The holidays are kicking off in Key West with one of the most beloved local events: the 18th annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony on Monday, November 30th at 6 p.m. in Bayview Park. This time-honored event features a performance by the Horace O’Bryant Middle School Band and the arrival of Santa Claus.

For third time in 18 years, local developer Pritam Singh has generously donated the Christmas tree and the state of the art LED lighting. In addition, a group of donors have also included a special surprise. The first 150 children under the age of 12 will receive a $20 gift card for either K-Mart or Sears.

Santa Claus plans to stay in town for the next wonderful city event as well: the Holiday Parade, which starts at 7 p.m. on December 5th. The parade begins at the corner of Truman and White streets, and continues past the reviewing stand at the corner of Fleming and Duval.

The following day, at 4: 30 p.m. on December 6th, Bayview Park will host the lighting of the Menorah with Rabbi Shimon Dudai and Rabbi Jacob Zucker.