Pinellas celebrates the holidays
NOTE: This listing has been updated, here.
By SUZETTE PORTER
| Article published on Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2007 |
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Tis the season, and around Pinellas calendars are filling quickly with a variety of special holiday events, including the following.
Christmas tree sale
SEMINOLE – The Kiwanis Club of Seminole are selling Christmas trees at the lot immediately north of the Seminole Chamber of Commerce building, 8400 113th St. Hours are Monday through Friday, 3 to 9 p.m.; Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; and Sundays noon to 7 p.m. All trees are Fraser firs. All proceeds from the sale go to the club’s youth projects. Also, Boy Scout Troop 371 will hold its annual Christmas Tree Sale at Christ the King Lutheran Church, 11220 Oakhurst Road through Sunday, Dec. 16.
Hours Saturday and Sunday are 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Monday through Friday, 5 to 9 p.m.
Holiday wreaths sale
CLEARWATER – The Humane Society of Pinellas is sponsoring a holiday wreath sale. Wreaths made from fresh Noble Fir and accented with Cedar, blue-berried Juniper and Ponderosa pine cones are shipped in refrigerated trucks for quality. Two sizes are available for $30 and $40. The Humane Society of Pinellas is at 3040 State Road 590. Visit www.humanesocietyofpinellas.org or call 797-7722.
Illuminated Gardens
LARGO - Continuing through Thursday, Jan. 3, enjoy the free Illuminated Gardens at Florida Botanical Gardens from 6 to 10 p.m. Stroll through the beautiful Florida Botanical Gardens and marvel at Pinellas County’s premier holiday light event with more than 425,000 lights. Start a family tradition of welcoming in the holiday season with style. The gardens are located at 12520 Ulmerton Road. For more information, call 727-582-2100.
Santa’s mailbox
TREASURE ISLAND – Santa’s Mailbox is scheduled from Dec. 3-14, Santa will personally answer letters from all boys and girls who drop off or mail letters to his mailbox located in front of the Treasure Island City Hall at 120 108th Ave. Santa reminds everyone to have a return address on their letters.
Sun Coast Hospital Foundation Santa letters and calls
LARGO - Sun Coast Hospital Foundation teamed up with Santa Claus for the 2007 holiday season to offer personalized letters from Santa and live phone calls from him as well. For a $3 donation, Sun Coast Hospital Foundation will send a personalized letter signed by Santa or Mrs. Claus to a child. If there is more than one child at a given address each child will receive a different letter. All letter requests need to be into Sun Coast Hospital Foundation by Dec. 14 to make it in time for Christmas. With the purchase of a letter from Santa, for $2 or more, Santa will make a phone call to a child. On the evening of Dec. 23 Elves of the Sun Coast Hospital Foundation will work with the North Pole Switchboard to place calls for children to talk directly with Santa Claus himself. Please include information about the child, so that the call can be personalized for each child. To reserve a letter call Jessica Petot at the Sun Coast Hospital Foundation at 727-586-7119 or fax a request to 727-587-0219.
Santa calls and letters
LARGO – The city of Largo and Tampa Bay Newspapers have teamed up with Santa to dedicate a phone line from the North Pole to chilren ages 8 and under on Dec. 10-12 between 6 and 8 p.m. Sign-up forms are available in the city's Play magazine, which is available at the Largo Public Library, the Largo Cultural Center and all staffed recreation centers. Return the forms to the Largo Community Center no later than Friday, Dec. 7 to ensure a call from Santa. If a child is not available at the designated times or the form is received after Dec. 7, Santa will send a personalized letter by Dec. 20 instead of calling. Forms can be mailed to: Santa's Calling, Largo Community Center, 65 Fourth St. NW, Largo, FL 33770. Forms also can be faxed to 518-3145. For more information, call 518-3131.
Santa Claus Christmas Gift Delivery
BELLEAIR – The annual Santa Claus Christmas Gift Delivery in Belleair is Dec. 19, 20 and 21 from 6 to 9 p.m. Residents of Belleair who would like Santa Claus to deliver a gift to someone 12 years old and under at their home should make reservations with Suzy Metcalf at 588-3769, ext. 312. Reservations will be accepted starting Monday, Dec. 3 through Friday, Dec. 14 at 4 p.m. Reservation forms will be available at Town Hall. Early reservations are suggested as there will be a limited number of deliveries each evening. Each gift to be delivered should be wrapped and tagged clearly with the name of the recipient, the delivery address, and phone number. Wrapped gifts shall be limited to one per recipient, and limited in size to 12 inches by 12 inches. Gifts may be delivered to Town Hall, 901 Ponce de Leon Blvd., from Monday, Dec. 10 through Monday, Dec. 17 by 4 p.m. For information about becoming an elf for the Santa delivery, please call 588-3769, ext. 214 or 312.
