MUSIC
Saturday, Nov. 17
Central Florida Community Arts: A Musical Holiday Presentation Noon; Orlando Public Library, 101 E. Central Blvd.; free; 407-835-7481.
Sunday, Nov. 18
Encore! Concerts Messiah Singalong rehearsal and performance directed by Dr. Burt H. Perinchief. 1:30 pm; Seminole State College Fine Arts Concert Hall, 100 Weldon Blvd., Sanford; free; 407-708-4722;
seminolestate.edu/arts/music.
Mannheim Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis Bombastic live holiday music backdropped by multimedia effects. 4 pm; King Center for Performing Arts, 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne; $38; 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.
Friday, Nov. 23
Holidays at the Morse presents Harpist Bizarre Quartet Live concert with bass, flute, guitar and harp. 5-8 pm; Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park; free; 407-645-5311;
morsemuseum.org.
Saturday, Nov. 24
Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra Presents Home for the Holidays Featuring conductor Albert-George Schram, the Holiday Singers and Florida Opera Youth Program Singers. 2 pm, 8 pm; Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre, 401 W. Livingston St.; various prices; 407-770-0071; orlandophil.org.
Sunday, Nov. 25
Messiah Choral Society Presents Messiah Directed by Dr. John V. Sinclair. 3 p.m.; Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre, 401 W. Livingston St.; free; 407-849-2020; orlandovenues.net.
Tuesday, Nov. 27
Dave Koz & Friends Christmas Tour The very smoothest of jazz saxophonists celebrates the holidays. 8 pm; King Center for Performing Arts, 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne; $46; 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.
Thursday, Nov. 29
Winter Choral Concert By Valencia's Show Choir and the Valencia Singers. 7:30 pm; Valencia College Performing Arts Center, East Campus, 701 N. Econlockhatchee Trail; free; 407-582-2900; valenciacollege.edu/arts.
Friday, Nov. 30
Christmas Vespers 6 pm; Rollins College, Knowles Memorial Chapel, 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park; $10; 407-646-2000.
Holiday Concert Featuring new arrangements of holiday favorites by the Brass Band of Central Florida. 7 pm; St. Luke's Lutheran Church and School, 2021 W. State Road 426, Oviedo; free; 407-365-3408; stlukes-oviedo.org/concert-series.
Holidays at the Morse presents pianist Lynn Peghiny Live performance by the musician, followed by a curator tour of the new Tiffany wing. 5 pm; Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park; free; 407-645-5311;
morsemuseum.org.
WJRR Presents the Blizzard of Rock Series featuring Rise Against 7 pm; House of Blues, Downtown Disney West Side, Lake Buena Vista; $37.50-$39.50; 407-934-2583.
Saturday, Dec. 1
Christmas Vespers 6 pm; Rollins College, Knowles Memorial Chapel, 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park; $10;
407-646-2000.
Holiday Concert Featuring new arrangements of holiday favorites by the Brass Band of Central Florida. 2 pm, 7 pm; St. Luke's Lutheran Church and School, 2021 W. State Road 426, Oviedo; free; 407-365-3408; stlukes-oviedo.org/concert-series.
Mannheim Steamroller Call for time; Universal Orlando, 1000 Universal Studios Plaza; included with park admission; 407-363-8000.
Winter Ska Prom 2012: Control This, Askultura UNRB, After the Fact 9 p.m.; The Social, 54 N. Orange Ave.; $8-$10; 407-246-1419; thesocial.org.
WJRR Blizzard of Rock Series featuring Fuel, Filet, LIT 7 pm; House of Blues, Downtown Disney West Side, Lake Buena Vista; $23-$25; 407-934-2583.
Sunday, Dec. 2
Christmas Show by the Sanford Jazz Ensemble 3 pm; Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201-203 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford; $10; 407-321-8111.
Christmas Vespers 6 pm; Rollins College, Knowles Memorial Chapel, 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park; $10; 407-646-2000.
Mannheim Steamroller Call for time; Universal Studios at Universal Orlando, 1000 Universal Studios Plaza; included with park admission; 407-363-8000.
Tuesday, Dec. 4
Encore! Concert: Holiday Gala Concert Live holiday music selections by the college's choir and bands. 7:30 pm; Seminole State College Fine Arts Concert Hall, 100 Weldon Blvd., Sanford; free; 407-708-2040; seminolestate.edu/arts.
Fall Symphonic/Jazz Band Concert Live music by the student bands. 7:30 pm; Valencia College Performing Arts Center, East Campus, 701 N. Econlockhatchee Trail; free; 407-582-2900.
Wednesday, Dec. 5
Bowzer's Rock 'N' Roll Holiday Party 8 pm; King Center for Performing Arts, 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne; $46; 321-242-2219.
Christmas with the Celts 7 pm; The Plaza Live, 425 N. Bumby Ave.; call for price; 407-228-1220; plazaliveorlando.com.
Thursday, Dec. 6
Christmas at the Movies The Central Florida Community Choir presents a family-friendly concert of songs from holiday-themed movies and TV specials. 7:30 pm; Northland Performing Arts Center, 530 Dog Track Road, Longwood; $10; cfcommunitychoir.com.
Friday, Dec. 7
Christmas at the Movies The Central Florida Community Choir presents a family-friendly concert of songs from holiday-themed movies and TV specials. 7:30 pm; Northland Performing Arts Center, 530 Dog Track Road, Longwood; $10; cfcommunitychoir.com.
Fall Opera Workshop Students perform selections from famous operas and Broadway shows. 7:30 pm; Valencia East Campus Black Box Theater, 701 N. Econlockhatchee Trail; free; 407-582-2900;
valenciacollege.edu/arts.
Holiday Friday Night Live with the Fam Band 7-9 pm; Cranes Roost Park, 274 Cranes Roost Blvd., Altamonte Springs; free; 407-571-8863.
Holidays at the Morse presents Joshua Englert Live performance by the classical guitarist, followed by a curator-led tour of the new Tiffany wing. 5 pm; Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park; free; 407-645-5311; morsemuseum.org.
Sights and Sounds of the Season 7 pm; Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201-203 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford; donations accepted; 407-321-8111.
Saturday, Dec. 8
Fall Opera Workshop Students perform selections from famous operas and Broadway shows. 7:30 pm; Valencia East Campus Black Box Theater, 701 N. Econlockhatchee Trail; free; 407-582-2900; valenciacollege.edu/arts.
Holiday Benefit Concert WKMG Local 6 and the City of Orlando present a performance by the Florida Symphony Youth Orchestra to benefit the Salvation Army's Angel Tree Network. 3 pm; Walt Disney Amphitheater, Lake Eola Park, Rosalind Avenue and Washington Street; free, donations accepted; 407-246-2827.
Mannheim Steamroller Call for time; Universal Studios at Universal Orlando, 1000 Universal Studios Plaza; included with park admission; 407-363-8000.
Marc With a C's Annual Holiday Show featuring Claire and the Potatoes 8 p.m.; Stardust Video & Coffee, 1842 E. Winter Park Road; free; 407-623-3393; stardustie.com.
Ninth Annual John Lennon Holiday Tribute & Fundraiser 2 pm; The Dakota House on the Lake, 710 N. Lake Formosa Drive; $15.
Sunday, Dec. 9
Jingle Ball 2012 featuring Justin Bieber, Ke$ha, One Republic, Sean Kingston 6 pm; Tampa Bay Times Forum, 401 Channelside Drive, Tampa; $23-$159; 813-301-6500.
Mannheim Steamroller Call for time; Universal Studios at Universal Orlando, 1000 Universal Studios Plaza; included with park admission; 407-363-8000.
Tuesday, Dec. 11
The House on Christmas Street International Tour 7 pm; The Cross Home, 4241 N. Econlockhatchee Trail; free, donations accepted for Autism Speaks.
Friday, Dec. 14
Holiday Friday Night Live with Robert Harris 7-9 pm; Cranes Roost Park, 274 Cranes Roost Blvd., Altamonte Springs; free; 407-571-8863.
Holidays at the Morse presents Victoria Lynn Schultz Live performance by the harpist, followed by a stained-glass demo by Melody Spence. 5 pm; Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park; free; 407-645-5311;
morsemuseum.org.
Spirit of the Season Central Florida Community Arts' Children's & Youth Arts Program concert production. 7 pm; First Alliance Church, 3800 Lake Underhill Road; $10; cfcommunitychoir.com.
Saturday, Dec. 15
Bach Festival Society Presents A Classic Christmas Featuring the Bach Festival Choir, Orchestra and Youth Choir. 7:30 pm; Rollins College, Knowles Memorial Chapel, 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park; $25-$55; 407-646-2182; bachfestivalflorida.org.
