Key West’s “One Human Family” ethos is more than just a slogan: it’s a philosophy that we locals live by.
Renowned as one of the most harmonious and welcoming communities in America, our little piece of paradise is also a famous Gay mecca that attracts thousands of LGBTQ visitors. Summer here is especially hot (in more ways than one!) and it’s when events like Key West Pride keep the tiny two-mile by four-mile island hopping.
This year’s Key West Pride 2025 takes place from Saturday, June 21 – Sunday, June 29, and will be bigger and better than ever. Presented by the Key West Business Guild, Still Rising, pays homage to the history and resilience of the LGBTQ+ community.
Things start off with a bang on Saturday, June 21 with Key West’s renowned “Pride Follies.”
Staged at the Key West Theater (512 Eaton St), this original variety show includes an array of unforgettable comedy, singing, and dancing acts. Now in it’s 17th year, Pride Follies is reminiscent of Ed Sullivan’s legendary hit TV show and makes vintage vaudeville cool again.
In case you’re too young to remember, Sullivan was television’s undisputed “Kingmaker,” who helped turn the gyrating Elvis Presley into a singing sensation. Sullivan also brought British heartthrobs like the Beatles to the US for their first live performances in front of legions of screaming teenagers. Key West’s own iconic production is the brainchild of our own Peter Arnow. A long time pillar of Key West’s island community, Arnow, in partnership with the Key West Business Guild, has stewarded its success for over a decade. FYI: This show ALWAYS SELLS OUT so get your tickets early (305-985-0433; keywesttheater.com).
Starting at 5:30 pm on Sunday, June 22, you can “Rise Up and Show Your Pride” at a fun Opening Night Party. The pumped-up celebration includes unlimited drinks, a big buffet, live entertainment, and dancing to great music by one of Key West’s top Deejays. Takes place at AquaPlex, 711 Duval Street.
In addition to the lively bar scene centered on Upper Duval Street, there are lots of other events going on, including live performances, clothing optional pool and beach parties, wine tastings, water activities and so much more.
Standout events include “A Fabulous Evening with Lillian Baxter,” when Hollywood’s favorite has-been brings her one-woman Pride Parade to Key West! On stage Wednesday, June 5 – Friday, June 27 at the Armory, 600 White Street. Info and tickets: 305-731-0581; keystix.com.
On Saturday, June 28, starting at 4 pm, the 700 – 800 Blocks of Duval Street will transform into a mega “Generation of Strength” Street Fair & Dance Party with live performances, dancing in the streets, and over 50 eclectic vendors.
This year’s Pride Celebration also raises the bar with “headier” cultural events, as well. Not to be missed: a special screening of the powerful documentary, “Stonewall Uprising,” at the Tropic Cinema (416 Eaton Street). The film debuts at 6:30 pm on Tuesday, June 24 and examines the events leading up to what is now considered to be the defining moment in America’s Gay Rights Movement: the 1969 rebellion at the Stonewall Inn in New York City. Info: 877-761-3456; tropiccinema.com.
Another “Must See”: “The Stonewall Uprising: The Start of a Movement.” This compelling limited-time exhibit, in collaboration with the Key West Art & Historical Society and the Stonewall National Museum, is on display daily at the Custom House Museum through July 6.
The thought-provoking installation examines how the Stonewall riots catalyzed a bold movement advocating equal rights for LGBTQIA+ Americans. It also delves into the individuals, events, and locations of those pivotal June nights in Greenwich Village, NYC. See it daily from 9:30 am – 4:30 pm at the Custom House Museum, 281 Front St. Info: 305-850-8343; kwahs.org.
On Sunday, June 29, starting at 7 pm, Key West Pride 2025 culminates with the “Still Rising Pride Parade.” The colorful lineup begins on Whitehead Street then travels down to Front Street, and goes right onto Duval. The festivities come to a crescendo with a fabulous over-the-top Tea Dance at Truman Waterfront Park on Southard Street.
Needless to say, you better prepare yourself for a wild week of non-stop celebrating! For complete details on everything else that’s happening, hit up GayKeyWestFL.com. Have fun and be safe!
