ART EXHIBITS AND HOLIDAY SHOPPING
Annual Christmas Show and Sale Select from a variety of unique holiday gifts, including ceramics, prints, pottery, calligraphy, cards and more. An opening reception takes place from 3 to 5 p.m. Sun., Dec. 2. Dec. 2-7, 10:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mon.-Fri. Elliott Gallery — Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. S., St. Petersburg, 727-864-8340.
Candy Cane Lane Holiday Craft Fair Featuring homemade crafts, ornaments, jewelry, food and more. Sat., Dec. 8, 9 a.m. Free admission. Dunedin Community Center, 1920 Pinehurst Road, Dunedin, 727-812-4530.
Holiday Art Sale Featuring discounted original paintings, drawings, photography, ceramics and holiday gifts as well as free cider and cookies for all shoppers. Proceeds benefit Project Return, a nonprofit that provides educational, vocational, and supportive housing services to people with mental illnesses. Dec. 8-9, 11 p.m.-4 p.m. Sat.-Sun. Free admission. The Lobby Gallery 2 @ Project Return, 303 W. Waters Ave., Tampa.
Stargazing: The Arts Center Holiday Exhibition A variety of media — holiday-themed and otherwise — by artists who've been featured at the center over the past several years, including Chuck Boux, Jack Barrett, Robert Giordano, Nancy Cervenka and Yasuko Nakamura. In conjunction, the center hosts its annual Holiday Family Day, which features a "Once Upon a Time" holiday story workshop with Walter Deanovich, clay ornament- and merry stick puppet-making activities, a giant puppet play, artists demos, refreshments and holiday music (1-4 p.m. Sun., Dec. 9). The works are on display through Dec. 31, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., noon-4 p.m. Sun. Free admission. 719 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-822-7872, theartscenter.org.
BENEFITS AND FUNDRAISERS
Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis The Arthritis Foundation hosts this annual 5k competitive run and one-mile fitness walk, with participants wearing jungle bells on their shoes and awards going to the highest fund raisers. Sat., Dec. 1, registration 7 a.m., walk 8 a.m. Fred Howard Park, 1700 Sunset Drive, Tarpon Springs; and Wed., Dec. 5, registration 6 p.m., walk 7 p.m. Lowry Park Zoo, 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa. Race fees are $20 for early registrants and $25 on the day of the race; call 800-850-9455 or visit arthritis.org to register or for more info.
Holiday Open House A sale of handcrafted ornaments by artists in Gulf Coast Museum of Art's collection, art class instructors and talented volunteers. Proceeds support GCMA's educational programs for adults and children. Wed., Dec. 5, 3-5 p.m. Free admission. GCMA, Pinewood Cultural Park, 12211 Walsingham Road, Largo, 727-518-6833, gulfcoastmuseum.org.
Safford House Museum Victorian Candlelight Tour The house is decorated for the season and reflects the spirit of Christmas as it was celebrated in the 1880s. A vintage toy exhibit, live music and seasonal refreshments are also featured. Proceeds support the museum's continued restoration. Dec. 6-9, 5:30-8 p.m. Thurs-Sun. $10 general/$5 members. 23 Parkin Court, Tarpon Springs, 727-937-1130.
Third Annual Latin Christmas Party & Children's Toy Drive Latin Times Magazine and the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce invite the public to this special edition of the monthly First Friday Latin ConneXions Business Networking Social. which features a free buffet and exhibit. All attendees should bring a new unwrapped toy. Fri., Dec. 7, 5:30-9 p.m., Mirage Restaurant and Lounge, 3605 W. Hillsborough Ave., Tampa, 813-901-5292, Latin-Connections.com.
20th Annual Deck the Halls Sale Peruse an assortment of handmade ornaments ($5 each) produced by artists from all over Florida. All proceeds benefit The Hospice of the Florida Suncoast. Sat., Dec. 8, 5:30-9 p.m. Free admission. Artspace, 10 Fifth St. N., St. Petersburg, 727-418-8887, artspaceartists.com.