Joy, An Irish Christmas 7 pm; Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre, 401 W. Livingston St.; $25-$55; 407-849-2020.
Wintersong by Tammerlin 7:30 pm; Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales; $25; 863-676-1408.
Mannheim Steamroller Call for time; Universal Orlando, 1000 Universal Studios Plaza; 407-363-8000.
Spirit of the Season Central Florida Community Arts. 7 pm; First Alliance Church, 3800 Lake Underhill Road; $10.
Sunday, Dec. 16
Bach Festival Society Presents A Classic Christmas Bach Festival Choir, Orchestra and Youth Choir. 2 pm; Knowles Memorial Chapel, 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park; $25-$55; 407-646-2182; bachfestivalflorida.org.
Mannheim Steamroller Call for time; Universal Orlando, 1000 Universal Studios Plaza; 407-363-8000.
Southern Fried Sunday for the Holidays: Bad Santa and the Angry Elves 5:30 pm; Will's Pub, 1042 N. Mills Ave.; $10; 407-898-5070.
Trans-Siberian Orchestra 2:30 pm, 7 pm; Amway Center, 400 W. Church St.; $29-$67.50; 800-745-3000.
Friday, Dec. 21
Friday Night Live: Cornucopia Holiday Show 7-9 pm; Cranes Roost Park, 274 Cranes Roost Blvd., Altamonte Springs; free; 407-571-8863.
Holidays at the Morse presents Beautiful Music Three Flutes Only 5 pm; Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park; free; 407-645-5311; morsemuseum.org.
Orlando Rocks! The End of the World: Maybe If You Hit It 7 pm; House of Blues, Downtown Disney, Lake Buena Vista; $5; 407-934-2583.
Saturday, Dec. 22
Mannheim Steamroller Universal Orlando, 1000 Universal Studios Plaza; 407-363-8000.
Sunday, Dec. 23
Mannheim Steamroller Universal Orlando, 1000 Universal Studios Plaza; included with park admission; 407-363-8000.
Friday, Dec. 28
Holidays at the Morse: Beautiful Music Sweet Sounds Jazz Trio 5 pm; Charles Hosmer Morse Museum, 445 N. Park Ave.,; free.
Russell Athletic Bowl Parade of Bands Marching bands from the opposing universities perform in an outdoor parade along Park Avenue. 11 am; Park Avenue at Morse Boulevard, Winter Park; free; facebook.com/floridacitrussports.
THEATER
Through Dec. 15
Steppin' Out With Irving Berlin World premiere of a song and dance tribute to the iconic American composer. 2 pm Thursday, 7:30 pm Friday, 2 pm, 7:30 pm Saturday, 2 pm Sunday, 7:30 pm Wednesday, Dec. 12; Winter Park Playhouse, 711-C Orange Ave., Winter Park; $15-$38; 407-645-0145; winterparkplayhouse.org.
Nov. 15-Dec. 16
Babes in Toyland Family-friendly holiday theater production. 7 pm Thursday-Friday, 2 pm Sunday; Wayne Densch Performing Arts Center, 201-203 S. Magnolia Ave., Sanford; $15; 407-321-8111; waynedenschperformingartscenter.com.Nov. 15-Dec. 23
Junior Claus Orlando Rep holiday musical production. 2 pm, 5:30 pm Saturday-Sunday; Orlando Repertory Theatre, 1001 E. Princeton St.; $17; 407-896-7365; orlandorep.com.
Nov. 16-Nov. 19
I'll Be Home for Christmas 7 pm Friday, 8 pm Sunday-Monday; Breakthrough Theatre, 419A W. Fairbanks Ave.; $12; 407-920-4034; breakthroughtheatre.com.
Nov. 23-Dec. 23
A Christmas Carol Theatre Downtown's traditional stage adaptation of Charles Dickens' novella about a grump scared straight. 8 pm Thursday-Saturday, 2:30 pm Sunday ; Theatre Downtown, 2113 N. Orange Ave.; $20; 407-841-0083;
Nov. 24-Dec. 22
Wanzie's Glittering Star-Studded A Christmas Carol – A Dickens Inspired Celebrity Cavalcade Holiday Spectacle Starring Carol Lee, Doug Ba'aser, Miss Sammy, Gidget Galore, Doug White and Michael Wanzie. 7:30 pm Saturdays; Footlight Theatre, The Parliament House, 410 N. Orange Blossom Trail; $16-$20; 407-425-7571; wanzie.com.
Nov. 28-Dec. 30
The Farndale Avenue Housing Estate Townswomen's Guild Dramatic Society's Production of A Christmas Carol Slapstick British holiday spoof starring Anne Hering. 7 pm Wednesday-Thursday, 8 pm Friday-Saturday, 2 pm Sunday; Margeson Theater, Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St.; $17-$40; 407-447-1700; orlandoshakes.org.
Nov. 30-Dec. 16
A Christmas Carol Osceola Center for the Arts production of the classic holiday drama. 7:30 pm Friday-Saturday, 2 pm Sunday; Osceola Center for the Arts, 2411 E. Highway 192, Kissimmee; $15-$21; 407-846-6257; ocfta.com.
A Christmas Survival Guide Garden Theatre and Miracle or 2 Productions presents a holiday musical revue by James Hindman and Ray Roderick. 8 pm Friday, 2 pm, 8 pm Saturday, 2 pm Sunday; Garden Theatre, 160 W. Plant St., Winter Garden; $25-$29; 407-877-4736; gardentheatre.org.
Sunday, Dec. 2
UCF Glee Club presents Holiday Musical Live theatrical singing performance featuring classic holiday favorites and contemporary hit songs. 3:30 pm Sunday; Orlando Public Library, 101 E. Central Blvd.; free; 407-835-7481; ocls.info.
Monday, Dec. 3
Merry Fringein' Christmas Mitzi Morris and Michael Wanzie host a comedic production with performances by Varietease, Theatre Downtown, GOAT, Joan Crawford's House Party and PB&J Theatre Factory. 7 p.m.; Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St.; $10-$12; 407-648-0077;
wanzie.com.
Dec. 6-Dec. 16
North Pole Musical FantasyLand Theatrical Productions presents a holiday play directed by Christian St. John. 8 pm Friday-Saturday, 7 pm Sunday; The Pointe Performing Arts Center, 9101 International Drive; call for price; 407-374-3587; pointearts.org.
Dec. 6-Dec. 23
Sleigh PB&J Theatre Factory presents a family-friendly comedic holiday production directed by Brandon Roberts. 7:30 pm Thursday-Saturday, 2:30 pm Sunday; Goldman Theater at Lowndes Shakespeare Center, 812 E. Rollins St.; $16.50-$20; 407-722-7037; pbjtheatrefactory.com.
Dec. 7-Dec. 16
Scrooge – The Musical Sands Theater and Sands Youth Theater Company holiday production. 7:30 pm Thursday-Friday, 2:30 pm, 7:30 pm Saturday, 2:30 pm Sunday; Athens Theatre, 124 N. Florida Ave., DeLand; $20-$25; 386-736-7456; athenstheatre.org.
Dec. 7-Dec. 22
The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Directed by Tara Corless. 8 pm Monday, Thursday-Saturday, 3 pm Sunday; Breakthrough Theatre of Winter Park, 419A W. Fairbanks Ave.; $10-$18; 407-920-4034; breakthroughtheatre.com.
Dec. 14-Dec. 23
Dickens by Candlelight: A Ghost Story of Christmas John DiDonna, Morgan Russell and Monica Long Tamborello star in a holiday production with plenty of audience participation. 7:30 pm Thursday-Friday, 4 pm, 7:30 pm Saturday- Sunday, 7:30 pm Monday, 7:30 pm Wednesday; Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts, 1111 N. Orange Ave.; $35; 407-222-7669; dickensbycandlelight.com.
Saturday, Dec. 22
A Christmas Carol Fully staged musical production of Charles Dickens' classic tale. 7:30 pm; King Center for Performing Arts, 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne; $26.50; 321-242-2219;
kingcenter.com.
Dec. 22-23
A Christmas Carol Southern Winds Theatre presents a one-man holiday show starring David A. McElroy playing all 37 characters. 7:30 pm Saturday-Sunday; The Venue, 511 Virginia Drive; $20; 407-341-3495;
southernwindstheatre.com.
COMEDY
Sunday, Nov. 18
A Thanksgiving Improv Showcase 2 pm Sunday; Orlando Public Library, 101 E. Central Blvd.; free; 407-835-7481; ocls.info.
