Annual Light Up Siesta Key festivities set for Nov. 30

Parade to begin at 5:30 p.m., with Santa’s arrival at Siesta Center set for approximately 6:15 p.m.

In 2016, Santa poses with a visitor eager to share her wish list with him. Photo contributed by Peter van Roekens

The 35th Annual Light Up Siesta Key and Village Holiday Parade will be held on Saturday, Nov. 30, from 5 to 9 p.m., the Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce has announced.

“Festive décor and holiday atmosphere will Light Up

Siesta Key,” a news release says. “A community Christmas tree will be at the Village Gazebo.”

The Village Holiday Parade will begin at the intersection of Avenida del Mare and Beach Road at 5:30 p.m., the release continues. The parade will travel north on Beach Road and then onto Ocean Boulevard into the Village, the release adds. “Many businesses and local groups will be participating in the parade and welcoming Santa to Siesta Village,” the release notes.

Santa will arrive at Siesta Center at approximately 6:15 p.m. to greet all children. The first 250 youngsters to see him will receive gift bags donated by Beach Bazaar, the release adds.

Image courtesy Siesta Key Chamber of Commerce

At Siesta Center, a variety of other activities will take place, including face painting, the release points out. Photos may be taken with Santa, free of charge.

Shops and restaurants will offer refreshments and special holiday bargains from 5 to 9 p.m., the release notes. Live music also will be featured at various venues, plus carolers and a martial arts demonstration, the release says.

Free public transportation will be provided courtesy of the Siesta Key Breeze trolley, which will travel from Turtle Beach to the Village (with multiple stops along the route, including Siesta Beach), “making it easier for all to participate in the festivities,” the release adds.

This event is sponsored by merchants, businesses, and friends of Siesta Key and is free and open to the public. For more information contact the Chamber office at 349-3800, email events@siestakeychamber.com or visit www.siestakeychamber.com.