Holiday Happenings20th Annual Victorian Christmas StrollExperience the charm of a 19th century holiday at the old Tampa Bay Hotel during the Victorian Christmas Stroll at the Henry B. Plant Museum. Antique toys lie scattered about the museum, and a lavishly decorated tree stands in every room. Complimentary cookies and cider are served on the veranda every day, and soloists and ensembles perform seasonal music nightly. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. Admission costs $8 for adults, $3 for children. The Henry B. Plant Museum, University of Tampa, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. 813-254-1891.
Christmas at Pinewood: Songs of the Season Pinewood, designed by architect Charles Waite, is on the National register of Historic Places and has been showcased in Home & Garden Television's Christmas Castles. The Mediterranean Revival-style villa is on the grounds of Bok Tower Gardens in Lake Wales. Each of its 20 rooms is decorated to portray a favorite holiday song. Fine linens, intricate tile, antique furnishings, sterling silver and crystal adorn the rooms. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 7. Admission costs $11 for adults, $6 for children ages 5-12. Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. 863-676-1408.
Christmas Parade Tarpon Springs' annual parade begins on Alt. U.S. 19 and proceeds through downtown. The parade is followed by a party in Craig Park (100 Library Circle) with games, refreshments, free visits with Santa Claus and free candy. Sat., Dec. 15, 10 a.m. 727-937-6109.
A Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols The festival, modeled after the traditional Christmas service performed every Christmas Eve at King's College in Cambridge, England, begins with a child soloist singing Once in Royal David's City, and continues with carols both ancient and modern — Handel's He Shall Feed His Flock and John Rutter's contemporary Jesus Child — interspersed with Scripture readings. Sun., Dec. 16, 6:30 p.m. Free. St. Peter's Episcopal Cathedral, 140 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg. 727-822-4173.
Healthy Eating Through the Holidays The African People's Education and Defense Fund offers this useful, informative program and Open House event. Come get ideas and recipes for healthy and tasty holiday fare that can help you maintain your weight. The event features cooking demonstrations, recipes and free food samples. Sat., Dec. 15, noon-3 p.m. The Wellness Center, 1327 Ninth St., St. Petersburg. 727-821-2437.
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party The largest rat in Central Florida hosts his popular holiday celebration. The party features marching toy soldiers, dancing snowflakes, holiday shows and sweet treats, plus Santa and his reindeer. And of course the park is dressed for the holidays. Tue., Thur., Fri., Sun., 7 p.m.-midnight. Continues through Dec. 18. Advance tickets cost $33. Disney's Magic Kingdom, 1000 Buena Vista Blvd., Lake Buena Vista. 407-934-7639.
Presents for Primates It's your chance to find out what orangutans, chimpanzees, Angolan colobus and siamangs have on their wish lists. The primate family at Lowry Park Zoo gets to open presents specially wrapped and given to them by Zoo staff as part of the animals' enrichment program. Thu., Dec. 13, 10 a.m. General admission is $7 for adults and $5 for kids 3-11. Lowry Park Zoo, 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa. 813-935-8552.
A Rockin' Christmas Don't step on Santa's blue suede boots. A Rockin' Christmas is a fun-filled, energetic rock 'n' roll cabaret featuring favorite holiday songs from the '50s and '60s, as well as today's new Christmas classics. Saturdays, 4:30 p.m.; Tue.-Sat., 7:30 p.m.; Sundays, 4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. Tickets cost $20.50 and $24.50. Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa. 813-229-7827.
Still No Room at the Inn For the 15th year, ASAP Homeless Shelter workers, supporters and residents are caroling through downtown St. Petersburg to Straub Park, to remind city residents that two millennia after the first Christmas there's still no room at the inn. Carolers sing at a nursing home and another homeless shelter along their route. Rides back from Straub park are provided. Fri., Dec. 14, 7 p.m. ASAP Homeless Shelter, 423 11th Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 727-823-5665.
Sunsets Caribbean Christmas and Craft Show Celebrate the holiday season Florida style at this beachside event, featuring handmade items for everyone on your gift-giving list. A beachy Santa is arriving via a jet ski pulled by the Clearwater Fire Department, and there's going to be a free make-and-take crafts area, street performers, live music and — of course — a gorgeous sunset. Dec. 15, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Dec. 16, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. Free. Pier 60, 10 Pier Drive, Clearwater. 727-461-7732.
