Key West is known for its year-round subtropical weather, but temperatures are predicted to increase dramatically Wednesday through Sunday, August 14-18. The cause: the annual Tropical Heat celebration, an adventurous long weekend of all-male adult fun.
Tropical Heat offers five days of sizzling happenings in the island city whose openness and respect for diversity have made it a world-renowned gay vacation destination. The festival’s intriguing events range from pool parties to drag shows to late-night gatherings at island clubs.
Here are a handful of things to put on your list.
The official start of the heat wave is set for 5 p.m. Wednesday, August 14, with a kick-off party at Island House, 1129 Fleming St.
The festival schedule offers attendees the chance to be “best dressed” at a tropical toga get-together at Equator Resort, 818 Fleming St.; take a snorkel cruise with Key West’s Blu Q; enjoy late-night parties at Saloon One, 801 Duval St. rear, and Bourbon St. Pub, 724 Duval St.; and much more.
Drag shows are staged nightly at Aqua Nightclub, 711 Duval St., and the 801 Bar, 801 Duval St.
In addition, Saturday’s schedule features an acclaimed trolley tour showcasing Key West’s LGBT heritage and hotspots, as well as an on-the-water tea dance with Fury Water Adventures.
Sunday’s festival highlight is an island city tradition: the 4 p.m. tea dance at La Te Da, 1125 Duval St.
Photos by JoeSwickFoto