Dec. 13-Dec. 16
My Mother's Italian, My Father's Jewish and I'm Home for the Holidays ... the Therapy Continues! One-man comedy show starring Steve Solomon. 7:30 pm Thursday-Saturday, 3 pm Sunday; King Center for Performing Arts, 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne; $44; 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.
Dec. 20-Jan. 2
Yule of Fools Holiday-themed competitive improv comedy show incorporates audience participation and Tootsie Rolls. 7:30 pm Tuesday-Saturday, 9:30 pm Saturday, 7:30 pm Sunday; SAK Comedy Lab, 29 S. Orange Ave.; $12-$15; 407-648-0001; sak.com.
DANCE
Nov. 16-Nov. 17
Choreographers' Showcase Performance of dances choreographed by Valencia students. 8 pm Friday-Saturday; Valencia College Performing Arts Center, East Campus, 701 N. Econlockhatchee Trail; $12; 407-582-2900;
valenciacollege.edu/arts.
Saturday, Dec. 1
Clare & the Chocolate Nutcracker 7 pm Saturday; Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre, 401 W. Livingston St.; $27-$47; 407-849-2020; orlandovenues.net.
The Nutcracker Space Coast Ballet's take on the classic holiday ballet. 2 pm, 7 pm Saturday; King Center for Performing Arts, 3865 N. Wickham Road, Melbourne; $19; 321-242-2219; kingcenter.com.
Monday, Dec. 3
The Nutcracker Mariinsky Ballet 3D Watch Tchaikovsky's holiday choreography on the big screen. 2 pm, 7:30 pm Monday; various theaters; $12.50-$15; fathomevents.com.
Dec. 19-Dec. 20
The Nutcracker School Show Orlando Ballet presents a school performance version of the Tchaikovsky classic. 10:15 am Wednesday-Thursday; Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre, 401 W. Livingston St.; $8 per student; 407-426-1739; orlandoballet.org.
Dec. 20-Dec. 23
The Nutcracker Orlando Ballet performs, with live music by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra. 7:30 pm Thursday-Saturday, 2 pm Sunday; Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre, 401 W. Livingston St.; $20-$90; 407-426-1739; orlandoballet.org.
Saturday, Dec. 22
Joyful & Triumphant The Center for Contemporary Dance. 7 pm Thursday; Trinity Preparatory School, 5700 Trinity Prep Lane, Winter Park; $12-$15; 407-695-8366; thecenterfordance.org.
Dec. 22-Dec. 23
Family Series: The Nutcracker Orlando Ballet presents a family-friendly performance of the classic holiday ballet. 11 am, 3 pm Saturday, 11 am Sunday; Bob Carr Performing Arts Centre, 401 W. Livingston St.; $25-$35; 407-426-1739; orlandoballet.org.
The Nutcracker Central Florida Ballet presents a modern take on the classic, with pyrotechnics and aerial acrobatics. 7:30 pm Saturday, 2 pm Sunday; Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Drive; $10-$80; 407-849-9948; centralfloridaballet.com.
FILM
Nov. 14, Dec. 22
Home Alone Light Up UCF hosts an outdoor screening of 1990's family comedy starring Macaulay Culkin. 9 pm, 11:30 pm Wednesday, 7 pm, 9:30 pm Saturday; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006; lightupucf.com.
Thursday, Nov. 15
How the Grinch Stole Christmas The original 1966 holiday classic. 7:30 pm, 8:30 pm Thursday; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006; lightupucf.com.
Friday, Nov. 16
National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation 7 pm, 9:30 pm Friday; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006; lightupucf.com.
Wednesday, Nov. 21
It's a Wonderful Life Light Up UCF hosts an outdoor showing of Frank Capra's 1946 holiday drama. 6:30 pm, 9 pm Wednesday; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006;
lightupucf.com.
Friday, Nov. 23
The Santa Clause 2 Starring Tim Allen. 7 pm, 9:30 pm Friday; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006; lightupucf.com.
Wednesday, Nov. 28
Fred Claus Starring Vince Vaughn. 5:30 pm, 8 pm Wednesday; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006; lightupucf.com.
Friday, Nov. 30
Popcorn Flicks in the Park Presents: Elf and How the Grinch Stole Christmas Outdoor double showing of the two holiday films. 7 pm Friday; Central Park, North Park Avenue and West Morse Boulevard, Winter Park; free; 407-629-1088; enzian.org.
The Magic Flute Cinema Essentials film series showing of Ingmar Berman's film version of Mozart's opera. 1:30 pm Friday; Southeast Museum of Photography, Daytona State College, Daytona Beach; free, donations accepted; 386-506-4475; smponline.org.
Saturday, Dec. 1
The Polar Express Tom Hanks stars in this 2004 animated family film. 7 pm, 9:30 pm Saturday; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006; lightupucf.com.
Wednesday, Dec. 5
Scrooged Bill Murray stars in this outdoor Wednesday Night Pitcher showing of Richard Donner's 1988 holiday film. 8 pm; Eden Bar at the Enzian, 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland; free; 407-629-1088; enzian.org.
The Santa Clause Tim Allen stars in John Pasquin's 1994 family comedy. 5:30 pm, 8 pm; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006; lightupucf.com.
Thursday, Dec. 6
Holiday Movie Night: Arthur Christmas 7 pm; Cranes Roost Park, 274 Cranes Roost Blvd., Altamonte Springs; free; 407-571-8863; uptownaltamonte.com.
Friday, Dec. 7
Date Night at Leu Gardens Grab a seat in the gardens for an outdoor showing of 1938's A Christmas Carol. 6 pm; Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave.; $5; 407-246-2620; leugardens.org.
How the Grinch Stole Christmas Ron Howard's take on the classic starring Jim Carrey. 7 pm, 9:30 pm; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006; lightupucf.com.
Saturday, Dec. 8
It's a Wonderful Life Frank Capra's 1946 comedy/drama starring James Stewart. Noon; Enzian Theater, 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland; $8; 407-629-0054; enzian.org.
Tuesday, Dec. 11
12 Gifts of Christmas The holiday-inspired film broadcasts on the big screen featuring host Lisa Whelchel alongside storytellers, musicians, comedians and an illusionist. 7:30 pm; various theaters; $15; fathomevents.com.
Thursday, Dec. 13
Holiday Movie Night: Fred Claus Outdoor showing of the comedy. 7 pm; Cranes Roost Park, 274 Cranes Roost Blvd., Altamonte Springs; free; 407-571-8863; uptownaltamonte.com.
The Nightmare Before Christmas Enjoy an outdoor showing of Tim Burton's 1993 animated family film. 5:30 pm, 8 pm; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006; lightupucf.com.
Friday, Dec. 14
Arthur Christmas Bring a blanket and chair for an outdoor showing of 2011's animated holiday comedy. 7 pm, 9:30 pm; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006; lightupucf.com.
Saturday, Dec. 15
Mickey's Magical Christmas Light Up UCF hosts an outdoor showing of 2001's animated family adventure. 7 pm, 9:30 pm; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006.
Wednesday, Dec. 19
A Christmas Story Outdoor holiday movie showing. 5:30 pm, 8 pm; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006; lightupucf.com.
Santa Claus Conquers the Martians An outdoor Wednesday Night Pitcher showing of the film in conjunction with the Santa's Cool Holiday Film Festival. 8 pm Monday; Eden Bar at the Enzian, 1300 S. Orlando Ave., Maitland; free; 407-629-1088; enzian.org.
Thursday, Dec. 20
Holiday Movie Night Enjoy an outdoor showing of holiday cartoons by the lake. 7 pm; Cranes Roost Park, 274 Cranes Roost Blvd., Altamonte Springs; free; 407-571-8863; uptownaltamonte.com.
Friday, Dec. 21
Elf Will Ferrell stars in 2003's Jon Favreau comedy. 7 pm, 9:30 pm; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006; lightupucf.com.
Tuesday, Dec. 25
Santa Claus WTF Theater showing of 1959's René Cardona sci-fi holiday film. 8 pm; Little Fish Huge Pond, 401 S. Sanford Ave., Sanford; free; 407-221-1499; littlefish-hugepond.com.
Wednesday, Dec. 26
A Christmas Carol Outdoor showing. 6:30 pm, 9 pm; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006; lightupucf.com.
Sunday, Dec. 30
Miracle on 34th Street Light Up UCF hosts an outdoor showing of the 1974 holiday film directed by George Seaton. 5:30 pm, 8 pm; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free; 407-823-6006; lightupucf.com.
