ART EXHIBITS
AND HOLIDAY SHOPPING Pasco Arts Council's Holiday House 2004 The house sparkles with holiday decorations and a large assortment of fine handcrafted items from community artists, as well as manufactured items, available for purchase. Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Continues through Dec. 23 at The Pasco Arts Center, 5744 Moog Road, Holiday, 727-845-7322.
A Season of Giving: Members Holiday Show and Sale This holiday exhibit is an 18-year tradition in St. Petersburg and features handmade gifts by 250 Florida fine craft artists. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Mon.-Sat. Continues through Dec. 31 at Florida Craftsmen Gallery, 501 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-821-7391.
Celebrations: Annual Holiday Exhibition Holiday-themed works by center members, featuring ornaments, jewelry, pottery, paintings, holiday cards, handblown glass and more. Free. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mon.-Sat., and noon to 5:30 p.m. on Sun. Continues through Dec. 31 at The Arts Center, 719 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-822-7872.
BENEFITS AND FUNDRAISERS Uhuru Holiday Pies Scrumptious, fresh-baked apple crumb ($11), pumpkin ($7) and sweet potato pies ($9) are available for pickup from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Dec. 23-24. Proceeds benefit the African People's Education and Defense Fund programs. To order pies, help sell pies or to volunteer, call 727-821-2437 or go to www.apedf.org. Uhuru Furniture & Collectibles, 945 Central Ave., St. Petersburg, 727-821-2437.
Holiday Pet Present Sale Purchase the perfect gifts for your four-legged friends at this SPCA fundraising event. All of the retail items, which include cards, leashed, pet toys and apparel, are discounted from 20 to 50 percent off, and shoppers can also pick up pet adoption certificates. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Fri., and noon to 5 p.m. on Sat. and Sun. through Dec. 31, at the SPCA of Pinellas County, 9099 130th Ave, N., Largo, 727 586 3591.
Lights of Lake Park Estates Each year, the residents of Lake Park Estates light up the neighborhood to celebrate the holidays, and collect donations and canned goods for ASAP's Harvest Time Food Bank, a nonperishable food pantry. Visitors are encouraged to bring donations or a canned food item. 6:30-10 p.m. Sun.-Thurs., and 6:30-11 p.m. Fri. and Sat. Continues through Dec. 31. For directions, call 727-586-4432 or go to www.thehospice.org/lolp.htm.PARADES, FESTIVALS
AND SPECIAL EVENTS Holiday Lights at the Florida Botanical Gardens This year-round tourist attraction is spectacular all on its own. But with tens of thousands of lights filling the sky with color, and illuminated snowflakes, butterflies and flowers adding a somewhat surreal ambiance, this is an excellent opportunity to see the gardens in a whole new, um … light. Free. Holiday hours are 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.; evening illumination occurs from 6 to 10 p.m. and continues through Jan. 2, at the Florida Botanical Gardens (Pinewood Cultural Park), 12175 125th St. N., Largo, 727-582-2100.
Holiday Nature and Science Camp The City of Clearwater Parks & Recreation Department and the Science Safari Education Company offer this day camp where youngsters can explore nature and science through hands-on games, crafts, fun activities, animal encounters and special demonstrations. For ages 6 to 11. Admission is $18 per day. Structured activities differ each day, and occur from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Children are supervised during extended camp hours (8 to 9 a.m. and 4 to 5 p.m.). Campers must arrive by 9:30 a.m. For more information, call 727-585-2298. Dec. 23 and 27-31, at Moccasin Lake Nature Park, 2750 Park Trail Lane, Clearwater.
23rd Annual Victorian Christmas Stroll Experience the charm of a 19th-century holiday as the H.B. Plant Museum is transformed into the Tampa Bay Hotel of 1891. A richly decorated tree is featured in each room, and lush greenery and decorations are draped throughout the Grand Hall. Admission is $9 for adults and $3 for ages 3 to 12. Hours are 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Dec. 23. The museum is closed on Christmas Eve and day, and re-opens Dec. 26 with new operating hours (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) and pricing ($5 adults/$2 children). The strolls continue through Jan. 2. 401 W. Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, 813-258-7302.
The Christmas House One of St. Pete's most well-known Christmas light displays is spread over half an acre of land and features almost a quarter of a million lights and over 400 moving and animated objects. 6 to 10 p.m. Mon.-Sun. through Jan. 3. 2719 Oakdale St. S., St. Petersburg, 727-896-6500.
THEATERThe Nutcracker Local dance school students partner with Miami City Ballet and The Florida Orchestra to present this performance of the holiday classic. Tickets: $26-$40. 2 and 8 p.m. Sat., and 1 p.m. Sun., Dec. 23-24, at Ruth Eckerd Hall.
Babes in Toyland Part of Van Wezel's 2004-05 Broadway series, Babes in Toyland takes place in a land where toys walk, talk and sing. Tickets: $26-$30. 3 p.m. Thurs., Dec. 24, at Van Wezel Performing Arts Center.
