Fantasy Fest is Key West’s kick off to high season. It is a week long celebration held at the end of October with costumed activities. Establishments all over town host a variety of events to appeal to locals and tourists alike. Activities include parades, a street fair with art, food and beverage vendors, and costumed parties at local restaurants, bars, and hotels. Most of these activities are geared towards adults as many individuals are scantly clad during the week of Fantasy Fest. During this time participants are also permitted to paint their bodies as walking artwork. The City of Key West passed several ordinances governing individuals visiting the designated “Fantasy Zone.” The “Fantasy Zone” is located on the lower blocks of Duval Street and it is clearly indicated by signs on street corners. There are important rules to remember when participating in Fantasy Fest events:
- Open containers of alcohol can be enjoyed only in the “Fantasy Zone” and they must be in cups. No glass containers are permitted.
- Lewd acts are illegal and punishable by fines and jail time.
- Nudity is illegal and you can be arrested for it.
- Key West City Ordinance 42-9 makes an exception to the nudity laws as follows:
“…During the week of Fantasy Fest (the preceding Monday through the Saturday of the parade), a person who has had his or her body painted shall not be considered nude, provided that such person not display genitalia or the pubic area in a public place. Body paint shall not be deemed to clothe or cover genitalia or the pubic area. This body painting exception to the nudity prohibition is applicable only to a person who is located within the boundaries of a “Fantasy Zone,” the area designated by the city for the primary Fantasy Fest activities.”
Make sure to drink responsibly and observe the above laws and ordinances while enjoying the body painting skills of Key West’s great artists. If for some reason you get arrested on vacation or are given a criminal citation; call the Law Office of Roberson & Hunter and we may be able to resolve your case without you having to come back to the Florida Keys. The lawyers at Roberson & Hunter work diligently on behalf of tourists and locals alike.