Branch Out at a black-tie dinner, gala and charity auction for Clearwater's 17th annual Festival of Trees, benefiting The Hospice of the Florida Suncoast; UPARC Foundation and Kids Kommittee Inc. Partygoers indulge in a gourmet meal, followed by dancing and a benefit auction. Black-tie optional dress. 7 p.m.-midnight, Saturday, Nov. 24, Harborview Center, 300 Cleveland St., Clearwater. 727-446-2858. $75 per person. The festival itself is open to the public Nov. 21-25, and costs $5 for adults, $4 for seniors, $3 for children, 3-16 and free for under 3.
La Maison Teaches the Li'l Ones Your youngster 8-14 years old can cook like a pro: Cheese-filled tortellini salad with baby tomatoes, grilled chicken sausage sandwiches with fontina cheese and roasted sweet pepper and chocolate shortcakes a la mode with strawberry sauce. 9:30 a.m.-noon, Saturday, Nov. 24. La Maison Gourmet, 471 Main St., Dunedin. 727-733-8915. $30 per person.
Remodel Inc. Attend a free class on planning new kitchens. Learn about the latest trends in kitchen design, appliances, countertop and cabinetry. 3-4:30 p.m., Saturday, Nov. 24, La Maison Gourmet, 471 Main St., Dunedin, 727-733-8915. Free with reservations.
Familiar Foods with a Twist Watch Chef John prepared shrimp remoulade, green beans, walnut and feta salad, roasted fresh ham with orange glaze, Parmesan roasted potatoes, saute of scallions, and carrots and warm pecan tartlettes. 6:30-9 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. 27. La Maison Gourmet, 471 Main St., Dunedin. 727-733-8915. $39.50 per person.
Cooking Basics A three-part class focuses on baking, featuring sun-dried tomato biscuits, seasonal fruit pie, baklava fingers with honey orange syrup, arm chocolate souffle. 6:30-9 p.m., Wednesday, Nov. 28, La Maison Gourmet, 471 Main St., Dunedin, 727-733-8915. $149 for three clases or $55 each per person.
