Early September signals the end of summer for people in much of the U.S. But in Key West, that balmy summertime vibe continues uninterrupted. In fact, for several thousand women, Key West is the place to be in early September.

It’s the place to enjoy adventures in Atlantic Ocean and Gulf of Mexico waters, entertainment and parties with like-minded people, and relaxation on an accepting subtropical island — all during the island city’s annual Womenfest.

Described as one of North America’s largest gatherings of lesbians and their friends, the 2022 festival is scheduled Wednesday through Sunday, Sept. 7-11.

Womenfest was created over 20 years ago to give singles, couples and groups of women a chance to experience camaraderie and shared activities in a warm and welcoming environment.

“Feeling supported and celebrated has always been the mission; that’s why Womenfest exists,” said Fritzie Estimond, who ably coordinates the event for its presenter, the acclaimed Key West Business Guild. “Come to Womenfest with an open mind and be prepared to make lasting friendships, in safe spaces where we are truly celebrated.”

For attendees arriving early, a pre-festival sunset sail is set for 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 6, on the SV Argo Navis luxury catamaran sailing yacht — and the word “luxury” is not an exaggeration, since the 75-foot-long vessel is the last word in elegance. The two-hour women-only cruise includes tempting food and drink pairings (be sure to sample the luscious bean-to-bar chocolates!).

The merriment’s official kickoff is a poolside welcome party featuring DJ Citizen Jane and planned for 6-8 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 7. The women-only fun takes place at the festival’s host hotel, the Silver Palms Inn, and provides a great opportunity for Womenfest visitors to mingle with locals and get insights into the festival’s (and the island’s) can’t-miss experiences.

What’s next on the festival schedule? For active attendees, attractions include the second annual Ultimate Beach Bash and Cornhole Tournament at Lagerheads Beach Bar on Simonton Beach; and a clothing-optional sandbar snorkel trip aboard the catamaran Blu Q.

The entertainment roster also includes the “Women, Words & Art Poetry Reading and Art Exhibition”and a narrated bike tour exploring elements of Key West’s literary side through the city’s Art in Public Places sidewalk poetry installations.

“This year we have implemented more cultural events, so I implore visitors to include those events as part of their ‘must dos’ and experience a mix of everything Womenfest has to offer,” Fritzie advised.

Festival-goers can spend their evenings enjoying high-energy parties — including one whose “dress code” mandates tutus (yes, really!) — at the popular Aquaplex venues and Mangoes, located in Key West’s LGBTQ entertainment district around the 700 and 800 blocks of Duval Street.

Among Womenfest’s anticipated highlights is a Saturday night show by Sarah Potenza and Katie Kadan, both critically acclaimed singer/songwriters and alums of television’s “The Voice,” at the Key West Theater. (Sarah, BTW, also competed on “America’s Got Talent.”)

Closing events Sunday, Sept. 11, include a noon “Drunken Drag Brunch” at Mangoes Restaurant — where both the local drag entertainers and the special brunch menu (with craft cocktails) are sure to be stellar.

All good things must come to an end, even Womenfest — but the festival finale is worth waiting for. At 4 p.m. Sunday, visiting women can join Key Westers in enjoying an island tradition: the beloved Sunday Tea Dance at La Te Da.

Want to know more about the upcoming Womenfest festivities? For details, including a complete schedule of events, just click here.

I’m often asked by visitors vacationing in the Florida Keys, “Where do the locals eat?” Honestly, we eat at the same restaurants visitors do — and it would be pretty unusual to experience a less-than-stellar meal in the island chain.

In addition to having some of the best restaurants and world-class chefs, the Florida Keys & Key West also offer a variety of quintessential “only in the Keys” dishes.

The Keys’ location and heritage played a big part in developing our islands’ signature cuisine. Our remoteness and saltwater surroundings meant residents historically relied on the ocean’s bounty for food, and the multicultural settlers brought the recipes and flavors of their homelands with them.

When dining at our restaurants, you’ll notice that many choose fish and seafood for inspiration and menu staples. Did you know commercial fishing is the second-largest industry in the Keys? The incredibly fresh fish you’re served at night was probably unloaded at the docks that morning!

Our menus often include fish caught in local waters, including yellowtail, grouper and mahi-mahi. The most recent “fish addition” to some menus is an invasive species called lionfish, which has no natural reef predators except spearfishing humans. Luckily its light white meat is delicious, with a flavor often compared to that of snapper.

