Christmas in Key West in 2026
The Harbor Walk of Lights is glowing, and the streets, homes and docks are decked for the season. Here’s how Key West celebrates the holidays in 2026.
Quick Answers
Key West celebrates Christmas and the Holiday Season by:
- Experiencing the Key West Lighted Boat Parade. Decorated boats light up the Historic Seaport during one of the island’s signature traditions, with the celebration enjoyed from the waterfront and out on the water.
- Enjoying Holiday Celebrations Around the Island. Lights, parades, Hanukkah celebrations, performances and community traditions bring the season to life throughout Key West.
- Making Holiday Memories on the Water. Sunset cruises, snorkeling, dolphin trips, sandbar adventures and other watersports make Key West’s warm December weather part of the holiday experience.
Be Part of the Key West Lighted Boat Parade
The 35th Annual Key West Lighted Boat Parade returns to the Historic Seaport on Saturday, December 12. Sunset Watersports gives you the opportunity to join the celebration right on the water aboard one of its decorated vessels.
Organized by Schooner Wharf Bar, the parade fills the harbor with a myriad of boats featuring creative holiday displays and plenty of Key West personality. Sunset Watersports entries have won numerous awards over the years.
This year, skip the crowded waterfront and join the procession surrounded by holiday lights and music. Enjoy food, an open bar and a live DJ in the middle of one of Key West’s biggest holiday celebrations. Tickets can sell out quickly, so book your place in the parade early.
Holiday Happenings Around Key West
From parades and holiday lights to concerts, performances and community celebrations, here’s a sampling of seasonal events happening around Key West in 2026.
The Harbor Walk of Lights transforms the Key West Historic Seaport for the season, with thousands of lights and uniquely Key West displays including the Fishing Buoy Tree and Lobster Trap Tree. The lights continue through the New Year’s celebrations, making the waterfront worth a stroll whether you visit early in December or during Christmas week.
Early December brings Nutcracker Key West, a tropical take on the holiday classic, along with the City’s traditional Hanukkah Menorah Lighting and Celebration at Bayview Park and the Key West Holiday Parade, when floats, marching groups and local organizations make their way through Old Town.
The Holiday Concert & Bazaar at the Custom House Museum brings local artisans and live entertainment to one of Key West’s most beautiful historic buildings. One of the highlights is the animated holiday projection show set to music across the historic building’s façade. Later in the month, Waterfront Winter Wonderland at Truman Waterfront keeps the festivities going through Christmas week with lights, rides, skating, entertainment and plenty of holiday atmosphere.
For even more seasonal events, concerts and activities, visit the Key West Attractions Association Events Calendar and the Florida Keys Events Calendar.
Make Holiday Memories on the Water
Warm December temperatures are part of what makes celebrating the holidays in Key West so special. Take a sunset cruise, snorkel the reef, look for dolphins or head to a sandbar for a tropical twist during your visit.
From relaxing cruises to full days of adventure, explore all Sunset Watersports tours and activities and make your time on the island unforgettable.
Key West Holiday Season FAQs
What is open in Key West on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day?
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Many Key West restaurants, attractions, tours and watersports are open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, although holiday hours may vary. Sunset Watersports operates 365 days a year, including both holidays.
Is Key West busy during Christmas week?
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Yes. Christmas through New Year’s is one of Key West’s busiest holiday periods. The island becomes noticeably busier as Christmas approaches, with many visitors staying through the New Year’s celebrations.
Do I need reservations in Key West for Christmas and the holiday season?
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Reservations are strongly recommended during Christmas week, especially for popular restaurants, sunset cruises, watersports and other limited-capacity experiences. Booking ahead gives you a better choice of dates and departure times.
What is the weather like in Key West at Christmas?
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December in Key West is typically warm, with average highs around 78°F and lows around 68°F. December is also part of the Florida Keys dry season, making outdoor activities a big part of the holidays.
Can you swim, snorkel and do watersports in Key West in December?
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Yes. Snorkeling, dolphin trips, sunset cruises, sandbar trips, parasailing and other watersports continue throughout December. Conditions vary from day to day, especially if a winter cold front passes through, but Key West’s subtropical climate makes getting out on the water possible throughout the holiday season.
Still looking for your holiday home away from home? Here’s a helpful guide to finding the right place to stay.
