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Fantasy Fest 2011 Event Schedule

oldconch — Sat, 24 Sep 2011 03:41:52 +0000

CARNIVALE FOR CARNIVORES
Take a trip to Brazil without leaving the Florida Keys by dining at Braza Lena, an authentic Churrascaria! With 16 premium cuts of meat, a salad bar extravaganza and a new bar menu, this is the place for those that need to get a solid base for this fantastic fest. Open 5 pm-10 pm

FANTASY CYBER SOUVENIRS
Visit the Fantasy Fest Store anytime at www.fantasyfest.net for memorabilia that makes the fantasy a reality! Official posters, t-shirts, and limited edition medallions. To purchase the Official 2010 t-shirt please call Keyboard Advertising at 305-292-9315.

FURY WATER ADVENTURES
Get your Aquatic Afrolic on with Fury Water Adventures! Fury offers guests a variety of water sports such as Key West snorkeling, parasailing, jet skiing, sunset sails, sunset cruises, glass bottom boat tours, dolphin watches, kayaking, and more. Call today to save big on Key West vacation packages with Fury’s Stay & Play. 1-866-282-2739; www.furykeywest.com

HAUNTING OF FORT TAYLOR
Experience the Haunting of Fort Taylor 2011! Its guaranteed to make your spine tingle as the shockingly true tales of the island's frightening past come to life before your very eyes! For dates, times and more details please visit http://hauntedkeywestfort.com

INDECENT EXPOSURE
Party like Adam and Eve day and night at the Garden of Eden, clothing optional rooftop bar, above the Bull & Whistle on the corner of Caroline and Duval in the 200 block. Body painting; Open 10 am to 4 am everyday; $

SMOKIN' HOT TUNA PARTY!
Whether you are a "Smokin' Hot Tuna" or you like chasin' Hot Tuna come and join us daily at the Smokin' Tuna Saloon for killer daily happy hour prices and drink specials from 5-7 pm. Open daily from 10 am till 2 am. "We're Smokin' Tuna…and it's legal!"

Friday, October 21, 2011

GOOMBAY
Tastes, sights and sounds of the Caribbean in Bahama Village, located at Duval and Petronia steets. This family friendly street party continues Saturday! Noon to midnight; FREE

ROYAL CORONATION BALL
"Meet Key West's Royal Family and vote for the King and Queen of Fantasy Fest 2011 at the "Lost City of Atlantis"; a benefit for AIDS Help; 6:00 p.m.; (305) 296-6577; Suggested donation; Southernmost Café, 1319 Duval Street.

Saturday, October 22, 2011

GOOMBAY
This family friendly party continues in Bahama Village! Noon – midnight; FREE

FRIENDS OF FORT TAYLOR'S VAMPIRE BALL
Once again everyone is invited to join us for an evening with the undead. The best party on the darker side of paradise is taking place at the Haunting of Fort Taylor, from 8pm to 11pm. Experience this bizarre affair including music from the Ghost of Kid Kelly who will turn the floor into “Dancylvania”! There will also be food drinks and the “He or she who ‘sucks’ most in Key West” costume contest. For more info go to www.keywestvampires.com. Sponsored by the Friends of Fort Taylor, and haunting people from Ghost to Ghost, the Vampires Ball 2011 will be an evening you won’t want to ‘dismember’! Missing this party would be a Grave mistake.

THE TWIRLING BUOY SALACIOUS SIDESHOW
Key West Burlesque has fashioned a fantastical Fantasy Fest show to titillate your wettest and wildest fancies! The Salacious Sideshow is a raucous ride down into the depths of an old circus carnival full of sordid seductresses and marvelously mischievous characters. Partakein comedic and variety numbers that will beguile and tease you between daring exhibitionism and dance numbers with just the right amount of naughty. Be thrilled by the devilish dancing dragon, enthralled with the worlds smallest 1000 armed lady, and dare to look away from the lion taming man eater! The Twirling Buoy laughs in the face of convention and bares enough to boggle your mind! The gorgeous show girls and guys propel you deep into your sideshow fantasies; you will never be the same! 8 pm at the Waterfront Playhouse

Sunday, October 23, 2011

THE WET AND WILD BLUE PARTY AT THE SHERATON SUITES
The Inaugural “Blue Party” benefiting Aids Help will be held at the Sheraton Suites in Key West on Sunday, October 23, 2011. The event will begin at 3:00 p.m. and continue through 6:00 p.m. Live entertainment will be provided by Key West favorite, Howard Livingston. Free food and refreshments, cash bar highlighted by Blue Margaritas. NFL football on TV, raffle prizes and giveaways. Tickets are just $10.00 and include a $5 complimentary raffle ticket. Tickets for the Inaugural Blue Party may be purchased in advance at 305-292-4360 or info@sheratonkeywest.com.

