Circus beasts of all kinds are set to flaunt their fur and feathers during the WKEY Pet Masquerade and Parade, the Fantasy fest extravaganza that brings pets to the center ring. The costume competition for pets and their owners is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25, at the Wyndham Casa Marina Resort, 1500 Reynolds Street.
Both two-legged and four-legged entrants are to be costumed in accordance with Fantasy Fest's theme of "Circuses and Sideshows." Attendees can expect to glimpse formerly mild-mannered pets and owners garbed as untamed lions, trunk-swinging elephants, tigers on the prowl and even the occasional dancing bear.
The 1999 Pet Masquerade drew almost 4,000 spectators to watch 84 canine, feline, porcine and avian entrants and their owners compete for prizes. While dressed-up dogs and cats predominated, including Key West's characteristic six-toed felines, the event also played host to costumed snakes, potbellied pigs (like Charlotte, above) and a white cockatoo named Disco Birdbrain.
Registration for the 2000 Pet Masquerade begins at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, Oct. 25, at the Casa Marina, with entry limited to domesticated animals. Entry fee is$15, with proceeds benefiting Lower Keys Friends of Animals. For info and pre-registration, call 296-7511.