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Things to Do in Florida for January

More fun in the Sun from South Florida’s Sun Sentinel

Florida Event Calendar for January

Coming up this week:

Jan. 6: Epiphany. Tarpon Springs. Each year, the Greek community of Tarpon Springs celebrates its traditions surrounding the Epiphany with special ceremonies and festivities on Jan. 6. The event includes services at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, a house of worship decorated with icons and marble; a procession; a dove bearer; and the highlight of the event: the immersion of the cross (Epiphany Day is also called Cross Day) in the spring bayou. Young men from the community then dive in to retrieve the cross. It is believed that those who are successful in retrieving the cross receive special blessings during the coming year. The event also includes a festival with Greek music, dances and food. St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral is at 36 North Pinellas Avenue. For information, visit www.epiphanycity.org.

Through Jan. 6: Light Up UCF! Orlando Check out UCF’s fifth annual event offering 50 nights of music, lights and ice, where you can skate at an outdoor ice rink outside of the UCF arena, along with carnival rides and special holiday events. Prices vary. lightupucf.com.

Jan. 4: First Friday Art Walk. Melbourne. The normally bright streets of Melbourne’s First Friday Art Walk will be full of silhouettes and suggestion in one corner, at least. The Fifth Avenue Art Gallery challenges its mainstays with its latest members’ show, an exhibit dedicated to the use of shadows in painting, sculpture and photography. Patrons also can browse a collection of classics alongside these newer works at the members’ vintage art sale.Pictured: “Photography Shadows” by Judy Edwards. Opening with Art Walk reception 5:30-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 4, on view through Jan. 27. Fifth Avenue Art Gallery, 1470 Highland Ave., Melbourne. Free. 321-259-8261. fifthavenueartgallery.com

Jan. 5: First Saturday Jam, Barberville. On the first Saturday each month visit the Pioneer Settlement for entertainment and fun for the entire family. 9 a.m to 4 p.m. Includes informal music jams, free workshops, a chili cook-off, yard sale. Admission is free. 386-749-2959. www.pioneersettlement.org

Jan. 5-6: Dade’s Battle Re-enactment & Trade Fair. Bushnell. Often called a massacre, the battle that sparked the Second Seminole War definitively gave first blood to the Seminoles. This annual re-enactment takes history buffs back in time to the Indian ambush of U.S. Major Francis Langhorne Dade and his troops in 1835, a battle that only three of his 107 men survived. Florida may be a vacation destination for many now, but for a weekend, the Dade Battlefield Society provides a glimpse into the hard road that led us here with its Civil War-era encampment and demonstrations. From 9 a.m. Saturday-Sunday, Jan. 5-6 (with battles at 2 p.m.). Dade Battlefield Historic State Park, 7200 County Road 603, Bushnell $5 adults, free ages 5 and younger. 352-793-4781. dadebattlefield.com.

Jan. 6: Enchanted Forest Trail Run. Titusville. The Enchanted Forest Sanctuary will host their annual Enchanted Forest Trail Run on Sunday, January 6 beginning at 2 p.m. The course (5K, 10K and fun hike) will wind through the sanctuary’s beautiful grounds. The race will benefit the County trail projects. 444 Columbia Blvd., Titusville, FL 32780. 321-255-4466. http://www.visitspacecoast.com/Details/?id=19924&today=01/06/2013

Jan. 6. Superhero Run. Viera. The Superhero Run will be held at Space Coast Stadium on Saturday, January 12, 2013. This race, which will benefit the Guardian Ad Litem and Friends of Children of Brevard programs will start at 7:30am. Superhero Costumes are encouraged, but you do not need one to race. Race fee is $20 before January 11 and increases to $25. 2500 Stadium Parkway, Viera, FL 32940. 321-751-8890. http://www.visitspacecoast.com/Details/?id=19923&today=01/06/2013

Jan. 6: Suntrust Sunday Jazz Brunch, Fort Lauderdale. Live outdoor concert series bringing the area’s best local jazz artists to the city’s scenic Riverwalk the first Sunday of each month. Listen to the soulful sounds on four different stages. Everyone is welcome to attend, including well-behaved, leashed pets, and there is ample room to set up chairs, blankets and picnic baskets. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free admission. 954-828-5363. www.fortlauderdale.gov/events/jazzbrunch/jazzbrunch.htm

Through Jan. 31: Nights of Lights Festival and Celebration, St. Augustine. This inspiring display of more than two million tiny white lights adorning the palm trees and buildings throughout the city’s historic district is based on a custom by the town’s original Spanish colonists, who placed a white candle in their windows to brighten the nights during the Christmas holidays. Among special events and activities awaiting visitors: nighttime tours of ancient buildings and inns led by storytellers in period clothing, rollicking train and trolley tours through the narrow brick streets, art walks featuring more than 30 galleries serving free holiday refreshments on the First Friday in December and January, special Saturday night antique shopping events, a dazzling regatta, Florida ice skating, luminaries in the town plaza, holiday concerts, even a Christmas parade. 902-825-1004. www.NightsofLights.com

Jan. 4: First Friday Art Walk, St. Augustine. One of the city’s most popular cultural events, held the first Friday of each month. Enjoy new exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at 15 participating galleries, plus great food courtesy of the St. Augustine Independent Restaurant Assn. Tours begin at Rembrandtz American Craft Gallery. St. Augustine Sightseeing Trains and Old Town Trolleys offer complimentary shuttle service to most galleries. Shuttles run on a continuous loop every 30 minutes. 904-829-0065.www.artgalleriesofstaugustine.com

Jan. 4-5: Ragnar Relay Florida Keys Race. Florida Keys. The Florida Keys set the scene for the Ragnar Relay Florida Keys Race on Jan. 4-5. This 199-mile race takes relay teams of runners throughout the Florida Keys to the southernmost island in the continental U.S. The route begins in Miami and ends in Key West. For information, visit www.ragnarrelay.com/race/floridakeys.

This list is organized by region.

Central Florida (including Orlando, Kissimmee, Daytona Beach, Sanford, the Space Coast, Lakeland/Polk and Lake County)

Jan. 11. Friday Fest. Melbourne Held the second Friday of the month in Historic Downtown, it’s a family-oriented event that includes art craft and business vendors, lots of great food, beer and wine, a children’s activity. Highland Avenue, Melbourne FL 32922. Free. 321-724-1741. www.downtownmelbourne.com/content/friday-family-fest

Jan. 18-20: 23rd Annual Indialantic Art Festival. Indialantic. More than 100 of the nation’s finest artists are expected for the 23rd Annual Indialantic Art Festival. This two-day, beachside event to be held the third weekend in January is a blend of well-known favorites and the latest names in the contemporary art scene! Art lovers will have the opportunity to meet the creators of the art on display, commission a specific piece, ask questions about techniques, learn the sources of their inspirations, and purchase fine works of art. 201 North Miramar Avenue, Melbourne, FL 32935. http://www.visitspacecoast.com/Details/?id=19443&today=01/18/2013

Jan. 19: 2nd Annual Florida Key Lime Pie Festival. Cocoa. The Florida Key Lime Pie Company is presenting the 2nd Annual Florida Key Lime Pie Festival held at the Riverfront Park in Historic Cocoa Village. Top chefs, food vendors and restaurants will showcase dishes to the theme of “Meet the Locals.” There will be a Miss Florida Key Lime Pie contest, Florida Key Lime Pie Eating Contest, Key Lime Chili head’s Hot Sauce Competition, Best of Florida’s Bartenders Key Lime Pie Martini and Key Lime Pie Margarita Challenge plus entertainment and music. 430 Delannoy Avenue, Cocoa, FL 32922. $10 Adults $5 For Children 12 and under. Children 4 and under Free. www.floridakeylimepiefestival.com

Jan. 19: Winter Music Series. Clermont. The Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards presents its Winter Music Series on Jan. 19. The event, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., presents live music on an outdoor stage and complimentary winery tours and tasting. Food and beverages are available for purchase. Admission is free. The Lakeridge Winery is at 19239 U.S. 27 North. For details, visit www.lakeridgewinery.com.

Jan. 19: Cruisin’ Downtown DeLand Classic Car Show. DeLand. Every 3rd Saturday of the Month (Except November). East Indiana Avenue in Downtown DeLand. Classic cars & rods line East Indiana Avenue in Downtown DeLand. Live DJ, giveaways, shopping & dining. 4-8 p.m. Free. 386-624-5027. www.MainStreetDeLand.org

Jan. 18: Jazz Friday at Fossaner Museum of Art. Melbourne. Every third Friday of the month the Fossaner Museum of Art hosts Jazz Friday in their galleries. Expect great music from local favorites. Admission is free for members of the Museum and $10 for non-members. 1463 Highland Avenue, Melbourne FL 32901. 321-433-4470. www.visitspacecoast.com

Jan. 21-28: Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Celebrates 50th Anniversary. Merritt Island. A premiere recreation are for Space Coast Visitors and residents, the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge has protected wildlife habitat while providing safety and security for space missions at Kennedy Space Center. Events planned for the 50th Anniversary include a lecture series on history of the refuge and Merritt Island area, historical accounts from residents of pre-refuge settlements, and a festival including exhibitors, wildlife tours, historical demonstrations, hayrides, art show, and more. 321-861-2352. http://www.visitspacecoast.com/Details/?id=19738&today=01/25/2013

Jan. 26: Art Walk on Flagler, New Smyrna Beach. Held on the fourth Saturday each month, Flagler Avenue livens up with entertainment and wine tastings at participating venues. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (wine walk 1-7 p.m.). Free ($25 for wine walk or $20 with previous month’s glass). Flagler Avenue, 100 Flagler Ave., New Smyrna Beach, FL, 32169. 386-428-1770. www.flaglergallerygroup.com

Jan. 25: Fourth Fridays Art Walk, Sanford. Central Florida’s only monthly juried art show. With exhibits and music at participating venues. 6-9 p.m. Downtown Sanford, First Street, Sanford, FL, 32771. Free. 407-323-2774. www.sanfordinfo.com

Jan. 25: 4th Fridays in Artisan Alley & DeLand Art Walk. DeLand. Gather with friends every fourth Friday of the month at Artisan Alley and also enjoy the DeLand Art Walk. DeLand Art Walk is a free, self-guided tour of the Historic Downtown area. Enjoy music, food, drinks, arts, crafts and more. Art galleries, museums, cultural venues, restaurants and boutiques host artists within their businesses on the fourth Friday of every month, rain or shine. Look for an official Art Walk banner in the front of each stop to identify the participating venues. Choose your own route, or begin from Museum of Florida Art. Downtown, 100 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand FL 32720. 6-9 p.m. 386-738-0649. delandartwalk.com/

Jan. 25-30: Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival. Titusville. Winter time is birding season on Florida’s Space Coast and event coordinators have planned this year’s event to be the biggest ever with cultural/historical and photography field trips, lectures by experts in the fields of birding and wildlife, hands on activities, and more. 2013, will have new field trips and classroom presentations geared toward local subjects. Also on the docket is a barbecue on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013. Cost is $7.50-$12. 1311 North U. S. Highway 1, Titusville, FL 32796. 800-460-2664. www.spacecoastbirdingandwildlifefestival.org

Tampa Bay-Sarasota (including Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Sarasota, Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, Tarpon Springs and Homosassa)

Jan. 13: Elvis Ultimate Birthday Bash. Clearwater. Fans of the King of Rock may wish to check out the Elvis Ultimate Birthday Bash at the Ruth Eckerd Hall at 1 p.m. on Jan. 13. Scot Bruce portrays the young Elvis, Mike Albert is the Las Vegas Elvis, and the Big “E” Band offers a rockin’ birthday party in celebration of America’s first Rock and Roll icon. Tickets range from $18 to $35 (limited number of VIP seats are $35 each). The Ruth Eckerd Hall is at 1111 McMullen Booth Road. For details, visit www.rutheckerdhall.com.