A Garfield Christmas When the ornaments on his Christmas tree come to life, Garfield learns the true importance of the holidays and the joy of giving in this new musical production. Tickets: $15. 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Sun., Dec. 26, at Ruth Eckerd Hall.
VOLUNTEERING AND HOLIDAY DRIVESAnnual Toy and Gift Drive Each year, Children's Home Society of Florida (CHS) helps more than 1,200 local children during the holidays. These youngsters receive no gifts without generous contributions from the community. If you are interested in making a gift donation (please, no games or toys that promote violence), call Loraine at 727-552-1482 or Lisa at 813-740-4266.
RCS Food Bank The Religious Community Services Food Bank needs drivers are also needed to assist with deliveries and pick-ups of food donated during the holiday season. Drivers should have a clean driving record and have the ability to drive Food Bank vehicles. Finally, Food Bank needs volunteers to sort and prepare boxes of food for distribution to households in need. To volunteer, call 727-443-4031.
Hospice Volunteers are needed for Trees of Love at Tyrone Square Mall and Westfield Shoppingtown Countryside. Volunteers greet community members and accept contributions from individuals wishing to honor loved ones with personalized dove ornaments. A variety of volunteer positions are also available in the gift-wrap areas at both shopping centers. All proceeds benefit programs and services provided by The Hospice of the Florida Suncoast. Call 727-586-4432 or e-mail jenniferblecher@thehospice.org to volunteer. Through Dec. 24.
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 or additional drop-off locations, call 813-209-1044. Metropolitan Ministries Holiday Center is located on the 2100 block of N. Florida Avenue in Tampa.
CHANUKAH EVENTSVodka Latke Formerly "The Matza Ball," this Chanukah celebration is presented by the Young Adult Division (YAD) of the Tampa Jewish Federation. Music by DJ Matt the Bratt. For more information or to purchase tickets, call 813-769-9267. Admission: $20 in advance/$25 at the door. 8 p.m. to midnight on Sat., Dec. 25, at Lotus Night Club, 1507 E. Seventh Ave., Tampa.
Chanukah Sale and Gift Shop A selection of gifts for adults and children. For more information, call 813-598-6479 or 727-785-3465. 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Mon.-Fri. at Congregation B'nai Emmunah, 3374 Keystone Road, Tarpon Springs.
Sisterhood Judaica Gift Shop Featuring an abundance of Chanukah gift items. 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Mon.-Fri. at Schaarai Zedek, 3303 W. Swann Ave., Tampa, 813-876-2377.
NEW YEAR'S EVE CELEBRATIONS New Year's Eve Dinner Theater Celebration Seating for the holiday dinner buffet begins at 6 p.m. for this special performance of Joe DiPietro's Over the River and Through the Woods. The show itself gets underway at 8 p.m., and afterward, guests can stay on to enjoy an evening of music and dancing from 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. Of course, no New Year's fete would be complete without a complimentary champagne toast at midnight, and Early Bird doesn't disappoint. And finally, attendees are treated to a continental breakfast buffet beginning at 1 a.m. $49. Fri., Dec. 31, at Bill Irle's Early Bird Dinner Theatre, 1411 N. Fort Harrison Ave., Clearwater, 727-446-5898.
13 Ugly Men New Years Party This benefit for school funding organization A Gift For Teaching features entertainment by local favorites The Untouchables (formerly Disco Inferno) and DJ Doug Shaw, a silent auction, heavy hors d'oeuvres, a cash bar, party favors, a champagne toast at midnight and a full breakfast buffet. A complete dinner menu and valet parking are also available. Advanced tickets ($20 for women/$30 for men) can be purchased at www.13uglymen.com; admission is an additional $5 at the door. 9 p.m.-3 a.m. Fri., Dec. 31, at Jackson's Bistro, 601 S. Harbor Island Blvd., Tampa.
New Year's Eve Cruise The Kai Lani Catamaran sails on the Gulf to Sand Key and revelers can spend the holiday on the water while drinking, mingling and dancing the night away. A fireworks show and a champagne toast occur at midnight. Ages 21 and up. For more information or to make a reservation, call 727-446-6778. Tickets: $80 per person (includes three-hour open bar, complimentary buffet, free champagne toast and party favors, free disposable camera and entry into a drawing for a private charter). Boarding occurs from 9 to 9:30 p.m. on Fri., Dec. 31. The cruise departs at 10 p.m. from the Clearwater Beach Marina, Slip #49, Clearwater Beach.
Family New Year's Eve Party This alcohol-free celebration features live entertainment by Christina Sanders (a spiritual singer from Nashville), ice skating, broomball, a scavenger hunt, a free buffet, door prizes, party favors and more. For more information, call 813-684-7825. Tickets: $21.99 adults/$17.99 children 12 and younger with parent or guardian. 8:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. on Fri., Dec. 31, at the Ice Sports Forum, 10222 Elizabeth Place, Tampa.
