IN PICTURES: SNOW & SANTA COME TO FOUNDERS PARK FOR HOLIDAY FEST

a group of people standing around a pile of snow
Young children flock to the snow mountain.

Snow fell and the spirit of the season filled the air at Islamorada’s Founders Park during the annual Holiday Fest on Dec. 6. Families lined up to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. Children flocked to the snow mountain and a towering Christmas tree. Kids also enjoyed some cookie decorating courtesy of Publix. At the amphitheater, young dancers at On Your Toes Dance Studio wowed the crowd with several holiday performances. Food trucks dished out delicious fare, and a gift bazaar gave attendees a jumpstart on shopping. People circled the great lawn as festive floats and vehicles with dignitaries paraded through the park. The annual event is organized by the Islamorada Chamber of Commerce.

a group of people standing around a tent
Islamorada Village Manager Robert Cole works the holiday bazaar.
a group of people standing around a table filled with candy
Sweet treats including candy apples are dished out during Holiday Fest.
a group of people dressed as santa clause posing for a picture
A family gathers for a photo with Santa Claus.
a group of young girls dancing on a stage
On Your Toes dancers perform on stage at the amphitheater.
a man in a red and green suit is sitting in a car
In a festive three-piece suit, Islamorada Fire Chief and parade marshal Terry Abel rides in a convertible to lead off the parade.
a group of people standing around a christmas tree
Snow flies from a Christmas tree at Founders Park during Holiday Fest.
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.