Labor Day may be just around the corner, but that doesn’t mean the fun stops in Key West.
Womenfest, Key West’s diverse five day celebration of women, blows cross the island from Wednesday, September 1 through Sunday, September 5.
Considered one of the largest gatherings of lesbians, trans-women, and their allies in North America, this year’s festival boasts an amazing lineup of “girls-only” soirees that range from pool parties to late-night gatherings at Key West’s top LGBTQ clubs.
On Wednesday, September 1, the action packed schedule kicks off with a wild opening night party that includes free drinks and hors d’oeuvres at Alexander’s Guesthouse, (1118 Fleming St). Headlining the event is the highly acclaimed all-female band Sister Funk who performs poolside from 6-8pm. At 9pm, the party continues at Aqua Nightclub for one of the best drag shows on the island.
On Thursday, September 2, it’s time to hit the beach for the Ultimate Beach Bash & Cornhole Tournament which takes place at Higgs Beach (1000 Atlantic Ave) from noon — 4pm. After the sun goes down, the island heats up with a ThursGAYS Dance Party at the SideBar (504 Angela St) at 9pm. If you’re looking for something, shall we say, a bit more “risqué,” head next door for the clothing-optional “Poke Her”Party at Poke in the Rear from 10am – 2pm.
If hanging out in the buff is your thing, the clothing optional all-women Sandbar Snorkel Trip on Friday, September 3rd may just be your “thang.” Hop onto the Blu Q at 11am and the all women crew will whisk you out to the sandbar for some amazing snorkeling. There’s also a clothing-optional “All Welcome Pool Party” with DJ Rude Girl happening from noon – 4pm at Bourbon Street Pub.
Later that night, the “Real Women Do Drag” contest takes place from 7 – 9pm at Marilyn’s (320 Grinnell Street). If you’ve ever wanted to dress up in drag and show off your talent, this is your chance! But pace yourself. Because at 9pm, the party continues at SideBar with an “Outside the Box” Dance Party with DeeJays Mira and Citizen Jane.
And then comes Saturday, September 4.
You can sleep late but be ready to go by noon because Alexander’s Guest House is hosting a sexy, clothing optional “Are You Wet” Pool Party. DJ Rude Girl is spinning until 3pm so you know it’s going to be hot.
A trip to Key West wouldn’t be complete without hitting the deck for a sunset sail. And what could be better than enjoying one aboard the 75’ luxury catamaran, SV Argo Navis. This 2-hour women’s only cruise leaves the docks at 6:30pm (check-in at 6:15pm). Joining the crew will be three members of Sister Funk who will play a stripped-down, intimate set of acoustic covers and brand new originals. Included in the $75/pp ticket is unlimited beer, wine, champagne, and passed appetizers. FYI: This event always fills up fast so reserve early!
After dark, make your way back to the Sidebar for the “All White Party” which starts at 9pm and features deejays Mira and Citizen Jane.
On Sunday September 5, the Bloody Mary’s and Mimosas flow during the “50 Shades of Pink” Drag Brunch at Mangoes (700 Duval) from noon until 3pm followed by La Te Da’s world famous Tea Dance (1125 Duval) from 4:30 – 6:30pm.
But that’s not the end of Womenfest 2021. At 8pm, the Sidebar will host the “Final Dance.” The new sound system here is simply amazing and guaranteed to keep you pumped up all night.
Of course on top of all of this, there are tons of attractions and activities happening all over the island. For more info go to gaykeywestfl.com and destinationfloridakeys.com.