DFAC Holiday show
DUNEDIN – The Dunedin Fine Art Center’s Holiday Show is continuing through Dec. 24. The exhibit offers early shoppers the opportunity to stock up on ornaments and decorations as well as pick up Christmas gifts. A dozen themed holiday trees are up for sale, as well as art. Also, there will be galleries with artworks in all media. The center is at 1143 Michigan Blvd. Call 298-3322.
Photo with Santa
CLEARWATER – The Humane Society of Pinellas offers Photos With Santa on Nov. 24-25, Dec. 1-2 and Dec. 8-9. Pet owners will have photo opportunities for three weekends; Nov. 24 and 25, Dec. 1 and 2, and Dec. 8 and 9 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Attendees will be given the chance to be unique with the pictures taken as well as the ability to order cards, gift tags and other prints. The Humane Society of Pinellas is at 3040 State Road 590. Visit www.humanesocietyofpinellas.org or call 797-7722.
Operation Twinkle and Old-Fashioned Christmas
DUNEDIN – The city is encouraging local business owners and organizations to help transform the downtown area into an illuminated fantasy during Operation Twinkle. The city also will sponsor its Old-Fashioned Christmas event on Friday, Nov. 30, featuring an outdoor concert, carriage rides with horses wearing sleigh bells and children’s crafts. All participants in the annual pole decorating contest will be announced at the event. Call Steven Sherman at 812-4533.
Brighten Their Future
DUNEDIN – The Suncoast Animal League’s Brighten Their Future event will run from Friday, Nov. 30, through Monday, Dec. 31, at Pioneer Park. There will be a Community Lighting Ceremony on Nov. 30 at 6 p.m. The league encourages individuals or businesses to participate in the event by sponsorship or by purchasing a $10 holiday light in honor of or in memory of a special person or pet. These lights will make up strands of light that will be used to decorate Pioneer Park in downtown Dunedin. Call 939-1300.
Wild Wonderland
TAMPA - wild Wonderland begins on Nov. 30 and continues on Dec. 1, 7-8, 14-16, 19-23, 26-30, at Lowry Park Zoo. Join the holiday fun at the zoo after dark. See more than a million twinkling lights, live reindeer, Santa Claus, holiday displays and much more. The zoo is located at 1101 W. Sligh Ave. in Tampa, one mile west of I-275 (exit 48). The zoo is open 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Regular admission prices are: adult - $16.95, seniors (60+) - $15.95, children ages 3-11 - $12.50, and children 2 and under are free. Parking is free. Visit www.lowryparkzoo.com or call 813-935-8552 for more information.
Downtown Lighting Festivities
CLEARWATER - The city's new downtown streetscape is getting decked out in holiday array and officials plan to flip the switch that will light it all up Friday, Nov. 30. The fun begins in front of the historic Royalty Theatre at 5:30 p.m. Complimentary hot cocoa, coffee and cookies will be served, a high school marching band will spread holiday tunes and cheer, and city officials will join Santa for the lighting. When the deed is done and downtown is aglow, Santa will lead the crowd into the theatre for a free screening of the holiday classic film that includes an adventure on a magical train to the North Pole. For more information, call 727-562-4464.
‘Howliday Festival of Lights’
NEW PORT RICHEY – The Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals Suncoast is hosting its first-ever ‘Howliday Festival of Lights’ presented by Animal Planet Pet Video, beginning with a lighting ceremony and open house on Nov. 30, 5 to 8 p.m. During this event, the shelter will be illuminated with thousands of holiday lights representing donations from the community. The SPCA Suncoast is encouraging the community to show their Howliday spirit by sponsoring single lights for a donation of $10 each, or an adoptable dog or cat’s kennel for $100. Local businesses are invited to also sponsor a kennel or become an event sponsor starting this November. Sponsor a light in honor or in memory of a beloved person or pet, see your family or business name on a dog or cat’s kennel. The holiday lights will be on every night from Nov. 30-Dec. 30. Photos with Santa also will be offered on Dec. 21-22, 1 to 4 p.m. For more information, call Traci Theis at 727-643-3647 or visit www.SPCAsuncoast.org.
Tree lighting
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH – The city is hosting a tree lighting ceremony on Friday, Nov. 30, 7 p.m., 12th Avenue Park, next to the 12th Avenue beach access. There will be holiday music. Mayor Bill Ockunzzi, along with attending children, will light the tree. In case of inclement weather, the event will be moved to the city auditorium.