Monday, October 24, 2011

PINKING OF YOU!
Want to partake in a wildly fun event where you can mingle with local celebrities and bid on one-of-a-kind bra inspired creations? The Fifth Annual “Pinking of You” Decorated Bra Auction promises to be a great time for a great cause. Local artists transform bras into works of art, which are then modeled during a live auction to the highest bidder. You never know what you might see! All money raised will be donated to WomanKind, inc. to provide breast cancer education and early detection through clinical breast exams.; 6:00 p.m.; The Westin Resort Key West Resort and Marina; 245 Front St. (Special thanks to the Bolanowski’s)

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

REDDY ICE FANTASY FAÇADE ™ COMPETITION
Festively decorated homes and businesses compete for cold cash! Free to enter or for more information, call the Fantasy Fest office 305-296-1817

FREE OFFICIAL FANTASY FEST POSTER SIGNING PARTY
Meet-n-greet the award-winning artists of this year’s poster. Get up close and personal while having a lively libation or two; Crowne Plaza La Concha Hotel; 430 Duval St.; 5:00 p.m.; posters for sale.

29TH ANNUAL HEADDRESS BALL: UNDER SEAS ODYSSEY
Don't miss this “over the top” Headdress Contest that includes an extravagant show that includes lots of Key West razzle dazzle! You never know what's going to happen next at the Headdress Ball. Cash Prizes for Best Headdress. Adult Themed. Held Rain or Shine. Doors open at 7pm. Curtain at 8pm. For more information, go to www.headdressballkeywest.com. Southernmost Hotel on the Beach, 508 South Street. This event sells out, so please purchase tickets early. (305) 296-1520 or www.keystix.com.

FINNEGAN'S WAKE GREEN PARTY
Come celebrate the ultimate Irish party! Party starts at 7pm til the wee hours of the morning. Live Irish Music from Revels Glen. No cover if you wear green. Costume contest for 'Best Eco Green Wear'. Sign up for the Edamame Eating Contest; 320 Grinnell St.; 305-293-0222; www.keywestirish.com

CAPT. TONY'S PARTY IN PLAID
Experience a party that caters to all exotic lifestyles and fantasies. Weather you wear your naughty or nice plaid to attract old friends or to stimulate the new, this party is for you. Everyone is invited to a party for the ages that only the legendary Capt Tony's can host. Great music and drinks, plaid costumes, exotic people. 428 Greene St, 8 PM Free

WILD, WILD KEY WEST PARTY AT COWBOY BILLS
Put more feathers in your headdress, dust off your cowboy boots and mosey on down for Cowboy Bills 1st annual Cowboys and Indians Party! Be sure to dress in your best Wild, Wild Key West attire because cash prizes will be given for the best costumes and all you cowboys better wear your chaps for the bull riding competition! VIP seating available or watch the action live from our big screens! Drink specials all night. 610 ½ Duval St; 10 pm; (305)295-8219; www.cowboybills.com ; FREE

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

PET MASQUERADE & PARADE
A magical carousel of frisky pets and playful owners delightfully disguised and ready to frolic for fame and fortune; Registration for competition is at 4:30 pm; Show starts at 5:30pm; FREE to watch; $25 to enter; benefits Lower Keys Friends of Animals; Casa Marina Resort; 1500 Reynolds St. For more information call 305-304-1026 or quepasakeywest@hotmail.com

LAZY GECKO REDNECK PARTY
Hey ya'll, come on down to the Lazy Gecko Redneck Party! Gussy up in your best camo or slide into your sexiest Daisy Dukes!! Prizes for the best Redneck, Redneck Babe, Redneck couple, and Team Redneck (yeah, that's you and your best bubbas!). Party starts at 7 PM Lazy Gecko 200 Duval St

CELEBRITY LOOK-A-LIKE CONTEST
Do people always tell you that you remind them of someone famous? Well then, this is your event! Imitators of the famous and fabled vie for cash and prizes; Crowne Plaza La Concha Hotel; 430 Duval St.; Contestant sign up 8:00 p.m.; FREE to watch; FREE to enter.

