Thursday, July 25, 2019

Travel: Tropical Heat in Key West

The subtropical island of Key West, internationally known as a top LGBTQ destination, is to welcome visitors to a long weekend of all-male adult activities Wednesday through Sunday, Aug. 14-18, during the annual Tropical Heat celebrations.

The roster of revelry includes pool parties, brunch with local female impersonators, sizzling dance parties and adult-themed gatherings held at the island’s LGBTQ resorts, guesthouses and entertainment venues.

The red-hot celebration’s kick-off party is scheduled to begin at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 14, at Island House Resort, 1129 Fleming St. A traditional festival favorite, the launch is to feature poolside drink specials, appetizers and prize giveaways.

Tropical Heat participants can make a big splash Thursday, Aug. 15, at a noontime pool party at the Equator Resort, 822 Fleming St. Thursday’s schedule also includes a 2 to 4 p.m. “Drunken Drag Brunch” at Mangoes, 700 Duval St., featuring a Cuban-style buffet, performances by drag queens and bottomless mimosas.

Thursday’s after-dark activities are to include parties at local LGBTQ venues.

Revelers can cool down Friday at the Bourbon St. Pub/New Orleans House, 724 Duval St., with a pool party slated for noon. The lively event typically offers an afternoon of spirited pool games, a DJ and live entertainment, food and frosty libations.

As the sun sets, evening festivities heat up with events including “The Big Game Party” at Alexander’s Guesthouse.

Saturday’s highlights include the Equator Resort’s 13th annual Toga Party at 7 p.m. An anticipated festival event each year, the gala features prizes for the best togas.

The high-spirited merriment continues Sunday with attractions including Key West’s famed Tea Dance at 4 p.m. at La Te Da.

Closing events are to include a late-night “Afterglow Party” at Saloon 1.


Tropical Heat VIP access passes are available for $99 per person. Alternatively, attendees can pay individual event admissions.