Tree lighting ceremony, Santa visit
REDINGTON BEACH - Santa Claus will arrive in Redington Beach on Saturday, Dec. 1. Beginning at 4:30 p.m., Santa will tour through the streets of the town on a fire truck from the Madeira Beach Fire Department. The tour will begin and end at the Town Park, 164th Avenue and Gulf Boulevard. After the parade, beginning at about 5 p.m., at Town Park, the children will have an opportunity to decorate their own holiday ornament to hang on the Town's holiday tree in the park, with supplies provided by the Redington Beach Garden Club. Children also can visit with Santa and give him their letters and one of Santa’s elves will give out gifts. About 6 p.m., Redington Beach Mayor, Nick Simons, will throw the switch to light up the Town’s Holiday Tree with its elegant white-lighting scheme. Holiday cookies also will be provided by the Redington Beach Garden Club. Juices and water will be supplied by the Redington Beach Property Owners Association which is the organizer of the event.
Christmas in the Country
TAMPA - Visitors can experience the sights, sounds and smells of an old-fashioned country Christmas on Saturday, Dec. 1, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Cracker Country, at the Florida State Fairgrounds. Enjoy the holiday traditions of the 19th century through historical interpretations, music, hands-on folk crafts and more. Admission is $5 for adults, $4 for seniors ages 55 and older and children ages six to 12, and free for children ages five and younger. Parking is free for this event; visitors should enter the Fairgrounds via the Orient Road entrance. No reservations are needed. For more information, visit www.crackercountry.org or call 813-627-4225.
Trees & Traditions
On Saturday, Dec. 1, from 1 to 4 p.m. enjoy Trees & Traditions. Kick off the holiday season at Heritage Village, 11909 125th St. N. in Largo, with multicultural dance performances by member groups of SPIFFS, the St. Petersburg International Folk Fair Society. View holiday trees decorated in colorful global themes in the Visitor Center Galleries as well as Hanukkah and Kwanzaa displays. Buildings throughout the Village will be decorated for the holidays and open for docent and self-guided tours. The Pinellas County Historical Society will host their annual open house at Greenwood House. Decorated trees and buildings will be on display throughout December. Free. For more information, call 727-582-2123 or visit www.pinellascounty.org/Heritage.
Holiday parade and tree lighting ceremony
TREASURE ISLAND - The City’s Holiday Parade and Tree Lighting Ceremony will be Saturday, Dec. 1, at the Treasure Island Community Center and Park, Gulf Boulevard at 106th Avenue. The parade starts at 4:30 p.m. at Treasure Bay, 10315 Paradise Boulevard, and travels down 107th around the Clock Tower to the Community Center. The parade will feature the Santa and Mrs. Claus, antique cars, various local clubs and organizations and more. After the parade, children will be able to visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Community Center, and join Santa and Mayor Maloof in the lighting of the City’s holiday decorations. Refreshments will be served following the lighting of the holiday decorations. Additional activities will include face painting elves; balloon twisting toy soldier; Katie’s Holiday Hoopla Storytelling Show; Dickens Carolers: Barnaby¹s Holiday Magic Show; and more.
Holiday Spectacular
LARGO – The Tutterow Stars of Tomorrow present the annual Holiday Spectacular on Sunday, Dec. 2, 2 p.m., at the Largo Community Center. The show includes dancers, vocalists and musicians from the community. Tickets are $12 and are available at the Largo Cultural Center box office. This summer, the Tutterow dancers will be performing for U.S. troops in German and will take a workshop from the Berlin Ballet Company. Proceeds from the Holiday Spectacular will help fund the trip to Germany and also will benefit the Make-A-Wish Foundation. Largo Community Center is at 65 Fourth St. N.W. Call 587-6751.
Abilities Guild Holiday Gala
CLEARWATER BEACH – The Abilities Guild honors its founder and first president, Ollie Hamm, at its sixth annual Holiday Gala on Sunday, Dec. 2, 6:30 p.m., at the Carlouel Yacht Club. The black tie optional event will include dinner with wine and dancing to the sounds of Richie V. There will be a silent auction featuring a vintage doll house, wine tasting experience, jewelry for any occasion and art work. Valet parking will be available. Reservations are required. Cost is $85 a person. All proceeds will support the Abilities Foundation in its efforts of job training and placement, housing, health and recreational help for disabled persons. Call Marie Gage at 934-4304 or Anne Lauder at 595-6180.
Holiday street parade
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH – The city is hosting a holiday street parade on Sunday, Dec. 2, 1 p.m., from Second Street in front of the Holiday Inn Harborside to the city auditorium. After the parade, Santa will be at the auditorium and will chat with children and give them a small present. There will be sandwiches, cookies and punch. Call Cory McBrdie at 595-2517.
