Pet Masquerade | Fantasy Fest 2026

Pet Masquerade at Coffee Butler Amphitheater – Fantasy Fest 2026

On Wednesday, October 21, 2026, the Coffee Butler Amphitheater will come alive with whimsy and laughter as the Pet Masquerade returns for another unforgettable evening of Fantasy Fest fun. A beloved tradition since the 1980s, this event blends Key West’s playful spirit with its devotion to animals, drawing crowds of locals and visitors eager to see pets transformed into stars of the stage.

From poodles dressed as pirates and parrots in feathered costumes to the occasional iguana in royal regalia, the Pet Masquerade has long been one of Fantasy Fest’s most iconic showcases. The night is more than entertainment—it also supports a worthy cause, benefiting the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office Animal Farm.

The gates open at 5:00 PM for registration, and the parade of creativity begins at 6:30 PM. Pets and their proud owners strut across the stage in dazzling costumes, competing in categories such as Junior Entrants, Pet/Owner Lookalikes, Most Exotic, and Best Theme Adaptation, with the grand finale crowning the coveted Best in Show. Each performance is as heartwarming as it is hilarious, keeping the audience cheering throughout the evening.

Admission is free for spectators, making this one of the most accessible and family-friendly Fantasy Fest events. Families spread out blankets beneath the stars, couples enjoy bites from on-site food vendors, and groups of friends laugh as their favorites waddle, trot, or flutter across the stage. Whether elaborate productions or comedic one-liners, every act brings the same joy-filled energy that defines this Key West celebration.

For participants, the entry fee is $25 per pet, a small price for a chance to be part of an island tradition and support local animal care. For visitors, the Pet Masquerade offers a uniquely Key West experience: an evening where pets in tutus, tuxedos, or mermaid tails steal the spotlight and hearts alike.

The Pet Masquerade at Coffee Butler Amphitheater is a must-see highlight of Fantasy Fest—lighthearted, whimsical, and unforgettable.

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