IN PICTURES: HOLIDAY SPIRIT ILLUMINATES THE NIGHT IN KEY LARGO

a man and woman dressed as santa clause riding in a golf cart

Kids flocked to the snow and Santa Claus as the holiday magic returned to the Murray Nelson Government Center for the 15th annual Light Up Key Largo on Nov. 23. Organized by the Key Largo Community Preservation Foundation, the night was highlighted by the lighting of “Holly,” the 45-foot Christmas tree. Tykes enjoyed a snow machine, train rides, a bounce house and some cookie decorating. The event also featured dance performances from Spotlight Dance Studio, tunes from the Mangrove Swamp band, nonprofit booths and food vendors.

Photos by JAVIER EXPOSITO/Contributed

Jim McCarthy
Jim McCarthy is one of the many who escaped the snow and frigid temperatures in Western New York. A former crime & court reporter and city editor for two Western New York newspapers, Jim has been honing his craft since he graduated from St. Bonaventure University in 2014. In his 5-plus years in the Keys, Jim has enjoyed connecting with the community. Jim is past president of the Key Largo Sunset Rotary Club. When he's not working, he's busy chasing his son, Lucas, around the house and enjoying time with family.