When it comes to celebrating Christmas, snow and cozy fires might come to mind. But what if you swapped the cold for sunshine, white sand beaches, and island charm? This holiday season, escape to Key West, Florida, where the Christmas spirit shines brightly against a tropical backdrop. Here’s why Key West is so magical during the most wonderful time of the year.
1. A Tropical Wonderland Drenched in Lights
Key West pulls out all the stops for Christmas with its unique light displays. Picture historic Conch-style houses draped in twinkling lights and decorated palm trees glowing with festive cheer. Stroll through Old Town on the Holiday Historic Inn Tour, where you can explore the island’s iconic inns adorned in their holiday best, complete with refreshments and music.
For an unforgettable experience, hop on the “Conch Train Holiday Lights Tour” or the Old Town Trolley Holiday Tour, both offering cozy rides through the island to view the most dazzling displays. It’s holiday magic with a tropical twist!
2. Festive Boat Parades
In true island style, Christmas in Key West takes to the water. The annual Key West Lighted Boat Parade is a must-see event. Local boat owners transform their vessels into glittering, floating works of art, decked out with lights, wreaths, and Santa hats. Grab a seat along the harbor or book a sunset cruise to enjoy the parade with a perfect waterfront view.
It’s a one-of-a-kind celebration where the sounds of holiday music mix with the gentle waves of the ocean—nothing short of spectacular!
3. Unique Holiday Traditions in Paradise
Key West does Christmas a little differently, and that’s part of its charm. Forget ugly sweaters—you’ll see festive Hawaiian shirts and flip-flops instead. Santa might even show up riding a bike or paddleboarding in the harbor!
Local events like the “Harbor Walk of Lights” turn the waterfront into a twinkling wonderland, complete with nautical-themed Christmas trees. Don’t miss the Christmas Tree at the Historic Seaport, adorned with seashells and starfish—a true nod to Key West’s island culture.
4. Where to Stay – Southernmost Beach Resort
Southernmost Beach Resort provides the perfect home base for a tropical holiday this season with a variety of themed activities to get every member of your party in a holly-jolly mood.
- The Christmas Headquarters at The Parlour at Avalon – The resort Guesthouse turns into a festive holiday hub with weekly activities to embrace the season, such as ornament making, candy cane shots, and ugly Christmas sweater contests.
- Merry Marketplace & Sandman Building Competition – Explore the best gifts from local artisans with live music, while kids create sandy holiday sculptures near the beach…with Santa in attendance, of course!
- Christmas Trivia & Cookie Swap – Test your knowledge on the holidays while indulging in local homemade holiday cookies.
- Queen of Christmas Pageant – Local women age 40+ can compete to be the Queen of Christmas in categories like Best Glamour Christmas, Best Country Christmas, and Best Key West Christmas poolside at the resort.
- Annual Holiday Candy Cane Hunt & Kids Party – Get the kids involved this season by searching for candy canes, making slime, building with Legos, and coloring holiday scenes at the annual kids’ Christmas celebration.
- Circus of the Sea: ELF Edition – Enjoy a one-hour, pirate-themed acrobatic and aerial show full of holiday spirit and excitement, including a pre-show pool party at the resort’s Pineapple Pool.
Plan Your Tropical Christmas Escape
If you’re ready for a holiday season that’s anything but ordinary, Key West is calling. From lighted boats and festive palm trees to warm breezes and waterfront celebrations, Christmas in this island paradise is something truly special.
Trade snow for sand, carols for calypso, and experience a Key West Christmas you’ll never forget.
