Pigeon Key Holiday Spectacular to Transform Historic Island into Magical Winter Wonderland
MARATHON, Florida Keys — The wonder of the holiday season is to come alive Saturday, Dec. 14, during the 1-9 p.m. inaugural Pigeon Key Holiday Spectacular.
The magic begins on the ride to the 5-acre island that lies beneath the Old Seven Mile Bridge, with its signature train and “Old Henry” engine transformed into the Pigeon Key Polar Express for the scenic ride over the restored section of the old bridge.
The train and ”Henry” name are particularly appropriate since, in the early 1900s, the tiny island was a camp for laborers constructing the bridge — the centerpiece of railroad magnate Henry Flagler’s Florida Keys Over-Sea Railroad.
Setting the holiday event apart from others on Pigeon Key is to be the day’s weather outlook, with a forecast of blowing snow — courtesy of snow machines — contrasting with the Keys’ typically balmy breezes throughout the afternoon and evening.
Attendees will find fun holiday craft stations, including one for cookie decorating hosted by Marathon’s Sweet Savannah’s Bake Shop. As always, the island’s fascinating past will be highlighted during Pigeon Key’s intriguing history tours.
In addition, a team from The Tackle Box in Marathon will be on hand to help youngsters amplify their angling skills during a catch-and-release fishing clinic and derby to be held at the end of the island’s dock.
Kids and adults interested in marine science can explore wet lab touch tanks to learn about marine life, hosted by Pigeon Key’s marine science center educational team.
Food trucks serving tasty dishes including empanadas, seafood and barbeque are to be on hand, along with a full bar.
As evening approaches, the island’s holiday spirit is to come alive with tens of thousands of twinkling lights and a special appearance by Santa and Mrs. Claus. At dusk, holiday-themed films are to be screened on a giant inflatable screen.
After 4 p.m., participants in the inaugural 7 Mile SantaCon poker run — decked out in Santa suits and other holiday-themed attire — are to make their last stop on the island for award ceremonies and evening festivities.
The roundtrip train journey, including entry to the island, is specially priced at $10 for the duration of the afternoon and evening event.
Attendees are advised to purchase train tickets in advance online at pigeonkey.net. With limited seating available for train transportation, additional shuttle service is also to be available. Trips depart from the Pigeon Key Visitor Center, 1090 Overseas Highway at mile marker 47.5.
Those choosing to walk or bike the 2.2 miles each way across the Old Seven Mile Bridge can enter the island event for $5.
Event information: pigeonkey.net/holiday-spectacular
The historic island of Pigeon Key is to transform into winter wonderland during the Pigeon Key Holiday Spectacular.
The Pigeon Key Express train becomes the Pigeon Key Polar Express to transport visitors to the island event Dec. 14. Photo: Pigeon Key
Afternoon activities include a kids fishing derby from the Pigeon Key dock. Photo: Pigeon Key
An aerial view shows the entry to Pigeon Key at the end of the publicly-accessible, renovated span of the Old Seven Mile Bridge. Photo: Andy Newman