GCMA Holiday Open House
LARGO – The Gulf Coast Museum of Art is hosting an open house with free admission from 3-5 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 5, in the museum’s galleries. During the Holiday Open House, original ornaments will be available for purchase for the Volunteer’s “The Gift of Art” fundraiser. The ornaments will be created by artists featured in GCMA’s collections, instructors from the educational classes program and volunteers with an artistic flair. The fundraiser will be featured throughout the month of December with proceeds directly benefiting the Museum’s educational programs for adults and children. Experience the art of Florida’s Audubon master with John Costin: Wings of Splendor, and the photography of Frida Kahlo: Through the Lens of Nickolas Muray. Enjoy light snacks, grab a cup of “cocoa to go” and stroll into the Florida Botanical Gardens filled with the magic of their sensational seasonal lights. This event is organized by GCMA’s Volunteer Coordinating Committee.
Christmas concert
SEMINOLE – Christ the King Presbyterian Church, 5400 Seminole Blvd., plans a free Christmas concert featuring singer Rick Bankemper Wednesday, Dec. 5, 7 p.m. For further information, call 394-0787.
Christmas concert
SEMINOLE – Christ the King Presbyterian Church, 5400 Seminole Blvd., plans a free Christmas concert featuring singer Rick Bankemper Wednesday, Dec. 5, 7 p.m. For further information, call 394-0787.
Mrs. Santa Luncheon and Fashion Show
ST. PETERSBURG – Mrs. Santa Luncheon and Fashion Show, a benefit for All Children’s Hospital, is set for Wednesday, Dec. 5, at St. Petersburg Yacht Club. Social hour begins at 11 a.m. with the luncheon at noon. Dillard’s of St. Petersburg will provide the fashion show. Tickets are $45. Proceeds will go toward the All Children’s Hospital Guilds' pledge of $4 million to All Children's Hospital for the new Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. For reservations, call: 727-341-1930 or 727-641-1438.
Scarlet Ribbons
CLEARWATER – Scarlet Ribbons, the Leading Ladies’ holiday event, will be in the Heye Room of Ruth Eckerd Hall Thursday, Dec. 6. Cocktails will be served in the West Wing at 6:30 p.m. Silent auction items including art, theater and orchestra tickets, dinner packages, jewelry and more will be available for bidding. The formal dinner catered by Parties by Design will be served as guests enjoy comedian Tim Wilkins. Pepper’s Flashback Band will provide music for dancing. The evening will culminate with a live auction, opportunities drawings and a special surprise. The cost is $90 a person, black tie optional. Valet parking will be available. Proceeds will benefit the Marcia P. Hoffman Performing Arts Institute at Ruth Eckerd Hall. Call Bridget Meyer at 292-3819.
Safford House Museum Victorian Candlelight Tour
TARPON SPRINGS - Safford House Museum Victorian Candlelight Tour is set for Thursday through Sunday, Dec. 6-9, 5:30 to 8 p.m. Visitors can stroll through the historic structure decorated for the holidays to reflect the spirit of Christmas as it was celebrated in Florida in the 1880s, while enjoying live music and seasonal refreshments. Local toy aficionado Robert Clemente will exhibit vintage toys from his extensive collection. Tickets are $10; $5 for members; and free for children accompanied by a paying adult. The museum is at 23 Parkin Court, Tarpon Springs. For more information, call 727-937-1130.
Christmas Tree Lighting
SAFETY HARBOR - The city's Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony is set for Friday, Dec. 7, 6 to 7 p.m., at the Gazebo. Enjoy Christmas carols, a visit from Santa and more.
'Bethlehem, Everybody’s Hometown'
LARGO – The Indian Rocks Celebration Choir and Orchestra will perform “Bethlehem, Everybody’s Hometown” on Friday, Dec. 7, 7 p.m., at the Worship Center, First Baptist Church of Indian Rocks, 12685 Ulmerton Road. There also will be a matinee on Saturday, Dec. 8, 1 p.m. and a performance on Sunday, Dec. 9, 7 p.m. Written and produced by Walt Disney World’s Derric Johnson, the show will explain the story of Jesus Christ’s birth. Performances are general admission seating. Cost is $5 on Friday and Saturday. A donation will be accepted for the Sunday show. Children 3 and under are free. Call 595-3421 or visit www.indianrocks.org.
Holiday in the Park Winter Fest
PINELLAS PARK – The city is hostings its fifth annual Holiday in the Park Winter Fest on Friday, Dec. 7, from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. and on Dec. 8 from noon to 10 p.m. at Town Square Plaza Park, 5121 80th Terrace. A holiday theme will be featured, along with carnival rides, food, entertainment, hay rides, photos with Santa and more. Call Bev Waggoner at 541-0760 for more information.
Friday Nights and Garden Lights
LARGO - On Friday, Dec. 7, from 6 to 9 p.m., families will delight at a free Friday Nights and Garden Lights event at Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road. Free music and refreshments will be offered. Music provided by Lori Hafer and the Music of Your Life Band. The traditional Children’s Parade of Wings takes flight, but children must call 727-582-2247 to sign-up. Visits with Mother Nature are planned. For a suggested $5 donation, children get a photo taken with Santa and Mrs. Claus. Donations will be used to support the Florida Botanical Gardens. Regions Bank is sponsoring this event.
