In Key West each April, “drag racing” takes on a whole new meaning — as exotic drag queens don quirky sporting attire, lavish wigs and towering high heels to vie for victory in the Conch Republic Drag Race. The offbeat competition is scheduled April 16 on Duval Street (appropriately dubbed Key West’s “main drag”).
Key West’s 40th annual Conch Republic Blue Ribbon Bed Race is scheduled to “blanket” the island’s famed Duval Street April 23. The zany event, billed as “the most fun you can have in bed with your clothes on,” features decorated beds on wheels that are propelled along Duval by teams of costumed runners.
Two Key West public gardens invite visitors to wander off the beaten path and experience the island's unique horticulture and foliage, hidden natural beauty and unique ecosystems showcasing Mother Nature at her best. Discover the Key West Tropical Forest & Botanical Garden and the Key West Garden Club’s headquarters at West Martello Tower.
Each spring, the Tennessee Williams Birthday Celebration honors the openly gay playwright who lived and wrote in Key West from 1949 to 1983. The 2022 commemoration includes showings of films adapted from Williams’ plays, curator-led tours of Key West's Tennessee Williams Museum, writing competitions, theatrical presentations and a birthday reception (complete with cake).
Now that winter snow and freezing weather have invaded much of the U.S., why not escape to Key West? As well as far warmer temps, the laidback island offers scenic wide-open spaces, outdoor activities like swimming, snorkeling and paddling — and five amazing LGBTQ-oriented lodging options with lots of extras in store for guests.
Celebrating its 38th year of delighting audiences, Key West’s Headdress Ball is set for Saturday, Feb. 26, at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater. The glamorous LGBTQ gala typically features about 25 contestants showcasing huge and elaborate original masks, cowls, bonnets and other headgear — with top Florida Keys talents staging dazzling entertainment between headdress presentations.
Teams from around the world will compete in adrenaline-packed sporting events in Key West Jan. 24-31, during the 30th annual Kelly McGillis Classic International Women’s & Girls’ Flag Football Championship. The fun includes acting workshops and performances guided by Kelly McGillis herself, a former Key West resident who co-starred in “Top Gun.”
New Year’s Eve celebrations in Key West typically feature balmy weather and a warmhearted welcome for visitors eager to escape freezing northern temperatures. Festivities include several offbeat takeoffs on the traditional ball drop in New York’s Times Square — even one that stars drag queen Sushi being “dropped” in a supersized red high heel.
Although the southernmost island in the continental United States has never experienced a traditional white Christmas, visitors can immerse themselves in seasonal spirit and celebrations throughout December. From tours of historic lighted inns and neighborhoods, to a boat parade featuring dozens of decorated vessels, they’re sure to put the holiday spirit into overdrive.
Fritzie Estimond is a welcoming presence at the Key West Business Guild’s LGBTQ Visitor Center — and the guiding spirit behind the guild’s annual events. What does she like best about Key West? The “small community” feel, the acceptance that allows people to be their authentic selves, and what she cheerfully calls “the weird.”