Dog-Gone Good Time At Key's Pet Masquerade
KEY WEST (CBS4) – A highlight of the annual Fantasy Fest in Key West, dozens of dressed-up dogs, frolicking felines and two goldfish stole the spotlight Wednesday during the annual Pet Masquerade and Parade.
Running through Oct. 30, the extravaganza's theme this year is Aquatic-A-Frolic in celebration of the ocean realm.
Many competitors designed their costumes around the aquatic theme. Standouts parading across the oceanfront stage at the Casa Marina Resort included a Great Dane costumed as a Florida lobster, five festive jellyfish, and a multi-person coral reef ensemble featuring a bowl of live goldfish. Equally popular was a Chihuahua "burro" with tiny saddlebags holding tequila.
Slideshow: Pets Take Center Stage At Key West's Fantasy Fest
A Fantasy Fest favorite for kids and grownups, the Pet Masquerade benefits Lower Keys Friends of Animals. Judges awarded prizes for the top junior contestants, most exotic attire, best theme adaptation, best pet-owner look-alikes and overall winner.
Upcoming Fantasy Fest events include the lavish Pretenders in Paradise costume competition, a street fair and masquerade march. The highlight of the annual event will come Saturday night when more than 50,000 people are expected to line Key West's famed Duval Street for the dazzling Captain Morgan Fantasy Fest Parade.
Earlier in the week, there was some concern that Tropical Storm Rina might affect the latter end of the festival, but Thursday morning the National Hurricane Center adjusted the forecast track of the weakening storm that should remain far away from festivities.
(TM and © Copyright 2011 CBS Radio Inc. and its relevant subsidiaries. CBS RADIO and EYE Logo TM and Copyright 2010 CBS Broadcasting Inc. Used under license. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. The Florida Keys News Bureau contributed to this report.)