ART
Wednesday, Nov. 14
Ceramic Luminaries Workshop Join Joanne Borges to create your own ceramic luminary and decorate it for the holiday season. 6-9 pm; Casselberry Art House, 127 Quail Pond Circle, Casselberry; $20-$25; 407-262-7722;
casselberry.org.
Nov. 15, Dec. 20
Third Thursday Gallery Hop Stroll through the Downtown Arts District, with new openings at various galleries. 6-9 pm Thursday; CityArts Factory, 29 S. Orange Ave.; free; 407-648-7060; orlandoslice.com.
Thornton Third Thursday Gallery Hop & Art Walk Nontraditional galleries and retail vendors display artworks. 7-9 pm Thursday; Thornton Park, Summerlin Avenue and Washington Street; free; orlandoslice.com.
Nov. 16-April 26
Friday Nights at the Morse Free admission to the galleries, with select evenings offering live music, art demos and curator tours. 4 pm; Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park; free; 407-645-5311; morsemuseum.org.
Saturday, Nov. 17
Holiday Open House View a collection of new works by the studio artists. 6-9 pm; Gallery on First, 211 E. First St., Sanford; free; 407-323-2774; galleryonfirst.com.
Nov. 17-Nov. 18
DeLand Fall Festival of the Arts This 20th annual outdoor juried art show features an impressive collection of more than 180 national artists and crafters displaying works in a variety of mediums including painting, glass, photography, printmaking and many more. Area retail stores offer shopping opportunities as well. 10 am-5 pm Saturday-Sunday; downtown DeLand, Indiana Avenue and South Woodland Boulevard; free; 386-738-5705; delandfallfestival.com.
Osceola Art Festival 45th annual outdoor juried art show with sidewalk chalk art, a student art display, live entertainment, a downtown sculpture walk and dining and shopping opportunities. 9 am-5 pm Saturday-Sunday; downtown Kissimmee, Broadway and Monument avenues; free; 407-846-6257; ocfta.com.
Nov. 17-Dec. 30
Be Good for Goodness' Sake! Annual holiday show features home decor, ornaments and other crafts. 10 am-6 pm Tuesday-Saturday, noon-5 pm Sunday; Jeanine Taylor Folk Art, 211 E. First St., Sanford; free; 407-323-2774; jtfolkart.com.
Nov. 23, Dec. 28
Sanford Art Walk Monthly art party with art displays in various venues along First Street. 6 pm Friday; downtown Sanford, East First Street and South Park Avenue; free; 407-302-2586; sanfordwelcomecenter.com.
Nov. 23-Jan. 13
Holidays at the Waterhouse The Maitland museum transforms into a holiday-themed wonderland with spirited decor and activities. Noon-4 pm Thursday-Sunday; Waterhouse Residence & Carpentry Shop Museum, 820 Lake Lily Drive, Maitland; $3; 407-629-1532; artandhistory.org.
Nov. 30-Dec. 1
Holiday Open House View works by the collection of 22 studio artists. 6-9 p.m. Friday, 4-9 p.m. Saturday; Mcrae Artists Studios, 906A Railroad Ave., Winter Park; free; 407-599-9956;
mcraeartstudios.com.
Dec. 1-Dec. 2
13th Annual Holiday Sale The Crealdé artists showcase and sell works. 9 am-5 pm Saturday, 11 am-4 pm Sunday; Crealdé School of Art, 600 St. Andrews Blvd., Winter Park; call for details; 407-671-1886; crealde.org.
Sunday, Dec. 2
Central Florida Watercolor Society Holiday Pot Luck Luncheon 1:30 pm; Germaine Marvel Building, 210 W. Packwood Ave., Maitland; free; centralfloridawatercolor.com.
Thursday, Dec. 6
1st Thursdays: Art Under $200 – 'Tis the Season Holiday-themed art party. 6-9 pm; Orlando Museum of Art, 2416 N. Mills Ave.; $10; 407-896-4231; omart.org.
Friday, Dec. 7
First Friday Charity Festival & Art Stroll Art displays by more than 40 local artists, live music, drink specials, dinner offerings and shopping at local merchants. 5:30-9:30 pm; Baldwin Park, New Broad and Jake streets; free; 407-923-3849; facebook.com/baldwinparkfirstfridayfestival.
First Fridays Guests receive free admission and enjoy later hours, light refreshments, docent-led tours, demos and gallery talks. 4-8 pm; Cornell Fine Arts Museum, Rollins College, 1000 Holt Ave., Winter Park; free; 407-646-2526; rollins.edu/cfam.
Saturday, Dec. 8
Fourth Annual Murder City Photography Christmas Lights Photo Walk Bring your camera or camera phone for a photography walking tour around downtown Winter Park. 7:30 p.m.; Winter Park Rose Garden, Park Avenue, Winter Park; free.
Friday, Dec. 14
Culture & Cocktails Featuring works by artist Nathalie Chikhi, as well as food and live music. 6-9 pm; Germaine Marvel Building, 210 W. Packwood Ave., Maitland; free-$5; 407-539-2181;
artandhistory.org.
Mount Dora Gallery Walk Meet local artists and browse art displays at venues like Artisans on Fifth, Bowersock Gallery, Mount Dora Center for the Arts and more in this monthly gathering in downtown Mount Dora. 6-9 pm; downtown Mount Dora, East Fifth Avenue and North Donnelly Street; free; 321-383-4001.
Friday, Dec. 21
Girls Night Out – Watercolor Bring your girlfriends, food and drinks for a holiday-themed workshop where you'll learn basic watercolor techniques. 7-9 pm; Casselberry Art House, 127 Quail Pond Circle, Casselberry; $10-$15; 407-262-7722; casselberry.org.
Wednesday, Dec. 26
Holiday Open House Annual event opens the galleries to the public to view for free. 10:30 am-4:30 pm; Mennello Museum of American Art, 900 E. Princeton St.; free; 407-246-4278;
mennellomuseum.org.
Dec. 26-Dec. 30
Orlando Sentinel's 25th Annual Holiday Art Contest The museum displays works by the winners of the annual coloring contest for schoolchildren. 10:30 am-4:30 pm Tuesday-Saturday, noon-4:30 pm Sunday; Mennello Museum of American Art, 900 E. Princeton St.; $4; 407-246-4278;
mennellomuseum.org.
SPECIAL EVENTS
Through Nov. 18
26th Annual Festival of Trees Council of 101 sponsors this annual holiday event, which transforms the Orlando Museum of Art into a holiday wonderland. Designer-decorated Christmas trees, gingerbread houses and vignettes on display at the museum will help get you in the holiday mood. 10 am-5 pm daily; Orlando Museum of Art, 2416 N. Mills Ave.; $6-$10; 407-896-4231; omart.org.
Through Dec. 21
Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party Seasonal event features the Castle Dream Lights on Cinderella Castle, Mickey's One Upon A Time Christmastime Parade, holiday fireworks displays and a snow fall on Main Street, USA. 7 pm-midnight on select nights; Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista; $53.95-$67.95; 407-824-4321;
disneyworld.disney.go.com.
Through Jan. 1
Ice! Merry Madagascar-themed holiday event with rooms full of hand-carved ice sculptures, a two-story ice slide and a light show. Various times daily; Gaylord Palms Resort, 6000 W. Osceola Parkway, Kissimmee; $13.99-$27.99; 407-586-4423;
christmasatgaylordpalms.com.
Through Jan. 6
The Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights Every evening the buildings in the park burst to life with millions of lights synchronized to holiday music. Various times nightly; Disney Hollywood Studios, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista; included with park admission; 407-939-6244; disneyworld.com.
Nov. 16-Nov. 18
Avalon Jubilee Annual fall carnival with a variety of food vendors and midway rides in the park. 3-10 pm Friday, 10 am-10 pm Saturday-Sunday; Tanja King Memorial Park, corner of Honey Locust Boulevard and Tanja King Road; free;
eventsatavalonpark.com.
Nov. 16-Dec. 27
Festival of the Seasons Outdoor holiday event with streetside carolers, live holiday music, costumed stilt walkers and street performers, DJs and more. Various times daily; Downtown Disney, 1478 E. Buena Vista Drive; free; 407-934-7639; disneyworld.disney.go.com.
Nov. 16-Jan. 6
Light Up UCF This annual outdoor holiday event around UCF Arena offers ice skating, a light show, a film festival, carnival-style amusements and photos with Santa. Various times daily; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; free-$240; 407-823-6006;
lightupucf.com.
Winter in the Park This annual holiday event features an outdoor ice skating rink in Central Park, alongside a variety of kid's games, holiday carolers, light displays and more. 3-9 pm Monday-Thursday, 3-10 pm Friday, 10 am-10 pm Saturday, noon-8 pm Sunday; Central Park's West Meadow, North Park Avenue and West Morse Boulevard, Winter Park; $10 all day includes skate rental; 407-599-3203; cityofwinterpark.org.
