Step Into the Fantasy Fest Spotlight: Three Fabulous Ways to Create, Participate and Shine

​Fantasy Fest in Key West is a magical escape for costumers and revelers from around the world, but it’s the locals whose creative genius and behind-the-scenes wizardry bring the spectacle to life! Whether you prefer to imagine it, build it, stitch it, or paint it—here are three fabulous ops to step into the spotlight and add your flair to the 2026 “Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals” themed extravaganza:
 
1.    Create a Fantasy Fest Parade Float, March in Costume, or Roll with Style: The world-famous parade is open to entries large and small: phenomenal floats, magnificent 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. Looking for just-for-locals love? Monroe County residents who sign up before Sept. 18 will have their registration fee slashed in half. Non-residents who register before Sept. 18 receive 25% off.
 
2.    Be a Fantasy Fest Ambassador: Love having front-row access to the magic and your hand in keeping the Parade on point? If yes, join the volunteer Ambassador crew, the rock-stars who help guide the parade down Duval Street and ensure that everyone has a safe and sensational time. Includes a pre-event planning meeting and an invite to join the Fantasy Fest team for their annual Ambassadors social mixer.
 
3.    Go Big with the Fantasy Facade Contest: Deck out your Key West or Stock Island home or business facade and enter the 2026 Fantasy Facade contest for a chance to win cash prizes ranging from $100-$1000. Reflect this year’s “Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals” theme, channel traditional Halloween ghoulishness, or concoct a combination of both! Entry form available Sept. 1; deadline to enter Oct. 12; judging Oct. 19; winners announced Sept. 27.
 
Links, information, and guidelines for all the above and more are available at www.FantasyFest.com/GetInvolved. Fantasy Fest is presented in part by the Monroe County Tourist Development Council and We’ve Got the Keys.