Jan. 15: ‘How We Became An Art Colony’. Sarasota. A program that is part of the Historical Society of Sarasota County’s Conversations at the Crocker Series is presented on Jan. 15. Kay Kipling of Sarasota Magazine is the moderator of the interactive panel discussion program that starts at 7 p.m. Admission is $10 for non-members of the Historical Society. Refreshments will be served. Crocker Memorial Church is at 1260 12th Street. Visit www.hsosc.com.

Southwest Florida (including Naples, Fort Myers, Venice, Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda)

Jan. 11-13: Florida’s Creative Coast Weekend, Pine Island. On the second weekend each month November-April, Pine Island businesses offer themed artistic events. Galleries and shops are open extended hours on Friday, many offering special openings. Take a cooking class, or listen to live music. Other special events and workshops are planned at individual shops on Saturday and Sunday. 239-283-4842. www.floridascreativecoast.com

Jan. 17: Downtown Gallery Walk, Punta Gorda. Held monthly on the third Thursday, 5-8 p.m. Visit any of the downtown merchants, restaurants and galleries for your game card. As always, there will be live entertainment, food and drink samplings, art, beauty and health demonstrations, a free trolley, and an evening of fun. Free; free parking. 941-505-1915. www.puntagordashopping.com

Jan. 18: Sunshine Blues Festival. Fort Myers. The Sunshine Blues Festival starts at noon on Jan. 18 and presents such bands as the Tedeshi Trucks Band, Walter Trout, Sonny Landreth, Joe Louis Walker, and the Jaimoe’s Jassz Band on two stages. World of Beer will be serving a selection of local and imported brews and barbecue. Tickets are $49.50. The event is at Centennial Park, 2000 West First Street. For details, visit www.sunshinebluesfestival.com.

South Florida and the Keys (including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Key Largo, Key West and the Treasure Coast)

Jan. 10-13: 31st Annual Key West Literary Seminar. Key West. The Last Key sets the scene for the 31st Annual Key West Literary Seminar on Jan. 10-13 and 17-20. This year’s seminar includes two independent sessions exploring the theme “Writers on Writers.” Sessions spotlight the life and work of literary icons like Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Emily Dickinson, John Cheever and Ernest Hemingway under the guidance of the contemporary writers and scholars who know them well. Writing workshops are scheduled Jan. 13-17. For information on the event, visit www.kwls.org or call 888-293-9291. For details on travel to Key West and the Florida Keys including lodging, dining, attractions, and happenings, visit www.fla-keys.com.

Jan. 11-19: Key Largo and Islamorada Food & Wine Festival. Upper Florida Keys. The festival offers a multi-sensory experience as Key Largo and Islamorada’s culinary experts step up to the “plate” on Jan. 11-19. The event features nearly 30 food, wine and spirits events including cooking demonstrations, themed wine dinners, food and wine pairing classes, progressive wine dinners, art and wine shows and the festival finale, “A Grand Tasting.” For details, call 305-394-3736.

Jan. 18: Third Thursday Art Walk. Islamorada The Morada Way Third Thursday Art Walk presents local fine arts, music and culinary specialties on Dec. 20. The galleries of Morada Way are between Mile Markers 81 and 82. Event hours are from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. For details, visit www.fla-keys.com.

Jan. 19: Florida Keys Seafood Festival. Key West. Seafood lovers, rejoice! The Last Key sets the scene for the eighth Annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Jan. 19. On the menu for this family-friendly fest, are fried fish, grilled spiny lobster, stone crab claws (yum!), Pick n’ Peel Key West Pink Shrimp, lobster bisque, conch chowder, conch fritters, conch salad and other delights from the bounty of the sea. Beverages and desserts will also be available for purchase. The event is at Bayview Park (corner of Truman Avenue & Jose Marti Drive). Also on the festival’s agenda are children’s activities, marine-related crafts and live music. Admission to the festival is free. Parking is $5 per car at Horace O’Bryant Middle School parking lot, 1105 Leon Street, adjacent to Bayview Park. For information, visit www.keywest.com.

Jan. 19-20: Big Pine Key Nautical Market. Big Pine & the Lower Keys. Nautical-themed crafts and merchandise will be displayed and sold during the ninth annual Big Pine Key Nautical Market on Jan. 19-20. Other activities include live music, food and beverages. The event takes place on the grounds of the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce, Mile Marker 31 ocean-side. Visit www.fla-keys.com.

Northeast Florida (including Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Flagler County and Amelia Island)

Jan. 12: 125th Anniversary of Hotel Ponce de Leon. St. Augustine. The 125th Anniversary of Hotel Ponce de Leon affords visitors the opportunity to walk the same halls as Henry Flagler, Andrew Carnegie and Thomas Edison on Jan. 12. Trumpeters will herald the arrival of guests and an orchestra will play in the Logia to celebrate the 125th anniversary of Henry Flagler’s hotel. The Ponce de Leon Hall is at 74 King Street. Admission is free. Tour hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For information, visit www.floridashistoriccoast.comM.

Jan. 12: Cinderella. Jacksonville The State Ballet Theatre of Russia performs Cinderella at the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts Moran Theater at 8 p.m. on Jan. 12. The production boasts 65 dancers. The Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts is at 300 Water Street in downtown Jacksonville. Tickets are $52 and $62 downstairs. For information, visit www.artistseriesjax.org.

Jan. 12: Artrageous Artwalk, Fernandina Beach. Held monthly on second Saturday each month, to open the doors of some of Amelia Island’s incredible galleries, featuring photography, pottery, copper, stained glass, watercolor, acrylics and more. Participants can peruse more than a dozen galleries in downtown Fernandina Beach and at the Plantation Artists’ Guild and Gallery located at Amelia Island Plantation. 5:30-8:30 p.m. 800-226-3542. http://www.ameliaisland.com/calendar.aspx

More reasons Life is Good in Florida!

Enjoy!

Bill Cowie

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Florida Festivals & Events in December 2012

Some of the many, many reasons our “Sunshine State” is so popular in the Holidays!

Florida Festivals & Events in December

Coming up this week:

Dec. 1: Snowfest. Naples. More than 70 tons of snow is the star of this annual community event in southwest Florida. There will be snow mountains to climb, tobaggan and snow skiing hills as well as ice skating rink, full-scale carnival, arts and crafts, petting zoo, pony rides and more. More than 15,000 came to Snowfest in 2011. Snow is cold, so remember to bring gloves or mittens, even if it’s 80 degrees out. Cost is $2 per person. 3 and under are free. The festival is at Golden Gate Community Park. 3300 Santa Barbara Blvd. Naples, Fl 34116. 239.252.4000. 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Through Dec. 2: 8th Annual Festival of Trees, Daytona Beach. More than 20 Christmas trees have been turned into works of art for the Museum of Arts and Sciences’ 8th Annual Festival of Trees. The public can view the trees and bid on their favorites Friday, Nov. 16 through Dec. 2 during regular museum hours. Museum admission: $11-$13. 386-255-0285. daytonabeach.com

Through Dec. 23. The Cannonball Christmas Express. Tavares. On select dates, the Tavares, Eustis & Gulf Railroad operates the one-hour holiday special train ride that departs from Wooton Park station in Tavares, Florida for a magical trip to the North Pole. Ride in vintage coaches pulled by a 1907 steam locomotive as you travel to your destination singing Christmas songs and enjoying a cup of hot chocolate and cookies. Santa will board the train at the North Pole to visit with kids of all ages and present each child with a gift. Santa’s elves will also make an appearance. Adults $25. Children $20 (ages 3 to 12). 2 and under free. 352-742-7200. www.orangeblossomcannonball.com.

Through Dec. 30: Holidays Around the World, Lake Buena Vista. This Epcot tradition features storytellers, a daily character tree-lighting ceremony and a stunning display of snow-white lights. The moving Candlelight Processional, a favorite of all ages, includes celebrity guest narrators, accompanied by a massed choir and orchestra for a retelling of the Christmas story. 407-824-4321. http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/parks/epcot/special-events/

Through Dec. 31: Space Coast Light Fest. Melbourne. Established by the Eau Gallie Rotary Club the Space Coast Lightfest is a holiday themed drive-through event held at Wickham Park. It is a family oriented celebration featuring shimmering lights and dazzling animated displays drawing over 15,000 vehicles annually. 2500 Parkway Drive, Melbourne FL 32935. 321-433-4470. www.spacecoastlightfest.com

Through Dec. 31: Now Snowing Nightly, Celebration. Celebration Town Center hosts nightly snow falls at 6, 7, 8 and 9 p.m., along with photos with Santa, strolling holiday carolers, an ice rink, horse-drawn carriages and special events such as the Radio Disney concert Dec. 8. Free admission, ice skating is $10 for 30-minute skate increments with skate rental included, with resident skate passes or multiple-day skate passes available. 407-566-4007. celebrationtowncenter.com

Through Jan. 1: ICE! at Gaylord Palms Resort, Orlando. The annual way-below-freezing event at Gaylord Palms is utilizing 1,000 more ice blocks — each one a little larger than a concrete block — than usual this year to create scenes from “Merry Madagascar,” a holiday TV special based on characters from the “Madagascar” films. The walk-through frozen attraction still features dueling ice slides. This year, there’s no SNOW exhibit running alongside ICE! But other holiday events return to Gaylord, including live stage shows and the Gingerbread Decorating With Gingy station. ICE! opens at 10 a.m. daily. Closing times vary, but it’s always open until at least 8:30 p.m.. Tickets range between $13.99 and $29.99. Gaylord Palms, 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee. 407-586-2000 ChristmasAtGaylordPalms.com

Through Jan. 2: Leu’s Holiday House, Orlando. The Leu House Museum’s 11-room estate will be adorned with Christmas trees, holiday dioramas and festive decorations throughout the home. 30-minute tours. 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Adults $7. Children 5-17 $2. 4 and under free. 407-246-2620. www.leugardens.org

Nov. 30: Orlando Holiday Brew Fest. Orlando. Experience the Orlando Holiday Brew Fest at Heritage Square Park, in front of the Orange County Regional History Center in downtown Orlando. The event will feature more than 100 beers, unlimited beer tastings, food and live enterntainment. Pets and strollers aren’t permitted. The event is rain or shine. 6-10 p.m. $25 in advance and $35 at the gate. Heritage Square Park, 65 E. Central Blvd., Orlando, FL, 32801. 407-383-2331. www.floridabeerfestivals.com/

Nov. 30: Holiday Lights Orlando. Orlando. With tree lighting and live music. 4-10 p.m. Free. Lake Eola Amphitheater, 101 N. Rosalind Ave., Orlando, FL, 32801. 407-246-2121. www.cityoforlando.net/holiday

Nov. 30: Christmas in the Square. Sanford. The City of Sanford celebration will include live entertainment, a visit with Santa, tree lighting ceremony, face painting and balloon artists. 6 p.m. Free. Magnolia Square, 200 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford, FL, 32771. 407-688-5120.