Lionfish is a menu staple at the Castaway Restaurant & Sushi Bar located in Marathon (some 50 miles from Key West near the famed Seven Mile Bridge). The Castaway’s owner sometimes dives for the lionfish he serves — and it’s prepared several different ways, with one customer favorite being “wrecker style” that features a savory sauce of capers, garlic, butter and diced tomato.

The fish served at Keys restaurants might be sautéed, blackened, fried, broiled and sometimes served with a sauce containing mango or other tropical fruit that adds a tasty island twist.

You may be wondering, “What about shellfish?” Well, we’ve got you covered with our very popular specialty, Key West pink shrimp. “Pinks” are generally considered sweeter than other types of shrimp, and local chefs have dishes to die for! One of my favorite restaurants, Azur, located at 425 Grinnell St., has a mouthwatering Key West pink shrimp starter served with lemon, butter, garlic and parsley.

Keys locals and visitors also love their Florida stone crab claws, which are known for their sweet and succulent meat and are harvested in the Keys from around mid-October to May 1. Because nearly all the crab’s meat is contained in its claws, they are the only parts of the crustacean that are harvested.

Once the claws are removed, the crab is returned to the sea where its claws regenerate over two years. For that reason, stone crabs are considered a renewable resource — and the Florida Keys are responsible for a good percentage of the state’s overall harvest.

During our lobster season, which runs from Aug. 6 to March 31 each year, you’re in for a real treat! Unlike stone crabs, lobsters found in the Keys are clawless. Known as spiny lobsters, they offer delectably tender meat (especially with LOTS of butter).

The mollusk conch (which is pronounced “konk,” B.T.W.) is no longer harvested in the Keys, but it’s imported and still trendy among discerning diners. Conch can be found in chowders, deep-fried fritters, salads and even breaded and fried as conch steak.

Many of our local chefs have their own unique recipes. Mangoes restaurant, located at 700 Duval St., offers really yummy conch fritters served with a Key lime aioli and lime sauce. D.J.’s Clam Shack, located at 629 Duval St., is another one of my favorites for delightful, golden deep-fried fritters.

The most popular ethnic food in the Keys is Cuban, brought to Key West by the cigarmakers and their families who fled their homeland in the 1800s. If you’re craving authentic Cuban food, this is the place. El Siboney, located at 900 Catherine St., has one of the best roasted pork (puerco asado) dishes I’ve ever tasted.

The old saying about “leaving room for dessert” is particularly apropos when you’re in the Keys — because everyone should experience our signature dessert, Key lime pie.

I’ve personally sampled at least 10 versions of the luscious treat at restaurants from Key Largo to Key West. All were different — and equally delicious. For example, Blue Heaven offers its pie topped with a mile-high meringue and Kermit’s has a fluffy whipped cream topping.

From fresh-off-the-boat seafood to traditional Cuban food to Key lime pie, the Florida Keys have a wealth of unique culinary treats for you to sample. What will be your favorite Keys dish?

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I recently got back from a conference in Phoenix, where the temperature was 112 degrees. Arizona residents might say, “Oh, but it’s a dry heat; it’s not so bad” — a statement that leaves me trying not to roll my eyes.

After departing Phoenix’s oven-like atmosphere, landing in Key West and exiting my plane, I was ecstatic as the island’s balmy ocean breezes (and high temps in the “pleasantly moist 80s”) welcomed me back home. In fact, it inspired my traditional happy dance!

Even in August, our temperatures rarely hover above 90 degrees. However, there’s one summertime event that definitely raises the energy level, heat quotient and vibe of the island. Tropical Heat, coordinated by the Key West Business Guild, is by far the steamiest annual five-day event for gay men ages 21 and over that takes place in Key West!

The decadent all-male theme parties, pool parties, clothing-optional events and adult-oriented entertainment showcase the island’s stellar LGBTQ venues. In addition to all the scheduled events, attendees can also enjoy our many other activities on land and sea.

This year’s festivities, designed to entertain revelers with a sizzling long weekend of all-male adult events, is scheduled Wednesday through Sunday, Aug. 10-14.

The island’s gay-o-sphere begins to heat up at 5 p.m. Wednesday, Aug. 10, with an official kick-off party at the Island House Resort (1129 Fleming St.). You can expect lots of delicious complimentary hors d’oeuvres, shots and some fantastic giveaways — plus a weather forecast that calls for a 100 percent chance of “raining men!”

