IN PICTURES: DECK THE HULLS AT KEY WEST’S LIGHTED BOAT PARADE

a boat decorated with christmas lights on the water
Coast Guard Station Key West thanks first responders while its Keys Strong-themed boat thanks essential workers.

Dolphins pull Santa’s sled, and his elves know how to tie a bowline knot, at the 30th annual Schooner Wharf Bar/Absolut Vodka Lighted Boat Parade at the Historic Seaport.

Hundreds of spectators lined the pier the evening of Dec. 11 for the dazzling display of maritime holiday cheer. The boat parade was just one of numerous events taking place during the annual Key West Holiday Fest, presented in part by the Lodging Association of the Florida Keys & Key West and the Monroe County Tourist Development Council. The celebration of lights, music, shopping and holiday “spirits” continues through Dec. 31.

Photos by CAROL TEDESCO/KeyWestHolidayFest.com