KWPD issues Fantasy Fest pointers

SPECIAL TO KONK LIFE

Fantasy Fest has a tradition of being a fun and peaceful party, and the Key West Police Department is looking forward to continuing that tradition. The KWPD says it will have extra officers on duty. In addition, other members of the law enforcement community, including the Monroe County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Highway Patrol, the Florida Division of Alcoholic Beverages and Tobacco, the Webster Police Department and the Orange County Mounted Unit will be on hand to help ensure a safe event.

According to the KWPD:

Public nudity:Is absolutely prohibited in Key West. Male and female genitalia must not be exposed. Female breasts cannot be exposed. Breasts painted with body paint will only be considered as covered within the Fantasy Zone. Body paint cannot be applied in public; it must be applied in an enclosed area, out of the public view. Sex acts in public are absolutely prohibited.

Fantasy Zone: All of Duval Street, and the streets that cross it. Those cross streets are only considered part of the Fantasy Zone between Whitehead and Simonton streets.

Artificial or toy weapons:You’re better off not using them at all. But if your costume simply must have one, make sure it’s clearly a fake. Law enforcement officers will be watching for anything resembling a weapon, from water guns to artificial swords or knives. Replica weaponry may be confiscated. In addition, laser pointers are not allowed during the event, and they too may be confiscated.

Backpacks and coolers: are discouraged in the Fantasy Zone.

Masquerade March: On Friday, Oct. 24, the Masquerade March takes two routes leaving the Key West Cemetery at5 p.m. and arriving on Duval Street at approximately 7:30 p.m. The streets are not closed along these routes so motorists can expect delays and are advised to take alternate routes. Revelers are reminded that nudity is absolutely prohibited during this event.

Street Closures: To accommodate the many street activities during the festival, several areas are closed during the week including the following:

Friday: Duval Street will be closed from Front to South St. for the street fair beginning at noon.

Saturday:Beginning at10 a.m., Duval St. is closed from Front to United St. Beginning at 4 p.m. until the parade ends, Whitehead Street will be closed from Southard to Front. The parade begins at 7 p.m. and ends around 11 p.m. Streets will stay closed until the police Department decides it is safe to reopen them.

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