Key West is known for its tropical atmosphere, beautiful landscaping, crystal-clear water, and clothing-optional attitude. With August on the horizon, expect temperatures to increase dramatically Wednesday, August 11 through Sunday, August 15, 2021. The cause: Tropical Heat, a devil-may-care weekend for the boys that’s only one drink away from hedonism.
Tropical Heat offers five days of sizzling happenings in the island city whose openness and respect for diversity have made it a must-see gay destination. The festival’s intriguing events range from pool parties to a sunset cruise to late-night gatherings at the island’s LGBTQ bars and nightclubs where you can let it all hang out — literally.
Headed to the bash? Here are the highlights:
Wednesday: The official start of the heat wave is a kick-off party at Island House.
Thursday: Chill with an underwear pool party slated for noon at the Equator Resort. Evening festivities include a sunset catamaran cruise followed by a sultry evening of parties held at various LGBTQ-friendly clubs, restaurants and bars.
Friday: Make a splash at an afternoon pool bash at the Bourbon St. Pub, and lively evening gatherings including the Lusty Luau Party at Alexander’s Guesthouse, and the White Hot Island Nights Party at the Sidebar.
Saturday: Toga! Toga! Toga! The 13th annual Toga 3D Party at the Equator Resort, including hors d’oeuvres, libations and music with DJ Kyd. In addition, raffles are planned with prizes including three-, five- and seven-night stays at the resort. All proceeds are to benefit the Monroe Association for ReMARCable Citizens, a local nonprofit organization.
Sunday: Celebrations resume with a noontime Drag Brunch at Mangoes and an island city tradition: 4 p.m. tea dance at La Te Da. The night closes out with “Last Dance” soiree at Sidebar.
Tropical Heat VIP all-access wristbands are still available for $99 per person. Alternatively, attendees can pay individual event admissions.
Photos by Flickr user Jbetac under creative commons