Nov. 30-Dec. 1: Sanford Historic Trust Tour of Homes, Sanford. Now in its 24th year, the holiday home tour has become a tradition in Sanford. The Candlelight Tour is a walking tour where guests stroll through historic homes, enjoy live music and sample appetizers from local restaurants. Nov. 30 6-9:30 p.m. Tickets: $25 in advance, $30 day of. Tour begins at 16th Street and Elm Ave. /Parking is at 18th Street and Elm Ave. The Day Tour of homes is a walking/driving tour including gardens, galleries,businesses and churches. Light refreshments are provided. Dec. 1 noon- 5 p.m. Tour begins at UCF Public History Center (301 West 7th Street). Tickets are $15. 407-324-6618. sanfordhistorictrust.org

Nov. 30-Dec. 2: Norwood’s Holiday Food and Wine Festival. New Smyrna Beach. From 7-9:30 p.m. on Friday, Nov 30, the New Winery Evening. $60 Advance. $70 Day of the event. From 1-4:30 p.m. on Saturday, Dec. 1.: Our Grand Tasting — Grab your commemorative wine glass & enjoy over 400 wines from around the world. Plus great food and deserts and Jazz entertainment. $55 Advance. $65 Day of the event. From 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sunday, Dec. 2: Our New Jazz Brunch — Enjoy all you can eat brunch, plus all you can drink Bloody Mary Bar, Mimosa’s and Red or White Sangria, plus fantastic Jazz from Thomas Jones and Company. Sponsored by SeaGlass Wines, this promises to be another wine festival favorite! $25 Advance. $30 Day of the event. nsbfla.com

Nov. 30-Dec. 2: Festivals of Speed. Orlando. A luxury car event based at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes with VIP dinners on Friday and Saturday and a display on Sunday from 10 a.m.-4 p.m. in which attendees enjoy a gathering of the worlds finest automobiles, motorcycles & watercraft. Vehicles are placed for display on the perfectly manicured grounds of this magnificent property. Attendees will enjoy on site cafes serving the finest culinary offerings, VIP Cafes, smooth jazz in the gardens, wine tastings, cigar smokes, luxury lifestyle displays, Fashion shows and more. Ritz-Carlton Orlando, Grande Lakes. 4012 Central Florida Parkway, Orlando, FL, 32837. 305-814-2367. www.festivalsofspeed.com

Dec. 1: Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade. Winter Park. Free parade through downtown Winter Park along Park Avenue from 9-10 a.m. 407-644-8281.

Dec. 1: Holiday Tree Lighting. Oviedo. Experience the Holiday Tree Lighting at the Lawton House in Oviedo. There will be free refreshments, local music performers, and a visit from Santa. Sponsored by the Oviedo Historical Society. 5:30-8 p.m. Free. Lawton House, 200 W. Broadway St., Oviedo, FL, 32765. 407-971-5612. www.oviedohs.com/

Dec. 1: Orlando Pottery Festival. Orlando. With live music and vendors. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Free. At The Loch Haven Neighborhood Center, 610 N. Lake Formosa Drive, Orlando, FL, 32803. 407-898-9288. http://www.facebook.com/events/358072180933234/

Dec. 1: 22nd Annual Lighted Boat Tour. Mount Dora. This annual parade is sure be enjoyed by all ages as colorful lighted boats glide over Lake Dora. If you are interested in participating in the parade, contact The Mount Dora Boating Center at 352-383-3150. Come join in the fun and Merry Christmas from the Lions Club of Mount Dora, The Rusty Anchor and The Mount Dora Boating Center and Marina. 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. Free. Downtown Mount Dora. 352-383-3150. ci.mount-dora.fl.us/

Dec. 1: 53rd Annual Christmas Parade. Mount Dora. See a beautiful traditional holiday parade. 1-3 p.m. in downtown Mount Dora. Free. 352-735-9629. www.cityofmountdora.com

Dec. 1: First Saturday Jam, Barberville. On the first Saturday each month visit the Pioneer Settlement for entertainment and fun for the entire family. 9 a.m to 4 p.m. Includes informal music jams, free workshops, a chili cook-off, yard sale. Admission is free. 386-749-2959. www.pioneersettlement.org

Dec. 1: New Smyrna Beach Christmas parade. New Smyrna Beach. The Christmas Parade Land gets under way at 4 p.m. with floats and more floats, traditional marching bands, dance teams and, of course, Santa! Later that afternoon, the Christmas Parade Sea along the Intracoastal Waterway features dazzling boats decked in holiday lights, each vying for a prize. This year’s theme is “Tropical Christmas”. The boat parade will travel the river from Edgewater to the North Causeway Bridge. There are many great viewing sites, a good one is in Riverside Park at the end of Canal Street. nsbfla.com

Dec. 1-2: Port Orange Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting. Port Orange. A community choir leads the crowd in traditional carols and City Center twinkles with festive lights. The next day everyone is invited to welcome Santa to Port Orange along Dunlawton Ave. from Nova Rd. to Oak St. 386-506-5936. daytonabeach.com

Dec. 1-8: Pop Warner Super Bowl, Orlando. Pop Warner Little Scholars, Inc. brings its Pop Warner Super Bowl and National Cheer and Dance Championships to Walt Disney World Resort. More than 60 teams from across the country compete in four age groups from 8 to 14 on the fields of the 220-acre Disney’s ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Spectator admission is required for all events. Length-of-Event passes (LOE) allow for admission to all days of the event. Daily admission is $16 for 10 and older, $11 ages 3-9. LOE admission is $48 for 10 and older and $33 ages 3-9. 2 and under are free. 407-824-4321. www.popwarner.com

Dec. 1-22: Light Up Midtown. Daytona Beach. A celebration of holiday-themed activities in Daytona Beach’s Midtown community, that will be taking place every Saturday during the month of December to help the area celebrate Christmas. The festivities are as follows: Dec. 1 — Health Fair — Light Up Midtown Health Fair at Daisy Stocking Park.
Dec. 8 — Parade — Light Up Midtown Christmas Parade with area bands, churches, community organizations with floats, marching units and cars.
Dec. 15 — Step Show — Christmas Step-off Step Show at Daisy Stocking Park. Local colleges and university Greek sororities and fraternities as well as local high school and community talent will participate in this event.
Dec. 22 — “Christmas in Songs” — Light Up Midtown will conclude with a community day titled “Christmas in Songs” and will include a gospel extravaganza! Patrons are asked to bring toys to be passed out to area children of the Daytona Beach community on that day. The event will host local choirs and other talent geared toward the holiday spirit. daytonabeach.com

Dec. 1-Dec. 31: Macy’s Holiday Parade at Universal Studios, Orlando. The world’s most famous parade has become a holiday experience for park guests at Universal Studios, featuring some of the most popular balloons and floats from the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. The excitement and pageantry of the parade, complete with a festive tree lighting ceremony by Santa Claus himself, is exhibited each day of the holiday season through the New Year. Included in regular park admission. 407-363-8000. www.universalorlando.com

Dec. 1-Dec. 31: Grinchmas at Universal’s Islands of Adventure, Orlando. This annual holiday celebration is based on the beloved Dr. Seuss tale and Universal Pictures’ and Imagine Entertainment’s Academy Award-winning blockbuster hit, “Dr. Seuss’ How the Grinch Stole Christmas.” Seuss Landing at Islands of Adventure is transformed into a bah-humbug haven by the Grinch. The entire Seussian-themed island is colorfully decorated for the season and guests are invited to meet the Grinch in his lair, which is outfitted with authentic movie props and gadgets. Grinch fans enjoy a live, musical stage show that re-tells the world-famous story of the grumpy Grinch. Included in regular park admission. 407-363-8000. www.universalorlando.com

Through Dec. 1: Festival of Trees. Brooksville. Display of Christmas trees decorated and judged. Holiday crafts foods and wares on sale. Pictures with Santa Entertainment and music. Enjoy all the trees and the rest of weekend visiting Florida s Nature Coast. At St. Anthony’s Church. Free. 352-796-6026. www.hernandocounty.org/

Dec. 1: Santa Fest 2012, Tampa. The parade will begin at Morgan Street and Madison Street travel west on Madison Street to Ashley Drive, turn north and end at Ashley Drive and Cass Street Event, it will last from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. www.friendsoftamparec.org/45112.html

Through Dec. 31: Festival of Lights at Fishermen’s Village, Punta Gorda. Lighting of the Village 5:30-9 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 17. Official kick off of the Holiday shopping season! Over one million lights and themed decorations will be lit in sequence with ribbon cutting with city officials at 5:30 p.m., followed by parade by Lee County Pipes & Drums. Other festivities include Luis the Balloon Man, Airbrush Art for Face & Body, Dickens Carolers from Charlotte Chorale, visits with Santa (bring your camera), String of Pearls Barbershop Harmony, complimentary refreshments by village merchants, Horse Drawn Carriage Rides by Riding Star Ranch (nominal fee) and live music with the Boogiemen Band 5-9 pm, Center Court. Admiss: Bring a canned good to be donated to the Good Samaritans Food Pantry. 941-639-8721. www.fishville.com

Nov. 30-Dec. 2: Sarasota Craft Show, Sarasota. Features highly regarded artists from across the nation, plus entertainment and demonstrations by artists. At Sarasota Bradenton International Convention Center. Admission $9 one day, or $12 come-and-go weekend pass; seniors $8; students $5; children under 10 free. 800-355-9161, 941-355-9161. www.sarasotacraftshow.com/

Dec. 1-Dec. 31: Holiday Nights at Edison and Ford Winter Estates, Fort Myers. This annual event showcases the lights and seasonal decorations that fill 20 acres of gardens, the recently restored Edison buildings, and the historic homes on both Estates. This year includes fabulous new lighting systems, Riverside Lights Cafe open nightly offering beverages and light foods for purchase overlooking the beautifully riverside property, beer and wine on the terrace of the Ford Cottage. During Holidays at the Estates the homes will be open nightly from 5:30 to 9 p.m. $15 for adults 13 and over. $1 for kids 6-12. 5 and under free. 239-334-7419. http://www.edisonfordwinterestates.org

