Traditionally, people spend Christmas Eve anticipating a visit from Santa Claus. Yet those who love the Florida Keys (but can’t spend the holidays in the island chain) await another jolly bearded fellow: the legendary “Santa Keys.” Of course, as expected from a colorful Keys character, he does things a little bit differently …
Maybe it’s because the Florida Keys have never experienced a traditional white Christmas. Or because Keys residents are passionate about celebrating special occasions. But whatever the reason, despite the subtropical climate, people in the island chain go a little bit overboard with holiday decorations — and even “deck the hulls” for festive boat parades.
There are many beautiful places to celebrate love with your toes in the sand, but nothing compares to a beachfront wedding in subtropical Key West. This idyllic island at the southernmost tip of the Florida Keys offers an enchanting, laid-back vibe that’s irresistible to couples looking for a memorable and magical destination wedding.
Audiences can discover the Florida Keys’ seafaring heritage, coral reef environment and holiday spirit during eight performances of “Nutcracker Key West.” Debuting Dec. 5, the production gives the classic ballet a unique twist, transforming the well-loved tale of a young girl’s dream into a celebration of Key West’s culture, traditions and underwater wonders.
The Hogfish Bar & Grill, a funky Keys-style emporium overlooking the water at Stock Island’s Safe Harbour Marina, has long been popular with locals and visitors – including Jimmy Buffett. Fans of the iconic spot can celebrate its 22nd anniversary Nov. 30 with a free concert starring some of the late Buffett's musical colleagues.
For Florida Keys foodies, Oct. 15 rivals a national holiday in importance. Why? Because that marks the opening of the annual stone crab season. The orange-red, pale yellow and black stone crab claws contain a sweet, tender meat that’s among the Keys’ most popular delicacies — and they're served at restaurants around the island chain.
Each year, thousands of people head to Key West for the Fantasy Fest celebration, eager to don exotic masks and costumes and escape their real-world cares in a whirl of revelry. Set for Oct. 18-27, the festivities include lavish costume competitions, street fairs, masquerade parties, unparalleled creativity and the dazzling Fantasy Fest Parade.
One of Florida Keys’ greatest “natural resources” is the friendly, easygoing people who make the region their home — charterboat captains, artists, restaurateurs, animal rescuers, attractions operators, musicians and more. By seeking local residents’ insights and recommendations for unique new adventures, visitors can begin to sample the authentic lifestyle of the colorful, magical islands.
The Florida Keys are a truly friendly place. The island chain is one of those rare locales where you might be a stranger when you arrive on vacation, but you won’t be one when you depart. So make plans for a Keys getaway and discover some warmhearted, quirky “friends you haven’t met yet.”
Thousands of Jimmy Buffett fans gathered on Key West’s Duval Street Sept. 1 for a march honoring the world-renowned singer/songwriter on the one-year anniversary of his passing. Jimmy lived in Key West during some of his most productive years, developing the “trop-rock” style and laid-back persona that helped make him a musical icon.