Hola!  One of the best things about the Florida Keys is that it's such a unique and entertaining destination.  There really is no other place like it in the state or in the world! 

What makes this hot spot one-of-a-kind is their quirky, lively and outrageous events that take place throughout the year.  New Year's Eve celebrations are a perfect example of those festivities.    

Let's begin with the perfect warm weather that welcomes visitors looking for a little sunshine in December. Black tie celebrations are BIG NO-NOs in Key West. Only fun, casual and extraordinary relaxing events take place here.   

Key West's take on the "traditional ball drop in New York’s Times Square" is something you have to see once in your lifetime.  It all takes place on Duval Street, were thousands of people welcoming the New Year will be watching an enormous manmade conch shell, the symbol of the Florida Keys, come down from the skies to the roof of Sloppy Joe’s Bar.  Partiers saying goodbye to 2008 will experience special effects, pre-midnight antics by a rooftop host, confetti, lights and streamers!

A little further down on Duval Street, the party will be at  the Bourbon St. Pub/New Orleans House Complex.  This would definitely be one of my favorite stops!  Here a magnificient costumed female impersonator named Sushi will conduct the  the celebration sitting inside a super-sized red high heel poised above the lively crowd. 

Right before the clock strikes midnight. the ruby slipper carrying Sushi will descend from the complex’s second-story balcony.  Once Sushi is safely on land, she will pop the cork on a ceremonial bottle of champagne and  welcome 2009 in true passionate Key West's style.

Last, but definitely not least is Key West’s Historic Seaport.  The New Year’s Eve festivities will celebrate the island city’s colorful maritime past. Before midnight, a pirate wench  will begin a descent from the top of the mast of a stately tall ship — completing it as the clock strikes 12 a.m. Cannons will sound as the live music sets the perfect atmosphere to a rollicking start to 2009.

For additional information on all the New Year's Eve events,  visit the Keys web site at www.fla-keys.com.

This is the perfect place to Live Life Large for one night!       Ciao!