Dec. 1: Fort Myers Beach Boat Parade, Fort Myers Beach. Boats decked out in festive holiday array depart from Pink Shell Beach Resort at 6:10 p.m. The 24th annual lighted floating parade proceeds beneath the high bridge and through the canals of Siesta Bay in a purely Fort Myers Beach tradition. Enter to win a trophy for the best decoration in one of three categories: powerboat under 26 feet, powerboat over 26 feet, and sailboat. Or watch from Snug Harbor, Matanzas Inn, Bonita Bill’s, the Siesta Bay canals, or Pink Shell Marina. 239-454-7500. www.fortmyersbeachchamber.org

Dec. 2: Christmas Boat Parade, Venice. Parade of decorated boats, from Albee Road to South Bridge. Always held on the first Saturday of December; rain date the next day. 941-809-8100, 207-1201. http://www.venicechristmasboatparade.com/

Through Dec. 1: 11th annual Miami Short Film Festival, Coconut Grove. MSFF’s goal year after year is to motivate directors, screenwriters, actors and producers to make their films and share them with fellow film makers and industry professionals. The ultimate goal is to bring exposure to independent up-and-coming filmmakers. As a result, the festival has showcased over 700 high-quality films from around the world representing more than 26 countries. 786.510.3738. www.miamishortfilmfestival.com

Through Dec. 2: Fort Taylor Pyrate Invasion. Key West. At Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park, experience the golden age of piracy through living history demonstrations, pirate encampments and live battles. Learn about life at sea from 17th century buccaneers and 19th century wreckers. Live music and activities for children. Something fun for the whole family. 305-292-6713. www.forttaylorpyrates.com or http://www.floridastateparks.org/forttaylor

Through Dec. 31: Key West ‘Bight’ Before Christmans, Islamorada. Live holiday music, games for the kids, free cookies and eggnog, holiday cheer and a chance for photos with Santa highlight this event. Created as a gift to the community, the gala is produced by the Key West Bight Preservation Association and tenants of the Key West Bight. 305-304-2633. www.fla-keys.com/calendarofevents

Nov. 29-Dec. 2: Key West Film Festival. Key West. Four-day film fest features screenings and special events hosted at landmark venues throughout Key West, including the Tropic Cinema and San Carlos Institute. More than 30 films from multiple genres and categories. Free screening of Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid. 941-527-9385. keywestfilmfestival.com

Nov. 30-Dec. 2: West Palm Beach Antiques Festival, West Palm Beach. Known as one of Florida’s biggest and best antique shows, this one has been running at the same location for more than 19 years. It attracts dealers from all over the country and sells a vast array of antiques, collectibles and decorative accessories. At American Expo Center. 941-697-7475. www.festivalofantiques.com

Nov. 30-Dec. 2: Fort Taylor Pyrate Invasion. Key West. Experience three days of piracy as Fort Zachary Taylor Historic State Park transforms into a British stronghold defending her shores against an invasion of pirates. Step back in time to encounter piracy from 1675 through 1825 with pirate encampments, living history demonstrations, live battles, activities for the kids, and more, from 10 am. to 5 p.m. daily. Visit website for details and activities schedule. 305-797-1659. www.forttaylorpyrates.com

Nov. 30-Dec. 2: Art! Key West! Key West. A three day, city-wide, art festival focused in downtown Key West. It is a celebration of the many artists, galleries, boutiques, restaurants, and art-focused emporiums. Performance art, sculpture, interactive art, and musical performances are scheduled into the lively and coordinated art walk. artskeywest.com

Nov. 30-Dec. 2: Christmas in the Keys. Duck Key. Hawks Cay Resort hosts this holiday event with food, beverages, vendors, music and entertainment for the whole family. Santa pictures available and check out the lighted boat parade. Friday 5-10 p.m.; Saturday 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m.-4 p.m. $5 admission. christmasinthekeys.com

Dec. 2: Suntrust Sunday Jazz Brunch, Fort Lauderdale. Live outdoor concert series bringing the area’s best local jazz artists to the city’s scenic Riverwalk the first Sunday of each month. Listen to the soulful sounds on four different stages. Everyone is welcome to attend, including well-behaved, leashed pets, and there is ample room to set up chairs, blankets and picnic baskets. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free admission. 954-828-5363. www.fortlauderdale.gov/events/jazzbrunch/jazzbrunch.htm

Dec. 2: Christmas Tree Lighting at Whitehall, Palm Beach. During the holiday season the first floor of Whitehall, the beautiful residence that is the Henry Morrison Flagler Museum, is decorated in traditional Gilded Age magnificence. The 16-foot Grand Hall Christmas tree is the center of Whitehall’s holiday celebrations. Festivities include holiday music played on its original 1,249-pipe organ, choir performances and holiday refreshments. The event culminates with Henry Flagler’s youngest descendants lighting the Grand Hall Christmas tree. Free with museum admission. 3-5 p.m. 561-655-2833. http://www.flaglermuseum.us/programs/christmas-at-whitehall

Through Dec. 30: Festival of Lights. White Springs. At Stephen Foster Folk Culture Center State Park, the state park holiday celebration features more than four million lights throughout the park, open each evening until 9 p.m., except Christmas Night, Dec. 25. Named a Top 20 Event in the southeastern United States, visitors can enjoy award-winning holiday sights and sounds throughout the park. Unique holiday light displays include majestic oak trees decorated with thousands of lights, an antebellum Museum dressed in full holiday splendor, a gingerbread village, a candy cane forest, Santa’s runway and much more. The park’s centerpiece is the 200 foot tall Carillon Tower, which illuminates the night sky as holiday music rings from its bells. Cousin Thelma Boltin’s Gift Shop will be open everyday from noon until 9 p.m. Complimentary hot cocoa and popcorn are served nightly as the Craft Square comes alive with craft demonstrations, a bonfire, marshmallow roasting and holiday singing for everyone. Visitors can experience a “flurry” of fun in our winter wonderland which includes holiday music at the park nightly from 6:30 p.m. until 8:30 p.m. Weather reports predict a chance of snow flurries every evening on the hour and giant snow families have been spotted in the area. You may even get to meet Santa. Visitors can also experience the festival via a one mile horse-drawn wagon or take a private carriage ride to experience the lights on display. Entrance fee: $2 per person. Children under 3 are free. 386-397-4478. http://www.floridastateparks.org/stephenfoster

Dec. 1: Sugar Cane Grinding, Newberry. This is the annual Cane Grinding and commemoration of Miss Myrtle Dudley’s birthday, at Dudley Farm Historic State Park. Continues the farm family tradition of grinding sugar cane and boiling it into cane syrup, making this a unique old-time community gathering. Visitors to this state park facility can tour the farm, see other activities and craft demonstrations, or take a wagon ride. Syrup and farm products are sold on this day. Included in regular park admission: $8 per vehicle. 352-472-1142. www.floridastateparks.org/dudleyfarm/Events.cfm

Dec. 1: 26th Annual Winter Festival, Tallahassee. This is the capital city’s Winter Festival, a celebration of lights, music and the arts. Includes arts and crafts, entertainment, lighting ceremony, Jingle Bell Run, and nighttime Holiday Parade. 850-891-3866. www.talgov.com/parks/parks-winter.aspx

Dec. 1-2: Annual Market Days, Tallahassee. One of the largest and finest arts and crafts shows in the Southeast, featuring handmade creations of some 300 artists and craftsmen. Works include fine arts, ceramics, country furniture, stained glass, woodwork, glasswork, dolls, clocks, pottery, jewelry, sculpture, metalwork, clothing, photography and calligraphy. The event also dishes up a wide selection of mouth-watering foods and refreshments. At North Florida Fairgrounds. Adults $6, Children 6-12 $4. 850-575-8684. www.marketdays.org

This list is organized by region.

Central Florida

(including Orlando, Kissimmee, Daytona Beach, Sanford, the Space Coast, Lakeland/Polk and Lake County)

Dec. 1: Ye Olde Hometown Christmas Parade. Winter Park. Free parade through downtown Winter Park along Park Avenue from 9-10 a.m. 407-644-8281.

Dec. 1: 53rd Annual Christmas Parade. Mount Dora. See a beautiful traditional holiday parade. 1-3 p.m. in downtown Mount Dora. Free. 352-735-9629. www.cityofmountdora.com

Dec. 6: Christmas in the Park. Winter Park. The Morse Museum helps launch the holiday season in Winter Park when it lights up Tiffany windows in Central Park and presents the Bach Festival Choir, Youth Choir, and Brass Ensemble in concert. This December is the 34th annual celebration of Christmas in the Park. This free event is at Central Park from 6:15-8 p.m. The event will be recorded by WMFE. www.bachfestivalflorida.org

Dec. 7: Light Up Flagler. New Smyrna Beach. From 5:30-7:30 p.m. Lighting up festivity of Flagler Avenue and Holiday Open House. Street closures. nsbfla.com

Dec. 8: Winter Park Boat Parade & Water Ski Show. Winter Park. Watch the Winter Park Boat Parade & Water Ski Show at the Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens. Free. 3:30-9 p.m. (ski show at 3:30 p.m., boat parade festivities from 5 p.m.). Albin Polasek Museum & Sculpture Gardens. 633 Osceola Ave., Winter Park, FL, 32789. 407-647-6294. www.cityofwinterpark.org

Dec. 8: Home for the Holidays Nighttime Parade. Ormond Beach. Parade starts at 6:30 p.m. at Division Ave. and US 1, goes north to Granada Blvd., turns east on Granada Blvd. to Beach Street, turns south on Beach Street ending in front of City Hall at the review area. 386-676-3241. daytonabeach.com

Dec. 9: 2012 Holiday Tour of Homes, Ormond Beach. Get an up close and personal look at some of the homes and structures of the pioneers of Ormond Beach, originally called New Britain. Get an up close and personal look at some of the homes and structures of the pioneers of Ormond Beach, originally called New Britain. This delightful tour will introduce you to the area’s history and charm. Continuous tours begin at 1 p.m. and end at 5:30 p.m. Tickets $25. 386-677-7005. www.ormondhistory.org

Dec. 14. Friday Fest. Melbourne Held the second Friday of the month in Historic Downtown, it’s a family-oriented event that includes art craft and business vendors, lots of great food, beer and wine, a children’s activity. Highland Avenue, Melbourne FL 32922. Free. 321-724-1741. http://www.space-coast.com/Calendar

Dec. 15: Winter Carnival. Harmony. This fifth annual event features 15 tons of snow for some ample snow slides, crafts, ice cream eating competition, gingerbread house competition, ice frozen T-shirt competition, candy cane hunt, food and more. There’s breakfast with Santa at 9 a.m., and the carnival runs from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Free. eventsatharmony.com