Still No Room at the Inn Carol with ASAP Homeless services at shelters and various other sites in downtown St. Petersburg. Interested carolers enjoy a free cookout beforehand and refreshments afterward. Interested participants should meet at the ASAP Drop-in Center. Fri., Dec. 14, 7-9 p.m. Free. 423 11th Ave. S., St. Petersburg, 727-823-5665.
PARADES, LIGHTS, FESIVALS, SPECIAL EVENTS
Hillsborough County's Annual Festival of Lights Santa flips the switch and sets the Courthouse Square ablaze with thousands of lights adorning all the trees in the park. Guests can also enjoy a street carnival with games, arts and crafts, holiday treats, faux-snow, live entertainment and more. Thurs., Nov. 29, 5-9 p.m. Free admission. Chillura Courthouse Square, Pierce Street and Kennedy Boulevard, downtown Tampa. Call 813-272-5275 for more information.
Eighth Annual Wild Wonderland Lowry Park Zoo's winter festival features seasonal lights and holiday displays throughout the zoo, live reindeer appearances, a "Jingle Bell Narrated Carriage Ride," holiday carolers and live bands, themed games, visits with Santa and more. Nov. 30 and Dec. 1, 7-8, 14-16, 19-23 and 26-30, 6-9 p.m. $13 adults ($9.95 members)/$11 ages 3 to 11 ($7.50 members; children 2 and younger enter free). 1101 W. Sligh Ave., Tampa, 813-935-8552, lowryparkzoo.com.
Indian Rocks Beach Tree Lighting Area folks are invited to the lighting of the Indian Rocks Beach Christmas tree. Fri., Nov. 30, 7 p.m. 12th Avenue Park. ALSO: Indian Rocks Beach Holiday Parade The parade starts at Holiday Inn Harbourside Marina (401 Second St., Indian Rocks Beach), and travels north throughout Indian Rocks. Sun., Dec. 2, 1 p.m. For information about either event, call 727-595-2517.
Santa Parade and Snowfest This annual Christmas parade begins at 10 a.m. and proceeds north along Bayshore Drive from Fifth Avenue S.E. to Fifth Avenue N.E. The parade is immediately followed by Snowfest in North Straub Park (Beach Drive and Fifth Avenue N.E.), an event that features a snowball throw, toboggans, a moonwalk, ice-skating, pony rides and a petting zoo. Call 727-525-5950 for more information. Sat., Dec. 1. Free.
Santa Fest and Holiday Parade The City of Tampa's free holiday festival includes visits with Santa Claus, continuous entertainment, 30 tons of snow, an outdoor ice-skating rink, crafts and hands-on activities, a talking Christmas tree and much more. The festival occurs from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sat., Dec. 1 (Eighth Avenue between Centro Ybor and Centennial Park, Ybor City), and culminates with the Holiday Parade. The procession begins at Nuccio Parkway and Seventh Avenue, and makes its way north down Seventh Avenue, eventually making its way to Palm Avenue, where it disbands.
Trees & Traditions St. Petersburg International Folk Fair Society hosts this multicultural event, which features holiday trees decorated in colorful global themes, music and dance performances, house tours and more. Sat., Dec. 1, 1-4 p.m. Free admission (donations accepted). 11909 125th St. N., Pinewood Cultural Park, Largo, 727-582-2123.
Regency Centers Holiday Events A national chain of grocery-anchored shopping centers hosts holiday family activities and promotions at two Bay area locations. Free activities include Yuletide stories and songs, performances by the Season's Best Circus, an Abracadabra magic show, appearances by Santa and Mrs. Claus, stilt walking toy soldiers, a juggling elf and plenty else. 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat., Dec. 1, Village Center, 13100-13262 N. Dale Mabry, Tampa, and 11:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Sat., Dec. 8, Regency Square, 2400-2578 W. Brandon Blvd., Brandon.
