Key West may be known for its year-round subtropical weather, but things really heat up on Wednesday, August 11 through Sunday, August 15 when a wave of Tropical Heat blows across our small island.
This All-Male-All-Adult, fever pitched festival includes more than a dozen intriguingly decadent events ranging from drag shows to themed pool parties, sunset cruises, and gatherings at island clubs. Not for the faint-hearted, Tropical Heat’s five days of sizzling happenings kick off on Wednesday at 5pm with a wet and wild Opening Party at the Island House Resort, 1129 Fleming Street. Clothing here is optional and the pool is the place to see and be seen.
At noon on Thursday, you can chill out with an Underwear (or swim attire of your choice) Pool Party at the Equator Resort, 822 Fleming Street. Don’t worry about the weather because it’s always raining men here. Later that afternoon, head for the docks and hop on the BluQ for a lively sunset catamaran cruise with the sexy “Boys of Blu” crew. Once the sun goes down, there are plenty of LGBTQ-friendly clubs, restaurants and bars waiting to entertain you.
“Splash” Friday means grabbing your favorite speedo and making waves for the Bourbon Pub at 744 Duval Street for an afternoon pool bash that is best known for its display of hard bodied birthday suits. Just don’t get too comfortable because there’s a lot more to come.
Friday night turns frisky with a litany of parties including the Lusty Luau Party at Alexander’s Guesthouse, (1118 Fleming Street) and the White Hot Island Nights Party at the Sidebar (504 Angela Street).
On Saturday at 7pm, the highly anticipated Toga 3D Party rocks the Equator Resort with yummy hors d’oeuvres, kick-ass libations and hot music by the talented DJ Kyd. FYI: Be sure to get in on the Equator’s special raffle because you could win a three, five, or seven night stay at the resort. Proceeds benefit the Monroe Association for ReMARCable Citizens, a local nonprofit organization. Sunday Funday means that there are a lot more good times on the roster. Haul your sorry arse out of bed and hit Key West’s “always hilarious” Drag Brunch. Some of the island’s funniest “Merry Mary’s” will be at Mangoes, 700 Duval Street starting at noon.
When you’ve finally stopped laughing, head down to Key West’s renowned Sunday Tea Dance which lifts off at 4pm at La Te Da, 1125 Duval Street. It’s a Sunday tradition that brings out tons of local celebrities and colorful characters.
Ok, time to recharge for Tropical Heat’s closing soiree. Aptly named “Last Dance,” this annual farewell party takes place at the Sidebar where you can cut loose for one last night of “Tropical Heat” and grind away to a phenomenal new sound and light system.
Pay at the door for each of these exclusive events or get a bigger bang for your buck by purchasing a Tropical Heat VIP all — access wristband in advance for just $99. For wristbands and info call 305-294-4603 or hit up tropicalheatkw.com.
Have fun and be safe!
