The annual Fantasy Fest celebration in Key West, known for its elaborate costumes, floats, and decorations, has a unique process for selecting its yearly theme. This tradition, which has grown into a 10-day spectacle, aims to attract tourists during the slower hurricane season.

Theme Evolution

In the early years of Fantasy Fest, dating back to 1979 with the theme "Old Key West," the themes were conceived by the event's founders: Bill Conkle, Tony Falcone, Joe Liszka, and Frank Romano. Their goal was to create concepts that would capture the attention of visitors and boost tourism. Early themes like "House of Horrors" (1980) and "Va Va Voom" (1981) set the stage for the festival's future.

As the festival expanded, organizers began opening up the theme selection to the public, particularly engaging locals who are actively involved in the festivities year after year.

Public Contest for Theme Ideas

Each summer, a public "Name the Theme" contest is announced, inviting submissions for the upcoming year's event. Entries are typically submitted to the festival director, Nadene Grossman Orr, or through the official Fantasy Fest website and social media channels by September 1. A panel of judges, including members of the Tourist Development Association board, reviews the submissions. They select the theme that best embodies Key West's creative spirit and offers exciting possibilities, as described in the contest's official phrasing.

Past winning themes have included "Pirates, Pundits and Political Party Animals" in 2008, "Super Heroes, Villains Beyond" in 2013, and "In Tune, but Off Key: Celebrating 40 Years of Fantasy" in 2019. These selections highlight the diverse and imaginative nature of the festival.

2026 Theme Winner

For the 2026 Fantasy Fest, the winning theme, "Musical Icons and Iconic Musicals," was proposed by Stephanie Southgate, a resident of Key West for nearly 30 years. Southgate, a wine connoisseur, expressed that a music-themed festival felt long overdue. She reportedly conceived the idea after watching "Hamilton" and recalling a past Broadway-themed float.

Although initially unaware of the formal contest, Southgate reached out to Grossman Orr with her concept. She was then advised to submit her idea through the official contest channels. Her winning entry earned her VIP parade tickets and the distinction of influencing the creative direction for the 2026 festivities. Southgate, a regular attendee since 1998, acknowledged the pressure to enhance her own participation this year, especially with many friends planning to visit for the celebration, leading her to already plan numerous costumes.

Fantasy Fest continues to be a significant event for Key West, showcasing local creativity and contributing to the island's tourism economy. More information about the festival and its events can be found on the Fantasy Fest website. The Keys Weekly provides ongoing coverage of the festival's preparations and highlights, offering exclusive features on the people and projects behind the annual event, which can be followed at Keys Weekly.