The wacky costume contest for domestic pets and their people is a highlight of the island city’s 10-day Fantasy Fest costuming and masking festival. Set for Oct. 21-30, the exuberant extravaganza is themed Aquatic Afrolic in celebration of all aspects of the ocean realm.
Costumed canine, feline and avian entrants are sure to make a splash as they vie for prizes on an outdoor stage at the Casa Marina, a Waldorf Astoria resort located at 1500 Reynolds St. beside the Atlantic Ocean.
Entries typically range from pet-and-person duos to lavishly costumed groups of people and animals that perform musical numbers or skits. Past competitors have included a leather-clad dog “driving” a tiny hot rod, a “cocktail-loving” cockatoo, a hairless cat in goggles, and an Asian ensemble starring a Great Pyrenees dog as a giant panda.
Registration for the 2011 Pet Masquerade begins at 4 p.m. Wednesday at the Casa Marina. The contest begins at 5:30 p.m. emceed by well-known local personalities.
The contest entry fee is $25 per category, with proceeds benefiting Lower Keys Friends of Animals. Admission is free for general viewing or $20 per person for VIP seating including two libations and a donation to Friends of Animals. Organizers request that spectators leave nonparticipating pets at home.
For details, contact Pet Masquerade organizer Nancy D’Amato at petmasquerade@hotmail.com or 305-304-1026.
Event information: www.facebook.com/pages/Key-West-Pet-Masquerade-Parade/250562334987524 or www.fantasyfest.net
Key West visitor information: www.fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY
Social: www.facebook.com/floridakeysandkeywest • www.twitter.com/thefloridakeys • www.YouTube.com/FloridaKeysTV
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