DUNGEON OF DARK SECRETS and FETISHES
Embrace your darkest desires… come one and come all (boys & girls, boys & boys, girls & girls) to play in our dungeon of fetishes! Play, voyeur, or take part in the show to unleash your darkest desires. Attire: PVC, leather, latex, uniform, period, levi, underwear, vintage, glam, cyber, burlesque, masks, wear as much or as little as you want, but dress to THRILL! 801 Bourbon Bar/Saloon 1, 801 Duval; (305) 294-4737 or (305) 731-9055; 9:00 p.m; $

FOGARTY'S RED NIGHT
Fogarty’s 10th Annual Red Party! Don’t miss this often imitated, but never duplicated party with a costume contest and door prizes! Live Band. 227 Duval St.; (305) 294-7525; 9:00 p.m.; $10 per person.

MAD HATTER PARTY
It’s going to be an outlandish, whimsical evening at Pete’s Dueling Piano Bar. Join us for our first ever Mad Hatter spectacle! Unleash your creativity and create a one of a kind head piece, whether it’s wickedly sexy or magically fun you are sure to have fantastic time. Cash prizes for the Best Mad Hatter! 218 Duval Street; (305) 292-7770; $

SWING & SKIN FREAK FEST PARTY
Freaky behavior dominates this affair. Charlie Sheen's own Goddess and adult film star, Bre Olson, invites the adventurous and risque to personally interact with her and super hot exotic dancers in an adult entertainment club setting while dancing to guest DJ's live in the mix. Dress in less sexy wear and enter the $700 Couples Pole Dancing Competition. Limited number of tickets available to the public for this private, star-studded, red carpet Extravaganza. Tickets available at www.keystix.com; Bare Assets 1029 Truman Ave; 305-304-1188; 10 pm; $

OVERBOARD'S AQUATIC EROTIC BUBBLE AFTER PARTY
Dive into the sexiest and most erotic party Key West has to offer!! Overboard's Aquatic Erotic Bubble After Party. Don't settle for the typical crowded, hot and sweaty dance scene when you can be refreshingly and luxuriously covered from head to toe with bubbles, while grinding with Mermaids, Titans and all other forms of Sexy Sea Creatures!! The after party starts at midnight with a Live DJ, drink specials and much more!!! Cover at the door. Overboard Bar & Grill, 712 Duval St. Key West, FL

Thursday, October 27, 2011

DANTE'S 5TH ANNUAL HALOS & HORNS POOL PARTY AND WET T-SHIRT CONTEST
Whether you wear the halo of an ANGEL or prefer devilish HORNS, GET WET & WILD at Dante’s for a chance to win BIG $$$! Free body painting, Live Music, Great Giveaways, Fantastic food and drink specials & our one of a kind stage in the CENTER of the POOL! The party starts at NOON & goes till 6:00, pole dancing starts at 4:30; Dante’s Restaurant & Raw Bar; 951 Caroline St, next to the ferry terminal; VIP seating is available….Visit www.danteskeywest.com for more details

PRETENDERS IN PARADISE
The legendary costume competition with $10,000 in cash and prizes! Combining extraordinary creative genius and performing energy, this year's event promises to be a frolicking good time! Pier House Resort & Caribbean Spa, beachside; www.pierhouse.com; 8 pm; $

SLOPPY JOE’S 28TH ANNUAL TOGA PARTY
“Still The Best Ancient Roman Party in Town!” To enter the contest, contestants must be dressed in toga and are encouraged to use Fantasy Fest’s theme “Aquatic Afrolic” for inspiration. Three divisions: Groups/Couples – $500 first place prize; Men’s – $250 first place prize; and Women’s – $250 first place prize. Free to enter contest; registration at 8:00 p.m. and contest begins at 9:30 p.m.; 201 Duval St. Door charge.

EXPOSED AT THE BOURBON ST. PUB ADULT ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
Looking for the most risqué party of this years Fantasy Fest? This party really plays into the theme, “Aquatic Afrolic,” Pool, Hot Tub and Foam Party all out doors, under the stars, complete with a black out / black light dance party inside. This all welcome, clothing optional, (Bare What You Dare) party, will include glow sticks, 2 DJ’s, dance floors, large projector screens (playing all your favorite fantasies), exotic dancers (male and female). VIP, front of the line, passes will be on sale at the New Orleans House starting October 1st; 9 pm – 4 am; 305-293-9800; 724 Duval St; www.Bourbonstpub.com

COWBOY BILL'S 5TH ANNUAL GIT-R-WET T-SHIRT CONTEST
Catch the hottest ladies competing for $1500 in cash prizes in this over the top competition. Contestants model the finest and most creative cotton wet t-shirts. Drink Specials all night. VIP seating available or watch the action live from our big screens! 610 1/2 Duval street; 10 pm; (305)295-8219; www.cowboybills.com; $

