Key West Bear Weekend 2021 cancelled

It has been announced today that Key West Bear Weekend 2021, which was scheduled for November 3 to November 7, has been cancelled for the second year running.

Though many events have been able to go ahead as planned this year, the conditions and regulations in the state of Florida amidst the uncertainty of the Delta variant mean that the organisers do not feel confident about properly ensuring the safety of guests, staff and residents of Key West. Event promoter and producer of Key West Bear Weekend, Shane Tate, has also had to cancel his other yearly event, Fire Island Bear Weekend.

As sponsors and co-producers of Key West Bear Weekend, we stand by the decision to cancel the event, which is sad and disappointing but extremely necessary for everyone’s health and safety. Bear World Magazine Editor, Robin Gray, said:

“It’s incredibly frustrating that once again, we’re having to cancel the beloved Key West Bear Weekend, especially as this was on course to be our most popular year ever! However, the safety of our guests, staff and Key West locals must always come first. Organising a mass participation event under the unique circumstances and political environment in Florida is something we’re not willing to do at present.”

Shane Tate, co-organizer and producer, explained:

“I’m heartbroken that once again we’re having to cancel Key West Bear Weekend. It was not an easy decision, but something we stand by to ensure the safety of everyone involved. We will be back bigger and better!”

Key West Bear Weekend host hotels — Island House Resort, Fitch Lodge, LaTeDa Hotel, and the Equator Hotel and Resort — have all agreed to support guests through the rebooking process. Hotel offers, re-booking terms and any changes need to be confirmed directly with the hotels.