Snow Predicted for Islamorada on December 6
ISLAMORADA, Florida Keys — The Islamorada Chamber of Commerce is promising snow for the 9th Annual Holiday Festival, set for Friday, December 6, from 4–10 p.m. at Founders Park, located at mile marker 87.
“Mark your calendars and get out your hats and gloves for a magical evening of holiday fun for kids of all ages,” Chamber of Commerce President Rob Stober said.
Throughout the evening, Islamorada’s 35-foot high official holiday tree will be blowing magical snow through its branches. Meanwhile, the famous Holiday Festival Snow Mountain, made from 20 tons of the cold white stuff, is sure to be the hit of the evening, bringing squeals of cheer from the mitten-clad children.
Snow is far from the only thing promised for this magical festival in Founders Park. Thomas the Tank Engine will be taking happy passengers for rides around the park, and children from On Your Toes Dance Studio will get things going at 6 p.m. with a holiday-themed performance. Next up, at 7 p.m., will be the annual Islamorada Holiday Parade, featuring floats, Thomas the Tank Engine, the Coral Shores Hurricane Marching Band, antique cars and more. The final float will carry none other than Santa himself.
Since it is, after all, 2013, the theme for this year’s parade is Twelve Drummers Drumming.
Holiday Festival also offers the unique Holiday Gift Bazaar, which is perfect for getting the shopping season started right. Back in the bazaar by popular demand is the much-anticipated silent auction of hand-crafted ornaments. In preparation, 40 local artists are already busy at work creating individual holiday ornament masterpieces, starting from a blank ceramic mold. The finished pieces will be on display throughout the evening. The silent auction is scheduled to end at 9 p.m.
The bazaar also features jewelry and crafts. And its bake sale is sure to have a holiday treat or two to tickle your taste buds.
Food of a more savory sort will also be available at Holiday Festival. You’ll find burgers, hot dogs and more on the grill. Meanwhile, hors d'oeuvres and fine wine, will be available at the festival’s Vino Village.
Mealtime could be a great opportunity to turn your attention to the Founders Park stage, which will be filled with an assortment of entertainment throughout the evening. A choir will carol traditional holiday tunes, and in the Santa Paws competition, dogs will be judged for the best holiday outfit.
Stober said he is excited for what’s in store.
"The Holiday Festival is always a favorite event with everyone,” he said. “Make plans now to come out and enjoy this magical snowy evening; you’ll be glad you did.”
Featuring music, art, dance and delicious food and drink, Holiday Festival will tempt all of your senses while snow and holiday songs fill the air. The Chamber of Commerce is seeking entries for the parade. If you would like more information, or if you would like to volunteer at the event, please contact the Chamber at 305-664-4503.