MONSTERS BALL
Sea serpents, mermaids and other bizarre creatures of the deep! What lurks below and who’s dancing on the reef? Dive into this annual costume party and explore some surreal fantasies and some -too-real fantasies that should perhaps remain submerged! Green Parrot Bar; 601 Whitehead St.; (305) 294-6133; www.greenparrot.com; 10:00 p.m.; FREE

PAJAMA AND LINGERIE PARTY
The hottest Playboy model in the world Kristy Morgan from the reality TV show "Tila Tequila" encourages you to dress sexy for this skimpy affair. Enter the $700 Hugh Hefner and Marilyn Monroe look-a-like contest, plus enjoy guest D.J.'s live. This event is guaranteed to sell out! Purchase advance VIP tickets online at www.keystix.com; Mangoes 700 Duval St; (305) 304-1188; 10 p.m. $

Friday, October 28, 2011

HAIR OF THE HOG, LEATHER AND LACE PARTY
Wake up with the hogs at our Bloody Mary Blow Out Breakfast! Wear your laciest lace or your luckiest leather and win $$$! Grey Goose Bloody Mary bar and beer specials. Featuring the Hog’s Breath awesome breakfast burrito! For more information visit www.hogsbreath.com; 400 Front St.; (305) 296-4222; 9:00 a.m. to noon

FANTASY FEST STREET FAIR
Duval Street’s mile-long eater-tainment extravaganza features arts and crafts, food vendors, lively libations and costumed frivolity; Noon to 10:00 p.m.

801 BOURBON BAR TEA DANCE
Plenty of sugar and spice at this “tea in the street” party; Live D.J., cool drinks, dancers, drag queens and celebrities; (305) 294-4737 or (305) 731-9055; 801 Duval St.; 1:00 p.m.; FREE

SOUTHERNMOST SIRENS, SEA NYMPHS AND SAILORS COSTUME CONTEST
Calling all seductive Sirens and Sea Nymphs to lure off-course Sailors from near and far to the Sirens, Sea Nymphs and Sailors Costume Contest! Be part of this aquatic affair with sexy sea urchins and striking seaman at Poseidon's Paradise poolside at Southernmost on the Beach hotel at 508 South Street from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Registration begins at 3:00 p.m.; Contest starts at 4:30 p.m. Then at 6:00 p.m. join us for the Masquerade March Half Way Party – FREE.

MASQUERADE MARCH
Join the crowd as they parade through Old Town with music and noisemakers! Thirst quenchers provided at selected guesthouses. Begins at the Key West Cemetery Frances Street entrance but revelers can join the mad march anywhere along the two routes! Start marching at 5:00 p.m.; All welcome; FREE

11TH ANNUAL LIVING ART AIRBRUSH EXPO
Contestants will use the human form as a living canvas for artistic expression in competition for $2000 in cash; drink specials and live entertainment! Painting and partying start at 6:00 p.m., judging begins at 9:00 p.m. Sunset Pier at Ocean Key Resort; (305) 295-7045; FREE; Backstage VIP tickets available at www.keystix.com.

FETISH & FANTASY PARTY AT THE ISLAND HOUSE FOR MEN
Envision yourself in a maze of mystery and excitement. Pursue your fantasies at the only all male event held during Fantasy Fest. This clothing optional event for adult men is co-sponsored by the Key West Wreckers. Come feel the thrill. Doors open at 9:00 pm. Clothes check provided. Purchase advance VIP tickets online at www.keystix.com. 1129 Fleming St – 305-294-6284

RUM BARREL'S 5TH ANNUAL PIRATE BASH
Dress and drink like a pirate at the Rum Barrel’s most outrageous pirate bash in the world! More than $1500 in cash prizes for the best pirate and wench costumes, great music on the rooftop stage, and awesome rume rum specials. For more info call (305) 292-7862 or get piratical inspiration at www.rumbarrel.com; 9:00 p.m.

PIMP AND HO PARTY
America's #1 movie star, Ron Jeremy, invites you to come fulfill your fantasy at this exotic dance party. Enter the $700 Mr. Pimp and Ms. Ho costume contest, plus enjoy guest D.J.'s live. This event is guaranteed to sell out. Purchase advance VIP tickets online at www.keystix.com; Red Fish Blue Fish 407 Front St. (305)304-1188; 10 p.m. $

Saturday, October 29, 2011

DUVAL STREET PROMENADE
Sassy entertainers, enticing food and spirited libations tempt costumed merrymakers as they party from the Gulf to the Atlantic; Noon to 10:30 p.m.; FREE