Dec. 15: Snow Fest. Maitland. RDV Sportsplex Ice Den is throwing their 9th annual Snow Fest from 2-6 p.m. with ice skating, bounce houses, live DJs, face painting, more than 20 tons of snow for a play area and kid’s snow slide and more. Cost is $15 for children ages 3-17 and $9 for adults. 407-916-2550. rdvsportsplex.com

Dec. 15: Christmas in the Park with Snow. Mount Dora. Snow, Sledding, Santa, Food, Games & Fun! At Donnelly Park from 4-9 p.m. 352-735-7183. www.mountdorachristmas.com

Dec. 15: Cruisin’ Downtown DeLand Classic Car Show. DeLand. Every 3rd Saturday of the Month (Except November). East Indiana Avenue in Downtown DeLand. Classic cars & rods line East Indiana Avenue in Downtown DeLand. Live DJ, giveaways, shopping & dining. 4-8 p.m. Free. 386-624-5027. www.MainStreetDeLand.org

Dec. 15-16: A Classic Christmas, Winter Park. Come enjoy a great performance of all your holiday favorites, plus a sing-along with the Bach Festival Choir and Orchestra. 7:30-9 p.m. Saturday, 2-3:30 p.m. Sunday. Tickets: Range from $25 to $55. 407-646-2182. www.bachfestivalflorida.org

Dec. 15-16: Yuletide Festival at Lilian Place. Daytona Beach. Holiday tours, caroling, music, punch and cookies, meet historic characters, and join the Winedown on the River as we watch the evening Christmas Boat Parade on the Halifax ($5 admission to watch boat parade for non-members). 1-8 p.m. Lilian Place, 111 Silver Beach Blvd., Daytona Beach. 386-299-4974. daytonabeach.com

Dec. 21: Jazz Friday at Fossaner Museum of Art. Melbourne. Every third Friday of the month the Fossaner Museum of Art hosts Jazz Friday in their galleries. Expect great music from local favorites. Admission is free for members of the Museum and $10 for non-members. 1463 Highland Avenue, Melbourne FL 32901. 321-433-4470. www.visitspacecoast.com

Dec. 22: Holiday Songs in the Park. Longwood. Wekiwa Springs State Park will be hosting the Lake Brantley High School Chorus singing holiday carols at the spring. The candlelit event will showcase the slope looking down on our beautiful spring area. So bring your flashlights, blankets, chairs and anything you may need to stay comfortable. The Florida State Park Concessions will be open during the event and will have hot coffee, hot cocoa and dessert for purchase. The entrance fee for this event is free while donations are greatly appreciated. 7-8 p.m. www.floridastateparks.org/wekiwasprings/events.cfm

Dec. 22: Art Walk on Flagler, New Smyrna Beach. Held on the fourth Saturday each month, Flagler Avenue livens up with entertainment and wine tastings at participating venues. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (wine walk 1-7 p.m.). Free ($25 for wine walk or $20 with previous month’s glass). Flagler Avenue, 100 Flagler Ave., New Smyrna Beach, FL, 32169. 386-428-1770. www.flaglergallerygroup.com

Dec. 28: Russell Athletic Bowl, Orlando. The bowl features teams from the ACC and Big Ten conferences, and has existed as the Champs Sports Bowl through 2011 and has been taking place for more than 15 years. It is played in the Citrus Bowl in downtown Orlando. Game starts at 5:30 p.m. Tickets start at $20. 407-423-2476. www.fcsports.com

Dec. 28: Fourth Fridays Art Walk, Sanford. Central Florida’s only monthly juried art show. With exhibits and music at participating venues. 6-9 p.m. Downtown Sanford, First Street, Sanford, FL, 32771. Free. 407-323-2774. www.sanfordinfo.com

Dec. 28: 4th Fridays in Artisan Alley & DeLand Art Walk. DeLand. Gather with friends every fourth Friday of the month at Artisan Alley and also enjoy the DeLand Art Walk. DeLand Art Walk is a free, self-guided tour of the Historic Downtown area. Enjoy music, food, drinks, arts, crafts and more. Art galleries, museums, cultural venues, restaurants and boutiques host artists within their businesses on the fourth Friday of every month, rain or shine. Look for an official Art Walk banner in the front of each stop to identify the participating venues. Choose your own route, or begin from Museum of Florida Art. Downtown, 100 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand FL 32720. 6-9 p.m. 386-738-0649. delandartwalk.com/

Dec. 29: Orlando Citrus Parade, Orlando. The Citrus Parade, held in downtown Orlando, features signature citrus floats made from more than 100,000 grapefruit, oranges and tangerines. There are more than 50 entries, including marching bands from across the country. The parade attracts more than 60,000 spectators and an international audience of millions through its television syndication in 150 markets in the United States and Canada. This year, track star and Olympic gold medalist Justin Gatlin will serve as grand marshal and Trista and Ryan Sutter — stars of the first season of “The Bachelorette” and the show’s biggest success story — will host the syndicated national broadcast. The parade begins at 10 a.m. Admission: Free, although there are preferred seating for $25 and $50 VIP admission. 407-423-2476. www.fcsports.com

Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Celebration. New Smyrna Beach. There will be a New Year’s Eve Party from 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. on Flagler Avenue. Fireworks will be at 9 at the corner of Cooper Street and Flagler Avenue. www.partyonflagler.com

Tampa Bay-Sarasota

(including Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Sarasota, Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, Tarpon Springs and Homosassa)

Dec. 7-8: Winter Waterland. Weeki Wachee State Park. From 6-10 p.m., a special holiday themed mermaid show performed at the Riverside Theater by the Wildlife Department with other activities including Santa Claus, kids games and activities, lots of holiday lights and music. $8 for adults, $4 for children. 5 and under free. 352-592-5656. www.floridastateparks.org/weekiwachee/events.cfm

Dec. 7-8: Candlelight Tours of Fort Foster, Tampa. Historic Fort Foster brings Christmas on the Florida Frontier to life. Guests follow a lantern-lit experience through the Fort, where they encounter living history scenarios. Soldiers far from home sing carols in the Barracks. The Officers entertain ladies from Ft. Brooke/Tampa at a fine dinner in the Officers’ Mess, while fiddle music and song enliven the program. Friendly Natives gather just outside the Fort’s walls, exchanging gifts of furs, feathers, hides and Native crafts for goods from traders and the military; the exchange is followed by Native drumming and dance. After the living history presentation, guests enjoy hot spiced cider and holiday cookies, while interpreters mingle and interact. Fort Foster State Historic Site is located adjacent to Hillsborough River State Park. Public admission for this event is a $5 donation per person ages 13 and over. 12 years and under free. 813-987 6771. www.floridastateparks.org/hillsboroughriver/Events.cfm

Dec. 8: Hillsborough River Half & Quarter Marathon. Hillsborough River State Park. Get out of the stores, away from the parties and join us in the woods this December for a great new half marathon and quarter marathon. With a mix of pavement (just a little), forest roads, wide and single track trail, and this run has it all — beautiful canopied forest roads, riverbank single track, and fast, flat woods running. Hillsborough River State Park — one of the Florida’s oldest — provides great facilities for an awesome start/finish area and our post-race buffet. Oh, and “What’s a quarter marathon?” you say? Well, only the hottest new race distance — 6.55 miles. Fees: Half Marathon: $40-$55 Quarter Marathon: $25-$40. 727-422-1956. www.floridastateparks.org/hillsboroughriver/events.cfm

Dec. 8, Dec. 14-23, 26-30: Wild Wonderland at Tampa’s Lowry Park Zoo, Tampa. Celebrate the season with a unique night at the Zoo with more than one million twinkling lights. Meet Santa and real reindeer and penguins through Dec. 23. Ne2w this year is a 100-foot-long Arctic Blast Ice Slide and nightly “Florida flurries” snow falls. $13 for adults, $11 for children ages 3-11. 813-935-8552. lowryparkzoo.com

Dec. 14-15: Holiday Lights. Weeki Wachee Springs State Park. From 6-10 p.m., featuring a special holiday themed dance performance at the amphitheater by AK Dance Away, and a performance by the Wildlife Department. Santa Claus will be there and several kids activities. This event will include a special Christmas parade on Dec 15 starting at 7 p.m. The parade will be made up of holiday themed decorated golf carts and trailers. Admission is $2 per person with anyone 5 years old and under free. 352-592-5656. www.floridastateparks.org/weekiwachee/events.cfm

Dec. 14-23: Sarasota Snow Fest. Sarasota. One of the few places in Florida to play in the snow, and this one has a nice 10-day run. It offers 100 tons of snow for open play areas and four giant snow slides, reindeer (really pony) rides, bounce houses, visits with Santa and ice-skating rink, caroling, food and drink vendors and entertainment. 5-10 p.m. Monday-Friday and noon-10 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Free with $5 donation for parking. Sarasota County Fairgrounds, 3000 Ringling Boulevard, Sarasota, FL 34237. (941) 365-0818. snowfestsarasota.com

Dec. 19-24, 26: Christmas Celebration of Lights, Homosassa. Enjoy Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park decked out for the holidays with thousands of twinkling lights and Christmas decorations. Come and enjoy Sebastian’s Winter Wonderland, a spectacular synchronized light and sound show. A variety of entertainment is scheduled and refreshments will be available. Requested donation of $3 adults, $1 children. 352-628-5343. www.floridastateparks.org/homosassasprings/Events.cfm

Southwest Florida

(including Naples, Fort Myers, Venice, Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda)

Dec. 5-31: Annual Christmas Light Canal Tours, Punta Gorda. In this picturesque area on Florida’s Southwest Gulf Coast, residents deck the decks, docks, seawalls, ship’s masts, palm trees, anything and everything that can be festooned with holiday lights, and then rejoice in the kaleidoscope of colorful displays. By lighted boat, or by bicycle, tours take in 50-foot Christmas trees, snowmen, Santa’s sleighs, and even more elaborate holiday vignettes as residents revel in this holiday tradition with brilliant light displays on decks, lanais and along the waterways. Cruise the canals of Punta Gorda to experience this family tradition with spectacular illumination of community holiday spirit. King Fisher Fleet at Fishermen’s Village. Adults $14, children 3-11 $7. Call for reservations. 941-639-0969. www.kingfisherfleet.com/christmas-cruises

Dec. 7-8: Luminary Festival, Sanibel and Captiva. More than three miles of luminary candles line the main roads on Sanibel on Dec. 7 and Captiva on Dec. 8, creating a glowing way to usher in the holidays. Businesses decorate their stores, sponsor entertainment and provide free refreshments, Santa arrives at the Sanibel Community House with candy for kids, and free trolley service around Sanibel is available on Dec. 7. Free; 5:30-9 p.m. both nights. 239-472-1080. www.sanibel-captiva.org

