Ensconce yourself within the ocean-inspired design of our rooms while looking out over the harbor and pools from your private balcony.
The History
Fantasy Fest is an annual 10-day party in paradise started in 1979 by a small group of Key West locals to bring visitors to the island in a typically quiet time. OMG, did it work! Today Fantasy Fest is one of the world's best costume festivals. Fantasy Fest has grown every year since its inception and is now the wildest extravaganza around! Fun-loving revelers from around the globe bring their creativity and imaginations as they descend upon Key West each year in October for ten days filled with costuming, parades, libations, and excitement! Take a look at the history of Fantasy Fest and while you're there, check out the themes of past events.
Two of the founding fathers of Fantasy Fest, Joe Liszka and Frank Romano, were also the founders of one of our favorite aloe-based luxury products, Key West Aloe. Did you know Key West Aloe has been around for 50 years and opened its doors on Front Street in 1971? Our guests get to experience these products when staying with us. Happy 50th Anniversary, Key West Aloe!
Photo credit: Courteney Dunn
Be creative and have fun with your costume(s) as it's been quite a year, and all of us have been ready for the festivities. Costumes. Costumes. Costumes. Bring more than one! The only way you'll stand out is if you don't have one. Try to incorporate the theme, but if you don't, no need to worry - any costume will do. For costume inspiration, take a look at the Fantasy Fest photo gallery.
Photo credit: Fantasy Fest from 2019 “IN TUNE BUT OFF KEY: CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF FANTASY”
While some of the larger Fantasy Fest events, including the Zombie Bike Ride, Masquerade March, and Parade on Saturday night, have been canceled due to Covid, the festivities and parties around town continue. Here are some of our favorites you'll want to learn more about and add to your private Fantasy Fest Schedule.
There's a Red Party, White Party, Toga Party, Party in Plaid, A Pink Party, 80's Party, Homemade Bikini Contest, 60's Party Woodstock style, a new party celebrating the“classic era” of MTV at the newly opened ROCKHOUSE Live and so much more! View the complete schedule of events, and create your own party schedule.
Photo credit: Fantasy Fest from 2019 “Oh The Games We Play”
Mark Your Calendar | #somolife #lovethemarker
November 24, 2025
Use this guide to explore the can’t‑miss holiday events, festive markets, tours, and merry moments that make the season in Key West truly unforgettable.
November 14, 2025
The Marker Key West Harbor Resort has been named the No. 2 Resort in the Florida Keys by Condé Nast Traveler in the 2025 Readers’ Choice Awards.
Waterfront Luxury
Ensconce yourself within the ocean-inspired design of our rooms while looking out over the harbor and pools from your private balcony.
Balcony Views
German V., Tripadvisor