Festival fans can cool down Thursday with an all-male clothing-optional excursion aboard the Blu Q. The four-hour sailing trip offers amazing snorkeling (optional) and stops at some tranquil sandbars and other uncrowded locales — perfect for a skinny dip for those so inclined.

Thursday night’s sizzling roster of events includes a new party at Mangoes restaurant (700 Duval St.). Attendees at the “SuperGay Party” are encouraged to show up in their favorite superhero costumes. Locals and Key West visitors usually go all out with their costumes, so I’m expecting a very entertaining and intriguing evening of people-watching.

The fun and frolic continue Friday with an afternoon “Splash” pool party at the Bourbon St. Pub (724 Duval St.), followed by evening events including a sunset sail, drag shows, and sultry late-night dance parties at some of the island’s LGBTQ venues.

Saturday at noontime, the Island House Resort stages its “Skinny Dip Pool Party” with complimentary ice-cold shots and hot raffle prizes (Speedos are optional).

The red-hot festival continues Sunday, featuring an always hilarious “Drunken Drag Brunch: Tropical Heat Edition” at Mangoes from noon to 3 p.m., a daytime snorkeling sail and a sunset cruise aboard the Blu Q, and Key West’s legendary 4 p.m. Tea Dance at La Te Da (1125 Duval St.).

Closing events will include shows and gatherings at clubs in the “Pink Triangle,” an area of LGBTQ bars, entertainment venues and shops around the 700 block of Key West’s renowned Duval Street.

Tropical Heat all-access VIP passes are available for $99 per person, or attendees can pay individual cover charges for specific events.

With the V.I.P. band/pass, you’ll receive admission or discounted entry to all parties and a five-day pass to use the Island House Resort’s pool, hot tubs, sauna and spacious sundeck with cooling misters (love them!). The property also has terrific food and ice-cold libations, making it the perfect place to relax and enjoy all the festivities.

Whether you “like it hot” or would rather just chill, I hope your next island visit includes plenty of “only in the Florida Keys” experiences and opportunities to have a fabulous time. After all, there’s no better summer getaway spot than Key West and the Keys!

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Do you think you’ve seen the best the Florida Keys have to offer? Are you looking for some new open-air natural experiences in the island chain? Here are three of my faves that might pique your interest and help you discover even more about our fascinating history and land-and-water environment.

ONE: Venture out to remote Dry Tortugas National Park. Pristine Dry Tortugas National Park encompasses seven small coral-and-sand islands that lie almost 70 miles west of Key West in the Gulf of Mexico. You can reach the park — a completely one-of-a-kind natural and historic site — via Key West Seaplane Adventures or the Yankee Freedom III ferry.

The park’s centerpiece is the awe-inspiring Fort Jefferson — one of the largest masonry structures in the entire Western Hemisphere. Construction on it began in 1846, and the massive fort served as a Union military prison for captured deserters and others. Its most famous prisoner was Dr. Samuel Mudd, who was convicted of conspiracy in President Abraham Lincoln’s 1865 assassination (but later pardoned).

After exploring Fort Jefferson (the panoramic view of sea and sky from the top level is absolutely breathtaking), take the time to enjoy some of the incredible snorkeling the park offers. The unspoiled natural site is alive with colorful marine life and rare migratory birds — and being there is truly an experience like no other.

TWO: Observe the flora and fauna at the National Key Deer Refuge. Established in 1957, the refuge protects and preserves habitats for wildlife, including some of the Florida Keys’ most engaging creatures — tiny Key deer. The nature preserve stretches more than 9,200 acres, with lands on Big Pine Key and other islands of the Lower Keys, plus backcountry land and water areas. The amazingly diverse environment includes mangrove forests, freshwater and salt marsh wetlands, pine rockland forests and tropical hardwood hammocks.

The miniature deer are about the size of a large dog and are often seen grazing around Big Pine Key. (FYI, it’s illegal to approach or feed them, even though you might be very tempted.) The refuge is also home to more than 20 other endangered and threatened plant and animal species.

I recommend starting your exploration at the Florida Keys National Wildlife Refuges Nature Center, located on Big Pine near mile marker 30.5. It’s open Wednesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and the staff can offer you a treasure trove of information about the conservation area and all its inhabitants.