Saturday, Nov. 17
5th Annual Holiday Tasting Extravaganza and Sales Event Sample hundreds of types of wine, with food pairings and live music at the store. 3-6 pm; the Wine Barn, 1711 33rd St.; $25 all-inclusive; 407-704-8816;
thewinebarn.net.
Jingle Eve Holiday street party with shopping, live entertainment, food trucks, street vendors, a boat parade on Lake Ivanhoe and an appearance by Santa Claus. 3-11 pm; Ivanhoe Village Main Street, Orange Avenue between New Hampshire and Princeton streets; free; 407-393-8765; facebook.com/jingleeve.
Winter Park Harvest Festival This is the third annual edition of this super-popular daylong local food event, which focuses on locally sourced and sustainable foods. Highlights include a producers-only farmers market, cooking demos, food-related seminars and roundtables, live acoustic music, DIY activities for kids and a mobile community garden display. 10 am-4 pm; Central Park's West Meadow, North Park Avenue and West Morse Boulevard, Winter Park; free; 407-628-1230; wpharvest.com.
Nov. 17-Nov. 18
Second Annual Rotary Art, Craft and Wine Festival This two-day outdoor event features more than 100 artists who will display works and a wine stroll and tasting around the lake. 10 am-8 pm Saturday, 10 am-5 pm Sunday; Cranes Roost Park, 274 Cranes Roost Blvd., Altamonte Springs; $25-$30; 407-571-8863; aacwf.com.
Nov. 17-Dec. 31
SeaWorld's Christmas Celebration This annual holiday event offers holiday-themed shows like Shamu Christmas – Miracles and Wonderland on Ice, a Holiday Reflections: Fireworks and Fountain Finale, a Christmas market, the Polar Express Experience and more for the kids including games and animal encounters. Various times daily; SeaWorld, 7007 SeaWorld Drive; $74.99; 407-363-2613; seaworldparks.com.
Nov. 19-Jan. 2
Leu's Holiday House Tour the 11-room estate, which will be decorated with Christmas trees and festive decor. 10 am daily; Harry P. Leu Gardens, 1920 N. Forest Ave.; $7; 407-246-2620; leugardens.org.
Wednesday, Nov. 21
Night B4 Thanksgiving Block party with live music, Turkey Bowling and drink specials. 8 pm; Wall Street Plaza, Wall and Court streets; $5; 407-849-0471.
Thanksgiving Eve Bash Join the party before the big holiday, with both a bottomless cup and premium open bar packages available, as well as dueling pianos all night long. 7 pm; Howl at the Moon Saloon, 8815 International Drive; $20-$30; 407-354-5999; howlorlando-thanksgivingeve.eventbrite.com.
Thursday, Nov. 22
Drunken Monkey Vegan/Non-Vegan Thanksgiving Dinner For Everyone Celebrate with a meal of turkey or tofurkey, mashed potatoes and gravy, stuffing and all the other trimmings. 1 pm, 4 pm, 7 pm; Drunken Monkey Coffee Bar, 444 N. Bumby Ave.; $12.99-$24.99, reservations required; 407-893-4994; drunkenmonkeycoffee.com.
Friday, Nov. 23
Holiday Harbor Nights The hotel hosts a wine tasting event with gourmet food samples, free hand-rolled cigars, live jazz music by Johnny Cool and the Mobster Swing Band, and the illumination of Portofino's Christmas tree. 6:30-9 pm; Loews Portofino Bay Hotel, 5601 Universal Blvd.; $45-$75; 407-503-1200; loewshotels.tix.com.
Nov. 23-Dec. 30
Holidays Around the World – Candlelight Processional Hear the story of Christmas accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and mass choir; this year's celebrity narrators include Geena Davis, Neil Patrick Harris, Whoopi Goldberg, James Denton, Amy Grant and others. 5 pm, 6:45 pm, 8:15 pm on select nights; Epcot, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista; included with park admission; 407-824-4321; disneyworld.com.
Nov. 23-Dec. 31
12th Annual Space Coast Light Fest Just over a mile of the park is covered in twinkling holiday light displays in this drive-through attraction. 6-9:30 pm nightly; Wickham Park, 2500 Parkway Drive, Melbourne; $10 per car; 321-614-6286; spacecoastlightfest.com.
Nov. 23-Jan. 6
Holiday Home Tour at Pinewood Estate The 20-room Mediterranean-style mansion is decked out in designer holiday decor, with the theme "The Nature of the Holidays." 10 am-5 pm Monday-Saturday, noon-5 pm Sunday; Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales; $20; 863-676-1408; boktowergardens.org.
Friday, Nov. 30
Candlelight Tour of Homes Walking tour throughout the historic Sanford Heights neighborhood, with food and beverages from local restaurants. 6-9:30 pm; 16th Street and Elm Ave., Sanford; $25-$30; 407-435-9525;
sanfordhistorictrust.org.
Christmas in the Square & Annual Tree Lighting Live entertainment, Santa and more. 6-8 pm; downtown Sanford, Sanford Avenue and First Street; free; 407-302-2586; sanfordfl.gov.
Holiday Lights Orlando The city illuminates a Christmas tree and a menorah, as Trinity Downtown Evangelical Lutheran Church and School perform its annual show, The Gift, and the movie Elf is shown outside by the lake. 4-10 pm; Walt Disney Amphitheater, Lake Eola Park, Rosalind Avenue and Washington Street; free; 407-246-2827; cityoforlando.net.
Holiday Tree Lighting Ceremony The Winter Park Chamber of Commerce sponsors this annual lighting of the Christmas tree in downtown Winter Park's Central Park area, complete with live children's choirs performances and holiday activities for the kids. 5:15 pm; Central Park, North Park Avenue and West Morse Boulevard, Winter Park; free; 407-644-8281.
Hysterical Tour of Gnomes and Pub Invasion Wear a holiday-inspired costume and make your way to the Imperial, the Palette and Twisted Vine. 8 pm; downtown Sanford, Sanford Avenue and First Street; $10; 407-221-1499;
littlefish-hugepond.com.
Orlando Holiday Brewfest Outdoor beer and food sampling. 6-10 pm; Heritage Square, South Magnolia Avenue and East Central Boulevard; $30-$40; 407-383-2331.
Nov. 30-Dec. 21
Tree-Lighting Ceremony and Meet-and-Greet with "Vacation" Santa and Mrs. Claus 6 pm Thursday-Saturday; Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort, 1500 Epcot Resorts Blvd., Lake Buena Vista; free; 407-934-3000; santasfavoriteresort.com.
Saturday, Dec. 1
60th Annual Winter Park "Ye Olde Hometown" Christmas Parade The longest-running Christmas parade in Central Florida, this event along Park Avenue features more than 100 marching bands, dance troupes, floats, local dignitaries and Santa Claus. 9-10 am; Park Avenue at Morse Boulevard, Winter Park; free; 407-644-8281.
Day Tour of Homes & Gardens This driving/walking tour showcases homes decked out in their holiday best. 11 am-4 pm; UCF Public History Center, 301 W. 7th St., Sanford; $15; sanfordhistorictrust.org.
Images Tour of Homes Area residences are decorated with holiday themes by local florists, and also featuring a holiday boutique with shopping opportunities. 9 am-3 pm; Atlantic Center for the Arts, 1414 Art Center Ave., New Smyrna Beach; $20; 386-423-4733;
atlanticcenterforthearts.org.
Light Up the Holidays Annual lighting of the large Christmas tree by the lake, with music, visits with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a Holiday Fountain Show, and a fireworks display. 5-9 pm; Cranes Roost Park, 274 Cranes Roost Blvd., Altamonte Springs; free; 407-571-8863;
uptownaltamonte.com.
The Crocheted Santa Book sale and signing with Barbra Bass. 4 pm; Orlando Public Library, 101 E. Central Blvd.; free; 407-835-7481; ocls.info.
Dec. 1-Dec. 2
Cracker Christmas Holiday craft fair with more than 150 vendors, barbecue and pioneer demos. 10 am-4 pm Saturday-Sunday; Fort Christmas Historical Park and Museum, 1300 Fort Christmas Road, Christmas; free; 407-254-9310; nbbd.com.
Dec. 1-Dec. 30
Christmas Bricktacular Santa Claus stops by the park, and guests can take in festive displays and a 270,000-brick Christmas tree. 10 am Saturday-Sunday; Legoland, One Legoland Way, Winter Haven; included with park admission; 877-350-5346; legoland.com.