EPIDERMAL ARTS AND TORSO TAPESTRIES
Art lovers gather for this bona fide cultural event to determine the best-illustrated bodies. The battle of the emblazoned bods elevates this art form to something aesthetic, creative and maybe even poetic; Green Parrot Bar at 601 Whitehead St.; (305) 294-6133; www.greenparrot.com; 2:00 p.m.; FREE

CAPTAIN MORGAN FANTASY FEST PARADE
Join 70,000 frolicking partygoers as this year's parade surfs down Duval Street. Featuring glittering floats, marching bands and dancing groups, it doesn't get any wilder than this! Parade steps off at 7:00 p.m.; www.fantasyfest.net/parade.cfm; FREE

Sunday, October 30, 2011

CHILDREN'S DAY
A family event featuring food, games, arts and crafts and a costume contest for children. Bayview Park at Truman Ave. and Eisenhower Dr.; Noon – 5 p.m.; 305-292-8912

"THE FAT LADY SINGS" TEA DANCE
As the saying goes, "It ain’t over 'til the fat lady sings." Everyone will be at La Te Da from 4:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. for the last official event of Fantasy Fest 2011. D.J. Junior provides the music for the very last hoorah. La Te Da Hotel, Restaurant, Cabaret and Bars at 1125 Duval St.; (305) 296-6706; $5

2011 Schedule of Events

Friday, October 21, 2011

GOOMBAY
Tastes, sights and sounds of the Caribbean in Bahama Village, located at Duval and Petronia steets. This family friendly street party continues Saturday! Noon to midnight; FREE

Saturday, October 22, 2011

GOOMBAY
This family friendly party continues in Bahama Village! Noon – midnight; FREE

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Monday, October 24, 2011

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

REDDY ICE FANTASY FAÇADE ™ COMPETITION
Festively decorated homes and businesses compete for cold cash! Free to enter or for more information, call the Fantasy Fest office 305-296-1817

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Friday, October 28, 2011

FANTASY FEST STREET FAIR
Duval Street’s mile-long eater-tainment extravaganza features arts and crafts, food vendors, lively libations and costumed frivolity; Noon to 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, October 29, 2011

DUVAL STREET PROMENADE
Sassy entertainers, enticing food and spirited libations tempt costumed merrymakers as they party from the Gulf to the Atlantic; Noon to 10:30 p.m.; FREE

Sunday, October 30, 2011

CHILDREN'S DAY
A family event featuring food, games, arts and crafts and a costume contest for children. Bayview Park at Truman Ave. and Eisenhower Dr.; Noon – 5 p.m.; 305-292-8912

2011 Schedule of Events

Friday, October 21, 2011

GOOMBAY
Tastes, sights and sounds of the Caribbean in Bahama Village, located at Duval and Petronia steets. This family friendly street party continues Saturday! Noon to midnight; FREE

Saturday, October 22, 2011

GOOMBAY
This family friendly party continues in Bahama Village! Noon – midnight; FREE

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Monday, October 24, 2011

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

REDDY ICE FANTASY FAÇADE ™ COMPETITION
Festively decorated homes and businesses compete for cold cash! Free to enter or for more information, call the Fantasy Fest office 305-296-1817

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Friday, October 28, 2011

FANTASY FEST STREET FAIR
Duval Street’s mile-long eater-tainment extravaganza features arts and crafts, food vendors, lively libations and costumed frivolity; Noon to 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, October 29, 2011

DUVAL STREET PROMENADE
Sassy entertainers, enticing food and spirited libations tempt costumed merrymakers as they party from the Gulf to the Atlantic; Noon to 10:30 p.m.; FREE

Sunday, October 30, 2011

CHILDREN'S DAY
A family event featuring food, games, arts and crafts and a costume contest for children. Bayview Park at Truman Ave. and Eisenhower Dr.; Noon – 5 p.m.; 305-292-8912

2011 Schedule of Events

Friday, October 21, 2011

GOOMBAY
Tastes, sights and sounds of the Caribbean in Bahama Village, located at Duval and Petronia steets. This family friendly street party continues Saturday! Noon to midnight; FREE

Saturday, October 22, 2011

GOOMBAY
This family friendly party continues in Bahama Village! Noon – midnight; FREE

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Monday, October 24, 2011

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

REDDY ICE FANTASY FAÇADE ™ COMPETITION
Festively decorated homes and businesses compete for cold cash! Free to enter or for more information, call the Fantasy Fest office 305-296-1817

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Friday, October 28, 2011

FANTASY FEST STREET FAIR
Duval Street’s mile-long eater-tainment extravaganza features arts and crafts, food vendors, lively libations and costumed frivolity; Noon to 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, October 29, 2011