THREE: Experience a unique and captivating underwater park. The first undersea park in the United States, Key Largo’s John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park, encompasses about 70 nautical square miles. You can observe the park’s abundant wildlife and marine life through recreational and educational experiences that include diving, snorkeling, kayaking and glass-bottom boat tours.

If you’re a diver, don’t miss an exploration of the Key Largo Dry Rocks, where you’ll find the 9-foot-tall bronze Christ of the Deep statue resting in 25 feet of water. During its 57 years beneath the sea, the majestic figure has become one of the most photographed sub-sea sites in the world.

And do check out Pennekamp’s visitor center — the gateway to the park at mile marker 102.5 on the Florida Keys Overseas Highway. Attractions include a 30,000-gallon saltwater aquarium, exhibits and nature videos.

As well as these intriguing natural areas, you’ll find many other attractions in the Florida Keys & Key West. For a preview sure to trigger the “travel gene,” just click here.

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Summer has arrived in Key West, and I’m ready to head to the beach and get some quality swim time in. During the summer months in Key West, the ocean waters usually average about 84 to 86 degrees Fahrenheit.

Our balmy water temps actually allow for year-round swimming (with winter temps generally still in the ’70s). However, as a “spoiled Floridian,” I usually only venture into the ocean when it’s 80 degrees or above. My blood may not really have gotten thinner since I moved here from New England, but you won’t catch me dipping my toes in the ocean up there even in August — BRRR!

Key West has several fantastic beaches to beat the summer heat, but my favorite way to “chill” is on a sailing excursion. Whether you’re out on the Atlantic Ocean or the Gulf of Mexico, you’ll be welcomed by delightfully cooling breezes and gorgeous vistas of shimmering blue-green water.

Did you know that the continental United States’ only living coral barrier reef lies just a few miles offshore of Key West? Offering unparalleled diving and snorkeling, our spectacular reefs are only a short boat ride from shore and are often located in water that’s just 10 to 15 feet deep.

The ideal way to fully experience the reef is to embark on a professionally-led snorkel trip. My “go-to” watersports favorite is Blu Q, a company that has been operating gay sailing adventures for nearly 25 years.

The top-notch crew goes above and beyond to ensure your Keys’ aquatic excursion provides maximum enjoyment and features some of the best things our “little slice of paradise” has to offer.

The Blu Q’s catamaran — adorned with a rainbow flag, of course — can accommodate up to 36 passengers (though it typically averages an intimate group of 10 to 25) and is also available for private charters.

Captain Nick and first mates Will and Greg offer two different all-male, clothing-optional aquatic daytime adventures that vary by season.

The Sandbar & Snorkel excursion runs from May to October, with the Kayak & Snorkel experience scheduled from November to April. Both trips are four hours long and feature spectacular scenery with stops at some tranquil sandbars, serene backcountry areas and other uncrowded locales. (The remote sites are especially loved by the Blu Q passengers who prefer to abandon their Speedos for their “birthday suits.”)

Snorkel equipment is provided; however, please remember to bring a towel and — most importantly — some reef-friendly sunscreen.

If the tour includes the backcountry, you’re in for a real treat. You’ll first enjoy a 30- to 40-minute ride across crystal clear and very shallow waters, offering stunning scenery. Then, upon arrival, you’ll experience the Keys’ backcountry environment, ranging from mangrove communities to turtle grass flats to sponge flats.

Our mangrove island waters shelter various marine life including dolphins, stingrays and turtles. The flora, meanwhile, is home to abundant wildlife and rare birds including spoonbills, osprey and herons. The excursion is truly a unique opportunity to unwind and bond with Mother Nature.

The Blu Q is also well-known for its fabulous all-male Sunset Sails. The two-hour voyage is perfect for a romantic evening with that special someone, or a fun-filled evening with a group of friends.

On both the day and evening activities, the fare includes organic snacks, water and coolers to chill any libations you bring aboard. All sailings are B.Y.O.B., so whether you’re a Diet Coke aficionado or prefer a more “spirited” libation, feel free to bring it onboard. Also, please be aware that your first mates will be your bartenders for the evening (not you, LOL).

Once aboard, get your cell phone’s camera ready to capture one of our legendary sunsets and maybe even the elusive green flash (yes, it really is a “thing” — just ask the catamaran’s crew).

FYI, Blu Q also offers all-welcome Sunset Sails on occasion. If you don’t see one listed on the website, just call to see when they can accommodate you and your group.