Sweet Sounds of the Holidays This Christmas parade takes place on Safety Harbor's downtown Main Street, from Bayshore Boulevard to Sixth Avenue North. Featured participants include the Clearwater Phillies, the Egypt Temple Shrine Units, the Countryside High School Band, the '50s Original Rockers and the Liberty Fife & Drum Corp. Santa is also making an appearance, escorted by the Safety Harbor Fire Dept. Sat., Dec. 15, 1 p.m. 727-724-1545.
Tampa Oratorio Singers Christmas Concert Tampa's community chorus performs its 35th annual Christmas concert, including selections from Handel's Messiah and Bach's Christmas Oratorio. The concert features organ music, a chamber orchestra, soloists, brass quartet and an audience carol sing-a-long. Sun., Dec. 16, 4 p.m. Tickets cost $17.50. Discounts are available for students, seniors and children. Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa. 813-229-7827.
The Teddy Bear Express This kid-size choo-choo train at the Museum of Science and Industry takes kids through a fantasyland of toy soldiers, giant candy canes, toy drums, sleds and decorated trees. Teddy bears abound on every available perch. There's also a hands-on play area. Museum highlights include BioWorks Butterfly Garden, an engineered ecosystem that emulates natural wetlands; the Back Woods, 40 acres of special water conservation elements and outdoor exhibits; and the IMAX Dome Theatre, which features an 82-foot hemispherical movie screen. Fri., Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Mon.-Thur., Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. The Museum's combo admission is $13 for adults, $11 for seniors and $9 for ages 2 to 13. Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI), 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. 813-987-6300.
Victorian Holiday Garden Stroll Stroll a one-mile winding walkway with 3,000 luminaries and a 15-foot poinsettia tree. Fri.-Sun., 6 p.m.-8 p.m. Continues through Dec. 16. Admission costs $7 for adults, $5 for ages 55 and up and $3 for ages 3 to 12. Sunken Gardens, 1825 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg. 727-551-3100.
A Welsh Christmas In case you're unable to visit Wales this holiday season, Welsh harpist Robin Huw Bowen and actress/singer Eiry Palfrey are performing an evening of Welsh folk music. Of the few harpists worldwide who can play the triple harp, Bowen is recognized internationally as the leading player of the Welsh national instrument. Thu., Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m. Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, 324 Pine St., Tarpon Springs. 727-942-5605.
Winterland This celebration of lights is a drive-thru luminary park created along a mile-and-a-half route through the southwest corner of the USF-Tampa campus. Animated lights depict holiday scenes, such as Reindeer, Candy Land and The 12 Days of Christmas. Huge Oak trees also bear thousands of lights. And to complement the visual effects, vehicles passing through the park can tune in to holiday music played over the FM band. More than 20,000 cars visited the site during the course of last year's 40-day event. Mon.-Thur., Sun., 6 p.m.-10 p.m.; Saturdays, 6 p.m.-11 p.m. Continues through Jan. 6. Admission costs $20 per vehicle. University of South Florida, 4202 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. Entrance is at Spectrum Boulevard, just north of Fowler Avenue, off Bruce B. Downs Boulevard. 813-974-2323.Visual Arts: OpeningsArt House Heavenly Harlots. Meet New York artist Dino Kotopoulis, an award-winning animation director, designer and character sketcher for companies such as Universal Studios, Disney and several major advertising agencies, including Leo Burnett. He's since turned his artistic talents to making whimsical bas-relief caricatures of real people into furniture he calls Egos. Currently he's creating cut metal sculptures, including the Heavenly Harlots series. The exhibit is on display through Dec. 31. Call for hours. Reception Sun., Dec. 16, 6 p.m.-9 p.m. 233 Second St. S., Safety Harbor. 727-724-0122.
Baisden Gallery A New Wave of Glass II. This exhibit, featuring works by six young glass artists, is the gallery's second annual show highlighting artists who are gaining increased attention for their glass works. The artists are Jeanne Brennan, Nancy Callan, Mark Morris, Amy Rueffert, Ross Richmond and David Walters. Opens Dec. 14, 6 p.m.-9 p.m.; Wed., Fri., 1 p.m.-5 p.m.; Tue., Thur., Sat., noon-4 p.m. Continues through Feb. 3. 442 Grand Central Ave., Suite 100, Tampa. 813-250-1511.
New Heights Gallery Romantic Realists. This two-woman show introduces artists Lou Lair Harton and Beverly Barris to the Tampa Bay area. Harton is a recent arrival from Rio De Janeiro, Brazil, and Barris is from New York City. Harton's oil paintings are accomplished treatments of Brazilian women, adorned with tropical fruits and flowers. Barris, whose influences gravitate toward Rembrandt, creates atmospheric and figurative charcoals and pastels. Opens Dec. 16. 3 p.m.-10 p.m.; Wed.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Continues through Feb. 16. 6310 N. Nebraska Ave., Tampa. 813-234-9758.
