One of North Americaโs largest gatherings of LGBTQ women will take place Sept. 4-8 in Key West, featuring a diverse roster of festivities ranging from women-centric bike tours to watersports, saucy soirees and even a gala prom night. Womenfest, themed โFire & Ice Fantasyโ for 2024, has been presentedย by the Key West Business Guildย for more than 20 years. A September tradition for singles, couples and groups of women, the festival spotlights the inclusive atmosphere and attractions that have made Key West an internationally acclaimed lesbian and gay vacation destination.
Womenfestโs 2024 festivities begin Wednesday, Sept. 4, with a 6 p.m. welcome party at Winslowโs Bungalows, 725 Truman Ave. featuring small bites, live music and drink specials.
The schedule Thursday, Sept. 5, includes a celebratory brunch and a โbeach bashโ overlooking Key West Harbor. The Women, Words & Art Poetry Reading and Art Exhibition is to follow at 6 p.m. at The Little Room Jazz Club, 821 Duval St.; while a sunset sail aboard the luxury vessel Argo Navis features libations, gourmet appetizers and a chance to view the sun sinking beneath a blue-water horizon.
Friday and Saturday, Sept. 6 and 7, festival attendees can explore Old Town Key West and learn about the islandโs influential women on a fun-filled Key Lime Bike Tour. The tours begin at 9:30 a.m. and end with a slice of luscious Key lime pie. Fridayโs other attractions include a clothing-optional sandbar and snorkel trip on the Blu Q catamaran and a 5:30 p.m. โ90s female alt-rock showโ by Marjory Lee & The Misspellings.
Saturday night brings Womenfestโs anticipated highlight: the โFire & Ice Fantasy Prom,โ complete with all the trappings – but with a Key West twist. Attendees are to dress in lavish prom attire and dance the night away to tunes spun by the renowned DJ Rude Girl. Hosted by the American Legion at the legionโs Post 168 at 803 Emma St., the gala also is to include a live performance by the celebrated all-female soft-rock band Antigone Rising.
Womenfest participants can end their weekend the โKey West wayโ with two island city traditions slated for Sunday, Sept. 8. The adults-only Mangoes Sunday Drag Brunch starts at noon at the 700 Duval St. restaurant, combining stellar entertainment and delicious cuisine. And no one should miss the original Sunday Tea Dance at La Te Da, 1125 Duval St., with beloved DJ Rude Girl.
