Boat Parades to Light Up the Florida Keys Holiday Season

This Family Fun story spotlights a family-focused attraction, event or place that enriches the Florida Keys for visitors of all ages

FLORIDA KEYS — Decorated boats of all shapes and sizes are to illuminate the sparkling waters of the Florida Keys in December. Around the island chain, visitors can view lighted boat parades from the shore or excursion boats, or even revel in the Keys’ holiday spirit by decking out their own boat in dazzling lights and eye-catching seasonal decorations.

To protect against the spread of coronavirus during the holiday season, all boat parade participants and spectators are requested to follow locally mandated health safety protocols including wearing facial coverings and social distancing.

Saturday, Dec. 12, 7:30 p.m.
Key Largo Holiday Lighted Boat Parade (Key Largo)

Boats ranging from single-person kayaks to elegant yachts are to show off festive decorations in a lively holiday procession of vessels on Key Largo’s Blackwater Sound. Great viewing spots can be found at Sundowners, Cactus Jack’s, Señor Frijoles, the Key Largo Bay Marriott Beach Resort and Caribbean Club, all around mile markers 103-104. Visit keylargoboatparade.com.

Saturday, Dec. 12, 6 p.m.
Boot Key Harbor Christmas Boat Parade (Marathon)

At this Middle Keys holiday event, dinghies, megayachts and vessels in between are to cruise the harbor in a sparkling procession. The best viewing sites include Lazy Days South, Marathon Marina, Dockside Tropical Café and Burdines Waterfront around mile markers 47-50. Visit facebook.com/marathonmarinaresort.

Sunday, Dec. 13, 6 p.m.
Key Colony Beach Holiday Lighted Boat Parade (Marathon Area)

Open to all boats, this year’s parade is staged by the city’s Fishing and Boating Club. The lineup’s traditional start is at the 7th Street canal and the procession is to wind its way through canals and cuts. The best viewing spots to applaud vividly lit boats include the Sadowski Causeway at mile marker 53.5 and the dock area behind city hall. Visit keycolonybeach.net.