Discover the Magic of Christmas in Key West FL

Are you tired of the same old holiday routine? Imagine celebrating the holiday season in a tropical paradise where the average temperature is a pleasant 77 degrees in December. Key West transforms into a unique island getaway during the holidays, blending traditional Christmas elements with a relaxed, laid-back atmosphere. You can enjoy a variety of festive activities, from light displays to boat parades, and historic home tours, making it an ideal escape from colder climates. This is the best guide for Christmas in Key West FL.

This comprehensive guide will help you plan a memorable holiday getaway to Key West, FL, where you can experience the perfect blend of land and water activities in a beautiful Florida Keys setting.

Table of Contents

The Unique Charm of a Tropical Holiday Season

Experience a tropical twist on the holiday season in Key West, FL, where warm weather and island vibes redefine Christmas celebrations. You can enjoy a Key West holiday that’s filled with sunshine and beach activities, a perfect alternative to a traditional white Christmas.

Weather and Atmosphere During December in Key West

December in Key West brings pleasant weather, with average temperatures of 77 degrees, making it ideal for outdoor holiday celebrations. The island atmosphere is electric, with palm trees wrapped in lights and boats adorned with decorations against the backdrop of turquoise waters. This unique blend creates a tropical holiday season that’s both festive and relaxed.

Why Choose Key West for Your Christmas Getaway

Key West offers a Key West holiday experience that’s hard to find elsewhere. You can enjoy both holiday traditions and beach activities in the same day, making the most of your holiday season. The island’s small size fosters an intimate community feeling, and the absence of commercialization makes it a perfect spot for families and those seeking a relaxed Christmas experience. Visitors can create unique holiday memories by blending tropical elements with Christmas customs, making for a truly special time of the year.

Spectacular Holiday Light Displays in Key West

From late November to New Year’s Eve, Key West is aglow with an array of holiday light displays that are sure to captivate visitors of all ages. The island’s unique blend of nautical themes and tropical charm creates a truly one-of-a-kind holiday experience.

Harbor Walk of Lights at the Historic Seaport

The Harbor Walk of Lights at the Historic Seaport is a must-see attraction, boasting over 61,000 festive lights that create a captivating waterfront scene. The nautical-themed decorations pay homage to Key West’s rich maritime history, with light sculptures of ship’s anchors, tropical birds, and marine animals.

The display lines the seawall past Greene Street, William Street, and Margaret Street to the Key West Bight Ferry Terminal, creating a magical atmosphere that’s perfect for a holiday stroll.

Old Town Trolley’s Holiday Sights & Festive Nights Tour

The Old Town Trolley’s Holiday Sights & Festive Nights Tour offers a unique perspective on Key West’s holiday celebrations. Running from December 8-23, this evening tour allows visitors to see historic Key West homes decorated in their holiday finest, with local guides sharing entertaining stories about the island.

The tour departs from Mallory Square, and advance ticket purchase is recommended to ensure availability.

Must-See Christmas in Key West FL Events and Parades

Celebrate Christmas in Key West, FL, with its array of festive events and parades that blend island charm with holiday cheer. You can experience the unique holiday atmosphere that Key West has to offer through its various celebrations.

Key West Hometown Holiday Parade

The Key West Hometown Holiday Parade is a cherished tradition, starting on Truman Avenue, proceeding down Duval Street, and concluding at Eaton Street. You’ll witness festive floats, church groups, happy children, and of course, Santa Claus, creating a joyful atmosphere. Participants, including adults, children, elves, and costumed reindeer, add to the merriment. Be sure to bring a bag to collect the candy tossed by parade participants to spectators.

Schooner Wharf’s Lighted Boat Parade

The annual Schooner Wharf Bar & Galley Lighted Boat Parade is a breathtaking spectacle, featuring dozens of sailboats, fishing boats, yachts, and catamarans decorated with twinkling holiday lights along the waterfront. The parade typically commences around 8:00 pm. The best viewing spots are along the Historic Seaport and Harbor Walk of Lights, where you can enjoy local musicians playing classic holiday music amidst the festive atmosphere.

Christmas Tree Lighting at Bayview Park

The Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony at Bayview Park takes place after Thanksgiving Day, marking the official beginning of the holiday season. The event features holiday music and a special visit from Santa Claus. Additionally, there’s an annual Lighting of the Menorah Ceremony at Bayview Park for those celebrating Hanukkah, showcasing Key West’s inclusive holiday spirit.

These community events highlight Key West’s unique blend of small-town charm and island flair during the holiday season, making it an ideal destination for your Christmas getaway.

Historic Sites with Holiday Flair

Key West’s historic homes and inns are transformed into winter wonderlands during the holiday season. You can experience the island’s rich history and festive atmosphere by visiting these charming sites.