Purple Moon The Feel Good Art Series. This bar and music venue plays host to local artists the third Sunday of every month. The featured artist this month is photographer Beth Krywokulski, whose most recent works, titled Angel of Peace at Work and Mother Nature's Seasons, can be seen at the event. Sun., Dec. 16, noon-6 p.m. 833 Douglas Ave., Dunedin. 727-738-1540.
Scarfone/Hartley Galleries Student Exhibit. A brief exhibit showcases the work of several graduating seniors: Gregory Bowrin, Stuart Burdette, Karina Hansen, Hope Montgomery, Kelly Nasuta and Jessica Zell. Dec. 13-14, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Dec. 15, 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Corner of North B Street and Brevard Avenue on the University of Tampa campus, Tampa. 813-253-6217.Visual Arts: OngoingArtists Unlimited Life in Stone. The exhibit consists of more than two dozen hand-carved sculptures by artists of Zimbabwe, Africa. Mon.-Fri., 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. 223 N. 12th St., Tampa. 813-229-5958.
Clayton Galleries Small Works: A Holiday Group Show. Twenty gallery artists display works in a wide range of media. All the works are smaller than 25 inches. Among the works are ornaments displayed on the gallery's Christmas tree. Tue.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Jan. 5. 4105 S. MacDill Ave., Tampa. 813-831-3753.
Covivant Gallery See You, See Me. The large gallery features works by three Vienna-based artists: Maria Hahnenkamp, Fiona Rukschcio and Klaus Pamminger. All three artists deal with the theme of perception. In the small gallery is Red Meat, a team exhibit by two recent graduates from Blake Magnet High School, Melissa Roll and Sarah Loveland. The exhibit features mixed media and photography. Sat., Sun., noon-4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. 4906 N. Florida Ave., Tampa. 813-232-3283.
Davidson Fine Art The Beat Generation. This collection of works by notable beat writers includes original art, manuscripts, letters and books by Kerouac, Burroughs, Ginsberg, Corso, Ferlinghetti, Baraka, Creely, Rivers and Bukowski. The show's producer and collection owner, Dr. William Plumley, is a published author himself (most recently in The Chicago Review) and has edited five anthologies of folklore, poetry and fiction. Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Jan. 10. 725 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-827-1888.
Dunedin Fine Art Center Wheels: Artists and Automobiles. Wheels examines the American obsession with automobiles, as well as the artistry, mystique and cultural impact of wheels. Saturdays, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.; Sundays, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through March 30. 1143 Michigan Blvd., Dunedin. 727-298-3322.
Florida Craftsmen Gallery Season of Lights. The gallery is stocked throughout with fine contemporary crafts designed for gift giving, including an installation of handsome, handmade cups and mugs. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Continues through Dec. 29. 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-821-7391.
The Gallery of Owen Sweet Design Language of the Heart. This exhibit consists of pop art-influenced oil and acrylic paintings by local artist Dragoslav Milic. Tue.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 28. 16701 Gulf Blvd. N., Redington Beach. 727-392-6936.
Graciela Giles Studio Our Town. These original watercolor paintings and prints depict local landscapes and scenes. Wed.-Fri., 2 p.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Feb. 28. 1014 12th St. W., Bradenton. 941-746-4469.
HCC-Ybor Gallery Blake High School Senior Masters Exhibit. This juried exhibit consists of the best works by Blake High School's senior art students. The exhibit includes various media — painting, photography, glass, jewelry, ceramics and sculpture. Tuesdays, 12 p.m.-8 p.m.; Mon., Wed.-Fri., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Jan. 3. In the HCC Performing Arts Building, at Palm Avenue and 15th Street, Ybor City. 813-253-7674.
Hyde Park Fine Arts Winter Salon. This multimedia, salon-style exhibit features the work of more than 20 artists, most of whom are new to the gallery. These new artists include folk painter Kathleen Deasey, ceramist Linda Chumley, and painters Bruce Minney and Marlene London. Returning gallery favorites include Lynn Whipple, Margaret Steward, Jack Barrett, Bask and more. Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Continues through Jan. 5. 937 S. Howard Ave., Tampa. 813-258-8883.
Lemon Studios and Gallery Trajectories. Chicago artist Carrie Shield displays works that pay homage to Piet Mondrian. Shield, who received her MFA from the University of Washington in Seattle, works primarily in oil on linen. Saturdays, noon-5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. 1601 N. Marion St., Tampa. 813-805-7487.