DUVAL STREET PROMENADE
Sassy entertainers, enticing food and spirited libations tempt costumed merrymakers as they party from the Gulf to the Atlantic; Noon to 10:30 p.m.; FREE

Sunday, October 30, 2011

CHILDREN'S DAY
A family event featuring food, games, arts and crafts and a costume contest for children. Bayview Park at Truman Ave. and Eisenhower Dr.; Noon – 5 p.m.; 305-292-8912

2011 Schedule of Events

Friday, October 21, 2011

GOOMBAY
Tastes, sights and sounds of the Caribbean in Bahama Village, located at Duval and Petronia steets. This family friendly street party continues Saturday! Noon to midnight; FREE

Saturday, October 22, 2011

GOOMBAY
This family friendly party continues in Bahama Village! Noon – midnight; FREE

Sunday, October 23, 2011

Monday, October 24, 2011

Tuesday, October 25, 2011

REDDY ICE FANTASY FAÇADE ™ COMPETITION
Festively decorated homes and businesses compete for cold cash! Free to enter or for more information, call the Fantasy Fest office 305-296-1817

Wednesday, October 26, 2011

Thursday, October 27, 2011

Friday, October 28, 2011

FANTASY FEST STREET FAIR
Duval Street’s mile-long eater-tainment extravaganza features arts and crafts, food vendors, lively libations and costumed frivolity; Noon to 10:00 p.m.

Saturday, October 29, 2011

DUVAL STREET PROMENADE
Sassy entertainers, enticing food and spirited libations tempt costumed merrymakers as they party from the Gulf to the Atlantic; Noon to 10:30 p.m.; FREE

Sunday, October 30, 2011

CHILDREN'S DAY
A family event featuring food, games, arts and crafts and a costume contest for children. Bayview Park at Truman Ave. and Eisenhower Dr.; Noon – 5 p.m.; 305-292-8912

Woofest It’s a Dogs World

oldconch — Wed, 23 Mar 2011 03:36:40 +0000

Woofest, On Saturday March 19,2011 the canine population held their 2nd annual Woofest at Islamorada, in the Conch Republic. The Canines organized races, diving competition and free treats for all. Hundreds of Conch Canines attended the all day event.

CANINES WARMING UP FOR RACE

Full Moon Beach Celibration A 300 year tradition

oldconch — Mon, 31 Jan 2011 04:52:58 +0000

[caption id="attachment_722" align="alignleft" width="400" caption="Full Moon Celibration"][/caption]

Starting over 350 years ago by our forefathers this celebration continues today. Forever linked to mischievous, mad behavior, the moon that hangs over this festivity certainly follows suit. As it rises, it illuminates the bay and casts a glow on the ever-expanding crowd. The celebration consists of many smaller gatherings in one as guests move freely between live bands and DJs, impromptu drum circles, capoeira demonstrations, fireworks and flame-throwing performances.

The mystery of this event continues as no guest has ever remembered the party after attending. It was believed in the past that the spirits of the moon erased all memory of the event. Others believed it was a plot by smugglers to keep the authorities busy, as they applied their trade. Only by attending can you know the

Stone Crab season starts Strong

oldconch — Mon, 01 Nov 2010 00:28:21 +0000

We shall all eat well this year. The first 3 weeks of the season sets new record for stone crab.

Captain Angelo sets new record with stone Crab Catch

oldconch — Mon, 18 Oct 2010 20:49:12 +0000

It’s that time again when all Capitan’s are readying for a prosperous Stone Crab season. This year Rooky Angelo is captaining the infamous STONE CRAB 111, out of Islamorada in the Conch Republic. At approximately 1500 hours on October 16,2010 the boat was seen with its crew of 7, entering the water and heading out in 9’ to 12’ seas.. With inhuman conditions at sea the Stone Crab 111 set an all time record in first pull crabs. We congratulate the entire crew on this feat.

The Conch Republic via a Guest Blogger

The Skipper — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 12:08:22 +0000

This week, we welcome Chris Tucker’s contribution to the kingofconch.com. Chris’s personal blog can be found here.

The Conch republic is a society unto itself. Located in the city of Key West, Florida, this micro nation was formed as a simple protest. The Conch Republic seceded from the rest of the United States as a protest to a roadblock/inspection point back in 1982. The United States Border Patrol had set up this inspection point up to search for narcotics and illegal immigrants. In my research nothing was found of any importance in the vehicles that were searched. What happened after the Border Patrol had created this roadblock was a major traffic jam. There is only one way into the Keys by land and only one way out. Not only that, but it’s also a one lane road. So now you can see how much of a hassle it would be for local residents and people on vacation. The loss of monetary gain for the local economy was evident as well in the local business owner’s disgust of this unjust checkpoint.