Dec. 14-16: Florida’s Creative Coast Weekend, Pine Island. On the second weekend each month November-April, Pine Island businesses offer themed artistic events. Galleries and shops are open extended hours on Friday, many offering special openings. Take a cooking class, or listen to live music. Other special events and workshops are planned at individual shops on Saturday and Sunday. 239-283-4842. www.floridascreativecoast.com

Dec. 16: 23rd Annual Peace River Lighted Boat Parade, Punta Gorda. The festive display of lights and gorgeous reflections on the water make this annual event a definite must see. At Charlotte Harbor, begins at dusk around 6 p.m. Free. 941-639-3720. www.puntagordachamber.com/

Dec. 20: Downtown Gallery Walk, Punta Gorda. Held monthly on the third Thursday, 5-8 p.m. Visit any of the downtown merchants, restaurants and galleries for your game card. As always, there will be live entertainment, food and drink samplings, art, beauty and health demonstrations, a free trolley, and an evening of fun. Free; free parking. 941-505-1915. www.puntagordashopping.com

Dec. 31: Downtown Countdown, Fort Myers. Ring in the New Year downtown at the party with the widest variety of entertainment and dining choices. The 13th annual event starts at 8 p.m. with live entertainment at three locations and a ball-drop at midnight. Retail shops and restaurants remain open during the evening. To make downtown’s entertainment district the utmost in pedestrian friendly, sections of Hendry, Main, Broadway, Jackson and Bay streets will be closed to vehicular traffic that night. Parking garages will be attended 7 p.m.-3 a.m. Free admission. 239-321-7100. www.cityftmyers.com

South Florida and the Keys

(including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Key Largo, Key West and the Treasure Coast)

Dec. 3-9: Sculpt Miami, Miami. Combines an international selection of more than 30 top sculptors with other exciting cultural events. The fair is located in the heart of the popular Wynwood Art District at 46 NW 36th Street, five minutes walking distance from Midtown Mall. The show is an important resource for art lovers, collectors, dealers and curators that are searching to discover and experience new trends and museum quality contemporary sculptures. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. Free. 305-448-2060. www.sculptmiami.com

Dec. 4-9: Red Dot Fair, Miami. Art show featuring more than 50 international, modern contemporary art dealers from around the world. Painting, photography, sculpture and more. 11 a.m.-8 p.m. daily. $15 day pass. $25 reception and weeklong pass. 917-273-8621. www.reddotfair.com

Dec. 4-9: Scope International Contemporary Art Fair, Miami. SCOPE Art Show returns to Miami in 2012 with a new location on the most highly-trafficked gateway to the Midtown Arts District. Located at N.E. 36th St and Midtown Blvd., SCOPE Miami’s monumental 100,000 sq. ft. pavilion will house its most ambitious fair to date, featuring a selection of 20 innovative Breeder Programgalleries presented alongside 85 established international exhibitors. Celebrated as the premier launching pad for contemporary art, SCOPE Miami will run concurrent with Art Basel Miami. 110 N.E. 36 St. at Midtown Blvd. Miami, Florida 33138. 212-268-1522. www.scope-art.com

Dec. 6-9: Art Basel Miami Beach, Miami Beach. This international art show, American sister event of Art Basel in Switzerland, is recognized as the most important annual art show of its kind in America. The 11th edition of Art Basel in Miami Beach will feature more than 260 leading galleries from North America, Europe, Latin America, Asia and Africa will take part, showcasing works by more than 2,000 artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. 305-674-1292. www.artbasel.com

Dec. 7: Boynton and Delray Beach Holiday Boat Parade, Boynton Beach. Parade begins at the Boynton Beach Inlet and proceeds south to the C-15 Canal in Delray Beach. Begins at 6:30 p.m. Free. 561-243-1077. http://www.downtowndelraybeach.com/Art-and-Jazz

Dec. 7, 14: Historic Lighted Inn Tours, Key West. Discover the history and holiday spirit of Key West by touring beautifully decorated historic inns. The tours include creative offerings by local chefs, artists, writers and performers. 305-295-1334. keywestinns.com

Dec. 7: Florida Keys Holiday Festival. Islamorda. Holiday parade and festival featuring a 35-foot, snow-blowing community tree and 20 tons of snow for fun on snow mountain. Holiday Gift bazaar, food and fun for the entire family. 4-10 p.m. Free admission. 305-664-4503. islamoradachamber.com

Dec. 7: City Link BeerFest. Fort Lauderdale. Dig up your beer goggles and ring in the holidays at City Link’s 17th annual BeerFest. Join thousands of people in the heart of Fort Lauderdale at the Huizenga Plaza on Friday, Dec. 7, from 6 to 11p.m. for hundreds of the world’s greatest beers, live music, and good food. Drink your way from tent to tent with drunken Santa and his sexy little helpers. Whether you hunt down your favorite ale, lager, or stout, or sample a little bit of everything, your taste buds are bound to stay wet. Rock out to live performances by local bands and work up an appetite. There will be a variety of food trucks to purchase some great bites and help soak up some alcohol. Advance tickets $25 ($30 at the door). Advance VIP tickets $40 ($45 at the door). sun-sentinel.com/citylink/beerfest/

Dec. 8: Holiday Boat Parade, Key Largo. Blackwater Sound shimmers underneath as decorated boats parade along the shoreline in celebration of the holiday season. Top spots for viewing and libations include Sundowners, Senor Frijoles, the Marriott Key Largo Bay Resort and Caribbean Club, MM 103-104. 305-451-4502. www.keylargoboatparade.com/

Dec. 8-9: Buckler’s Craft Fair, West Palm Beach. Browse through one-of-a-kind gifts, custom home décor, jewelry, furniture, country and traditional crafts, folk art, dolls, hair accessories, candles, baby items, artwork, pet items, quilts, wearable art, flags, painted glass, yard art, scrapbooking, personalized items, gourmet delights, and more. At South Florida Fairgrounds. Admission $8 per person, kids under 12 free. 386-860-0092. www.bucklercraftfair.com/west-palm.php

Dec. 14: Barnacle Under Moonlight, Coconut Grove. Bring a blanket, bring a picnic, bring your friends and family and join us on the lawn of The Barnacle for a full moon concert as the blue moon lights up the skies of South Florida. At The Barnacle Historic State Park. Gates open at 6 p.m., music from 7 to 9 p.m. No pets, no alcohol. Admission 10 and older $7, ages 6-9 $3, under 6 free. 305-442-6866. www.floridastateparks.org/thebarnacle/Events.cfm

Dec. 15: Key West Lighted Boat Parade, Key West. Decorated and lighted boats cruise through Key West Harbor and the waters of the Historic Seaport. Musical guests are featured. Sponsored by Schooner Wharf Bar and Captain Morgan. 305-292-3302. www.fla-keys.com/calendarofevents

Dec. 15: Musical Holiday Concert, Islamorada. Florida Keys Community Concert Band presents its annual holiday performance at Founders Park, MM 87 bayside at 4 p.m. Performance is outdoors, no chairs provided. Free admission. 305-853-7294. www.fla-keys.com/calendarofevents

Dec. 15: Winterfest Boat Parade. Fort Lauderdale. You can the parade at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park with the “Party in the Park” prior to the parade in one of the largest parade viewing locations along the 12-mile route. Food Trucks, Craft Vendors, Entertainment and more. With each Grandstand Ticket purchased, you will receive a discount to the Miami City Ballet performance of the Nutcracker. Gates open to the Grandstand Viewing Area at 3:30 p.m. The Boat Parade gets under way at 6:30 p.m. along Downtown Fort Lauderdale and should arrive at this area at approximately 8 p.m. 954-767-0686. www.floridastateparks.org/hughtaylorbirch/events.cfm

Dec. 18-23: Holiday Evening Tours of Whitehall, Palm Beach. Experience the sites, sounds and traditions of the Holidays in grand Gilded Age fashion with a Holiday evening tour. It includes a tour of Whitehall’s first floor, carolers, refreshments, and a special Whitehall Christmas Cracker. Guided tours are available each night at 7:05, 7:15 and 7:25 p.m. Tickets $25 adults, $15 children 18 and under. Advance ticket purchase is required. Gates open five minutes prior to the reservation time. 561-655-2833. http://flaglermuseum.us/programs/christmas-at-whitehall

Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Celebrations, Key West. The Southernmost City celebrates with a conch shell drop at Sloppy Joe’s Bar; a descending 6-foot red high heel shoe carrying drag queen Sushi at the Bourbon Street Pub/New Orleans House complex; and a pirate wench descending from a tall ship mast in the island city’s Historic Seaport. Call (305) 296-2388, 293-9800, 292-3302. www.fla-keys.com/calendarofevents

Dec. 31: New year’s Eve Fireworks on Blackwater Sound, Key Largo. The back bay is the setting for the annual New Year’s Eve fireworks extravaganza hosted by Sundowners, Senor Frijoles, Cactus Jacks, Gus’ Grille at the Marriott Key Largo Beach Resort and the Caribbean Club, MM 103-104. 305-451-4502. www.fla-keys.com/calendarofevents

Northeast Florida

(including Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Flagler County and Amelia Island)

Dec. 7: First Friday Art Walk, St. Augustine. One of the city’s most popular cultural events, held the first Friday of each month. Enjoy new exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at 15 participating galleries, plus great food courtesy of the St. Augustine Independent Restaurant Assn. Tours begin at Rembrandtz American Craft Gallery. St. Augustine Sightseeing Trains and Old Town Trolleys offer complimentary shuttle service to most galleries. Shuttles run on a continuous loop every 30 minutes. 904-829-0065.www.artgalleriesofstaugustine.com

Dec. 8: Artrageous Artwalk, Fernandina Beach . Held monthly on second Saturday each month, to open the doors of some of Amelia Island’s incredible galleries, featuring photography, pottery, copper, stained glass, watercolor, acrylics and more. Participants can peruse more than a dozen galleries in downtown Fernandina Beach and at the Plantation Artists’ Guild and Gallery located at Amelia Island Plantation. 5:30-8:30 p.m. 800-226-3542. http://www.ameliaisland.com/calendar.aspx

Dec. 8: Holiday in the Gardens. Washington Oaks Gardens State Park. The gardens are beautiful this time of year and come alive with Holiday decorations. Children will enjoy the Holidays around the World Playground, which will include hands-on arts and crafts, face painting, games from different cultures and prizes. Children may also share their holiday wish list with Santa at the Visitor Center and get their photo taken for a nominal charge. New to the event this year, the Friends of Washington Oaks, will be hosting the Holiday Tea Party with Mrs. Claus the same day as Holiday in the Gardens. Children can join one of three tea sessions throughout the day at 11 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 2 p.m. Each session will be $5 and will include tea, reindeer sandwiches, craft time, and story telling with Mrs. Claus. In lieu of regular park entrance fees, admission will be the donation of a toy or one nonperishable food item per person. Washington Oaks Gardens State Park is located two miles south of Marineland, off A1A in Flagler County. From 10 a.m.-4 p.m. www.floridastateparks.org/washingtonoaks/events.cfm