Merrick Gallery Glass/Painting Exhibit. Merrick's latest exhibit features glass by Florida glass blower Duncan McClellan and new works by Antonio Caparello, who worked for pop art master James Rosenquist as a painter and studio assistant for 10 years. McClellan has created some new pieces with his graal-and-overlay technique. Caparello, a billboard artist for many years, has focused of late on smaller works of oil on canvas. Wed., Thur., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri., Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sundays, 1 p.m.-6 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. 330 Beach Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727-896-2787.
Octagon Arts Center Whimsical Winter Scenes and Frosted Fantasies. All of the works in this show are somehow related to winter, be it in color, content, subject or allusion. The show includes works by mixed-media artists Lee Edgar and Karen Ann Westby, metal sculptor Brandy Stark, landscape/dreamscape painter Boo Ehrsam and photographer Kevin Peters. Call for exhibit hours. Continues through Jan. 9. 2470 Nursery Road, Clearwater. 727-531-7704.
Old Hyde Park Art Center Cherubim, Seraphim and Other Celestial Beings. This exhibit is a juried, all-media, open competition. Tue.-Sun., noon-3 p.m. Continues through Dec. 21. 705 Swann Ave., Tampa. 813-251-3780.
The Packinghouse Gallery The Essence of Nature. Barb Collins of St. Petersburg exhibits her fine nature photography. Thur., Fri., 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m.; Wed., Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Continues through Jan. 15. 10900 Oakhurst Road, Largo. 727-596-7822.
Plainsmen Gallery Holiday & Gift Show. The exhibit features wildlife, western and Florida artworks, including oils and clayboard engravings by Grant Hacking and bronzes by Michael Storey. Tue., Thur., Fri., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 22. 2450 Sunset Point Road, Suite A, Clearwater. 727-726-5100.
Realty Executives Confident Art. An exhibit of paintings by Ludner Confident, a Haitian-born artist/anesthesiologist, hangs in this unlikeliest of galleries. The artist, known as Ludy, paints female portraits enmeshed in such themes as love, sports, the tropics and music. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. 2861 34th St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-867-9600.
St. Pete Beach Art Institute Reflections. This three-woman show features works by painter Gayle Woodley, multimedia painter Gay Womack and potter Ann Sackett. Wed.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 29. 3300 Gulf Blvd., St. Pete Beach. 727-367-3818.
Susan Benjamin Glass Etc. All the Glitter of Glass. Fine glass works by artists from across the country are on display in this holiday collection, which includes perfume bottles, paperweights, glass flowers and handblown Christmas ornaments. Mon.-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Continues through Jan. 17. 247 Main St., Safety Harbor. 727-725-1808.
Syd Entel Galleries Spirits of the Holidays. Atlanta-based oil painter Thomas Arvid is quickly gaining a national reputation as today's premier painter of fine wine. This exhibit of new works can be appreciated by wine connoisseurs and art collectors alike. Wine Spectator (Nov. 2000) showcased Arvid's work in a handsome profile and U.S. Art Gallery named him one of 25 Artists You Should Know (Aug. 2001). Mon.-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m.; Saturdays, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Continues through Jan. 17. 247 Main St., Safety Harbor. 727-725-1808.
Synthesis Fine Arts Lure of Color. Recent works by Yvette Galliher are on display in the mezzanine, and a group show of paintings and sculptures by more than a dozen local artists is on display in the lobby. Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 12. Tampa City Center, 201 N. Franklin St., Tampa. 877-796-8437.
TECO Public Art Gallery Ruth T. Nienhaus exhibits 20 watercolors of landscapes and various portraits. Nienhaus has studied painting at the University of Georgia, and traveled throughout Florida, the Caribbean and Central America. Mon.-Fri., 8 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. 704 N. Franklin St., Tampa. 813-251-3688.AttractionsBok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales. 863-676-1408. Christmas at Pinewood: Songs of the Season. Pinewood, designed by architect Charles Waite, is on the National register of Historic Places, and has been showcased in Home & Garden Television's Christmas Castles. Each of the Mediterranean Revival-style villa's 20 rooms are decorated to portray a favorite holiday song. Fine linens, intricate tile, antique furnishings, sterling silver and crystal adorn the rooms. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 7. Admission costs $11 for adults, $6 for children ages 5-12.MuseumsFlorida Aquarium The aquarium's latest exhibit Sea Hunt includes colorful predators from the world's oceans. The aquarium also features more than 10,000 aquatic plants and animals in three galleries: Wetlands, Bays and Beaches, and Coral Reefs. Enjoy behind-the-scenes and audio tours, dive shows and a touch-tank with sharks and rays. Mon.-Sun., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets cost $13.75 for adults, $12.75 for seniors, $8.75 for ages 3-12 and free for children 2 and younger. 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa. 813-273-4000.
