Gay Pride takes on an especially festive and friendly tone in Key West’s iconic gay community. It is one of several colorful GLBT events planned throughout the year, including the gay spring break in late winter, the tropical heat of Key West in August, the Womenfest in early September, the Key West headdress dance to Late October and Key West’s Hot Pink Vacation in early December – by the Key West Business Guild of the Tropical Island. Key West Gay Pride takes place each year for five days in early June.
Key West Pride comprises several notable events, including a launch party on Wednesday at the legendary gay resort Island House, a Blu Q snorkeling cruise and a Danger Charters Wind and Wine cruise, a Rainbow Bike Parade, a fetish party at Saloon One, a pool party at Bourbon Street Pub, and much more.
There’s also the Key West Gay Pride Street Fair, typically held on the Saturday of festival week from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. along the 700 and 800 block of Duval Street. The next day, Sunday, you can watch the Key West Gay Pride Parade as you roll down historic Duval Street.
Where to stay during Key West gay pride
There are dozens of cozy gay lodgings in this famous and welcoming resort. Some of the top favorites during Pride include LGBT-oriented Alexander’s Guest House, gay-centric Island House, Equator Resort and New Orleans House, and mainstream properties like the Marriott Key West Beachside. These are all associate members of the Key West Business Guild, which organizes Pride weekend.
Key West Gay Resources
Key West’s gay bars are especially busy during Pride, and many gay hotels and resorts have special events and parties during Pride Week. Also, take a look at the excellent site produced by the city’s official gay tourism organization, the Key West Business Guild, as well as the Florida Keys travel site, produced by the Monroe County Tourism Development Council, for tips. general information about trips to visit the region.
