Event Dates
From: Wednesday, October 28, 2026
To: Sunday, November 1, 2026
The Bears don’t hibernate in the Winter.. the smart ones head to Key West every November.
The Bears don’t hibernate in the Winter.. the smart ones head to Key West every November, for a weekend of fun and relaxation! Don’t miss the Island House “Bear Soup” pool parties, Jocktober at Bourbon St Pub’s Pool Garden, dive-in movie, Cowboy Pool Party and the Mr. Key West Bear contest.
- Stay close to the pool parties and daytime events at Alexander’s Guest house, an adults only hotel rated “Exceptional” by guests with charming rooms and superb hosts.
The Bear Weekend
- Wednesday Oct 28th – Sunday Nov 1st, 2026 – Events take place across Key West and are open to everyone. Some of the island’s most popular gay venues host a series of pool parties, night time events and bear gatherings.
- Island house plays host to the both the welcome event on Wednesday at 5 pm and the Farewell party on Sunday at 6 pm.
- Pack light gear for pool parties and a jock for Bourbon St Pub’s pool garden event.
- Stay at the adults-only Porch on Frances Inn, rated “Exceptional” by guests with a perfect locations, beautiful rooms and a warm Key West welcome.
Weekend Passes
- All-Access is $135 and includes entry to official parties.
- Plus daily Island House access (pool, gym, hot tubs, sauna, play room).
- Refundable up to 30 days out.
The Pool Parties
- Events kick off on Wednesday From 12 pm to 5 pm with the Bear Soup Party at Island house. Grab a swimsuit (or not!) and meet the rest of the gang with lunch poolside, cool cocktails, and new friends.
- Pool parties continue on Thursday & Friday afternoons at Island House.
- Events end on Sunday with the “Bear ASS Tea Party” described as a frisky clothing-optional shindig!
Night Time Events
- Bourbon Street Pub – New Orleans-themed gay destination for theme nights, drag shows & outdoor pool with bar & theater. The famous men only clothing optional garden pool is a true Key West experience, as are the nightly Men of Bourbon shows.
- Birdcage Cabaret – Located on Duval Street, Birdcage is a new venue, taking over the old Side Bar venue.
- Saloon 1 – Host of the infamous Saturday night Cock Shock competition. Claissic gay bar with outdoor patio and a cruisy vibe.
Getting Around to the parties
- Use the Duval Loop bus; it runs daily and serves Old Town stops around Duval, the Bight, and Truman Waterfront.
Where to Stay during Key West Bear Weekend?
Most of the gay bars in town are clustered along colourful Duval Street so we have found hotel that keep you close,
Duval Gardens, Truman Hotel, The Gardens Hotel, Paradise Inn
Check out out Key West Gay Guide to find the best places to dine, party and play on the island.
Where to stay close to all the gay bars.
Our top 4 selections with the best rates.
The Paradise Inn is our favourite place to
stay when in Key West. Great location
For further information and advice on
Key West Bear Weekend, Website
Most of the gay bars in town are clustered along colorful Duval Street, in the historic district, which is also home to dozens of fun shops and inviting restaurants.
Address: 526, Angela Street, Key West,
Address: 419, Amelia Street, Key West
Address: 819 Simonton StreetKey West
Address: 611 Truman AveKey West, FL 33040
Address: 724 Duval Street, Key West, FL 33040
Address: 801 Duval Street Key West, FL 33040
Address: 711 Duval Street Key West, FL 33040
Address: 801 Duval Street Key West, FL 33040
Address: 504 Angela St, Key West, FL 33040
Address: 504 Angela St, Key West, FL 33040
Address: 1125 Duval Street Key West, FL 330403
Address: 711 Duval St, Key West, FL 33040
Address: 724 Duval St 2, Key West, FL 33040
Address: 900 Simonton Street Key West, FL 33040
Book with confidence. Get the best Prices from our partner Booking.com
We have chosen hotels in Key West that keep you close to all the shops, restaurants, bars & fun
Key West Bear Weekend Highlights.

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