Key West’s Womenfest Returns in 2025 with a Celebration of Sisterhood, Sun, and Song

The vibrant island of Key West is once again rolling out the rainbow carpet for one of the most anticipated events in LGBTQ+ travel: Womenfest 2025, taking place September 3–7. This year’s theme, “Decades of Divas,” is a dazzling tribute to the trailblazing women who’ve ruled our soundtracks and souls — from Motown legends to modern icons.

For more than two decades, Womenfest has served as a powerful gathering for lesbians, bisexual and queer women, trans women, and their allies — a tradition rooted in joy, community, and the island’s famously inclusive One Human Family ethos. Whether you’re flying solo, bringing your besties, or reconnecting with that cutie from last year’s dance floor, Womenfest welcomes everyone just as they are.

A Festival of Femme-Fueled Fun

This year’s event promises five unforgettable days of empowerment, entertainment, and connection — all set against the backdrop of Key West’s crystal-clear waters and laid-back charm. Here’s a preview of what’s in store:

• Wednesday kicks off with an official Welcome Party at Birdcage Cabaret hosted by the fabulous Chantal P, followed by a Womenfest-exclusive drag show to jumpstart the diva energy.

• Thursday brings a mix of culture and play with the ever-popular Cornhole Tournament at American Legion Post 168, a poetry and art showcase at Tropic Cinema, and a scenic sunset cruise aboard Argo Navis. The evening closes with a groovy 60s/70s-themed Greeen Hippies Party — yes, with three Es!

• Friday gets moving with an eco-conscious plogging cleanup, a Key Lime Bike Tour with a historic twist (and pie!), and a clothing-optional Blu Q snorkel adventure. Cap off the night with a throwback 90s Alt-Rock concert by Marjory Lee & The Misspellings at RamsHead Southernmost.

• Saturday heats up with Kat & Beth’s Are You Wet Pool Party (location TBD) and a glitter-drenched Decades of Divas 80s Prom — shoulder pads highly encouraged — back at American Legion Post 168.

• Sunday eases guests into goodbye with Hot Dog Church (exactly what it sounds like) and the iconic Tea Dance at La Te Da, spinning into the sunset with beats by DJ Rude Girl.

More Than a Party

While the events are packed with flair, Womenfest is about more than themed outfits and tropical drinks. It’s a celebration created by women, for women, spotlighting visibility, strength, sisterhood, and fun.

“This year’s theme, Decades of Divas, is our love letter to the bold women who’ve defined generations and redefined what it means to shine,” says Rob Dougherty, Executive Director of the Key West Business Guild, which produces Womenfest. “We’re not just celebrating pop icons — we’re celebrating sisterhood.”

Between events, guests can explore Key West’s world-class snorkeling, museums, delicious food, historic tours, and famously eccentric charm. Whether you’re into drag bingo, poetry readings, or just basking in the sun, there’s something for everyone.

Plan Your Trip

• All events are 21+

• Open to singles, couples, and everyone in between

• Full schedule and tickets available at GayKeyWestFL.com

Pack your sequins, your sass, and your sunscreen — Womenfest 2025 is ready to serve diva realness from dusk till dawn.