Want to find out what other exciting on-the-water adventures await in Key West? Simply click here and start making summer plans!

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The subtropical island of Key West will welcome revelers to its annual Pride celebrations Wednesday through Sunday, June 1-5. The festivities showcase the diversity and equality that help make the continental United States’ southernmost city a top vacation destination for LGBTQ visitors worldwide — and the 2022 slogan is “Don’t say gay, SHOUT it!”

This year’s jam-packed line-up will include several dozen Pride events. You can celebrate island-style with playful pool parties, mischievous late-night soirees, an inaugural “Just for the Girls” women’s event, a disco dance party, nightly drag shows, theater presentations and a Pride street fair.

And yes, as you probably guessed, a fabulous out-and-proud Pride parade is planned to top off the celebrations. According to event organizers with the Key West Business Guild, the island’s brand-new Pride police car will lead the parade — with Key West Police Chief Sean Brandenburg behind the wheel.

Those arriving early for the festival can attend the Pride Follies Saturday, May 28, at the Key West Theater at 512 Eaton St. Doors open at 7 p.m., followed by an 8 p.m. curtain for the show billed as “a fun evening of the best and worst of local Key West entertainment.”

Daily activity options include museum, nature and culinary tours, as well as aquatic excursions such as snorkeling and sunset sails and eco-tours. One of my favorite ocean-bound adventures is aboard the Blu Q. Their snorkeling excursion includes a stop at a sandbar that’s one of my favorite places to swim, soak up some sun and enjoy a nice cold libation with friends.

Key West Pride and Island House Resort are hosting an all-welcome kick-off gala  at the 1129 Fleming St. property (ladies, this is your chance to check out the typically all-male enclave) from 5-8 p.m. Wednesday, June 1. The highly anticipated annual poolside event includes free-flowing complimentary Stoli cocktails, champagne and delish hors d’oeuvres.

Subsequent festivities include Thursday’s Drag Pool Party and Brunch from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Winslow’s Bungalows, a Kimpton Key West property at 725 Truman Ave., and Friday’s “Just for the Girls” 3 p.m. cocktail welcome party at Marrero’s Guest Mansion, 410 Fleming St. (BTW, Marrero’s will be an exclusively female property June 3-5 and is offering accommodations and event pass packages).

We will also have some fantastic stage productions, including Fringe Theater’s “A Fabulous Evening with Lillian Baxter,” created and performed by John Vessels and Jay Schwandt. Show tunes, lavish costumes and outrageous tales characterize the production set for 7 p.m. June 1-4 at the Little Room Jazz Club, 821 Duval St. (The club has recently reopened after major renovations, and it looks amazing!)

In addition, the Waterfront Playhouse at Mallory Square will present the June 3-4 “return” of Joan Rivers, portrayed by the hilarious celebrity female impersonator Joe Posa.

Among Saturday’s many attractions is the Pride Street Fair from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. along the 600 to 900 blocks of Key West’s famed Duval Street. The “blockbuster” event is the perfect opportunity to break out your best pride-themed outfits and mingle (of course) with scores of other proud revelers. (The Pride police car should be at the street fair too!)

Sunday’s final-day events include the all-welcome Pride Parade. At 5 p.m. Sunday, the island will be bustling with partygoers as our spirited parade proceeds up Duval Street from the Gulf of Mexico to the Atlantic Ocean. Don’t forget to applaud when you see the wonderful 100-foot section of Key West’s famed 1.25-mile-long sea-to-sea rainbow flag, created in 2003 by the late Gilbert Baker.

Afterward, participants and spectators can gather for our traditional Tea Dance at the renowned La Te Da at 1125 Duval St.

And following the Tea Dance, get ready for an evening of over-the-top “dragertainment” with drag shows at the Aquaplex, 711 Duval St., and 801 Bourbon, 801 Duval St. — as well as a Post Pride Wind-Down Party at Saloon 1 at 504 Petronia St.

Of course, these aren’t the only events on Pride’s roster of revelry. Check out the full schedule here, and prepare to be part of the party!

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After many years in Key West, I’ve made a lot of friends who have contributed to our community. Among them is Michael Ingram, who has lived on the island — and worked tirelessly to benefit it — for over 30 years.