North-Central Florida

(including Ocala, Gainesville and Tallahassee)

Dec. 7: Camellia Christmas 2012, Tallahassee. Maclay Gardens State Park invites the community to celebrate the Christmas Season with this 24th annual candlelight stroll through the gardens accompanied by holiday music performed by local artists. Bid on holiday finery for the home or a gift at the silent auction, which will include items donated by local merchants, artists and florists. Hot apple cider and holiday cookies will be served. Free; park entrance fee is waived. 850-487-4115. www.floridastateparks.org/maclaygardens/Events.cfm

Dec. 7-8: Southern Pines Blues and BBQ Festival, Perry. Touted as North Florida’s biggest and best blues and BBQ festival, featuring talented blues artists from all over and Triple Crown BBQ competition where the best of the best from Florida, Alabama and Georgia vie for the top prize. There also will be a People’s Choice, where you are the judge, and an open backyard competition. At Forest Capital Museum State Park. 850-584-5377, toll free 866-584-5366. www.southernpinesblues.com

Dec. 7-9, 14-16: Three Rivers State Park Christmas Light Show. Sneads. Three Rivers State Park invites you on a scenic drive through the park to enjoy all the beautiful light displays. Park entrance fees are being waived during the designated times for the event but donations are appreciated. 6-8 p.m. 850-482-9006. Three Rivers State Park is located two miles north of Sneads on State Road 271 (River Road). www.floridastateparks.org/threerivers/events.cfm

Dec. 8: Caroling the Ravines, Palatka. Ravine Gardens State Park invites everyone to its Christmas event offering the opportunity for an old-fashioned evening of friends, family and fellowship, as you take a wagon ride around the ravines and listen to local church groups, school groups and organizations sing seasonal carols. Entertainment will also be provided on stage in Civic Center and under the pavilion. Holiday refreshments will be available for purchase. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. Event is free, but you must bring one non-parishable food item to donate to local charities. 386-329-3721. www.floridastateparks.org/ravinegardens/Events.cfm

Dec. 8: Annual Holiday Parade and Lawn Mower Contest, Havana. Getting into the holiday spirit has never been more fun – how creative can you get in decorating your riding lawn mower to look like a parade float? Choose a holiday theme or any crazy, zany or fun idea you think can win one of three prizes totaling more than $350. Now golf carts have been added to the mix, with a separate prize awarded for the most ingeniously decorated golf cart. Food and craft vendors add a festive atmosphere to the day. This year also features SNOW! At 2 p.m. the Havana Snow Queen will reign over a real snow playground. On Main Street downtown. Free. 850-539-7422. http://www.havanaflorida.com/events.aspx

Dec. 14-16: Santa of the Rainbow. Dunnellon. Friends of Rainbow Springs will once again bring Santa Clause to Dunnellon. Bring a child or become a child yourself for this one of a kind experience. Walk through the wonderland of lights that decorate the headsprings area of Rainbow Springs State Park. See Mr. and Mrs. Clause come up the Rainbow River on a lighted boat and head towards their cottage where pictures are taken. Visit with Santa’s elves and listen to carols. 6-8:30 p.m. SPECIAL admission: $1. 352-465-8555. www.floridastateparks.org/rainbowsprings/events.cfm

Dec. 15: Holiday Magic. Tallahassee. Wrap your holiday season in style by joining the Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra at Holiday Magic. Conductor Kenneth Kiesler and a world-class vocal quartet will collaborate with the orchestra in a spectacular evening of music that offers inspiration, entertainment, and plenty of smiles. The program will include favorites such as ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, a medley titled Feast of Carols, and an audience sing-along. Also joining the concert will be the young musicians of the Tallahassee Youth Orchestra Symphony. At Ruby Diamond Concert Hall. 850-224-0461. www.tallahasseesymphony.org

Dec. 22: The Ichetucknee Time Machine, Fort White. Take a fascinating journey by van into the Ichetucknee forest and visit the site of the 17th Century Mission de San Martin de Timucua. Learn all about the ancient Timucuan capital of Aquacalyquen. We highly recommend you wear long pants, sturdy shoes and insect repellent. Begins at 9 a.m. Meet at the Head Spring Parking Lot (North Entrance) of Ichetucknee Springs State Park. Regular park entrance fee, $6 per vehicle. 386-497-4690. www.floridastateparks.org/ichetuckneesprings/Events.cfm

The Panhandle

(including Pensacola, Panama City Beach, Apalachicola and Destin)

Dec. 15: Candlelight Tour of Wesley House at Eden Gardens State Park, Point Washington. Enjoy the traditional walk through the luminaries to the Historic Wesley House to enjoy its seasonally decorated rooms and be greeted by Civil War reenactors in period garb. After the tour, the Friends of Eden will provide refreshments in the pavilion and reenactors will welcome you to the small encampment on the north lawn of the house beyond the Reflecting Pool. Admission fees to the park and event are waived. 850-231-1167. www.floridastateparks.org/edengardens/Events.cfm

Dec. 31: New Year’s Eve Beach Ball Drop, Panama City Beach. Ring in the New Year with a fun beachside celebration. Enjoy family time early, 5:30-8:30 p.m., when there will be bounce houses, party favors, street performers and live radio remotes. Countdown to 2010 begins at 8:30 p.m., when streets will be closed to traffic, live entertainers including Country music star, singer/songwriter James Otto perform, prizes are given away and a midnight fireworks display caps it all. At Pier Park. 850-233-5070. www.visitpanamacitybeach.com

Enjoy!!!

To a Merry – and Warm – Holiday!

Bill Cowie

President

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Things To Do in Florida This Fall

Looking for something to do in Florida around Fall time this year?

Check out the Florida Air Shows below that will be taking place around September, October and November.

One of my most treasured memories from many years of reporting was the chance to ride with the Blue Angels (the US equivalent to the UK Red Arrows) in the early 1990s.

An excursion in a fighter jet – even my truncated media flight – trumps any roller coaster ride on the planet. I’m proud to say that I didn’t lose my lunch in flight, although to be fair, I was too nervous for a pre-flight meal.

It was thrilling, but I’m not sure I’d climb into another fighter jet now.

Likewise, I’m more selective when it comes to attending air shows.

Call me a wimp, but it’s not worth enduring the brutal summer heat to stare skyward into an unforgiving sun as the sweat drips into my eyes.

Fortunately, air shows aren’t a seasonal attraction in the Sunshine State. There still are plenty of opportunities to catch vintage aircraft and state-of-the-art fighters in the fall.

Here’s the lineup:

* Cocoa Beach Air Show, Sept. 22 and 23, Cocoa Beach: The theme is “year of extreme flight,” a notion celebrated by performers such as the Air Force F-22 Raptor Demo Team and the Bell-Boeing B-22 Osprey above Lori Wilson Park in Cocoa Beach. (www.cocoabeachairshow.com)

* Wings and Waves Air Show, Oct. 13 and 14, Daytona Beach: Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University sponsors this show, which features performances by the Air Force Thunderbirds, the Canadian Snowbirds and other aerobatic attractions over the World’s Most Famous Beach. (www.wingsandwaves.com)

* Sea & Sky Spectacular, Oct. 19-21, Jacksonville Beach: The Navy’s Blue Angels will be the featured attraction at this show in the skies above the beach between First Avenue North and Sixth Avenue North in Jacksonville Beach. (www.makeascenedowntown.com/events)

* Naval Air Station Pensacola Open House, Nov. 2 and 3, Pensacola: A homecoming show by the Blue Angels is the highlight of this show in the cradle of Naval aviation. The air station’s museum is not to be missed. (www.naspairshow.com)

* Wings Over Homestead, Nov. 3 and 4, Homestead: The Air Force Thunderbirds and the Army’s Golden Knights parachute team star at Homestead Air Reserve Base in South Florida. (www.wingsoverhomestead.com)

* Stuart Air Show, Nov. 10 and 11, Stuart: The Navy Leap Frogs parachute team is among the acts at Witham Field in Stuart. (www.stuartairshow.com)

Enjoy!

Bill Cowie

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Things to do in Florida

Things to do on your Florida vacation

There was a great article by Jim Abbott from the Orlando Sentinel recently providing suggestions and ideas for things to do around Florida for fun and enjoyment. The main ones are listed below to try the next time you are over on holiday…

West Florida

The new Salvador Dali Museum in St. Petersburg houses over 2,000 items, including 96 oil paintings, hundreds of drawings and watercolors and objets d’art and a 5,000-book library in a space that’s twice the size of the former museum. The building, accented by distinctive exterior glass panels, was designed by architect Yann Weymouth, who helped to create the glass pyramid at the Louvre in Paris.

Inside, the artwork competes for attention with a grand ‘double-helix’ staircase that climbs nearly the full height of a 75-foot-high atrium. AOL Travel calls it “one of the top buildings you have to see before you die.” Admission is $21 adults, $19 seniors, $15 ages 13-18, $7 ages 6-12. (727-823-3767; thedali.org)

Tampa

A new roller coaster is scheduled to be unveiled later this month at Busch Gardens in Tampa. In its construction phase, Cheetah Hunt already has added something to the theme park’s skyline, with its towering pinnacle of track that twists skyward almost like fingers reaching toward the clouds. Cheetah Hunt will join park attractions that include the thrill rides Montu and Kumba, as well as animal encounters, safaris and stage shows. Park admission is $77.99 adults, $69.99 children. (buschgardens.com)

Fort Myers

The thought of a 190-mile paddling route might sound too daunting for a weekend warrior, but don’t worry: The Great Calusa Blueway, completed in 2007 along the beaches of Fort Myers and Sanibel Island, can be experienced in short excursions fit for novices at kayaking or canoeing. Most of the area’s inland waterways are calm and easy to navigate, offering up-close views of birds, dolphins, sponges, starfish and other wildlife. Guided archeological trips and family excursions are available and visitors can cast off in an assortment of area parks. There are minimal fees for parking and water access at the numerous put-in spots. (calusablueway.com)

Ellenton

Gamble Plantation State Historic Park in Ellenton, near Bradenton, is an 1840s home filled with the trappings of a wealthy sugar plantation owner and is the only surviving plantation house in Southwest Florida. It is believed that Confederate Secretary of State Judah P. Benjamin took refuge here after the fall of the Confederacy, until his safe passage to England could be secured. Guided tours of the house are given six times a day, Thursday through Monday and there are picnic tables on the grounds. Admission: $6 adults, $4 children. (941-723-4536; floridastateparks.org/gambleplantation)

Anna Maria Island

There’s nothing new about watching the dimming of the day, but it’s an old, cherished ritual in Anna Maria Island, a charming barrier island bordered by the Gulf of Mexico, Tampa and Sarasota bays. It’s not uncommon for the daily performance on the horizon to be greeted by spontaneous applause from the visitors that line up on the beaches to watch. Occupy the rest of the day with watersports, dining at quirky restaurants or fishing on one of the historic piers. (annamariaisland-longboatkey.com)