Florida Holocaust Museum On the Edge of the Abyss. This exhibit of 93 drawings by Ella Liebermann-Shiber captures the horrors she witnessed in Nazi captivity. Ella's family was taken from Berlin in 1938, and she eventually ended up in Auschwitz-Birkenau. Her father and brothers were killed, but she and her mother survived due to Ella's artistic ability (she painted portraits for the Germans). Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat., Sun., noon-5 p.m. Continues through Feb. 24. Admission is $6 for general, $5 for seniors and college students, $2 for ages 18 and under, and members get in free. 55 Fifth St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-820-0100.
Florida International Museum Heart & Hands: Musical Instrument Makers of America. Eighty-six framed Iris prints by photographer Jake Jacobsen depict craftspeople from 30 states. The portraits are accompanied by information from research conducted by Trisja Malisoff. The exhibit has been organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Services. The following exhibits continue indefinitely: The Cuban Missile Crisis; The Kennedy Collection; and U2: The Spy Plane. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays, 12 p.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. All-inclusive day passes cost $12, and annual passes go for $20. 100 Second St. N., St. Petersburg. 727-822-3693.
Gulf Coast Museum of Art Outside the Box: Eleven International Artists. Works by Carmelo Arden Quin and Volf Roitman are featured in this exhibit, which runs concurrently with an exhibit of Andrew Morgan paintings: Paintings of the '90s. Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sundays, noon-4 p.m. Continues through Jan. 27. Admission costs $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $3 for students (free on Thursday). 12211 Walsingham Road, Largo. 727-518-6833.
The Henry B. Plant Museum 20th Annual Victorian Christmas Stroll. Experience the charm of a 19th century holiday at the old Tampa Bay Hotel during the Victorian Christmas Stroll at the Henry B. Plant Museum. Antique toys lie scattered about the museum and a lavishly decorated tree stands in every room. Complimentary cookies and cider are served on the veranda every day, and soloists and ensembles perform seasonal music nightly. Mon.-Sun., 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23. Admission costs $8 for adults, $3 for children. University of Tampa, 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa. 813-254-1891.
Kid's Firehouse Museum Antique Firetrucks. The museum has 11 antique firetrucks and memorabilia on display as well as a playground facility. Kids can learn fire safety tips, watch a safety video and get some free memorabilia. Mon.-Thur., 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. Admission is free; donations are encouraged. 9510 Kids Firehouse Ave., Largo. 727-585-1300.
Museum of Fine Arts Collecting for the Community: 20 Years of Treasures. The Museum's comprehensive collection has more than doubled during the 20-year tenure of director Michael Milkovich. This exhibit features major works from the nearly 4,000 objects he helped to acquire. The collection contains significant works by Rembrandt, Monet, Gauguin, Renoir, Cezanne and O'Keefe. Milkovich, who recently retired, now holds the title of Director Emeritus. Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 6. Admission costs $6 for adults. 255 Beach Drive N.E., St. Petersburg. 727-896-2667.
Museum of Science & Industry (MOSI) The Teddy Bear Express. A kid-size choo-choo train takes kids through a fantasyland of toy soldiers, giant candy canes, toy drums, sleds and decorated trees. Teddy bears abound on every available perch. There's also a hands-on play area. Museum highlights include BioWorks Butterfly Garden, an engineered ecosystem that emulates natural wetlands; the Back Woods, 40 acres of special water conservation elements and outdoor exhibits; and the IMAX Dome Theatre, which features an 82-foot hemispherical movie screen. Fri., Sat., 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Mon.-Thur., Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Dec. 31. The Museum's combo admission is $13 for adults, $11 for seniors and $9 for ages 2 to 13. 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. 813-987-6300.
Salvador Dali Museum Jacqueline Lamba Retrospective. French painter Jacqueline Lamba (1910-93) is best known for inspiring artistic contributions to the surrealist movement. This exhibit brings together 25 of her paintings produced between 1938 and 1988, including a portrait of her husband, the poet and writer Andre Breton, and a number of non-objective surrealist works from the 1940s. Mon.-Sat., 9:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m.; Sundays, 12 p.m.-5:30 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. Admission costs $10 for adults, $5 for students. 1000 Third St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-823-3767.