Holiday Parade of Homes Tour apartment homes with a variety of floor plans at Allegro at East Lake in Tarpon Springs and enjoy holiday songs by the Sunset Serenade Barbershop Quartet, eggnog and fresh baked holiday cookies and treats, a performance by The Allegros' resident chime choir and more. Thurs., Dec. 6, 1-4 p.m. For directions or to R.S.V.P. please call 727-943-8878.
Holiday Ale Festival/Tasting Taste 50 fine and rare holiday ales, including St. Nick Rock, Santa's Private Reserve, Seriously Bad Elf, Sam Smith's Winter Welcome, Delirium Noel, Corsendonk Christmas, Winterbraun and He'brew Jewbelation Eleven. Thurs., Dec. 6, 7:30-10:30 p.m. $12 general admission. New World Brewery, 1313 Eighth Ave., Ybor City, 813-248-4969.
19th Annual St. Petersburg Lighted Boat Parade Holiday music is performed from 4 to 6 p.m. by the Dicken's Carolers, and more music and festivities begin at 6:30 p.m. (The Pier, 800 Second Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg). The decorated boats set sail around 7 p.m. and are visible from Vinoy Park (501 Bayshore Drive N.), Straub Park (Beach Drive and Fifth Avenue N.E.) and Demens Landing (Bayshore Drive and Second Avenue S.). All proceeds raised at the event go to The Children's Dream Fund; a Tuba Christmas concert follows. Sat., Dec. 8. For more information, call 727-821-6443.
Palms and Poinsettia Holiday Celebration Featuring holiday decorations, children's craft activities, holiday music, a palm tree lighting and meetings with Santa in the gazebo. Sat., Dec. 8, 5-7 p.m. Free admission. Ulmer Park, 301 West Bay Drive, Largo.
35th Annual Pinellas Park Christmas Parade Illuminated and old-fashioned decorated floats mark the evening parade, which begins at 6 p.m. at Park Boulevard and 58th Street, and proceeds east down Park to 40th Street. Sat., Dec. 8. For more info, visit pinellasparkholidayparade.com.
Still No Room at the Inn ASAP Homeless Services hosts its 21st annual event, at which participants carol through downtown St. Petersburg to Straub Park (Beach Drive and Fifth Avenue N.E.). The event is preceded by a free cookout at the ASAP Drop-In Center (423 11th Ave. S., St. Petersburg) and followed by free cookies and hot chocolate at Straub Park. Fri., Dec. 14, 6:30-9 p.m. For more info, call 727-823-5665.
Palm Harbor 25th Annual Community Holiday Parade The parade travels down Nebraska Avenue to 11th Street, where Santa makes an appearance. Sat., Dec. 15, 3 p.m. For more info, call 727-771-6000.
Indian Shores and Redington Beaches 25th Annual Boat Parade Lighted boats leave from the Tom Stuart (Madeira Beach) Causeway at 6 p.m., and cover a route along the Intracoastal Waterway, to finish at the Pub Restaurant, 20025 Gulf Blvd. The Pub hosts an awards ceremony and refreshments for boat captains at 9:30 p.m. Sun., Dec. 16. For more information, call 727-421-0885.
MUSIC
Half-Baked Holiday Una Voce: The Florida Men's Chorale performs a program of holiday music, from traditional favorites like to selections from The Nutcracker. 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., Nov. 30-Dec. 1, SPC Music Center, 6605 Fifth Ave. N., St. Petersburg, and 4 p.m. Sun., Dec. 2, USF College of Visual and Performing Arts Theatre I, 42002 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. $15. una-voce.org.
Christmas with the Master Chorale of Tampa Bay The 170-voice chorale performs a program of festive music, which includes selections from Handel's Messiah and the Master Chorale's "Musicological Journey Through the Twelve Days of Christmas." Fri., Nov. 30, 7:30 p.m., Mahaffey Theater; and Sat., Dec. 1, 7:30 p.m., Ferguson Hall-Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center [see info box for both location addresses]. $18-$36. masterchorale.com.