The city council’s complaints were not listened to by the Federal Government. Attempts also to get an injunction against the roadblock was shot down in court. The mayor at the time Dennis Wardlow and the council; wanting to protest this unfair treatment officially declared “independence”. The council felt that since the federal government had erected an inspection point equivalent of a border station as they were a foreign nation, they might as well be one. Keys citizens have long been referred to as Conchs, so they took the name the Conch Republic. Their official motto is “We have seceded where others have failed”. So you can see their humor and play on words here. But more importantly it sums up their personal beliefs. This secession occurred on April 23, 1982 in Key West.

Conchs believe they have the right to enjoy the Keys without any outside interference, which most residents say is a state of mind, not just a location. The whole aura about the Keys or the Conch Republic is to “get away”. It’s an escape. Conchs enjoy themselves whether it is relaxing by the beach, fishing, or hanging out at a bar. The very people who live at the Conch Republic and travel there are mostly those who desire a simpler way of living, more laid back. Hence when they seceded from the US government it was light hearted, but there was seriousness to it as well. The Conchs hold their land in high regard.

The roadblock had frustrated and inconvenienced many residents. It also had slowed down tourism a lot. Most Conch Republic residents really didn’t like the fact their own country was taking actions against supposed drug smugglers and illegal immigrants without considering all the implications.

The Conch Republic is full of and has always attracted free-thinkers that constantly question authority, hence the fact that they want to get away, live somewhere else. To live out their days in peace from an overzealous state. The Conchs are decedents of Indians, pirates, and salvagers. So native people, travelers, and some less desirables are early ancestors of modern Conchs. Ernest Hemingway comes to mind as an individual representative of the Conch way of life. He was an American writer, journalist, and winner of a Pulitzer Prize. All through his childhood his family would spend winters in Key West (Conch Republic). Later on in life he went there to once again “get away”. He went to relax, write, and fish. Hemingway is a great American author who was a free-thinker. He wrote fiction and was critical of war and the military’s influence on society. There is a reoccurring theme in people involved with the Conch Republic. The common element of not really us vs. them, but Conchs want the government to mind it’s business and don’t just do whatever they want as is evident with the roadblock incident.

So I think what can be drawn from the citizens of this great nation is they are not lazy, drunken fisherman who waste away the days; but it is more profound than that. Some would dare to say that Conch residents have figured it out. Living the simple life and not worrying too much about work and trivial things. These modern day Conchs are business owners, fisherman, sailors, scuba divers, fathers, mothers, friends, and children. At first they might go to escape but in the process find themselves becoming closer to their families and the tropical environment. The Conch residents embody a Zen-like focus on relaxing and having a good time. But they also are not push overs and they can think for themselves. They want better for themselves. We saw this when they protested and declared independence in April of 1982. So as residents of the Conch Republic relax by the beach and cast out their line, if they are disturbed they can formulate their beliefs into action and aren’t afraid to demand their God given rights. The right to personal freedom and the pursuit thereof.

Civil War Declared

The Skipper — Sun, 19 Apr 2009 01:09:11 +0000

After years of unfair taxation, Fee’s without representation and total disregard for the concerns of the people, leaders of the provisional government of the Northernmost Territory of the Conch Republic, today declared freedom and independence from the tyrants in Key West. At a Ceremony held at Snappers, a popular watering hole, attended by True Conch, dignitaries and representatives of many foreign governments, the Conch Flag was burned in empathy. The burning of the flag signals the end of all ties with the sitting puppet government in Key West.

The Independence proclamation declared, true Conch are disgusted with the Southernmost leaders who have forgotten the values our country was found on and have become Money Hungry puppets of the United States. Besides succession in an unpredicted move the newly formed Northernmost Territories of the Conch Republic declared all out War on the Conch Republic. It is rumored that a replica of the Seven Mile Bridge connecting the Northern and Southern territories will be blown up within the week.

The Independent Northernmost Territories of the Conch Republic has its Northern border at the Last Chance Saloon in Florida City and extends to mile marker 71. True Conchs and dignitaries from around the world where among the hundred attending the ceremonies in support of the new Republic.

As word spread across the new republic all in attendance moved to Sundowners for a special celebration and the first Raising of the Northernmost Territory of the Conch Republics Flag. Conch came from far & near to be part of this ceremony.