Tampa Gallery of Photographic Arts War and Peace: World War II. Images loaned by Nicholas Orzio, General Douglas MacArthur's personal photographer, dominate TGPA's new exhibit, a collection of World War II photographs. Orzio, who traveled occupied Japan during 1948 and 1949, has documented the war crimes trials, the people, the earthquakes and volcano activity. His images detail the physical struggle of the Japanese people and provide a glimpse into the moods and emotions of the men, women and children recovering from a devastating war. Saturdays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Fridays, 5 p.m.-9 p.m. Continues through Jan. 27. Free. Old Hyde Park Village, 746 S. Village Circle, Tampa. 813-251-1800.
Tampa Museum of Art A View into Antiquity. This exhibit of pottery, from the collection of William Suddaby and David Meier, consists of 52 examples of ancient Greek and Italian ceramics from the Late Bronze Age to the Classical Period. Tue.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays, 1 p.m.-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 13. Admission ranges from $3 to $5; free 5 to 8 p.m. on Thursdays and 10 a.m. to noon on Saturday. 600 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa. 813-274-8130.
Ybor City State Museum Matriarchs and Mantillas: the Women of Ybor. Using historical photographs and artifacts, this exhibit reveals the unique character of the women who settled Ybor City and created a culture of their own in this immigrant community. These women are remembered as hardworking and business-like, yet also for their femininity, illustrated by their lace mantillas and Spanish fans. Mon.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through March 31. Visitors may see the Museum and the Casita (worker's home) for $2 per person. 1818 Ninth Ave., Ybor City. 813-247-6323.Theater: OpeningsCoulda, Woulda Shoulda Tony and Oliver award-winning actress/singer Patti LuPone stars in this, her new concert, performing songs from musicals in which she starred, could have starred, should have starred and will star. The list of shows includes Hair, Funny Girl and Peter Pan, as well as her award-winning performances in Evita and Anything Goes. Sat., Dec. 15, 8 p.m. Tickets cost $29.50-$59.50. Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa. 813-229-7827.Theater: OngoingAladdin The Carrollwood Players perform this British panto. The play is based on the children's story, with additional slapstick, comedic dialogue, music and dance. Fri., Sat., Dec. 14-14, 8 p.m. Plantation Plaza, 4333 Gunn Highway, Tampa. 813-265-4000.ComedyCoconuts Comedy Club-Clearwater Dow Thomas. Fri. and Sat., Dec. 14-15, 9:30 p.m. Cover charge varies (two-drink minimum). Reservations are suggested. 24095 U.S. 19 N., Clearwater. 727-797-5653.
Coconuts Comedy Club-St. Pete Beach Mike McCarthy performs Thur.-Sun., Dec. 13-16, at 9:30 p.m. Cover charge varies (two-drink minimum). Reservations are suggested. Open mic. Wed., Dec. 19, 9:30 p.m. 6100 Gulf Blvd., Howard Johnson, St. Pete Beach. 727-360-5653.
Improv Comedy Theater Originally from Philadelphia, Ralph Harris has starred in his own ABC sitcom, On Our Own, and HBO's Half-Hour Comedy Special. His guest appearance credits include Seinfeld, In Living Color and The Tonight Show. See him Thur., Dec. 13, 8 p.m.; Fri., Dec. 14, 10:30 p.m.; Sat., Dec. 15, 7 p.m.,9:30 p.m. and 11 p.m. Tickets cost $12-$16 depending on the night. All prices are advance purchase and cost $2 more at the door. 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Centro Ybor, Tampa. 813-864-4000.
Side Splitters Al Romas, who has a knack for finding humor in just about anything. His wit has a sharp edge that seems natural to this New York native. Check him out Dec. 18-23. Fri., Sat., 8 p.m. & 10:30 p.m.; Wed., Thur., Sun., 8:30 p.m. Regular admission costs $8-$14 (depending on the night). Larry the Cable Guy, a church-going, southern-born, know-it-all, redneck comedian burst on the scene right here in Tampa. Recently, he's teamed up with Jeff Foxworthy and Bill Engvall to form the Blue-Collar Comedy Tour. He performs Dec. 12-16. Fri., Sat., 8 p.m. & 10:30 p.m.; Wed., Thur., Sun., 8 p.m.Regular admission costs $8-$14 (depending on the night). 12938 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa. 813-960-1197.Open MicBeaux Arts Gallery and Folk Coffeehouse Beaux Arts' open mic takes place from 8 to 11:30 p.m. every Saturday. Art films are shown at 8 p.m. Friday, and 2:30 and 8 p.m. Sunday. Saturdays, 8 p.m.-11:30 p.m. A donation of $2 to $5 is suggested at the door, but coffee, tea and cake are free. 2635 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-328-0702.