Silver Bells
ST. PETERSBURG – The Florida Suncoast Opera Guild will host Silver Bells, the 43rd annual gala brunch, on Friday, Dec. 7, 10:30 a.m., at St. Petersburg Yacht Club, 11 Central Ave. An operetta “From Russia with Love” will be presented by the St. Petersburg Opera Company under the direction of Mark Sforzini with show-stopping songs and instrumental ensembles. Cost is $50 a person. For reservations, call Sheryl Plonka at 867-5263 by Dec. 5.
Memorial Holiday Boat Parade
ISLAND ESTATES – The Memorial Holiday Boat Parade sponsored by the Island Estates Yacht Club Saturday, Dec. 8, 6:30 p.m. Boats will assemble at 6 p.m. in Mandalay Channel between Island Estates and Clearwater Beach. The parade will take the boats through many of the Island Estates canals. They will travel toward Coachman Park arriving at 8, proceeding under the Memorial Causeway Bridge, turning into the Clearwater Marina Channel and finally navigating to the Clearwater Yacht Club judging stand.
Annual Holiday Winterfest and Tree Lighting
SEMINOLE - Annual Holiday Winterfest and Tree Lighting, Saturday, Dec. 8, 5 to 9 p.m., Seminole City Park, 7464 Ridge Road. Plans call for 14 tons of snow to be used to form two snow hills. Amenities include bounce houses, crafts, hay rides, carolers and a visit by Santa Claus. The event is sponsored by the Seminole Recreation Division. Call 391-8345.
Picture Your Pet with Mrs. Claus
LARGO – Pinellas County Animal Services is offering a Picture Your Pet with Mrs. Clause event on Saturday, Dec. 8, from 10 a.m. to noon. Get photos taken with favorite family pets in grand holiday style. Photographer Wayne Cathel of Belleair Images is donating his expertise. A $5 donation per photo will go directly to the Animal Welfare Trust Fund, which is used for the special needs of animals at the shelter and adoption center. On that day, Animal Services will offer special holiday gift rates of $20 adoptions and $1 rabies shots. Animal Services is located at 12450 Ulmerton Road in Largo. For more information, call 727-453-3065.
Una Voce: The Florida Men’s Chorale Holiday Concert
ST. PETERSBURG - Una Voce: The Florida Men’s Chorale presents its sixth annual Holiday concert, “Half Baked Holiday” on Dec. 8, 7 p.m., at Lakewood Church of Christ, 2601 54th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. Cost is $10. For tickets or more information, call 727-867-7961. The concert’s theme portrays the dysfunctional family and the expected drama when the family gets together for a holiday that’s “nuttier than a fruitcake.” The men of Una Voce will present a very wide variety of holiday music, including an unusual “Jingle Bells” montage to the swinging 50s Dreidel A-Go-Go plus traditional pieces of “Do You Hear What I Hear” and “The Holly and The Ivy.” Free childcare will be provided.
Tis the Season holiday Display
CLEARWATER – Regency Oaks second annual Tis the Season holiday display kicks off on Saturday, Dec. 8, 1 to 4 p.m. Virginia Lydon will present her display of lights in her miniature, moving holiday village. Meet the artist and enjoy a holiday assortment of breads, cookies and refreshments. Regular hours for the Holiday Display will continue through Jan. 5, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, 1 to 3 p.m., and Tuesdays and Thursdays, 6 to 8 p.m. The display will be closed on Christmas and New Year’s Day. Regency Oaks is at 2720 Regency Oaks Blvd., Clearwater. R.S.V.P. by calling 727-252-0540.
The Great Figgy Pudding Street Corner Caroling Competition
ST. PETERSBURG – The second annual Great Figgy Pudding Street Corner Caroling Competition to raise funds to support the work of St. Petersburg Free Clinic and First Night St. Petersburg is Saturday, Dec. 8, at North Straub Park. Teams of carolers will raise pledges from family, friends and co-workers, then compete in either the Wild or Wacky or Traditional Choral categories. Costumes are encouraged. Spectators will be treated to beautiful holiday music and a few comical displays as teams compete for recognition at the Figgy Pudding Awards Ceremony in categories such as Best Choral Performance, Most Original Performance, Getting Figgy With It, and the People’s Choice Award. This year the top individual fundraiser will win the Lone Figgy Award. For information on how to enter, volunteer or become a sponsor, call Rebecca Russell-Gootee at 727-821-1200, ext. 114.