View photos from the Ceremonies

Board Approves Remake of Key West’s New Town

The Skipper — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 11:20:09 +0000

The Key West Planning Board on Thursday approved a development agreement with Spottswood Companies, Inc. that gives developer Robert Spottswood five years, with a possible five-year extension, to totally reshape the entrance to Key West.

The Planning Board approval will go to the City Commission for the final go-ahead, most likely at the commission’s Feb. 3 meeting.

Spottswood’s plan calls for redevelopment of the triangle area of the island where U.S. 1 enters Key West. The Days Inn, Waffle House, Holiday Inn, Comfort Inn, Radisson and Conch Tour Train station will all be taken down and replaced with a 450-room hotel, 50 workforce housing apartments, 33 timeshare units, 21 residential condos, a 20,500-square-foot conference center, 21,000 square feet of retail space and a 250-seat restaurant and bar on a 17-acre parcel at 3820 N. Roosevelt Blvd.

The development agreement rolls all necessary city approvals, conditional uses and variances into one phased project.

“It’s going to be what you see when you come into town. Something that makes you feel like you’ve arrived in Key West,” said city planning director Amy Kimball-Murley before Thursday’s meeting.

Special session

The Planning Board convenes for a special session on Jan. 22 to discuss changes to the city’s Building Permit Allocation System (BPAS), proposed by city staff.

The BPAS is governed by the city’s rate-of-growth ordinance, declared expired by Judge Wayne Miller in early 2008. The ordinance mandates development, density and zoning according to hurricane evacuation clearance times that were formulated after the 1990 census.

Currently, development in Key West has been designated as zoning-in-progress, which effectively halts all development except for workforce housing.

The proposed changes, made by the city’s planning department, are primarily administrative and add a mechanism to account for all existing and new permit allocations, and require a report to the City Commission annually.

The Planning Board in December voted to table the proposed changes, citing a desire to have direct involvement from the state Department of Community Affairs, the agency that has final say over land use in areas of critical state concern like the Keys.

Since then, city staff has received a courtesy report from the DCA giving preliminary support of the changes, triggering another review by the Planning Board.

City planning staff was instructed by the City Commission in November 2008 to make minimal changes to the ordinance until a thorough rewriting of the city’s comprehensive plan, which provides long-term guidelines and laws to regulate land use and was penned in 1993, can be undertaken throughout the year.

The Planning Board meets at 6 p.m. on Jan. 22 in Old City Hall, Greene Street.

Source: http://www.keysnet.com/news/story/61360.html

Biking in the Florida Keys

The Skipper — Tue, 13 Jan 2009 01:04:29 +0000

Since I was young, biking has always been a passion of mine. While I am more often able to spend the day on the bike trails of Markham or Oleta State Park, I also enjoy biking in the beautiful Florida Keys when I’m able to get there. In today’s post, I’ll give some guidelines and information on biking in the Florida keys.

Long distance riders: Aside from the obvious challenges of long-distance riding (sweat, tears, sunburn), the Florida Keys aren’t very bike-friendly. For the most part, the more-densely populated keys are equipped with sidewalks or at least a small shoulder for bike riders to take advantage of. In between keys and on the smaller keys, these bike lanes usually disappear. If you don’t mind cars buzzing by you on the Overseas Highway, then you’ll be fine. There is a project underway that aims to remedy this situation by adding trails and educational kiosks throughout the keys. Of course, this has been in the planning stage for a long time now.

Getting around town: Without argument, Key West is definitely the most bike-friendly of all the keys. There’s really no reason that every traveler to the Conch Republic (aka, Key West) should spend some time on a bicycle. There’s no better way to get acquainted with Key West then to get lost on a bicycle (Disclaimer, I think there are about 2 ‘areas’ of Key West that you may not want to stop in. But if you’re from the city, it’s probably nothing you haven;t seen before). While the island is pretty busy, there are plenty of sidewalks to help you keep out of traffic. A map of the island can be found in just about any store on the island or from kind folks willing to rent you a bike for your visit. Key Largo, Islamorada and many of the other major keys have plenty of bike trails as well.

Off-Road Riding: Don’t bother. I’ve spent plenty of time trying to find places for a little off-road action to no avail. Sorry trill seekers, you’re better off in Miami or Sunrise for the good stuff.

Bridges: With many islands come many bridges (about 50). These abandoned bridges of of the Florida Keys are great for fishing, walking and biking alike. Of course, the one bridge worth a visit is the famous 7-mile bridge near Ohio Key.

That’s it for today’s post. Contact rick@kingofconch.com with any questions. Any don’t forget to checkout the new Conch Republic Fishing T-Shirts on the website.