Michael arrived in Key West in 1989 as an owner of a small gay B&B named Alexander’s. Starting with seven rooms, he expanded it to 15 guest rooms and two suites before turning his focus to other ventures, including his well-respected architectural practice. In fact, many of Key West’s LGBTQ venues bear his designs and suggested improvements.

Michael also played a pivotal role in the 1997 creation of Key West’s AIDS Memorial, located overlooking the Atlantic Ocean at the Edward B. Knight Pier. Inscribed with the names of over 1,000 men and women who died of AIDS, the poignant memorial is believed to be the world’s only official municipal monument of its kind.

His other endeavors include participation in city government, community outreach programs and not-for-profit LGBTQ organizations — and for more than 15 years, he has owned and managed the Aquaplex, one of Key West’s premier LGBTQ entertainment venues.

Recently, despite Michael’s busy schedule, he took time to share some insights with Keys Voices’ readers.

Keys Voices: You’re successful enough to live anywhere; what caused you to make Key West your home for so many years?

Michael Ingram: My success is a result of the island’s acceptance of my efforts. The guesthouse I owned remains one of the best B&Bs in Key West. Architecture has allowed me to preserve and enhance the built environment, while participation in government has given me a voice for issues that are important to me and my community. Also, my current occupations are still of interest and remain rewarding. If health and mind remain, why would I leave?

KV: What are some of the aspects of life in Key West that you value the most?

MI: The diversity of our community. The culture is one of tolerance and acceptance, understanding of the “individual” and his/her/their special qualities. Key West embraces the individuality of all, whether gay individuals or couples. Tourism is a big part of our economy, but Key West also has a strong underpinning in the arts.

KV: The Aquaplex is one of Key West’s longstanding LGBTQ entertainment venues. What do you believe underlies its enduring success?

MI: Aquaplex, in its current form of multiple venues, is the outgrowth of early successful operations from 25 or 30 years ago — building upon the early success of drag shows which remain today. We’ve added Sidebar; Club 504, our lounge and dance venue; 22& Co., with a quintessential Key West vibe and décor; and Backbar, an outdoor tropical environment that also includes our Poké in the Rear restaurant. We constantly adjust our operation to serve various demographic changes and current trends. And of course, we have the best sound, lights and entertainment.

KV: What were some of your inspirations for getting involved with the Aquaplex?

MI: An opportunity to work with a group of talented professionals who interact as a family, and assist my son Kimball to make a career. When Kimball and his family moved from Key West, I became the sole proprietor.

KV: You’ve been deeply involved in community outreach. What are some of your favorite local LGBTQ organizations, and why?

MI: Aqua has always been in the forefront of community fundraising for organizations that are part of or supportive of LGBTQ culture. It is difficult to pick favorites! Sister Season has been supportive and an LGBTQ foundation for decades. The Key West Business Guild (of which I was president and on the board) has the unique distinction of being the earliest gay tourist promotional organization. We are fortunate to have many great organizations and to be supported by the Monroe County tourism council (TDC).

KV: You’ve had multiple career paths over the years; what are some of your proudest accomplishments along the way?

MI: I’m proud of being chair of the TDC for 12 years, Key West Planning Board chair for eight years, Historic Architectural Review Commission Board for five years, Monroe County Human Service Advisory Board (supporting non-profits) for five years, and of course the Aquaplex. And of real import to me was participating to identify the site of the Key West AIDS Memorial, the design of the two phases, leading the Friends of the AIDS Memorial for years and, with others, the creation of the endowment for its maintenance.

KV: Do you have any recommendations for first-time LGBTQ visitors to Key West?

MI: Enjoy yourselves — the great food, great drinks and great people. It’s fun to experience all of Key West’s bars, restaurants, entertainment and cultural resources.

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Kyle Stuart brings his famous drag character Deja to life nightly in the “Sushi and the 801 Girls” show at Key West’s 801 Bourbon Bar. When he’s not entertaining audiences with his over-the-top costumes and makeup, he loves to be out on the water fishing and diving — even spearfishing and targeting lobsters.

Kyle admits he’s not shy when it comes to fishing. In fact, he’s known to “catch them, clean them and cook them.”

I managed to “catch” Kyle himself the other night between drag performances to get the 4-1-1 on his life in Key West — and his beloved alter ego, Deja.

Keys Voices: When did you become a Key West resident — and why?