Give the Gift of Nature Workshop
ST. PETERSBURG - Replace hectic holiday traffic and last minute shopping with family time at a free Saturday, Dec. 8, Give the Gift of Nature Workshop from 11 a.m. to noon, at Weedon Island Preserve, 1800 Weedon Drive N.E. in St. Petersburg. Learn how to create beautiful, personal and one-of-a-kind gifts using common household materials and natural objects for friends and relatives. Create up to three different nature crafts. The workshop is best for anyone over 5 years old. Pre-registration required by calling 727-453-6500.
Candlelight Memorial Service
LARGO - Remove Intoxicated Drivers Tampa Bay presents its annual Candlelight Memorial Service: Christmas of Remembrance on Saturday, Dec. 8, 6:30 p.m., at Faith United Methodist Church, 403 First Ave. SW., Largo. The service remembers loved ones who have died or been injured by someone who chose to drive impaired, as well the county's law enforcement officers who have died in the line of duty. For more information, send an e-mail to Tmartin151@tampabay.rr.com.
Dunedin Community Chorus Holiday Concert
DUNEDIN - The 80-voice Dunedin Community Chorus presents, “Holiday Fantasy,” a concert for the season, on Sunday, Dec. 9, 3 p.m., at Edinburgh Hall in the new Dunedin Community Center, 1920 Pinehurst Road. The performance includes traditional music with novelty twists, up-beat jazz numbers, old favorites, solos and specialty numbers. Suggested donated is $5. For more information, call 727-812-4533.
Light The Way Home
CLEARWATER – The Humane Society of Pinellas is sponsoring its seventh annual Light the Way Home ceremony on Sunday, Dec. 9, 6 p.m. The shelter is lit up with lights that are purchased in honor and memory of loved ones, both pets and people. The Humane Society of Pinellas is at 3040 State Road 590. Visit www.humanesocietyofpinellas.org or call 797-7722.
Christmas Boat Parade and Holiday Celebration
TREASURE ISLAND - Christmas Boat Parade and Holiday Celebration is scheduled for Sunday, Dec. 9, at the Treasure Island Tennis and Yacht Club, 400 Treasure Island Causeway. The Holiday Celebration begins at 4:30 p.m. with the Boat Parade leaving the Yacht Club at 6:20 p.m. Bring a new toy to the Recreation Department at City Hall or Treasure Bay on Paradise Boulevard between Nov. 26-Dec. 7 to receive a pass to watch the parade from a spectacular vantage point and to participate in the events at the Yacht Club. The toys will be donated to the Christmas Toy Shop Project Inc. Holiday music and complimentary hot dogs, chowder, hot cider and cookies will be served poolside. Santa will make an appearance. A rain date is scheduled for Monday, Dec. 10. For information, call the Yacht Club at 727-367-4511.
Holiday Fantasy
DUNEDIN - The Dunedin Community Chorus’ “Holiday Fantasy,” is set for Sunday, Dec. 9, 3 p.m., at Edinburgh Hall in the Dunedin Community Center, 1920 Pinehurst Road, Dunedin. The performance includes traditional music with novelty twists, up-beat jazz numbers, old favorites, solos and specialty numbers. Suggested donation is $5. Call 812-4533.
Celebration of Hanukkah traditions and music
CLEARWATER - Celebration of Hanukkah traditions and music will be presented on Wednesday, Dec. 12, 2 p.m., at Regency Oaks, 2720 Regency Oaks Blvd., Clearwater. Join Joy Katzen-Guthrie as she interweaves her soulful performances with captivating history and storytelling in a one-of-a-kind uplifting musical experience. R.S.V.P. by calling 727-252-0540.
Home decorating contest
GULF BEACHES The Redington Beaches Holiday Home Decorating Committee announces that the judging for the local competition for Best Decorated Home will be Wednesday, Dec. 12. The contest is open to all residents of Redington Beach, North Redington Beach and Redington Shores and all decorated homes will be considered. No formal entry is required; just decorate your home. Residents of those towns are invited to dress up their homes in full holiday regalia. Lights, wreaths, garland, decorated trees, lawn displays and seasonal music are all encouraged as decorating options. Homes from each town will be awarded first, second and third places, with the prizes presented that evening. The house decorating winners will also be acknowledged at the awards presentation for the Redington Beaches and Indian Shores Holiday Boat Parade, on the evening of Sunday, Dec. 16, at The Pub restaurant in Indian Shores. Volunteer judges from each of the three participating towns make the selections. Call Zoe Roseman, committee chairman, 392-0606.
Boys of the Lough: A Celtic Christmas
TARPON SPRINGS - Boys of the Lough: A Celtic Christmas is coming to the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center on Thursday, Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m. Tickets are $30, $28 and $15. The Boys of the Lough have established a reputation for technical brilliance. Their inspiring holiday music ranges widely through traditional melodies of Ireland and encompasses fiddle music of Shetland, Scotland and North America. Compelling dance rhythms, which give the music such life, will lift the audience to its feet; the evocative slow airs and beautifully structured songs - some in the Irish language - will have them coming back for more. The Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center is at 324 Pine St. For tickets or more information, call 727-942-5605 or visit www.tarponarts.org.