Dec. 1-Jan. 1
Grinchmas Seuss Landing turns into a winter wonderland with the Grinchmas Wholiday Spectacular show, a character breakfast and meet-and-greet with the Grinch, music by Mannheim Steamroller and more. Various times daily; Islands of Adventure at Universal Orlando, 1000 Universal Studios Plaza; included with park admission; universalorlando.com/holidays.
Macy's Holiday Parade Floats and balloons direct from the New York City parade fill the park's streets, with a tree lighting, a display of holiday lights, the Barney Holiday singalong and the Blues Brothers Holiday Show. Various times daily; Universal Studios at Universal Orlando, 1000 Universal Studios Plaza; included with park admission; 407-363-8000; universalorlando.com/holidays.
Monday, Dec. 3
Jingle Jam Downtown South hosts a holiday street party featuring an art merchant tent, food vendors, beer and wine, live entertainment on stage and visits with Santa Claus. 11 am-5 pm; 2885 S. Orange Ave., 2885 S. Orange Ave.; free; downtownsouthjinglejam.org.
Dec. 3-Dec. 7
Cypress Grove Park's Festival of Lights Drive through the park and view the elaborate holiday light display. 6:30-9:30 pm Monday-Friday; Cypress Grove Park, 290 Holden Ave.; $2 per vehicle; 407-836-6200; orangecountyparks.net.
Wednesday, Dec. 5
History Holiday at Heritage Square Join Orange County Mayor Teresa Jacobs and residents as she lights the Christmas tree in Heritage Square, complete with live outdoor holiday music, visits with Santa Claus, holiday craft-making and milk and cookies for the kids. 6-8 pm; Heritage Square, South Magnolia Avenue and East Central Boulevard; free; 407-836-8580.
Thursday, Dec. 6
34th Annual Christmas in the Park The Morse Museum lights up nine Tiffany windows, as the Bach Festival Choir, Youth Choir and Brass Ensemble perform a free outdoor concert in the park. 6:15-8 pm; Central Park, North Park Avenue and West Morse Boulevard, Winter Park; free; 407-645-5311; morsemuseum.org.
Christmas at the Casa: Cookies, Cocoa and Carols The historic home is decorated for the holidays and offers live performances by Shannon Caine's Vintage Holiday Carolers and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus for photos with the kids. 7-9 pm; Casa Feliz, 656 N. Park Ave., Winter Park; free, $2 suggested donation; 407-647-2330; casafeliz.us.
Friday, Dec. 7
Date Night – Zentangle Bring a date, dinner and drinks for a workshop where you'll create a holiday Zentangle with instructor Adele Bruno. 7-9 pm; Casselberry Art House, 127 Quail Pond Circle, Casselberry; $10-$15; 407-262-7722; casselberry.org.
Dec. 7-Dec. 16
The Singing Christmas Trees This annual holiday tradition features a full orchestra and choir performance with two 40-foot tall trees and a display of 250,000 lights. 7:30 pm Friday, 3 pm Saturday, 5 pm Sunday; First Baptist Church, 3000 S. John Young Parkway; $5-$45;
firstorlando.com.
Saturday, Dec. 8
Baldwin Park Festival of Lights An evening parade, live performances by choral ensembles, face painting for the kids and carriage rides around the area. 6-10 pm; Baldwin Park Village Center, 1097 Bennett Road; free; 407-740-5838.
Sanford Christmas Parade Watch as local groups, marching bands and notable residents celebrate the season throughout the streets. 6 pm; downtown Sanford, Sanford Avenue and First Street; free; 407-302-2586; sanfordfl.gov.
St. Lucia Festival Swedish Christmas festival with live music, ethnic food vendors, appearances by Swedish residents from Sanford and more. 1-4 pm; Museum of Seminole County History, 300 Bush Blvd., Sanford; free; 407-665-2489; seminolecountyfl.gov/museum.
The Twelve Pubs of Christmas Pub Crawl Make your way around the Mills50 District with drinks at Funky Monkey, Will's Pub, Lil Indies, BART, the Peacock Room and more. 8 pm; Wally's Mills Avenue Liquors, 1001 N. Mills Ave.; $10; 407-896-6975; mills50.org.
Dec. 8-Dec. 9
19th Annual Bed and Breakfast Holiday Tour More than 20 bed and breakfast inns showcase holiday decor, feature live entertainment and serve culinary treats in this self-guided tour themed "The Twelve Days of Christmas." 1-5 pm Saturday-Sunday; Downtown St. Augustine; $25; staugustinebandbtour.com.
Christkindlmarket The bakery hosts a German-inspired two-day holiday vendor fair with folk dancing, music, puppet shows and more. 9 am-5 pm Saturday-Sunday; Yalaha Bakery, 8210 County Road 48, Leesburg; free; 352-324-3366; yalahabakery.com.
Sunday, Dec. 9
Sparkle Market Holiday shopping market with local vendors selling crafts, art and wares, performances by local musicians and more. 11 am-6 pm; Dandelion Communitea Café, 618 N. Thornton Ave.; free; 407-362-1864;
dandelioncommunitea.com.
Thursday, Dec. 13
Alive After 5 This monthly street party offers live music, art displays, food and cocktail sampling and more at area restaurants and bars. 5-8 pm; downtown Sanford, East First Street and South Park Avenue; $7 includes food and beverage sampling;
sanfordwelcomecenter.com.
John King's Holiday Special Literary podcaster John King (thedrunkenodyssey.com) hosts this holiday event. 7 pm; Urban ReThink, 625 E. Central Blvd.; $5; 407-704-6895; urbanrethink.com.
Thornton 2nd Thursday Wine & Art Walk Pay one price for unlimited wine tasting at participating venues, with streetside shopping vendors and food trucks offering menu items. 6-9 pm; Mother Falcon Clothing, 817 E. Washington St.; $10 cash; face
book.com/thorntonparkdistrict.
Friday, Dec. 14
Annual Tree Lighting Ceremony and Holiday Art & Music in the Park Outdoor holiday gift shopping event with local vendors, a Food Truck Bazaar and showing of the film Arthur Christmas. 6-9 pm; Lake Concord Park, 127 Quail Pond Circle, Casselberry; free; 407-262-7700; casselberry.org.
Saturday, Dec. 15
District 6 Washington Shores Christmas Parade Watch floats and community organizations march in the holiday-inspired parade and then enjoy live music, food offerings and entertainment in the park throughout the day. 10 am-2 pm; Hankins Park, 130 Lake Park Court; free; 407-246-2006; cityoforlando.net.
Sunday, Dec. 16
Grandma Party An offbeat collection of artists, musicians and vendors offer an eclectic range of alternative gift options. 10 am; Stardust Video & Coffee, 1842 E. Winter Park Road; free; 407-623-3393; stardustie.com.
Dec. 22-Dec. 23
Holiday Weekend Open House Enjoy free admission and live music by the Raintree Chamber Players. 9:30 am-4 pm Saturday, 1-4 pm Sunday; Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, 445 N. Park Ave., Winter Park; free; 407-645-5311;
morsemuseum.org.
Tuesday, Dec. 25
Christmas Day at Forever Florida Enoy the Zipline Safari and Horseback Safari. 9 am-5 pm; Forever Florida, 4755 N. Kenansville Road, St. Cloud; various prices; 407-957-9794; foreverflorida.com.
Saturday, Dec. 29
Orlando Citrus Parade This annual tradition in downtown Orlando features a lineup of college marching bands, high-school marching bands and floats made completely of citrus fruits. 11 am; Downtown Orlando, Orange Avenue and Central Boulevard; free; facebook.com/
floridacitrussports.
Monday, Dec. 31
24th Annual Rockin' the Dock Ring in the New Year with five different parties along the pier, each offering live entertainment, champagne toasts, balloon drops and more. 7 pm-2 am; Cocoa Beach Pier, 401 Meade Ave., Cocoa Beach; $20; 321-783-7549;
cocoabeachpier.com.
Church Street New Year's Eve Massive street party with portable outdoor bars, live entertainment, a balloon drop and fireworks display at midnight. 8 pm-2 am; downtown Orlando, Orange Avenue and Church Street; $40-$100; 407-649-4270; churchstreetbars.com.
New Year's Eve Party at DisneyQuest Family-friendly event with access to video games, a DJ dance party and a confetti drop at midnight. Call for time; Downtown Disney, 1478 E. Buena Vista Drive; visit website for details; 407-939-6244; disneyworld.com.