Chorus Angelorum: And the Angels Sing! A program holiday songs performed a cappella; part of the Carrollwood Cultural Concert Cycle. Sun., Dec. 2, 3 p.m. $15 general/$10 FCCC members and students. Carrollwood Cultural Center Annex, 13345 Casey Road, Tampa carrollwoodcenter.org.
Candlelight Christmas Concert The 140-voice SPC Chorus performs songs of the season; this year's theme is "Christmas Around the World" and the program features Christmas songs from Brazil, France, Ireland, England, Italy and other international locales. Mon., Dec. 3, 7:30 p.m. Free admission. SPC Music Center, 6605 Fifth Ave. N., St. Petersburg, 727-341-4301.
Fanfare Concert Winds Holiday Show The 40- to 50-piece nonprofit concert band — made up of local amateur and professional musicians and music students — performs a program of contemporary holiday pieces, including "Sleigh Ride" and an arrangement from the Holiday cartoon, How the Grinch Stole Christmas. Tues., Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. Free admission. Ybor Room at HCC, 15th Street and Palm Avenue, Ybor City, 813-973-0528.
A Festival of Lessons and Carols A re-telling of the Christian story beginning with the fall of Adam and leading into the coming of the "Word Incarnate" in addition to a festive program of Christmas music for choir, bells, organ and orchestra presented by the Eckerd College Concert Choir and Eckerd Ringers with members of the New German Symphony Orchestra. Thurs., Dec. 6, 7:30 p.m. Free admission. Wireman Chapel — Eckerd College, 4200 54th Ave. S., St. Petersburg, 727-864-8480. ALSO: The Gift of Christmas Cantata A similar Christmas program by the Eckerd College Concert Choir and Eckerd Ringers, this time with the First United Methodist Chancel Choir and Fellowship Ringers as well as the New German Symphony Orchestra. Sun., Dec. 9, 5:30 p.m. Free will offerings gratefully accepted. First United Methodist Church, 212 Third St. N., St. Petersburg, 727-894-4661.
A Jingle Bell Pops The Florida Orchestra presents this holiday celebration of Christmas carols, yuletide tunes, a festive sing-along and plenty else. Fri., Dec. 7, 8 p.m., Ferguson Hall-Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center; and Sun., Dec. 9, 2 and 8 p.m., Mahaffey Theater. $19-$54. floridaorchestra.com.
Boys of the Lough: A Celtic Christmas A program of holiday music, traditional Irish melodies and fiddle music from Shetland, Scotland and North America. Thurs., Dec. 13, 7:30 p.m. $15-$30. Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, 101 S. Pinellas Ave., Tarpon Springs, 727-942-5605.
Home for the Holidays — a Christmas Musical Sing carols, enjoy a performance by the First Unity Choir, and listen to holiday stories, both old and new. Sun., Dec. 16, 6-8 p.m. Free admission. First Unity, 460 46th Ave. N., St. Petersburg, firstunity.org.
Voices of the Season Maria Zouves, Sherrill Milnes and the VOICExperience Singers perform a cheerful concert of holiday favorites. Thurs., Dec. 16, 7 p.m. $15 general/$13 members and students. Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, 324 Pine Street, Tarpon Springs, 727-942-5605.
Ellington Christmas Jazzified holiday favorites and a new adaptation of Ellington's "Jazz Nutcracker." Sat., Dec. 22, 7:30 p.m. $20. Palladium Theater [see info box for address info].
A Rockapella Holiday The a cappella quintet performs doo-wop harmonies and pop-rock-jazz arrangements of seasonal standards. Sat., Dec. 22, 8 p.m. $30 adults/$21 children 12 and younger. Tampa Theatre, 711 Franklin St., Tampa, 813-274-8286, tampatheatre.org.
