Key West Holiday Fest to Celebrate Seasonal Spirit
KEY WEST, Florida Keys — Key West may be Florida’s subtropical southernmost island, but revelers can enjoy events as seasonal as Santa’s North Pole celebrations during the 2017 Key West Holiday Fest that runs through Dec. 31.
The festival kicks off with the illumination of the Harbor Walk of Lights in the Key West Historic Seaport in the Greene Street plaza at Greene and Elizabeth streets, and among the trees lighted is one made from wooden lobster traps.
The harbor walk area from Greene to Grinnell streets is to glimmer with nautical holiday displays, featuring traditional and island-style decorations, throughout the season.
Holiday Fest highlights include tours of historic lighted inns on two consecutive Fridays, Dec. 8 and 15. Visitors can discover the holiday spirit — and Key West’s unique architecture and heritage — by exploring five festively decorated properties each Friday. Edible treats and libations are to be available at the featured inns.
Trolley transportation between inns is included in the tours, or attendees can provide their own transportation. Tickets are priced at $30 per person and are available at keystix.com or by calling the Lodging Association of the Florida Keys and Key West at 305-296-4959.
On-the-water enthusiasts can show their holiday spirit at the Schooner Wharf Bar Lighted Boat Parade set for 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 15. Dozens of decorated vessels, ranging from majestic schooners to fishing boats and even kayaks, are to light up the Historic Seaport and harbor areas while vying for more than $20,000 in prizes.
Festivities are headquartered at the waterfront Schooner Wharf Bar, 202 William St., and spectators can view the procession from resorts, bars and restaurants in and around the seaport.
As well as these signature celebrations, the Key West Holiday Fest calendar includes the annual hometown holiday parade, musical showcases, artisan markets, a lighted bicycle procession, pet photos with Santa and many more seasonal offerings.
Festival information and schedule: keywestholidayfest.com or 305-296-4959
Key West visitor information: fla-keys.com/keywest or 1-800-LAST-KEY
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On-the-water enthusiasts can show their holiday spirit at the Schooner Wharf Bar Lighted Boat Parade.
Key West Holiday Fest calendar includes the annual lighted bicycle procession.
Holiday Fest highlights include tours of historic lighted inns.