Marathon, Florida, is a vibrant city located in the heart of the Florida Keys, known for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters, and laid-back island atmosphere. It offers a variety of outdoor adventures, from fishing and snorkeling to exploring nature parks, making it ideal for both relaxation and active vacations.
With its friendly community, diverse dining options, and year-round warm weather, Marathon is truly a great place to visit for travelers seeking a tropical Christmas getaway. This year, why not consider one of our luxurious vacation rentals and have a hot holiday getaway?
Curious about Christmas in Marathon, FL? Enjoy mild weather, festive events, and unique holiday activities. Here’s what to expect.
Is Christmas a Good Time to Visit Marathon, Florida?
Photo Credit: SR Productions
Christmas in Marathon brings a bustling atmosphere, as winter is the peak tourist season. The warm weather and festive activities attract tourists seeking to escape the winter chill at home.
Marathon offers various events and activities that make it a top-notch Christmas destination. Lighted boat parades and tree lighting ceremonies pack the holiday season with festive cheer, or you can take a self-guided holiday lights tour to see impressive Christmas displays throughout the Florida Keys.
Visitors can also get up to the usual fun in Marathon over the holiday period, such as swimming and snorkeling at Bahia Honda State Park, or learning about dolphins at the Dolphin Research Center.
Christmas Weather in Marathon, Florida
December in Marathon brings mild, pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 68°F (20°C) to 78°F (25°C). The ocean remains inviting at around 75°F (24°C), perfect for a swim on Christmas Day.
Marathon’s holiday season is characterized by sunshine and minimal rainfall, a unique twist to the traditional Christmas experience. The weather in the Florida Keys is quite pleasant this time of year.
Family-Friendly Christmas Events in Marathon
Photo Credit: Jay Gao
Marathon is a haven for family-friendly Christmas events, from visits with Santa to holiday crafts and parades, ensuring plenty of activities for the entire family.
These events create lasting memories and bring festive cheer to both locals and visitors alike.
Key Colony Beach Lighted Boat Parade
- Website: keycolonyfishing.com/events/christmas
- Date: TBC for 2025 (usually mid-December)
One of Marathon’s most spectacular holiday events is the Key Colony Beach Lighted Boat Parade. Local boats adorned with festive lights create a dazzling display on the water.
The parade kicks off from the canal at 7th Street in Key Colony. It features numerous decorated vessels that light up the night and bring joy to participants and spectators.
Marathon Community Park Tree Lighting
- Website: www.ci.marathon.fl.us/parksrec/page/marathon-community-park
- Date: TBC for 2025 (usually early December)
Christmas tree lighting ceremonies in the Keys mark the start of the holiday season. They’re typically filled with festive cheer, live music, hot cocoa, and visits from Santa Claus.
Marathon Community Park’s tree lighting usually takes place in early December, but check the City of Marathon event calendar for the exact date and time once it is announced.
Keys Chamber Orchestra Concerts
- Website: keyschamberorchestra.org/Performances
- Dates: December 9, 10 & 11, 2025
The Keys Chamber Orchestra captures the spirit of Christmas with its diverse holiday music concerts, creating a festive atmosphere and community spirit. They even team up with the Lower Keys Community Choir, offering enchanting performances of both traditional carols and modern holiday tunes.
Concerts take place at several venues throughout the Keys, including at San Pablo Catholic Church in Marathon, to spread festive cheer throughout the Keys community.
Marathon Community Theatre’s Holiday Show
- Website: marathontheater.org
- Dates: December 12 & 13, 2025
Join the Marathon Community Theatre for their annual Holiday Show. The fun sing-along event brings locals and visitors together for an evening of festive variety performances, hot chocolate, and lively Christmas carol sing-alongs.
It’s a fun and family-friendly way to celebrate the season. 2025’s theme is “Home for the Holidays.”
Festival of Trees
- Website: www.zontaclubofmarathon.com
- Dates: December 2 – 7, 2025
The Festival of Trees, hosted by the Zonta Club of Marathon, is a holiday season highlight. This free, family-friendly event features rows of beautifully decorated Christmas trees, cookies with Santa, and ample holiday photo opportunities.
All the trees are decorated and donated by local individuals, clubs, and businesses. You can enter a raffle to win one of the trees, or simply wander around and admire the display. It’s the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit.
7 Mile SantaCon Poker Run
- Website: floridakeysmarathon.com/7-mile-santa-con
- Date: December 6, 2025
This annual event encourages participants to dress in Santa suits, elf costumes, or other holiday-themed garb and take part in a festive poker run.
Participants collect cards at various poker stops to build a hand. The best poker hands win prizes, but there’s also a competition for the best dressed, so be sure to get into the holiday spirit with a great costume.
Festive Dining Experiences in Marathon
Photo Credit: zoff
Marathon’s culinary scene embraces the holiday season by offering special menus and festive atmospheres. Local restaurants craft unique holiday dishes that emphasize fresh, local seafood.
Dining with family or friends, Marathon’s restaurants offer the perfect setting for holiday party gatherings. Here are a couple of highlights:
Lazy Days South Holiday Menu
Lazy Days South is a must-visit. It offers a holiday menu of festive dishes, fresh seafood, and tropical cocktails, all served with scenic waterfront views.
It’s an ideal spot for families and friends to gather and enjoy a memorable holiday meal in a relaxed, festive environment.
Havana Jack’s Christmas Feast
Havana Jack’s elevates holiday dining with its festive menu and live music, perfect for those seeking a delicious meal in a vibrant atmosphere.
Typically open on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Havana Jack’s offers a warm and inviting space to celebrate with loved ones. Be sure to check their Christmas opening hours online closer to the holiday.
What to Pack for a Christmas Vacation in Marathon
Planning a tropical Christmas in Marathon? Here’s a handy list of essentials to bring for your holiday getaway:
- Lightweight clothing, such as shorts, t-shirts, and sundresses to stay cool in the warm weather.
- Multiple swimsuits for beach days, poolside lounging, and snorkeling adventures.
- Sunscreen and sunglasses to protect against the strong Florida sun
- Flip-flops or sandals for easy, breezy beach and casual wear.
- A light sweater or jacket for cooler evenings and breezy nights.
- Beach towel and beach bag to carry your essentials comfortably.
- Reusable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout your activities.
- A camera or smartphone to capture all your festive and scenic moments.
- Bug spray to keep pesky insects at bay during outdoor events.
- Festive outfit or accessories to join in on holiday parties and special events.
See You in Marathon this Holiday Season
Celebrating Christmas in Marathon is an unforgettable experience. From festive dining and family-friendly events to musical performances and unique attractions, Marathon has holiday fun for everyone.
Start planning your Christmas vacation with us now at one of our Marathon vacation rentals and get ready to make lasting memories in this charming Florida Keys destination.
