Waterfront Winter Wonderland to Enliven Key West Holidays

Holiday fans seeking a family-friendly seasonal experience can find it in Key West Dec. 13-28, when the grounds of the Coffee Butler Amphitheater overlooking Key West Harbor are transformed into the Waterfront Winter Wonderland.

Despite taking place on the southernmost island in the continental United States — a locale that has never recorded a holiday snowfall — the extravaganza is to feature countless traditional elements that make the season sparkle. Planned highlights include an ice-skating rink where kids and adults can test their skills, festive light displays, carnival rides, inflatable snow globes, a Christmas train, musical performances and even appearances by “Southernmost Santa.”

Set for 4-10 p.m. daily at the amphitheater, 21 Quay Road, festivities are to feature rides including giant slides for “sledding,” a beautifully decked-out carousel, a ferris wheel, carousel swings and a shriek-inducing scrambler.

Kids can drop their wish lists for Santa into a decorated mailbox for North Pole delivery, and visit with the jolly old fellow during designated hours.

Live music from the amphitheater stage is designed to set the seasonal mood, while treats and libations can be purchased from on-site vendors. Young attendees can make creative decorations and gifts at a kids’ craft tent, and a merry marketplace Saturdays and Sundays is to feature one-of a-kind items by local artisans — perfect for holiday shopping.

No mittens or snowsuits are required for the Wonderland’s quintessential holiday thrill: ice-skating on a large custom rink in Key West’s typically balmy “winter” climate. Both veteran skaters and newcomers can enjoy the unforgettable experience, with skates to be provided.

Photo stops and selfie stations are to be located on-site, backdropped by glittering light displays, so attendees can capture memories of their holiday experiences. Organizers even promise periodic “snow flurries.”

Admission to the Waterfront Winter Wonderland is $10 per person (free for kids age 5 and under). A wristband for unlimited rides and skating is $35 per person per day, or tickets for each activity can be purchased separately.

Festival information, ticketing and daily event schedule: waterfrontwinterwonderland.com

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