Key West hosts iconic Red Shoe Drop, crowns New Year’s queen! In Key West, traditional celebrations feature eye-catching “drops” — including the iconic Conch Shell Drop at Sloppy Joe’s and unique themed descents like the Red Shoe Drop — that draw crowds along Duval Street each Dec. 31.
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. — Key West celebrates New Year’s Eve each year with an eight-foot-long Red Shoe drop on Duval Street.
Joey Schroeder, the owner of the Bourbon St. Entertainment Complex, decided to build the high-heel shoe to start a new tradition in 1997.
“Sushi” was the NYE drag queen who dropped about 15 feet at midnight from the second-floor balcony at 724 Duval St. from 1997 to 2024.
Red shoe set to drop as New Year's celebrations in Key West continue
This year, Mulan Alexander was the local NYE 2026 drag queen in the Red Shoe, and she also performed for the crowd.
“It feels great,” said Alexander, who has been wearing the crown since the pageant in October.
Earlier report from Key West
Key West celebrates NYE 2026 with Red Shoe drop
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Jason Carter
Jason Carter is no stranger to the small screen. Whether it’s covering red carpets for some of Hollywood’s biggest outlets or tackling hard-hitting issues, Jason expertly bridges the gap between celebrity and news.
The Emmy Award-winning journalist joined the Local 10 News team in 2013. She wrote for the Miami Herald for more than 9 years and won a Green Eyeshade Award.
