Cybersocket and Bear World Magazine partnered to sponsor the Key West Bear Weekend, which took place from November 2-6. The event marked the return of the Key West Bear Weekend after two years of cancellations.
Event Overview
The Key West Bear Weekend, presented by Shane Tate, was held from November 2nd to November 6th. The event featured multiple pool parties and happy hours, alongside specific themed events. These included the Britney Vs. Madonna Dance Party, the Fuzzy Flamingo Pool Party, the Beers and Bears Leather Ball, and the Mr. Key West Contest and Dance Party.
Attendees gathered in Key West, Florida, for activities described as "fun and frolic in the sun." The event saw "hundreds of hot furry bears" participating in activities at clothing-optional resorts and attending nighttime-themed club parties.
On Wednesday, November 2nd, and Thursday, November 3rd, the Bear Soup Pool Party took place from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Island House, located at 1129 Fleming St. This event welcomed attendees with lunch poolside, cocktails, and opportunities to meet other participants. Access to the Bear Soup Pool Party was included with a Key West Bear Weekend pass or available for a $40 Island House day pass.
Happy hour events were also scheduled at Island House. From 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, November 2nd, a happy hour was held. Another happy hour, titled "Greet the Meat Happy Hour," took place on Thursday, November 3rd, from 5 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. Both happy hours were included with a Key West Bear Weekend pass or a $40 Island House day pass.
Cybersocket's Involvement
Cybersocket played a significant role in the Key West Bear Weekend, sponsoring the event alongside Bear World Magazine. Cybersocket presented a "let's get naked" pool party at Island House Key West on Friday, starting at noon. This pool party was hosted by Alexander and Mr. Teddy Bear, who are personalities from Cybersocket's "Bear with Us, Gurrrl" podcast.
Cybersocket also sponsored the Mr. Key West Bear Contest at the Bourbon Street Pub. On Friday evening, starting at 9 p.m., Cybersocket director Alexander served as the M.C. for the "Mr. Key West Bear" competition, while Mr. Teddy Bear was a guest judge. Contestants from across the nation competed in various challenges for the title and a cash prize. The 2022 Mr. Key West Bear title was awarded to Little Keto. Past titleholders Poppy J (2018) and Pepa Mahogany (2019) were also present.
A representative stated that the Key West Bear Weekend "continues Cybersocket’s mission to support events for and by the LGBTQ community, celebrate the diversity of the community and bring the gay adult world into the spotlight."
Post-Event Information
The Key West Bear Weekend made its return in early November. Photos from the Cybersocket Pool Party and the Key West Bear Contest were taken by Larry Blackburn. These photos featured Teddy Bear and Alexander Rodriguez.
Dates for the Key West Bear Weekend 2023 have been announced as November 1st through 5th, 2023.
For more information about Key West Bear Weekend, the official website is www.keywestbearweekend.com.
Key Facts
- The Key West Bear Weekend took place from November 2-6.
- Cybersocket and Bear World Magazine partnered to sponsor the event.
- The event marked the return of the Key West Bear Weekend after two years of cancellations.
- Key events included the Cybersocket Pool Party at Island House Key West and the Mr. Key West Bear Contest at the Bourbon Street Pub.
- Alexander and Mr. Teddy Bear hosted the Cybersocket Pool Party and participated in the Mr. Key West Bear Contest.
- The Mr. Key West Bear 2022 title was awarded to Little Keto.
- Key West Bear Weekend 2023 is scheduled for November 1-5, 2023.