The Little White House Christmas Decorations

The Little White House, the former winter home of President Harry S. Truman, is a must-visit during the holiday season. Elegant Christmas decorations adorn the historic home, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. You can take a guided tour and learn about the house’s rich history while enjoying the festive decorations.

Key West Historic Inns Holiday Tour

For two nights in mid-December, you can take a self-guided tour of four charming historic inns, each beautifully decorated for the holiday season. Innkeepers share stories about their properties’ histories while offering appetizers and holiday drinks. Trolleys provide transportation between the inns, making it easy to visit multiple sites in one evening.

Festive Activities on Land and Sea

Get ready to celebrate Christmas in Key West, where the sun-kissed beaches meet holiday cheer. You can enjoy a variety of activities that cater to different interests, ensuring a memorable holiday experience.

Christmas Day Cruises and Water Adventures

Experience the thrill of a Christmas Day cruise in Key West. Companies like Fury Water Adventures offer an all-day excursion aboard a spacious, state-of-the-art catamaran. Enjoy activities such as Banana Boat rides, snorkeling around North America’s only living coral reef, and access to Key West’s largest ocean water park. The cruise also includes a special holiday-themed menu with complimentary drinks, making it a festive celebration on the water.

Also Read Best Christmas Gifts for Husband in 2025

Also Read Best Christmas Gifts for Your Wife in 2025

Holiday Markets and Shopping Opportunities

The Key West Artisan Market at Truman Waterfront Park is a must-visit destination for holiday shopping. You can find unique gifts from local makers, mom-and-pop businesses, and vendors from the Keys and South Florida. Additionally, events like the Eaton Street Christmas Stroll and the Holiday Classic Car Show at Conch Republic Seafood Company offer a fun and festive atmosphere, making your Christmas in Key West truly special.

These land and sea activities provide diverse options for you to create memorable experience of Christmas in Key West FL. Whether you’re looking for adventure or a relaxing holiday getaway, Key West has something for everyone.

Family-Friendly Christmas Experiences

Key West transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season, offering a unique blend of traditional and tropical fun for all ages. You can enjoy a variety of activities with your family, making the holiday season truly special.

Waterfront Winter Wonderland at Truman Waterfront Park

The Waterfront Winter Wonderland at Truman Waterfront Park is a must-visit during the holiday season. Running from December 15-30, this event features an ice skating rink, games, thrilling rides, attractions, music, light displays, photo opportunities, and letters to Santa. Admission is only $10, and kids under five years old enter for free.

Santa Visits and Kid-Friendly Holiday Activities

In addition to the Waterfront Winter Wonderland, Key West offers other kid-friendly holiday activities. You can visit Santa at the “North Pole” located upstairs at Mallory Square, where kids can share their holiday wishes. There are also letter-writing stations and a special mailbox for sending letters to Santa. The 3rd annual Holiday Village & BeLighted Bike Ride at the Coffee Butler Amphitheater is another fun event, featuring photos with Santa, food, music, rides, and an inflatable obstacle course.

Planning Your Perfect Key West Christmas Getaway

Escape to Key West for a Christmas celebration that combines traditional holiday spirit with the laid-back charm of the island. To make the most of your trip, book your accommodations early, as this popular destination fills up quickly during the holiday season.

Create a balanced itinerary that includes holiday events like the Harbor Walk of Lights and lighted boat parades, as well as free time to explore the island. Don’t forget to pack comfortable clothing for warm days and light layers for cooler nights. Consider staying through New Year’s Eve to experience Key West’s famous celebrations.

Also Read Easy Christmas Party Appetizers: 50 Delicious Ideas

What’s the weather like during the holiday season in Key West?

December weather in Key West is typically mild, with average highs around 75°F (24°C), making it an ideal winter escape. You can expect plenty of sunshine and gentle ocean breezes.

Are there any special holiday events on the water?

Yes, the Schooner Wharf’s Lighted Boat Parade is a highlight of the holiday season, featuring elaborately decorated boats sailing through the harbor. You can also enjoy Christmas Day Cruises and other water adventures.

Can I see holiday lights and displays in Key West?

Absolutely! The Harbor Walk of Lights at the Historic Seaport is a must-see, with its festive lights and decorations. You can also take the Old Town Trolley’s Holiday Sights & Festive Nights Tour to see the island’s holiday displays.

Are there any historic sites to visit during the holiday season?

Yes, The Little White House is decorated for the holidays, and you can take a tour to see its festive decorations. Many of Key West’s historic inns also participate in the Key West Historic Inns Holiday Tour.

What’s the best way to get around Key West during the holiday season?

The Old Town Trolley is a convenient way to get around the island and see the holiday sights. You can also walk or bike through the historic district to explore the shops, restaurants, and holiday displays.

Are there any family-friendly holiday activities?

Yes, Truman Waterfront Park hosts a Waterfront Winter Wonderland with festive activities and decorations. You can also meet Santa and enjoy other kid-friendly holiday activities throughout the island.