New Beginnings Luncheon: Home for the Holidays
CLEARWATER - New Beginnings Luncheon: Home for the Holidays is set for Thursday, Dec. 13, 12:30 p.m., at Regency Oaks, 2720 Regency Oaks Blvd., Clearwater. Enjoy chef’s special luncheon featuring favorite holiday recipes. Meet Regency Oaks residents and hear how they are continuing their own holiday traditions and beginning new ones. R.S.V.P. by calling 727-252-0540.
Voices of the Season holiday concert
TARPON SPRINGS - Maria Zouves, Sherrill Milnes and the VOICExperience Singers presents a concert of holiday favorites on Sunday, Dec. 16, 7 p.m., at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, 324 Pine St. Tickets are $15 and $13. For tickets or more information, call 727-942-5605 or visit www.tarponarts.org.
Friday Nights and Garden Lights
On Friday, Dec. 14, from 6 to 9 p.m., families enjoy a free Friday Nights and Garden Lights celebration at Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road. Free music, refreshments and children’s craft activities will be offered. Music provided by Florencio Guitars, a World Music Trio. For a suggested $5 donation, children get a photo taken with Mother Nature. Donations will be used to support the Florida Botanical Gardens. Regions Bank is sponsoring this event.
Holiday Movie in the Park, Yule Log Ceremony
SEMINOLE - Holiday Movie in the Park and Yule Log Ceremony on Friday, Dec. 14, 6 to 8 p.m., Seminole City Park, 7464 Ridge Road.
Holiday Parade and Downtown Festival
CLEARWATER – Clearwater's Holiday Parade and Downtown Festival is set for Saturday, Dec. 15. This year's celebration, which will be during the day for the first time, begins with a parade at 11 a.m. The parade route along Cleveland Street, starts from Highland Avenue, heading west to Myrtle Avenue. Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and sit along the parade route, to watch and catch beads and candy. The parade will feature numerous entries including marching bands, walking groups, krewes, floats, antique cars, clowns, and an appearance by Santa Claus. Groups such as scout troops, church groups, or businesses are needed to participate in the parade, if interested call Amma Marfo at 727-562-4828.
The celebration will culminate with the Downtown Festival on Cleveland Street from 12:30 - 4 p.m. It will include carnival games, pony rides, "make and take" crafts and cookies, a rock climbing wall, inflatable rides, face painting and balloon animals, a juggler and stilt walker, a performance by the Clearwater High School Band and more. Price for exhibitors and crafters is $15; please bring your own table. Exhibitors and crafters interested in being part of the downtown festival should call Amma Marfo at 727-562-4828.
Holiday Parade
SAFETY HARBOR - The 27th annual Holiday Parade is Saturday, Dec. 15, 1 p.m. on Main Street. The parade features floats, old time cars, Shriners and Santa Clause. For more information, call 724-1572.
Indian Rocks Beach Holiday Lighted Boat Parade
INDIAN ROCKS BEACH – Boat owners are getting ready for the annual IRB Holiday Lighted Boat Parade, Saturday, Dec. 15, 7 p.m. This year offers bigger and better awards with more than $2,500 in prize money. Every boat will receive a goody bag with gifts. Events will include the captain’s meeting with hors d’oeuvres the week before the parade and the captain’s award party after the boat parade on the deck at Jimmy Guana’s. This is a judged event and there are three categories: 23 feet and under, 24 to 30 feet, and 31 feet and over. First prize in each category is $300 and a plaque; second prize in each category is $250 and a plaque; third prize in each category is $200 and a plaque; Judge’s Choice award is $200, and the Elf Award is $200. To enter, call Randy Schwab at 595-6889 or e-mail him at RSchwab@irbcity.com.
Madeira Beach boat parade
MADEIRA BEACH - The city of Madeira Beach presents its 41st Annual Festival of Lights Boat Parade on Saturday, Dec. 15. Participating boats are requested to rendezvous at Snug Harbor at approximately 6:15 p.m., for a 7 p.m. parade start at John¹s Pass. The finish will be in the canal north of City Hall on the border with Redington Beach, beyond the Tom Stuart Causeway Bridge. The boats will cover a route that winds into the numerous canals and fingers that make up the city¹s waterfront. Due to weather, tide and water depth considerations and turning widths, some of the city¹s canals and fingers might not be navigable for the decorated boats.
