Islamorada Holiday Festival
December 5, 2008 4pm - 11pm

For Immediate Release

Contact Information:
Judy Hull
Executive Director
Islamorada Chamber of Commerce
305-664-4503

Snow predicted for Islamorada on December 5, 2008
Click here for a holiday parade registration form. (pdf)

The Islamorada Chamber of Commerce announced today that snow is promised for the Fourth Annual Florida Keys Holiday Festival set for December 5th, from 4 - 10pm at Founders Park, mm 87. Mark your calendars and get out the mittens and hats for a magical evening of Holiday Fun for kids of all ages. A 35 ft. community holiday tree will be blowing “magical” snow through its branches as carolers gather round to sing traditional holiday songs. Our famous Snow Mountain made from 20 tons of snow is sure to be the hit of the evening, bringing squeals of cheer from the mitten-clad children.

Snow is not the only thing promised for this magical festival in Founders Park. A holiday parade kicks off the event, featuring floats, the Hurricane’s Marching Band and the Grinch. The final float will be carrying none other than Santa himself. This year the parade’s theme is “The Art of Giving”. This theme was selected to honor the Grand Marshal for the parade, local artist, Millard Wells, whose art is widely displayed throughout the area. We are grateful to him for his many artistic contributions, but most of all we want to thank him for what is perhaps his most recognized work in the Islamorada area, the beautiful Islamorada Chamber of Commerce logo. The Chamber is thrilled to honor him at this year’s event. Rob Stober, President of the Chamber of Commerce Board said, "The Holiday Festival grows in popularity each year, it is a special night when the entire community comes out to celebrate the kickoff to the season.  The Chamber of Commerce is delighted to be able to present this event to the community."

The arts and crafts holiday bazaar will start the holiday shopping season off right with unique gifts for everyone on your list. In addition, more than thirty 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 and sold in a silent auction scheduled to end at 9pm.

The Upper Keys Taster’s Guild will again be hosting Vino Village - the wine and gourmet food tent at the festival. Tom Smith, Director of The Upper Keys Taster’s Guild said, “We are very excited to show off what the Tasters Guild brings to the community. We will be selling and taking wine orders for everyone to stock up for the holidays so don't miss this one!”

Music, art, dance, and delicious food and drink will tempt all of your senses while snow and holiday songs fill the air. The Chamber of Commerce is seeking entries for the Parade and the Holiday Bazaar. If you would like more information, or if you would like to volunteer at the event please contact the Chamber at 305-664-4503.