News Flash

FLORIDA KEYS — Santa is likely to arrive in the Florida Keys by sailboat instead of by sleigh, pulled by a team of dolphins rather than reindeer — at least during the festive lighted boat parades that enliven the Keys' 2010 holiday season. Boat parades from Key Largo to Key West are to illuminate the waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Gulf of Mexico and Florida Bay as the island chain celebrates the holidays. Vessel decorations typically range from traditional lights and greenery to offbeat salutes to the season. Visitors can view the processions from shore or excursion boat, or even deck out their own vessels and become part of the merriment.

Saturday, Dec. 18, 7 p.m.
Lower Keys Lighted Boat Parade (Lower Florida Keys) All boats are welcome to enter the parade including deep-sea cruisers, dinghies, kayaks and canoes. Santa and Mrs. Claus are expected to arrive and hand out candy to the kids. The best recommended viewing is from Pine Channel Causeway or Parrotdise Waterfront Bar & Grille, 183 Barry Ave. on Little Torch Key. For details, call Holly at 305-872-0106.

For more information about the Florida Keys & Key West, including a comprehensive schedule of holiday events, explore this website. Florida Keys information also can be found Facebook and Twitter.