LGBT
Friday, Nov. 16
The Black & White Gala Fundraiser event with dancing, a live band and hors d'oeuvres to benefit The Center. 7:30 pm; The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive; $60-$150; 407-228-8272; wanzie.com.
Saturday, Nov. 17
Party Around the World Celebrate the food, drink and sounds of Brazil, England, Japan, Mexico and Germany. 10 pm; The Parliament House, 410 N. Orange Blossom Trail; call for price; 407-425-7571; parliamenthouse.com.
Nov. 23, Dec. 28
Cocktails and Conversations MBA Orlando hosts an LGBT-friendly informal after-hours networking event. 5:30-7:30 pm Friday; MBA Orlando Headquarters, 23 S. Osceola Ave.; free; 407-610-7412;
mbaorlando.org.
Saturday, Dec. 1
Light Up the Courtyard Holiday-themed party with live entertainment and drink specials. 7:30 pm; The Parliament House, 410 N. Orange Blossom Trail; call for price; 407-425-7571;
parliamenthouse.com.
Sunday, Dec. 2
Sounds of the Season: A Holiday Concert Central Florida Sounds of Freedom, Orlando's LGBT band and color guard, perform holiday favorites. 3 p.m.; The Abbey, 100 S. Eola Drive; $10-$25; 407-704-6261; cfsfband.com.
Saturday, Dec. 8
Blacklight Party: Nightmare Before Christmas Grab the glowsticks and enjoy live entertainment and drink specials in the bar. 8 pm; The Parliament House, 410 N. Orange Blossom Trail; call for price; 407-425-7571; parliamenthouse.com.
Dec. 15-Dec. 16
Reasons for the Season Live holiday concert performance by the Orlando Gay Chorus features classic holiday hits. 7:30 pm Saturday, 4:30 pm Sunday; The Plaza Live, 425 N. Bumby Ave.; $25; 407-228-1220;
plazaliveorlando.com.
Monday, Dec. 31
New Year's Eve with Amber Ring in the new year with a live performance by the musician, drink specials and more. 8 pm; The Parliament House, 410 N. Orange Blossom Trail; call for price; 407-425-7571; parliamenthouse.com.
LEARNING
Friday, Nov. 16
Girls Night Out – Jewelry Making Ladies are invited to bring food and drinks and engage in a workshop which uses recycled paper products to create bracelets, rings and necklaces. 7-9 pm; Casselberry Art House, 127 Quail Pond Circle, Casselberry; $10-$15; 407-262-7722; casselberry.org.
Nov. 23-Jan. 6
Winter Walking Tours Take an hour-long guided tour from the Pinewood Estate to the Singing Tower and learn about the winter flora and fauna. 11:45 am Monday-Saturday, 1:45 pm Sunday; Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales; included with general admission; 863-676-1408; boktowergardens.org.
Saturday, Dec. 1
Home for the Holidays Workshop Series: Recycling Holiday Decor Join in a DIY craft workshop where you can create holiday centerpieces from reusable items and take home your own holiday creation. 10 am-noon; Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales; $10, supplies included; 863-676-1408;
boktowergardens.org.
Tuesday, Dec. 4
Religion 101 Series: Christianity Adult education series presentation by the Rev. Bryan Fulwider. 7 pm; Holocaust Memorial Resource and Education Center, 851 N. Maitland Ave., Maitland; free; 407-628-0555; holocaustedu.org.
Thursday, Dec. 6
Fun With Flowers – Decorating for Christmas With Flowers Learn to create a holiday centerpiece. 10 am; Winter Park Garden Club, 1385 S. Denning Drive, Winter Park; $25, all materials provided; 407-644-5770.
Saturday, Dec. 8
Home for the Holidays Workshop Series: Family Friendly Ornaments DIY craft workshop where you can bring home your own holiday creation. 10 am-noon; Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales; $10, supplies included; 863-676-1408; boktowergardens.org.
Saturday, Dec. 15
Home for the Holidays Workshop Series: Natural Decor Learn how to create a holiday craft in this DIY workshop. 10 am-noon; Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales; $10, supplies included; 863-676-1408;
boktowergardens.org.
Thursday, Dec. 20
Winter Sky Festival The planetarium hosts an outdoor event with telescope viewing, a live presentation of the Central Florida Nights show and dinner options courtesy of local food trucks. 6 pm; Seminole State College Planetarium, 100 Weldon Blvd., Sanford; free; 407-708-2409; seminolestate.edu/planet.
Saturday, Dec. 22
Home for the Holidays Workshop Series: Terrarium Ornaments Create your own holiday craft in this DIY workshop. 10 am-noon; Bok Tower Gardens, 1151 Tower Blvd., Lake Wales; $10, supplies included; 863-676-1408; boktowergardens.org.
CIVICS
Nov. 15, Dec. 20
Green Drinks Meet others looking to make Orlando a more sustainable city. 7 pm Thursday; Dandelion Communitea Café, 618 N. Thornton Ave.; free; 407-362-1864; dandelioncommunitea.com.
Sunday, Nov. 18
Compassionate Thanksgiving Vegan Potluck Join the Animal Rights Foundation of Florida for a meatless holiday meal. 2 pm; Mead Garden, 1500 S. Denning Drive, Winter Park; $5 with dish to share, $10 without; arff.org.
Nov. 27, Nov. 29
Holiday Health Screenings The library hosts free blood pressure and diabetes health screenings for hypertension and hyperglycemia. 10 am Tuesday, Thursday; Orlando Public Library, 101 E. Central Blvd.; free; 407-835-7481; ocls.info.
Saturday, Dec. 1
14th Annual Holiday Dinner for the Animals Enjoy a plated vegan dinner, with proceeds to benefit animals at Spay N Save Animal Clinic. 6 pm; Garden Café, 810 W. Colonial Drive; $25-$35; 407-968-2400.
14th Annual Leadership Winter Park Pancake Breakfast Before heading to the "Ye Olde Hometown" Christmas parade, fill up on a traditional pancake breakfast with hotcakes, sausage and beverages. 7-10:30 am; Central Park, North Park Avenue and West Morse Boulevard, Winter Park; $6; 407-644-8281.
Central Florida Sierra Club Holiday Bike Ride Head out on a leisurely bicycle ride through College Park to view the residential holiday light displays. 6:30 pm; Orange Cycle, 2204 Edgewater Drive; free; 407-481-4398; centralfloridasierra.org.
Thursday, Dec. 6
Mix It Up! With PPGO: Holiday Edition Join Planned Parenthood of Greater Orlando for a party, with light bites, drinks and more at the beer bar. 6:30 p.m.; Redlight Redlight, 2810 Corrine Drive; free; 407-246-1788; facebook.com/ppgreaterorlando.
Wednesday, Dec. 12
GodDay & Shoes for Kids Godday Inc. hosts a day of prayer and shoe donation event with live music and guest speakers. 10 am-noon; Lake Eola Park, North Rosalind Avenue and East Washington Street; free; 407-654-3344.
Friday, Dec. 14
Pack & Deliver Volunteer Day Help to sort and deliver baby items to the Children's Home Society, Community Health Centers, Orange County Healthy Start Coalition, Orlando Day Nursery and Winter Park Day Nursery. 1-5 pm; Heart of Florida United Way, 1940 Traylor Blvd.; free; 407-835-0900; hfuw.org.
Saturday, Dec. 15
Shoes4Kids 5K Fun Run/Walk Fundraiser to supply shoes to underprivileged school-age children in Central Florida. 5 pm; Lake Eola Park, North Rosalind Avenue and East Washington Street; donations accepted; legacylife.us/shoesforkids.
Friday, Nov. 16
Blanket Orlando Picnic Enjoy a day of music and entertainment in the park, with a blanket drive for the homeless in Orlando. 3 pm; Gaston Edwards Park, 1236 N. Orange Ave.; free, blanket donations requested.
FAMILY
Saturday, Nov. 17
Family Days at the Museum: Happy Holidays 1 pm; Waterhouse Residence & Carpentry Shop Museum, 820 Lake Lily Drive, Maitland; free; 407-629-1532; maitlandhistory.org.
Parent and Child Workshop – Thankful Trees Create a tree sculpture Thanksgiving table centerpiece by using wire and various material. 1-3 pm; Casselberry Art House, 127 Quail Pond Circle, Casselberry; $10-$15, all supplies are included; 407-262-7722;
casselberry.org.
Saturday, Nov. 24
The Holidays with Mr. Harley Kids can sing and dance with the musician. 2 pm; Orlando Public Library, 101 E. Central Blvd.; free; 407-835-7481; ocls.info.