Florida Aquarium Outback Bowl New Years Eve Party Before the game, celebrate the holiday on the waterfront in downtown Tampa with catering compliments of Outback Steakhouse and free beer and wine throughout the evening. A champagne toast occurs at midnight, and guests can watch fireworks and the Ball Drop over the Channel from front row seats. Reservations are required, so please call 813-273-7868. AND Tickets: $55 members/$60 general. 9 p.m. to 1:30 a.m. on Fri., Dec. 31, at The Florida Aquarium, 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa.
New Year's Eve Slumber Party Kids bring in the New Year and party down at The Florida Aquarium while parents take the night off. For ages 6 to 12. Reservations are required, so please call 813-273-4015. Admission: $65 members/$75 general. 7:30 p.m. Dec. 31 to 9:30 a.m. Jan. 1 at The Florida Aquarium, 701 Channelside Drive, Tampa.
New Years Eve with the Barenaked Ladies The party begins at 9 p.m. and the band takes the stage at 10. After the performance, the band will stick around and host the midnight countdown, which will be accompanied by footage of the NYC ball drop on the jumbotron. The revelry continues from there. An all-inclusive party package for $100 per person is available on the Jeep Club Level, and includes a ticket to the show, themed food stations, beverages, New Year's Eve party favors and roaming entertainment. General admission is $20-$35. Fri., Dec. 31, at the St. Pete Times Forum, 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa, 813-301-6500.
Noon Year's Eve Countdown to noon as Lowry Park Zoo and Radio Disney-1380 AM host this sixth annual family celebration. The party begins at 9:30 a.m. and there's a juice toast at noon in celebration of the New Year. Regular zoo admission applies ($11.50 adults, $10.50 seniors, $7.95 ages 3-11, and children 2 and younger enter free). 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Fri., Dec. 31, at Lowery Park Zoo, 7530 N. Boulevard, Tampa, 813-932-0245.
Swing Into the New Year Featuring plenty of live music, an intro swing dance lesson (8 to 9 p.m.), a champagne toast, party favors, refreshments, prize giveaways and an art show by City of Imagination. Admission is $15. 9 p.m.-1 a.m. Fri., Dec. 31, in the Gulfport Casino Ballroom, 5500 Shore Blvd. S., Gulfport.
2004 New Year's Eve Gala: Ultimo Tango The festivities begin with cocktails and hors d'oeuvres at the mezzanine, followed by a four-course meal in the main ballroom and an evening of dancing to the music of The Florida Orchestra and the Southtown Fever Dance Band. Alcohol and beverages are served throughout the evening and The Florida Orchestra benefits. Tickets: $350/$500 per person. Call 813-286-1170 to make reservations. 6:30 p.m. to 2 a.m. Fri., Dec. 31, at the Renaissance Vinoy Resort, 501 Fifth Ave. N.E., St. Petersburg.
New Year's Eve with Donna the Buffalo Presented by WMNF-88.5 FM. BYOB. Tickets: $35 in advance/$45 at the door. 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. Fri., Dec. 31, at The Coliseum.
First Night 2005 The 12th annual New Year's Eve Celebration of the Arts takes place at 28 different venues throughout downtown St. Petersburg, and features an assortment of alcohol-free, family-oriented activities and diversions including live music and entertainment, dancing, games, art, fireworks and more. Admission is $8 in advance or $10 the day of for adults; children enter for $5 (kids under 5 enter free). Call 727-823-8906 for more information. 5:30 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. Fri., Dec. 31.
New Year's Eve with Comedian Louis C.K. The Improv offers two separate options for New Year's revelers. The dinner show includes a full meal and refreshments ($55 general/$75 V.I.P. 7:30 p.m.). The New Year's Celebration Show includes a fruit and cheese platter for two, champagne and party favors. After the show, ring in the New Year by watching the ball drop in New York City on the Improv's big screen ($55 general/$75 V.I.P. 10 p.m.). The Improv Comedy Theater & Restaurant, 1600 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa, 813-864-4000.leilani.polk@weeklyplanet.com
Main VenuesThe Coliseum, 535 Fourth Ave. N., St. Petersburg, 727-892-5202.
Florida Orchestra, 813-286-2403 or 1-800-662-7286.
Mahaffey Theater, 400 First St. S., St. Petersburg, 727-892-5757.
Palladium Theater, 253 Fifth Ave. N., St. Petersburg, 727-822-3590.
Ruth Eckerd Hall, 1111 McMullen-Booth Road, Clearwater, 727-791-7400.
Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center, 1010 N. MacInnes Place, Tampa, 813-229-7827.
Van Wezel Performing Arts Center, 777 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota, 941-953-3366.
This article appears in Dec 22-28, 2004.