Kyle Stewart: I came to Key West for Fantasy Fest in 2005 … and met a local who really charmed me. Afterward, he visited me up in Fort Lauderdale where I was living. He told me that he needed help running his business and asked if I would like to come back to Key West for a week to help him out. After making the trip back and forth several times, I decided to move here and, by February 2006, I was a Key West resident.

KV: When did your drag career begin, and why did you choose “Deja” as your stage name?

KS: I did drag for the first time in 1998 with a group of friends for Halloween. I think I took it a bit more seriously than them because, shortly after that, I was competing in amateur nights and got bookings at clubs in the Orlando, Florida, area. The name Deja came from the movie “Higher Learning” with Omar Epps and Tyra Banks. Tyra’s character in the movie was named Deja, and I really liked the sound of the name!

KV: What were some of your inspirations for becoming a drag performer?

KS: I was very lucky as a young drag queen living in Orlando, because I was surrounded by some of the most amazing entertainers in the industry. Nazhoni was the fiercest club kid and most stunning diva I had ever seen, and she became my drag mother. Others that I looked up to and learned from were Carmella Marcella Garcia, Danielle Hunter, Page King, Cezanne and Tasha Long, to name a few. Unfortunately some of those beautiful people are no longer with us, but knowing them changed my life.

KV: Tell me about the “Sushi and the 801 Girls” show?

KS: The show in the 801 Cabaret was started by Sushi about 27 years ago. There are two shows every night at 9 and 11 p.m. Usually, there are three to four girls in each show doing anywhere from three to six numbers each per show. There’s also a different hostess for each show who orchestrates how the show runs and does the most interacting with the audience.

KV: How many costumes do you own — and do you have any favorites?

KS: I probably have between 75 and 100 costumes. I put them on a seasonal rotation, so it looks like I get new stuff all the time. I don’t particularly have a favorite costume — however, there are a few that get the most response from the audience when I walk out on stage. That’s what makes a costume a favorite.

KV: What do you think makes Key West a premier destination for LGBTQ travelers?

KS: They call Key West “paradise” for a reason. It is so beautiful and charming to visit here. Also, there are a lot of gay-owned or very gay-friendly businesses here, so LGBTQ visitors don’t have to feel uncomfortable when visiting the tropics and wanting to do fun things like boating, fishing, diving or sailing.

KV: Besides being an exceptional performer, what are your other talents?

KS: I wish I could say I was some sort of genius in costume design. I am, however, an amazing cook, and I grow a lot of my own vegetables. I managed to put together four rather large gardens in my yard, which was no easy task because we live on a coral rock island.

KV: You’ve lived in Key West for 16 years now; what is it about the island that keeps you here?

KS: I have been blessed with a job doing what I love that affords me a living in Key West. I have also been here so long now that friends have become family!

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Are you ready for some springtime fun in the Florida Keys? If so, there’s an event coming up in April that should “put that spring back in your step.” It includes local residents and visitors alike who become “female impersonators” for the afternoon. The flamboyant group of “dragsters” will gather on Key West’s Duval Street for a playful parody of an auto race, swapping high-speed cars for high-heeled shoes and drag apparel while sprinting along an improvised racetrack on Saturday, April 16.

The offbeat Conch Republic Drag Race will be staged in the 700 block of Duval, the appropriately nicknamed “main drag” at the heart of our island’s LGBTQ entertainment district.

Presented by the Petronia St. Neighborhood Association and headquartered outside the LGBTQ hotspot Bourbon St. Pub, the zany race will start with a test run at 2 p.m., followed by qualifying heats and finals, and (last but not least) the awards ceremony. Wouldn’t the coveted first-place trophy be a fabulous Key West souvenir to take home?

The traditional auto-racing atmosphere will be spoofed by its uber-creative organizers dressed as “pit crew” with checkered flags, while a local DJ blares the roar of revving engines.

The event’s main attraction, however, is the female impersonators (a.k.a. drag queens) competing in pancake makeup, extravagant wigs and race-mandated high-heeled footwear. They’ll attempt to dash down the pavement faster than their rivals while trying to avoid wipeouts, twisted heels, and the dreaded delay of wardrobe repairs.

The racers must navigate an obstacle course of tires and various other street hazards (which may include a random lost wig or two) as spectators cheer for their favorites. The “dragsters” also get a diva-style ride along Duval Street in shopping carts transformed into “hot rods” propelled by hunky local male dancers.

