Scary People of Key West Fantasy Fest 2023 - Part 1

Key West Fantasy Fest History . . . . . . Unicorns Fantasy Fest was initiated in 1979 by Bill Conkle, Tony Falcone, Joe Liszka and Frank Romano to attract tourists during the slow season. In 1995 over 60,000 people attended and there were 70 floats, bands, costumed groups and «imprecision drill teams» in the parade. In 2001 Fantasy Fest was estimated to bring $35 million to the region each year. [non-primary source needed] The highlight of Fantasy Fest is its parade featuring humorous floats, including one carrying the annually elected Conch King and Queen. The floats can be quite elaborate; costs can be $10,000 to $15,000. The expense for the floats is borne fully by the participant groups (called krewes) and their sponsors. In October 2005, the event was postponed because of devastation wrought on the island by Hurricane Wilma; instead of being held at its usual time close to Halloween, it was moved to December and celebrated just before Christmas. The theme that year was «Freaks, Geeks and Goddesses.» Join this channel to get access to perks: