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Dazzling Costumes and Spirited Nightlife at Fantasy Fest 2023

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Experience the Unique Blend of History, Creativity, and Nightlife in Key West’s Most Anticipated Festival, Fantasy Fest.

October 20th – 29th, 2023

Imagine a place where creativity knows no bounds, where the ordinary becomes extraordinary, and where a spirit of celebration fills the air. Welcome to Fantasy Fest 2023, a 10-day costuming extravaganza set against the backdrop of Key West’s historic streets and stunning beaches. Fantasy Fest primarily caters to adults with its revelry, risqué outfits, and spirited nightlife, but it’s worth noting that there are family-friendly events as well, making it a diverse and inclusive celebration.

Fantasy Fest has its roots in the late 1970s when a group of Key West locals came up with the idea to bring visitors to the island during a typically quiet season. Over the years, it has evolved into one of the wildest and most creative celebrations around. The 2023 theme, “Uniforms and Unicorns … 200 Years of Sailing into Fantasy,” commemorates the 200th anniversary of Monroe County’s establishment and the first Naval base in Key West. What sets Fantasy Fest apart is the sheer enthusiasm and creativity that permeates the event. Participants go all out with their costumes, transforming into everything from Navy personnel to mythical unicorns. The atmosphere is electric, and the island becomes a canvas for self-expression, attracting fun-loving revelers from around the globe.

When it comes to accommodations in Key West, you’ll find a wide range of options to suit your preferences and budget. From luxury resorts with stunning ocean views to cozy and budget-friendly hotels, Key West has it all. Many of these establishments offer special deals during the festival, so you can enjoy comfort and convenience close to the festivities. Key West also boasts a diverse culinary scene that caters to every palate. Seafood, local specialties, and international cuisines are all on the menu. You won’t want to miss some of the must-visit restaurants where you can savor delectable dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood or exotic flavors, Key West’s restaurants have you covered.

For those looking to take home a piece of Key West, there’s no shortage of shops and boutiques offering unique souvenirs and local crafts. From locally made art to clothing and accessories, you’ll find plenty of authentic products to commemorate your visit. Don’t forget to explore the bustling markets and hidden gems for the perfect keepsake. Beyond the Fantasy Fest celebrations, Key West offers a wealth of attractions and activities to explore. Museums, water sports, and nature excursions are just a few of the options for visitors to enjoy. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the island’s rich history and natural beauty alongside the festival.

Fantasy Fest is renowned for its exciting lineup of events and parades. The schedule includes an array of activities, from the Royal Coronation Ball, benefiting organizations like The Florida Keys SPCA, to the Captain Morgan Masquerade March that takes you on a tour of the island’s best sights. The Bud Light Fantasy Fest Parade, led by Grand Marshal ADM Finbar Gittelman, is a highlight you won’t want to miss. To make the most of your Fantasy Fest experience, consider some insider tips. Get your tickets in advance, arrange transportation around the island, and pack appropriately for the festivities. Discover hidden gems and lesser-known events that add an extra layer of excitement to your trip.

Fantasy Fest in Key West is more than just a festival; it’s a vibrant and unforgettable experience. With its unique blend of creativity, inclusivity, and celebration, this event allows you to immerse yourself in a world of fantasy. Whether you’re donning a dazzling costume, exploring the island’s attractions, or savoring local cuisine, Fantasy Fest promises memories that will last a lifetime. Plan your visit to Key West and be part of this spectacular celebration of “Uniforms and Unicorns … 200 Years of Sailing into Fantasy.”

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Brews, Bites and Bryant Park

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A Brew with a View: West Palm Beach Beer Fest Pours on the Flavor with Craft Beer, Cocktails and Bites at Bryant Park.

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Monster Jam Sends Sunrise Into Overdrive

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Luli Fama Launches Paradise Found Cruise ’27 Swimwear Collection in Miami

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Luli Fama celebrates its Paradise Found Cruise ’27 swimwear and resortwear collection with a luxury Miami launch at its Dadeland Mall boutique.


 August 20, 2026

Miami swimwear favorite Luli Fama is stepping into Cruise ’27 with Paradise Found, a new swimwear and resortwear collection inspired by tropical escapes, exotic prints and effortless vacation glamour.

South Florida Insider has already taken a closer look at the Luli Fama Paradise Found collection, and it feels made for Miami.

The new Cruise ’27 collection combines the bold, body-confident swimwear Luli Fama is known for with elevated resort pieces designed to move effortlessly from the beach and pool to cocktails and dinner.

On Thursday, August 20, Luli Fama will celebrate Paradise Found with an exclusive evening at its newest Dadeland Mall boutique in Miami, complete with fashion, light bites, personalized surprises, and a luxe espresso martini bar.

Inside Luli Fama’s Paradise Found Cruise ’27 Collection

Paradise Found is inspired by the feeling of discovering a hidden tropical retreat.

Think lush landscapes, warm golden hour light, exotic patterns, and silhouettes made for somewhere beautiful.

The collection features Luli Fama signatures, including flattering ruched details, seamless construction, adjustable fits, and statement swimwear, alongside an expanded selection of resortwear.

We especially love the pieces that blur the line between swim and ready-to-wear.

Flowing dresses, sleek coverups, and body-skimming silhouettes make it easy to transition from a sun-drenched afternoon to an evening out without losing that relaxed resort feeling.

It is sensual, polished, and unmistakably Miami.

Luli Fama Brings Luxury Resort Style to Miami

There is a reason Paradise Found feels so natural in South Florida.

In Miami, resortwear is not reserved for vacation.

A swimsuit can become part of an outfit. A coverup can take you to lunch. A flowing resort dress can carry you from an afternoon by the water straight into cocktails and dinner.

Luli Fama has always understood that lifestyle.

Paradise Found takes it a step further, creating a Cruise ’27 wardrobe that feels as appropriate for a tropical getaway as it does for a weekend in Miami.

The campaign captures that mood beautifully, pairing the collection with palms, lush greenery, tropical architecture and the kind of sun soaked setting that makes you want to extend your vacation indefinitely.

Paradise Found Comes to Luli Fama at Dadeland Mall

Luli Fama will bring the world of Paradise Found to life on Thursday, August 20 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at its newest boutique at Dadeland Mall in Miami.

The intimate celebration will bring together invited guests, influencers, celebrities and media for an early look at Cruise ’27.

Luli Fama is also dressing invited guests in pieces from the brand, allowing the new collection to be experienced the way it was designed to be worn: in motion, styled and out for the evening.

Luli After Hours Espresso Martini Bar

Fashion is only part of the experience.

For the Paradise Found celebration, Luli Fama is introducing Luli After Hours, an Espresso Martini Bar inspired by the glamour of the collection.

Guests will be able to sip three specialty espresso martinis created for the evening.

The Luli Babe puts a polished spin on the classic espresso martini, while Golden Hour pairs salted caramel with edible gold shimmer. Miami After Dark takes a richer approach with chocolate hazelnut and a cocoa dust finish.

Along with cocktails, guests can expect light bites, curated details and a special personalized surprise.

The result feels less like a traditional retail event and more like checking into a private resort for the evening.

A Miami Swimwear Brand Celebrates at Home

For a brand with such a strong connection to South Florida, launching Paradise Found in Miami feels especially fitting.

Luli Fama has built its identity around colorful, confident swimwear and resort fashion with a distinctly tropical point of view.

Paradise Found carries that identity into Cruise ’27 while giving it a more elevated, escapist mood.

And with Luli Fama’s newest boutique now at Dadeland Mall, Miami shoppers have another destination to experience the brand in person.

After getting our own closer look at Luli Fama’s Paradise Found Cruise ’27 collection, we can safely say the name fits.

Paradise has officially been found, and this time, it is in Miami.

Check out the collection HERE

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