime stories transport us into Technicolor dreams – where wonder reigns and the impossible comes to life,” said Fantasy Fest Director Nadene Grossman Orr. “But of course in Key West, we don’t consider anything really impossible.”
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Fantasy Fest 2025 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 downloadable mobile APP and other information including ways to get involved, visit http://www.fantasyfest.com.