THEATER AND DANCE
Miracle on 34th Street Island Community Theater's stage production about a single mother, her daughter and their dealings with a department store Santa who just might be the real Santa Claus. Nov. 29-Dec. 16, 8 p.m. Thurs.-Sat., 1:30 p.m. Sun. $14.99 per person. Catherine Hickman Theater, 5501 27th Ave. S., Gulfport, 727-345-1474, islandcommunitytheatre.com.
Venue Actors Studio Youth Theatre Holiday Showcase This year's offerings are The Enchanted Toyshop and The Other Pole. Nov. 30-Dec. 16, 6:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 2:30 p.m. Sun. $6. Venue Actors Studio, 9125 U.S. 19 N., Pinellas Park, 727-822-6194, venueactorstudio.org.
A Christmas Story Carrollwood Players produce a stage adaptation of the classic 1983 film about Ralphie Parker and his attempts to get a Red Ryder BB gun for Christmas. Nov. 30-Dec. 22, 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. $14 general/$12 students and seniors. Carrollwood Playhouse, 4335 Gunn Highway, Tampa, 813-265-4000, carrollwoodplayers.org.
Masque Community Theater Seasonal Presentations The schedule includes the Italian holiday comedy A Christmas Cannoli: A Tale of Two Families by Yellow Snow Productions (Nov. 16-24 and Dec. 14-15, 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat.); and the Ahrens-Flaherty adaptation of Dickens' A Christmas Carol (Nov. 30-Dec. 9, 7:30 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun.); $14 adults/$12 seniors, students and military/$10 children 12 and younger. 8825 56th St., Temple Terrace, 813-980-3321.
The Nutcracker This version of the holiday classic is performed by Orlando Ballet and features more than 100 child students from Tampa and Orlando dance schools, and features live accompaniment by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. Nov. 30-Dec. 2, 7:30 p.m. Fri., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. $15-$50. Carol Morsani Hall-Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center.
The Nutcracker Guilfoil Ballet Theater produces its fifth annual Nutcracker performance featuring dancers from throughout Pinellas County. Sat., Dec. 1, 2 and 7:30 p.m. $12-$25. Palladium Theater.
A Pasco Christmas Rapidly becoming a community favorite, this original holiday production takes place right here in the Bay area (as the title implies). Through Dec. 2, 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 2:30 p.m. Sun. $15. Richey Suncoast Theatre, 6237 Grand Boulevard, New Port Richey, 727-842-6777.
Tampa Theatre's Holiday and Musical Movie Series Christmas in Connecticut, Sun. Dec. 2, 3 p.m.; Miracle on 34th Street, Sun., Dec. 9, 3 p.m.; White Christmas, Sun., Dec. 16, 3 p.m.; It's a Wonderful Life, Sun., Dec. 23, 3 p.m. $7.50 adults/$6 students, seniors and military. 711 Franklin St., Tampa, 813-274-8286, tampatheatre.org.
Radio City Christmas Spectacular The Rockettes bring their high-kicks and precision dance moves to Tampa in a show that features nearly 100 cast members — including Santa Claus himself — as well as holiday hits and Rockette faves like "Parade of the Wooden Soldiers" and "Living Nativity." Dec. 6-30, 7:30 p.m. Tues., 2 and 7:30 p.m. Wed.-Thurs., 1, 5 and 8 p.m. Fri., 11 a.m., 2, 5 and 8 p.m. Sat., 1, 4, and 7:30 p.m. Sun. (no 2 p.m. show Dec. 6, no Christmas Day show, no 5 p.m. show on Dec. 28, and no 7:30 p.m. show Dec. 30). $39-$74. Carol Morsani Hall-Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center.
Christmas Gremlins II Gadge the Gremlin is back by popular demand. Aubrey Hampton's sequel to the original Christmas Gremlins (presented at Gorilla Theatre in '03) delivers lots of silly family fun, a magic show and a crazy cast of characters, including Old Saint Nick himself. Dec. 6-23, 7 p.m. Thurs., 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. $20-25 adults/$15-$20 seniors and students. Gorilla Theatre, 4419 N. Hubert Avenue, Tampa, 813-879-2914.