All boats will be assigned a number. Boat owners and operators must display the number on the port (left) side of the boat, so they are visible to the judges. Boats must complete the entire parade route in order to be eligible for the awards. Cash prizes include $1000 for best overall, plus $200, $150, $100 and $50 for first, second, third, and fourth place boats in each category. Boats will be entered in a category based on its overall length: Small (up to 22 feet; medium, 23 to 32 feet; and large, more than 32 feet.
The captain¹s meeting for participating boats will be Wednesday, Dec. 12, at 7 p.m. at Madeira Beach City Hall. Boat numbers can be picked up at that time, or are available at City Hall. Entry forms for the parade are available now at City Hall. Entry forms will also be distributed to local marinas for boaters to pick up.
The awards party will be held at Holiday Isle Elks Club, 14111 Parsley Drive, Madeira Beach, on Tuesday, Dec. 18 beginning at 6 p.m. For further information about the Madeira Beach Boat Parade, visit www.ci.madeira-beach.fl.us or call Mike Ritner, committee chairman at 215-0704.
Holiday boat parade
REDINGTON BEACH AND INDIAN SHORES - The Redington Beaches and Indian Shores Holiday Boat Parade is Sunday, Dec. 16, beginning at 6 p.m. Participating boats are requested to rendezvous just north of the Tom Stuart (Madeira Beach) Causeway at about 5:45 p.m. Boats will cover a route following the Intra-Coastal Waterway from just north of the Tom Stuart Causeway Bridge (Redington Beach) to The Pub restaurant in Indian Shores. It meanders into the creeks and canals that branch off the ICW, passing along the shoreline of each of the participating communities. The Captain’s meeting for participating boats will be Thursday, Dec. 13, 7 p.m., at the Town Hall of North Redington Beach, 190 173rd Ave.
The awards ceremony will take place at The Pub, following the arrival of the last participant. The management of The Pub has extended an invitation to all participants to dock their boats overnight in the restaurant’s marina.
Major prizes, consisting of gifts and cash, are given to the top three boats in each category. The three judging categories are based on the lengths of the participating boats; typically, the categories break at approximately under 25 feet, 25 to 35 feet and over 35 feet. The committee tries to put equal numbers of boats in each category. Entry forms for the parade are available now at the Town Halls and Web sites of the participating towns. Entry forms will also be distributed to local marinas for boaters to pick up.
The Boat Parade Committee has also allocated up to $25 per boat for the rental of portable generators to operate the decorative lighting used by the boats. Boat captains should submit a copy of their rental receipt in order to claim reimbursement. For more information, call Nick Simons, Committee Chairman, 727-421-0885.
Christmas shows
PINELLAS PARK – The Park Place Wesleyan Church will present its 28th annual Christmas musical production. The shows, featuring a living Christmas tree, is entitled “There is Peace in the World Tonight.” The events will be Dec. 16 at 6 p.m.; Dec. 17, 19 and 21 at 7:30 p.m. and on Dec. 23 at 4 p.m. The church is located at 4400 70th Ave. Call 526-3674.
Sugarplum Tea
CLEARWATER - Join Regency Oaks for tea and holiday sweets in the Regency Room and enjoy an artful Christmas Program presented by St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Arts, featuring their Artist-in-Residence, Nan Colton, on Wednesday, Dec. 19, 1:30 p.m. Regency Oaks is at 2720 Regency Oaks Blvd., Clearwater. R.S.V.P. by calling 727-252-0540.
Friday Nights and Garden Lights
On Friday, Dec. 21, from 6 to 9 p.m., families relax at a free Friday Nights and Garden Lights event celebration at Florida Botanical Gardens, 12520 Ulmerton Road. Free refreshments offered. The Lyle Warner Trio will provide great musical entertainment. For a suggested $5 donation, children get a photo taken with Mother Nature. Donations will be used to support the Florida Botanical Gardens. Regions Bank is sponsoring this event.
‘The Nutcracker’
TARPON SPRINGS - All American Classical Ballet School of Tampa presents “The Nutcracker,” Friday through Sunday, Dec. 21-23. Show time is 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday with a 2 p.m. matinee on Sunday at the Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, 324 Pine St. Tickets are $18 and $16. For tickets or more information, call 727-942-5605 or visit www.tarponarts.org. Nutcracker's brilliant blend of costumes, sets and choreography creates a magical storybook world enjoyed by children and adults alike.
Knights of Columbus New Year’s Eve Party
CLEARWATER – The Knights of Columbus will host a New Year’s Eve Party on Monday, Dec. 31, 7 p.m. to 1 a.m., at 512 S. Lincoln Ave. The event will feature dinner and dancing. Tickets are $50 a person and will be sold through Saturday, Dec. 15. Call Michael Zazzaro at 526-3595.
Send holiday event listings to webmaster@tbnweekly.com.
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Article published on Tuesday, Nov. 27, 2007
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