Manhattan meets Key West...that's the way the people of Delray Beach describe their community, packed with arts, delicious restaurants and family fun.  And if you love your holidays with a side of sunshine, this is the time to visit.

Delray Beach has an amazing 100 foot Christmas tree that anyone can appreciate.   It takes an entire month to put it together!  And get this, you can walk inside the tree and check out some amazing animatronics set up to thrill your little ones.  

There's also an ice skating rink nearby, along with a carousel ride.  No, the ice skating rink is not made of ice (remember, this is South Florida!), and yes, there is air conditioning set up in the house where you can visit Santa (you know that red suit can get awfully hot).  

Even nearby hotels get in on the fun, including the Delray Beach Marriott Spa, which on Friday nights brings on the snow and lets you decorate Christmas tree and gingerbread cookies.
Want to visit after the holidays?  Be sure to check out this review with details about all kinds of family fun.  
(special note to readers: the writer was invited to visit the area by the Palm Beach County Convention and Visitors Bureau.  Many of her expenses were covered but she was not paid for the post and her opinions are her own)