Central & East Florida

St. Augustine

Pirates are an itinerant lot, so it’s only fitting that the new Pirate & Treasure Museum in St. Augustine originally started as a tourist attraction in Key West. In a business sense, the St. Augustine move is a smart one, with field-tripping school kids available as a built-in audience for the attraction across the street from the Castillo de San Marcos fort. The museum also fits with St. Augustine’s own pirate lore, most notably the saga of English pirate Sir Francis Drake, who led 2,000 of his men in a raid that leveled the city in the late 16th century. Inside the museum, you can read the tales of a dozen famous pirates in electronic history books, shoot a cannon or look at the sword used by Johnny Depp in the movie “Pirates of the Caribbean.” Exhibits can be covered in an hour. Admission: $10.99 adults, $5.99 children. (thepiratemuseum.com)

Clermont

The Lakeridge Winery in Clermont sits on a 127-acre estate in gently rolling countryside that was once the center of the state’s grape industry. Lakeridge touts itself as Florida’s largest premium winery, an operation that specializes in table and sparkling wines from muscadine and hybrid grapes. The winery augments its production with events that include a winter and summer music series an annual wine and seafood festival and harvest festival. (lakeridgewinery.com)

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

A new 3-D version of Star Tours attraction will be part of the mission for Star Wars fans at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. When it debuts later this month, guests can climb aboard the Starspeeder 1000 with C-3PO and R2-D2 and some new characters. Adventures include a flight in a Tatooine podrace or a chase that could involve Boba Fett, Princess Leia or Darth Vader. The new attraction joins such favorites as Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, Twilight Zone Tower of Terror and The American Idol Experience. One-day pass: $82 plus tax general, $74 plus tax ages 3-9 (disneyworld.com)

Melbourne

There are new arrivals this spring at the Brevard Zoo, off Wickham Road at Interstate 95 in Melbourne, most notably a baby calf born to one of the zoo’s Masai giraffes. The giraffes, of course, are one of the main attractions at the zoo, which showcases animals in five loops – Expedition Africa, La Selva, Austral-Asia, Wild Florida and Paws on Play – that take visitors along wooden boardwalks through lushly landscaped observation areas designed to make the animals look as if they’re at home. Splurge for a “Young Explorer’s Package,” which includes zoo admission along with tickets to feed the giraffes, the lorikeets and take a 20-minute train excursion around the grounds. Regular zoo admission is $13.75 adults, $10.25 ages 2-12. (brevardzoo.com)

Titusville

Reservations are now being accepted for the June Turtle Watch Program at Canaveral National Seashore, an opportunity to learn about sea turtles and the role of the National Park Service in their conservation. The programs, for folks 8 and older, are limited to 40 participants each night. Cost is $14 for ages 16 and older, free for ages 15 and under, with programs scheduled on most Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights in June. (386-428-3384; nps.gov/cana/)

Daytona Beach

Beach driving is the famous pastime at the World’s Most Famous Beach, but if you turn your car inland, Daytona Beach offers other charms beyond sand and surf. The pretty business district along Beach Street, just at the foot of the big bridge from the mainland to the beachside, is home to the cozy Abraxas Books, packed floor to ceiling with volumes old and new. Down the block, there’s the iconic Stavros Italian restaurant and Angell & Phelps Chocolate Factory, two stops that don’t require getting sand in your shoes. (daytonabeach.com)

South Florida

Miami

Although the Miami Children’s Museum has been a South Florida fixture since the early 1980s, it has really become a hidden gem since moving eight years ago to Watson Island, near downtown Miami. The museum augments its lively, kid-friendly permanent attractions with touring exhibits such as Dino Island, a prehistoric adventure land populated by nine lifelike robotic creatures on display from June 5 through year’s end. Admission: $15. (miamichildrensmuseum.org)

Coral Gables

More than a place to swim, the Venetian Pool, carved out of a limestone quarry in a quiet neighborhood near the Biltmore Hotel, is the place to go to feel like an extra in an Esther Williams movie. The pool, operated by the city of Coral Gables, is drained nightly and filled each morning with more than 800,000 gallons of spring water, framed by lovely gardens that exude a tropical vibe. Admission: $11 adults, $7.35 children. (coralgablesvenetianpool.com)

Miami Beach

The focus of a multimillion-dollar renovation in 2007, the Fillmore Miami Beach at Jackie Gleason Theater (1700 Washington Ave., Miami Beach) is a state-of-the-art performance space that occupies an iconic spot in South Florida’s entertainment history. The Gleason reference, of course, is to the legendary comedian, who moved his television show to the original theater in 1964 and helped put Miami Beach on the cultural map. Nowadays, the theater hosts an array of events from theater to classical an pop concerts. (fillmoremb.com)

Key West

One of North America’s most remote national parks now is more accessible. Key West Seaplane Adventures offers morning, afternoon and full-day trips to historic Dry Tortugas National Park aboard 10-passenger seaplanes. The park, about 70 miles west of Key West, is home to Civil War-era Fort Jefferson, the largest masonry structure in the Western Hemisphere. (keywestseaplanecharters.com)

The Florida Keys

A yearlong series of events, including bicycle and kayaking tours, is planned to mark the 100th anniversary of the completion of Henry Flagler’s Oversea Railway, the $430 million line that connected the Florida mainland to Key West starting in January 1912. (flaglerkeys100.com)

North Florida & Panhandle

Gainesville

The Butterfly Rainforest, a 6,400-square-foot living exhibit at the Museum of Natural History on the University of Florida campus in Gainesville, supports a population of hundreds of species acquired from butterfly farms in the Philippines, Malaysia, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Suriname, Ecuador, Belize and Florida that help protect natural habitats and promote conservation. It’s the latest addition to an attraction that used to be more famous for its dinosaur skeletons and other bones. Visitors can check out thousands of specimens at the three-story Wall of Wings or learn how to start a butterfly garden at home. Museum admission is free, with donations accepted; Butterfly Rainforest admission is $10.50 adults, $6 children. (flmnh.ufl.edu/butterflies)

Florida’s Panhandle

The 26 miles of shoreline between the tiny towns of Rosemary Beach and Seascape, along the Gulf of Mexico, offer powder-soft beaches and emerald waters that yield to a different landscape north of the coastline in towns such as Lakewood. It’s home to four state parks that include 200 miles of trails, fishing, boating and wildlife. For a leisurely look at what the area has to offer, take a road trip along the 20-mile stretch of Florida Scenic Highway 30A, which merges into the Scenic Gulf Drive. (beachesofsouthwalton.com)

Jacksonville

Explore Jacksonville’s colorful seafaring past at Jacksonville’s Maritime Museum, recently relocated to The Jacksonville Landing. Or take in Jacksonville’s Fire Museum, which displays an Ahrens Fox steam pumper used in Jacksonville’s Great Fire of 1901. Both museums are free. The Landing also is a good place to find a bite to eat, shop or enjoy a view of the St. Johns River. (visitjacksonville.com)

Cedar Key

Not far from Gainesville, the tiny fishing village of Cedar Key melds historic homes and comfortable hotels with breathtaking views and restaurants that specialize in fresh seafood. The Cedar Key Marina is the spot for fishing tackle, boat rentals or Gulf fishing charters. There’s also hiking and kayaking available at the Lower Suwannee National Wildlife refuge, about 10 miles away. (visitcedarkey.com)

Fort White

Tubing the Ichetucknee River has been a rite of passage for University of Florida students for decades, but the activity has evolved a bit from the old days of dangling six-packs into the cold water by ropes attached to discarded inner tubes. Tubers now rent colorful, specially designed flotation devices from vendors near the entrance to Ichetucknee Springs State Park, an hour northwest of Gainesville outside of Fort White. Arrive early in the summer, when the park often reaches capacity by afternoon. (floridastateparks.org/ichetuckneesprings)

Enjoy!!

Christmas in Florida

Will you be in Florida for Christmas?

We recently found a great travel site http://www.uptake.com/ where Barbara Weibel suggests some great things to do in and around Florida for Christmas…

In addition to Disney World, check out these other fabulous Christmas events around Florida:

At Disney’s sister attraction, Epcot Center, Holidays Around The World showcases holiday traditions from different countries and includes a nightly tree-lighting, special IllumiNations laser light and fireworks show, and the Candlelight Processional, featuring a Christmas storyteller with music by a choir and 50-piece orchestra.

Disney-Hollywood Studios (formerly MGM Studios) in Lake Buena Vista offers the Osborne Family Spectacle of Lights is made up of 5 million twinkling lights surrounded by nightly ’snow.’

At Universal Studios in Orlando, join in the fun of the Macy’s Holiday Parade, featuring larger than life balloons from Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. Continue the celebration with Grinchmas at Islands of Adventure (the only time all year the Grinch makes an appearance), Barney’s Christmas Show, and Blues Brothers Christmas Show.

On various dates in late November and throughout December, Silver Springs Park in Ocala presents Festival of Lights, featuring a maze of illuminated gardens strung with more than a million sparklling lights, dozens of neon displays, local choirs, strolling carolers, musical stage shows, a lighted boat parade, shopping, a Holiday Buffet with all the trimmings, and Santa.

Florida’s oldest city, St. Augustine, is magical during their grand holiday celebration of lights. The Nights of Lights features over two million lights that illuminate the colonial buildings, downtown parks, and historic bayfront.

In Kissimmee, the Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center stages ICE!, an indoor winter wonderland carved from two million pounds of ice. A team of 40 artisans from Harbin, China that spends more than a month in Kissimmee sculpting the display. The three-dimensional hand-carved ice monuments and sculptures include the ICE! castle and slides, which celebrate Santa’s Christmas Eve flight, reindeer and all. The attraction’s signature scene is a life-size Nativity carved completely of crystal-clear ice.

Santa’s Enchanted Forest in Miami features half a mile of light displays, carnival attractions, over 100 rides, a petting zoo, a 92 foot tall Christmas tree, pony rides, over 3,000,000 lights, and visits with Santa.

Fort Lauderdale’s Winterfest Boat Parade on the Intercoastal Waterway is billed as “The World’s Most Watched Boat Parade.” See scores of boats festooned with lights along the 12-mile parade route. The event is scheduled for December 13th this year.

Dunedin, a small town just north of Clearwater on the Gulf Coast, does it up right for Christmas. They kick off the season with An Old Fashioned Christmas in downtown Dunedin on December 5th, and follow it up with a boat parade and tree lighting on December 6th and a holiday parade and concert on December 12th.

Thank you Barbara! See the full article with links here: http://attractions.uptake.com/blog/top-ten-christmas-parades-and-events-across-florida-922.html

If you know of any other events and things to do around Florida this Christmas, please add them in the comments area for others to see!