Saturday, Dec. 1
Breakfast With Santa The East Orange County Kiwanis Club hosts a pancake and sausage breakfast with the Big Guy in Red. 8-11:30 am; Waterford Lakes Town Center, 413 N. Alafaya Trail; $4-$6; 352-874-8288.
Sunday, Dec. 2
Family Adventure Day: Santa's Stories Learn the story behind Santa Claus and other holiday traditions. 1 pm; Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E. Central Blvd.; $5 per child, adults free; 407-836-8500;
thehistorycenter.org.
Dec. 4-Dec. 18
Santa Tuesdays Visit with Santa, have professional family photos taken and watch the Robert Harris Duo Holiday Show. 6-8 pm Tuesday; Cranes Roost Park, 274 Cranes Roost Blvd., Altamonte Springs; free; 407-571-8863;
uptownaltamonte.com.
Dec. 3-Dec. 7
Joyeux Noel, Polichinelle! Holiday-inspired Punch & Judy-style hand-puppet show. 10:30 am 4:30 pm Monday-Friday; Pinocchio's Marionette Theater, Altamonte Mall, Altamonte Springs; $6; 407-834-8757; pinocchios.net.
Saturday, Dec. 8
Breakfast (or Brunch) With Santa Share a meal with the Big Guy in Red and enjoy up-close animal encounters. Call for time; Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, 3755 N. U.S. Highway 17-92, Sanford; call for price; 407-323-4450; centralfloridazoo.org.
Kid's Workshop – Glazing Ceramic Holiday Ornaments The little ones work with pre-made ceramic ornaments and learn the basic techniques of glazing in this art workshop. 1-3 pm; Casselberry Art House, 127 Quail Pond Circle, Casselberry; $10-$15; 407-262-7722; casselberry.org.
Dec. 8-Jan. 6
The Little Drummer Boy This family-friendly holiday-inspired string-puppet play should get you into the spirited season. 10:30 am, 1:30 pm, 4:30 pm Monday-Friday, 12:30 pm, 2:45 pm, 5 pm Saturday-Sunday; Pinocchio's Marionette Theater, Altamonte Mall, Altamonte Springs; $6; 407-834-8757; pinocchios.net.
Sunday, Dec. 9
Drop and Shop Parents can drop off the kiddos at the History Center for an afternoon of holiday movies, ornament-making and holiday snacks. 2-6 pm; Orange County Regional History Center, 65 E. Central Blvd.; $5 per child, recommended for ages 4-11; 407-836-8500; thehistorycenter.org.
Friday, Dec. 14
Family Fun Nights – Movie in the Park Grab the kids and a seat on the grass for an outdoor showing of the holiday film Arthur Christmas. 7:30 pm; Lake Concord Park, 127 Quail Pond Circle, Casselberry; free; 407-262-7700; casselberry.org.
Saturday, Dec. 15
An Afternoon With Santa 13th annual holiday event where kids meet Santa, have photo opportunities and share their Christmas lists. 2-5 pm; Magnolia Park, 2929 Binion Road, Apopka; $3, recommended for ages 12 and under; 407-886-4231; orangecountyparks.net.
Parent and Child Workshop – Linoleum Printed Holiday Cards Create your own design to print family holiday cards. 1-3 pm; Casselberry Art House, 127 Quail Pond Circle, Casselberry; $10-$15, all supplies included; 407-262-7722; casselberry.org.
Monday, Dec. 31
Cocoa's Family New Year's Event The whole family can enjoy a countdown to 2013, complete with live entertainment, interactive art activities and a balloon drop to ring in the new year. 5 pm; Cocoa Village, State Road 520 and Brevard Avenue, Cocoa; free-$5; 321-639-3503; cocoafl.org.
SPORTS
Thursday, Nov. 22
Third Annual Turkey Day 5K Holiday Fun Run Family-friendly event to support feeding children. 8 am; Fort Mellon Park, 1000 E. First St., Sanford; donations accepted; sanfordfl.gov.
Turkey Trot 5K Before you gobble down the holiday turkey, join in this Thanksgiving-themed 3.1-mile run/power walk around downtown Orlando, which benefits Seniors First and offers both costume and turkey call contests. 8 am; Lake Eola Park, East Central Boulevard and North Eola Drive; $27-$35; 407-310-6725; turkeytrotorlando.com.
Nov. 22-Nov. 25
Old Spice Classic This four-day men's college basketball single-elimination tournament hosts eight teams from around the nation, with this year's squads including Clemson, Vanderbilt, Gonzaga, Oklahoma, UTEP, Davidson, Marist and West Virginia. Various times Thursday-Friday, Sunday; ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, Walt Disney World Resort, Lake Buena Vista; $20-$100; 407-939-4263; oldspiceclassic.com.
Saturday, Nov. 24
PBR Bike Ride End of the Year Ride Hop on your bicycle and enjoy drinks at Stardust Coffee, Sportstown Billiards, the Falcon and Will's Pub. 6 pm; Ace Metric Cycles, 444 W. New England Ave., Winter Park; free; facebook.com/orlpbrride.
Dec. 1-Dec. 29
Holiday Lights Zipline Safari Soar 68 feet above the ground on this holiday-inspired ride, complete with seven different ziplines, 10 aerial observation platforms and two free-walking sky bridges. Various times Saturdays; Forever Florida, 4755 N. Kenansville Road, St. Cloud; $85; 407-957-9794; foreverflorida.com.
Saturday, Dec. 8
Holiday Lights Bike Tour Hop on your bicycle for an evening ride around Audubon Park alongside Santa, and enjoy live music, hot chocolate, mulled wine and a charity drive at various local venues. 7-10 pm; Bikes Beans & Bordeaux, 3022 Corrine Drive; free; 407-427-1440; b3cafe.com.
Winter Park Boat Parade and Ski Show This evening holiday-themed, water-centric event features a parade of lighted boats (mostly decorated by residents and local businesses), which cruise around lakes Virginia and Osceola, and professionals performing in an afternoon water-ski show choreographed to holiday music. 3:30 pm; Albin Polasek Museum and Sculpture Gardens, 633 Osceola Ave., Winter Park; free; 407-647-6492; wpboatparade.com.
Saturday, Dec. 15
Jingle Bell Run/Walk Wear a holiday-themed costume for a run/walk to help raise money and awareness for the Arthritis Foundation. 7:30 am; Lake Baldwin Park, 2380 Lake Baldwin Lane; $25-$30; 2012jbrorlando.kintera.org.
Reindeer Run This family-friendly run offers a three-mile route around the park, with a holiday-themed party and activities at the finish. 7:15 am; SeaWorld, 7007 SeaWorld Drive; $24-$35; 407-898-1313; trackshack.com.
Tap 'N' Run 4K Run a 2.5-mile race while being served beer at four stops along the route and a 12-ounce beer at the finish line. Cheers! 5-8 pm; Lake Eola Park, East Central Boulevard and North Eola Drive; $37.52; 502-653-4985; tapnrun.com.
Thursday, Dec. 27
Russell Athletic Bowl Team Pep Rallies The bands, coaches and cheerleaders from each college football team entertain fans at Pointe Orlando with live music and more. 4 pm; Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive; free; facebook.com/floridacitrussports.
Friday, Dec. 28
Russell Athletic Bowl NCAA college football game. 5:30 pm; Florida Citrus Bowl, 1610 W. Church St.; $20-$228; 407-423-2476; russellathleticbowl.com.
Dec. 28-Dec. 29
UCF Holiday Basketball Tournament The UCF men's basketball team compete in a two-day tournament against teams including Howard, Bethune-Cookman, Boston University, Belmont and others. Various times Friday-Saturday; UCF Arena, University of Central Florida; $10-$50; 407-823-6006; ucfathletics.com.
Dec. 29-Dec. 30
Holiday Rally Central Florida Soap Box Derby competition. 7:30 am Saturday-Sunday; Derby Park, 2199 Oregon Ave., Sanford; free-$115; 407-330-5697; sanfordfl.gov.
Monday, Dec. 31
Capital One Bowl Team Pep Rallies Marching bands from both teams entertain fans at a pre-game party. 4 pm; Pointe Orlando, 9101 International Drive; free; 407-248-2838; facebook.com/floridacitrussports.
Orlando Magic vs. Miami Heat The Magic take on their cross-state rivals in this New Year's Eve NBA professional basketball game. 5 pm; Amway Center, 400 W. Church St.; various prices; 407-896-2442; orlandomagic.com.
Tuesday, Jan. 1
Capital One Bowl NCAA college football game. 1 pm; Florida Citrus Bowl, 1610 W. Church St.; $35-$303; 407-849-2020; ticketmaster.com.