Race registration is free for all contestants willing to don the required towering heels and eccentric drag attire. If you don’t have any “drag wear” on hand, have no fear. Just put in a request via the “coconut telegraph” while you’re out and about in the Pink Triangle, and you’ll be surprised at the offers of assistance you will receive.

What IS the Pink Triangle? Centered around the 700 and 800 blocks of the iconic Duval Street, it features a cluster of popular LGBTQ bars, entertainment clubs and stores. The area is also home to four permanent rainbow crosswalks that the city installed in May 2015.

(BTW, another great resource for some “women’s wear” is the Key West Salvation Army thrift store, located at 1924 Flagler Ave. You can find a “drag appropriate” outfit, help out a worthy charity and not have to break the bank.)

The drag challenge is part of Key West’s 40th annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration that takes place April 15-24. The festival commemorates the Florida Keys’ symbolic 1982 secession from the United States (believe me, it’s a long story!) and the formation of the independent republic.

Organizers describe this year’s celebration as 40-plus unique, colorful and “somewhat historical” events, packed into 10 fun-filled days. Among its highlights (and what I like to refer to as “only in the Keys events”) are a ceremony commemorating the secession, a lighthearted sea battle featuring tall ships, the so-called “World’s Longest Parade” that proceeds along Duval Street from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico, and a “Conch Crawl & Pup Stroll” benefiting the Florida Keys SPCA.

So what are you waiting for? Head down to Key West for some springtime sun and fun!

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Please set your alarm clocks for early afternoon April 23, when Key West’s 40th annual Conch Republic Blue Ribbon Bed Race is scheduled to “blanket” the island’s famed Duval Street. You definitely don’t want to oversleep and miss the zany event that’s billed as “the most fun you can have in bed with your clothes on.”

Not only does it provide hours of entertainment, but the bed race is also a fundraiser for the Sister Season Fund organization, which operates according to a motto that proclaims: “Locals helping locals, here to help when you need it most.”

The organization provides financial assistance to hospitality- and tourism-related employees who are temporarily out of work because of illness, accident or a natural disaster. Since the charity’s inception in 2005, it has raised a whopping $1 million and helped thousands of residents who are integral to our island’s workforce.

The wacky competition features decorated beds (and this is Key West, so “decorations” can be offbeat indeed) mounted on wheels, trundling down Duval Street from Olivia to Southard streets. Teams of four runners, sometimes in outlandish costumes, propel each decked-out bed. Meanwhile, one lucky team member is designated to stay aboard (and take a quick snooze?). No motors are allowed, so it’s a “people-powered” competition only.

Event organizers have waived the usual entry fee this year, so both entering and viewing the challenge are free of charge. Check-in time for participants will be at 1 p.m., with a 3 p.m. “wake-up call” for the official start of the races.

So what’s the race procedure? First, there’s a lineup and inspection of the festive beds, followed by a parade of the bedazzled mattress-bearing vehicles. Then the action-packed “bedlam” gets underway, with teams pitted against each other as they pilot their beds in a fierce race to the finish line. Trophies and awards are presented around 6 p.m. for the first-place, second-place and people’s choice winners among others. The post-race awards ceremony is held poolside at one of my favorite watering holes, the Garden Bar behind the Bourbon St. Pub at 724 Duval St.

The race is one of the most popular events of Key West’s annual Conch Republic Independence Celebration. Now in its 40th year, the 10-day festival commemorates the Florida Keys’ symbolic 1982 secession from the United States and formation of the independent island republic. The republic (whose motto is “We seceded where others failed”) was born to combat a U.S. Border Patrol blockade of the Keys that caused miles-long traffic snarls and other mayhem.

The 2022 festival schedule features a ton of fun-filled “only in the Keys” events, and many take place in outdoor venues. So that provides a great reason to enjoy our fabulous April weather, with average daytime temps in the mid 70s to low 80s and low humidity.

The independence celebration runs April 15-24. Among its highlights are a ceremony commemorating the secession on its 40th anniversary, a lighthearted sea battle featuring tall ships, the so-called “World’s Longest Parade” that proceeds along Duval Street from the Atlantic Ocean to the Gulf of Mexico, a sailing race that recalls the Florida Keys’ maritime heritage and a “Conch Crawl & Pup Stroll” benefiting the Florida Keys SPCA.

Click here to subscribe to the Florida Keys & Key West’s LGBTQ travel blog.