The Chocolate Nutcracker Enjoy an evening of jazz, Afro-Cuban, hip-hop and gospel music as more than 150 local children and 180 adults (professional dancers and otherwise) perform in this unique adaptation of the holiday classic; presented by Life Force Cultural Arts Academy. Sat., Dec. 8, 1 and 7:30 p.m. $27-$47. Mahaffey Theater [see info box for address info].
The Nutcracker Miami City Ballet teams up with students from local dance studios to produce the holiday classic as interpreted by George Balanchine, which features Tchaikovsky's timeless score performed live by The Florida Orchestra. Dec. 8-9, 2 and 8 p.m. Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. $30-$46. Ruth Eckerd Hall.
A Christmas Carol The Society Players brings Charles Dickens's timeless Christmas tale to the Bay area, with proceeds from ticket sales to benefit the Mason Dixon Christmas Wish Fund. Dec. 8-9, 8 p.m. Sat., 2 p.m. Sun. $29-$32 general/$25 seniors/$15 students 19 and younger. Largo Cultural Center, 501 Central Park Drive, Largo, 727-587-6793.
A Christmas Carol Another production of the Dickens classic, this one staged by St. Petersburg Little Theatre. Dec. 8-9 and 14-16, 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., $10 adults/$5 children. 4025 31st St. S., St. Petersburg, 727-866-1973, splt.info.
The Great Russian Nutcracker Moscow Ballet's production features a cast of 50 dancers, live musical accompaniment by the Moscow Symphony Orchestra, lush costumes, spectacular sets and scenic design by Valentine Federov, larger-than-life puppets and a sneak peek into Drosselmeier's workshop. Dec. 21-22, 7:30 p.m. Fri., 2 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. Sat., $37-$67. Mahaffey Theater.
The Nutcracker Presented by the All American Classical Ballet School of Tampa. Dec. 21-23, 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 2 p.m. Sun., Tarpon Springs Performing Arts Center, 101 S. Pinellas Ave., Tarpon Springs.
A Christmas Carol A large stage production of the Charles Dickens' classic about Ebenezer Scrooge and the ghosts of Christmas. Sat., Dec. 22, 2 and 7 p.m. $25-$42. Ruth Eckerd Hall.
A Christmas Carol Presented by Producers, Inc. Dec. 23, 2 and 7:30 p.m. Sun. $22-$32. Mahaffey Theater.
A Show Palace Christmas Show Palace Dinner Theatre continues its now-annual tradition of presenting a new Christmas musical to Bay area audiences. This one follows a snotty hairdresser's attempt to get into heaven with songs like "Carol of the Bells," "Cool Yule," "Ave Maria" and "Silver Bells." Through Dec. 25, 8 p.m. Fri.-Sat., 3 p.m. Sun. Doors open two hours prior to each show for dinner and cocktails. $44 dinner and show/$32.95 show only. 16128 U.S. 19 N., Hudson, 727-863-7949, showpalace.net.
HANUKKAH EVENTS
Hanukkah Tot Shabbat Families are invited to join Rabbi Arthur Baseman for a telling of the story of HanuKkah, finding the "hidden oil," a lighting of the children's menorah, a Chanukah sing-a-long and snacks. To make reservations, call 727-531-5829. 7 p.m. Fri., Nov. 30, Temple B'nai Israel, 1685 S. Belcher Road, Clearwater.
Hanukkah Gift Fair Congregation Beth Am's "Judaica by Sisterhood" presents its annual gift fair and bake sale of Hanukkah gifts and kosher foods. All purchases are tax-free; credit cards accepted only for purchases over $25. Sun., Nov. 18 and Dec. 2, 10 a.m.-noon, Beth Am, 2030 W. Fletcher Ave., Tampa. 813-968-8511.
