Christmas weather in the Keys is far from frightful

As the cold, dark December days herald the true start of the festive season, leave the rain and wind behind and escape to the magical islands of the Florida Keys & Key West. Filled with glorious sunshine and bustling with exciting festivals and parades, the Keys offer events sure to keep everyone entertained well into 2009.

From Key Largo to Key West, the Christmas Calendar is packed with events designed to spread some holiday cheer. Kick start that jolly spirit by viewing one of the three festive lighted boat parades featuring rowboats to tall ships decked out with Christmas lights, decorations and holiday cheer. Or take a stroll along the Historic Seaport at Key West and enjoy the spectacular holiday lights that brighten up the picturesque harbour walk.

Other seasonal celebrations to enjoy in the Keys include:

Florida Keys Holiday Festival (Islamorada) – December 5th
This extravaganza is to begin with a tree-lighting ceremony followed by a holiday parade with Santa arriving on an Islamorada Fire Rescue truck and continues with a holiday gift bazaar and a silent auction of ornaments decorated by local artists.

Pops in the Park "Sounds of the Season" Concert (Key Largo) – December 13th
The Keys Community Concert Band is to perform a free "Sounds of the Season" concert at Key Largo Community Park. Holiday favourites are to highlight the afternoon entertainment.

Key Colony Beach Lighted Boat Parade (Marathon area) – December 14
Christmas lights on outriggers and displays on boat decks are part of the beautiful festivities during the Key Colony Beach Boat Parade. Open to all boats, the parade route visits canals and cuts, and passes the city hall three times.

Community Christmas Carol Concert on the Harbour Walk of Lights (Key West) – December 19th
Live holiday music, games for the kids, free cookies and eggnog, and Christmas carols by local entertainers round out the evenings festive fun.

New Year's Eve Fireworks on Blackwater Sound (Key Largo) – December 31st
The back bay in Key Largo is to be the setting for the annual New Year's Eve fireworks extravaganza hosted by bayside restaurants Sundowners, Señor Frijoles, Cactus Jack's, Gus' Grille at the Marriott Key Largo Beach Resort and the Caribbean Club.

To spend Christmas in the Keys, BA holidays are offering 7 nights at the 4-star Hilton Key Largo Beach Resort in Key Largo from just £786 per person, with two people sharing. Price includes flights with British Airways from London Heathrow to Miami, Alamo inclusive car hire and room-only accommodation. For more information see baholidays.co.uk.

For more a full list of events and festive celebrations in the Florida Keys, visit fla-keys.co.uk.