Boudreaux's This New Orleans-style restaurant holds a blues jam with featured performers each week playing an hour set before mixing in all comers. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. 27964 U.S. 19, Clearwater. 727-726-9030.
Brass Mug The Mug offers an open jam night every Monday, allowing musicians to take the stage and show off their chops. As extra incentive, all musicians can down 75-cent drafts throughout the evening. A full P.A., sound and drums are provided. Mondays, 9:30 p.m. 1441 Fletcher Ave. E., Tampa. 813-972-8152.
Computer Port Cafe This cafe offers Internet access in addition to exotic coffees, tea and an assortment of gourmet baked goods. Every Friday and Saturday night the venue plays host to an open mic for musicians, comedians, poets, etc. Fri., Sat., 7 p.m.-11 p.m. 432 Poinsettia Ave., Clearwater Beach. 727-441-2667.
Cool Tunes Coffee Bar The coolios at Cool Tunes host free open mics every Wednesday and Saturday. Local acts play Fridays (check Soundboard or call for band schedule). Wed., Sat., 8 p.m.-11:30 p.m. 2551 Drew St., Clearwater. 727-799-3788.
Frankie & Johnny's The enigmatic Mike hosts this event every Wednesday night until the last singer has sung. Wednesdays, 9 p.m. 10206 N. 30th St., Tampa. 813-866-0340.
Hollywood Java Coffee House & Bar This new hangout is in Bay Street at the International Plaza. Hollywood Java features Open Mic Nite every Wednesday for musicians, poets and comedians. Two mics, a P.A. and a guitar amp are provided. Sign-up begins at 7 p.m. Wednesdays, 8 p.m.-11 p.m. 2223 N. West Shore Blvd., Tampa. 813-348-1415.
Insomnia Coffee House Gallery This spoken word open mic takes place at 8 p.m. every Thursday. An open mic for musicians, poets, comedians (anyone) also takes place at 9 p.m. every Tuesday, hosted by Big Rick (sign-up starts at 8 p.m.). Thursdays, 8 p.m.; Tuesdays, 8 p.m. 32884 U.S. 19, Palm Harbor. 727-789-3771.
James Joyce Irish Pub Musicians open mic. Rebekah Pulley and Jerry Provost host this open mic for all musicians every Tuesday night. The pub also offers a variety of live, acoustical music nightly. Tuesdays, 9:30 p.m.-1:30 a.m. 1704 1/2 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City. 813-247-1896.
Java Jane's This coffee spot hosts live folk and acoustic music every Friday and Saturday and holds an open mic every Wednesday. While you're there, check out the civilized graffiti on the walls. The public is invited to contribute to the collection of drawings and writings that are on display. 2908 1/2 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport. 727-328-2050.
Limey's Pub Come share your talent at the Limey's open mics, held every Monday and Tuesday nights. Mondays, 8:30 p.m.-12:30 a.m.; Tuesdays, 9 p.m.-1 a.m. 1492 Fourth St. N., St. Petersburg. 727-895-2049.
Realm Coffeehouse Outfitted with an outdoor patio for smoking, this coffee hangout offers drawing supplies at the bar and patrons are always welcome to bring musical instruments. Realm's schedule of events features singer-guitarist Chucky Luv on Monday, an open mic for music on Tuesday, an open mic for poetry on Thursday and a Friday drum circle. Tue., Thur., 9 p.m.-midnight. 937 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-821-5608.
Seabreeze on Sunset Beach Blues jam. This jam night and open mic for blues-oriented singer/songwriters takes place every Wednesday night. Wednesdays, 8 p.m.-midnight. 9546 Gulf Blvd. W., Treasure Island. 727-360-1398.
Shana's Open Mic Night Hosted by Pete Gallagher, this open mic for musicians and poets takes place every Wednesday night (except Dec. 19-Jan. 2). A different featured guest plays a 30-minute set each week. Wednesdays, 8 p.m. 121 Seventh Ave. S., St. Petersburg. 727-821-1418.