Tampa Jewish Community Center Annual Hanukkah Party Children's activities include "pin the flame on the menorah," a water pistol menorah "shootout," cookie decorating with Hanukkah designs, card making, a sing-along and much more. Adults enjoy a latke recipe exchange, hot dogs and various relaxing activities. For more info or to make reservations, call 813-264-9000 or go to jewishtampa.com. Sun., Dec. 2, 10 a.m.-1 p.m. $5 adults/children under 2 and younger enter for free. Tampa JCC Campus, 13009 Community Campus Drive (Veterans Expressway and Gunn Highway), Tampa.
City Hall Hanukkah Extravaganza A celebration of the beginning of Hanukkah with the lighting of a giant menorah, live music and entertainment, hot latkes and more. Hosted by Chabad of Tampa Bay and Brandon Tues., Dec. 4, 5:30 p.m. Downtown Tampa City Hall Plaza, Franklin Street and Kennedy Boulevard, Tampa, 813-963-2317.
Hanukkah Concert Hosted by the Chabad Jewish Center of St. Petersburg. Tues., Dec. 4, 5:30 p.m. Free admission. 6151 Central Ave., St. Petersburg. 727-344-4900.
Menorah Lighting Ceremony and Concert on Main Street Join Chabad of Bradenton for its fourth annual festival, which includes a drawing, face painting, doughnuts, music, hot latkes, balloons and more. Tues., Dec. 4, 6 p.m. Main Street, Lakewood Ranch, 941-758-2799.
Sisterhood Judaica Gift Shop Featuring an abundance of Hanukkah gift items. Through Dec. 4, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Mon.-Fri., 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Sat. Schaarai Zedek, 3303 W. Swann Ave., Tampa, 813-876-2377.
Hanukkah Family Dinner Join Rabbi Arthur Baseman for a shabbat meal (including latkes) and a celebration of the fourth night of Hanukkah with a lighting of the menorah; families are encouraged to bring their own menorah to "light up the room." A special Hanukkah and Shabbat service (open to all) follows. Fri., Dec. 7, 6 p.m. $18.50 adults/$8 children, Temple Bnai Israel, 1685 S. Belcher Road, Clearwater, 727-531-5829.
Menorah Madness A short service is followed by a pot luck dinner and live music by the Pittard family. Attendees are encouraged to bring a menorah and candles to light, and a dish to share. Fri., Dec. 7, 6:30-7:30 p.m. Congregation B'nai Emmunah, 3374 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs. For more information, call 727-726-8626.
A Celebration of Hanukkah Traditions & Music Joy Katzen-Guthrie's program fuses theater with history and storytelling. Wed., Dec. 12, 2 p.m. Free admission. Regency Oaks, 2720 Regency Oaks Blvd., Clearwater.
VOLUNTEERING AND HOLIDAY DRIVES
RCS Food Bank The Religious Community Services Food Bank — which serves 4,000 clients each month and has approximately 60 distribution sub-sites throughout Pinellas County — seeks volunteers to help with office work, sorting food, delivering and picking up supplies, interviewing clients and more during the holiday season. Donations of baby food, cereal, formula, juices, after school snacks, boxed and canned food items, powdered milk, and plastic and paper grocery bags are also needed. To volunteer or make a donation, call 727-443-4031.
Metropolitan Ministries MetMin feeds thousands of homeless and poverty-stricken locals each month and you can lend a hand by volunteering at the holiday center, where donations are received, sorted and distributed. For more information, call 813-209-1000. Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Center is located on the 2100 block of N. Florida Avenue in Tampa, and is open through Dec. 24.
ADDRESS BOX
Mahaffey Theater, 400 First St. S., St. Petersburg, 727-898-2100, mahaffeytheater.com.
Palladium Theater, 253 Fifth Ave. N., St. Petersburg, 727-822-3590, mypalladium.org.
Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 N. McMullen-Booth Road, Clearwater, 727-791-7400, rutheckerdhall.com.
Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, 1010 N. MacInnes Place, downtown Tampa, 813-229-7827, tbpac.org.