Yeoman's Road Pub Vince Longo hosts an open jam every Wednesday night, featuring an eclectic mix of performers from the Bay area's music scene. There's another open mic on Sunday night. All events are free and subject to change when there's a band scheduled. Wed., Sun., 7 p.m. 236 E. Davis Blvd., Tampa. 813-251-2748.Readings & SigningsBarnes & Noble-Carrollwood Former Tampa Mayor Sandy Freedman signs her new cookbook, Specialties of the House: Recipes for People on the Go, with recipe samples on hand for tasting. The book shares more than 100 of her best recipes she created for her family and friends for years. Recipes include: Skinny Gazpacho, Apple Mallow Yambake and Roasted Garlic Orzo. Mon., Dec. 17, 7 p.m. 11802 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa. 813-962-8097.Spoken WordJoffrey's Cybercafe Doris Owens Yates hosts this weekly open mic poetry reading at 3 p.m. every Sunday. All poets are welcome. Kelly Green hosts Two for One Tuesday, an open mic for any and all artists, from 8 p.m. to midnight every Tuesday. Sundays, 3 p.m.; Tuesdays, 8 p.m.-12 a.m. 5165 34th St. S., St. Petersburg. 727-865-0605.
Lloyd's Cajun Cafe The intense spoken word event Black on Black Rhyme takes place every Tuesday night, featuring the We Take No Prisoners Poetry Troupe. The troupe challenges the spoken word artists to weekly battles on various topics — men vs. women, for instance. Tuesdays, 8 p.m. The cover is $5. 1910 E. Seventh Ave., Ybor City. 813-242-4364.
The Ybor Room at HCC Triple Talent Showcase. The Pure Poet's Society hosts this open mic poetry event every Wednesday night. Readings are videotaped for an upcoming public access program. Poets of all skill levels are welcome to share their works. Ninth Avenue and Republica De Cuba, Ybor City. 813-973-0528.Festivals/EventsFreedom Celebration The American Cannabis Society celebrates the day the Bill of Rights was adopted in 1791 with a day of live entertainment to promote education on the Constitution. The musical artists performing include The Ordinary Way, Soulness, Robby Lake, DJ Jah and Uncle Shredded Wheat featuring Rugged T'reign. Sat., Dec. 15, 1 p.m. Tickets cost a donation of $8. Harbor Club, 915 Grant St., Tampa. 813-935-0581.
Ybor City Fresh Market Inc. The market's up and running every Saturday. Drop by for a free glass of fresh-squeezed orange juice and check out all the fresh foods and other nifty items the market has up for grabs. Local vendors offer everything from fruits and veggies to plants to hand-made crafts. Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m. Centennial Park, Eighth Avenue and 18th Street, Ybor City.
Lectures & SeminarsAntique Firetrucks The museum has 11 antique firetrucks and memorabilia on display as well as a playground facility. Kids can learn fire safety tips, watch a safety video and get some free memorabilia. Mon.-Thur., 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m.; Fridays, 8:30 a.m.-2 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. Admission is free; donations are encouraged. Kid's Firehouse Museum, 9510 Kids Firehouse Ave., Largo. 727-585-1300.
Heart & Hands: Musical Instrument Makers of America Eighty-six framed Iris prints by photographer Jake Jacobsen depict craftspeople from 30 states. The portraits are accompanied by research by Trisja Malisoff. The exhibit has been organized by the Smithsonian Institution Traveling Exhibition Services. The following exhibits continue indefinitely: The Cuban Missile Crisis; The Kennedy Collection; and U2: The Spy Plane. Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sundays, noon-5 p.m. Continues through Jan. 30. All-inclusive day passes cost $12, and annual passes go for $20. Florida International Museum, 100 Second St. N., St. Petersburg. 727-822-3693.
Matriarchs and Mantillas: the Women of Ybor Using historical photographs and artifacts, this exhibit reveals the unique character of the women who settled Ybor City and created a culture of their own in this immigrant community. These women are remembered as hardworking and business-like, yet also for their femininity, illustrated by their lace mantillas and Spanish fans. Mon.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Continues through March 31. Visitors may see the Museum and the Casita (worker's home) for $2 per person. Ybor City State Museum, 1818 Ninth Ave., Ybor City. 813-247-6323.
Sea Hunt The aquarium's latest exhibit includes colorful predators from the world's oceans. The aquarium also features more than 10,000 aquatic plants and animals in three galleries: Wetlands, Bays and Beaches, and Coral Reefs. Enjoy behind-the-scenes and audio tours, dive shows and a touch-tank with sharks and rays. Mon.-Sun., 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Tickets cost $13.75 for adults, $12.75 for seniors, $8.75 for ages 3-12 and free for children under 3. Florida Aquarium, 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa. 813-273-4000.
This article appears in Dec 13-19, 2001.