Broward Family Life December 2019 by Broward Family Life

COMPLIMENTARY

DECEMBER 2019

FESTIVE FAMILY CELEBRATIONS

SURVIVING

theSEASON

MUST-HAVE APPS FOR STAYING SANE

FINDING

FORGIVENESS HOW TO LET GO OF GRUDGES

Baby Ariana, who was born with a heart defect, with her family

TRUSTED CARE for Tiny Hearts

Before Ariana was born, an ultrasound revealed her severe heart defect, hypoplastic left heart syndrome – essentially, she’d be born with half of her heart. Ariana’s mom entrusted both her care and Ariana’s to the specialists at Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital. “Ariana was going to require a lot of procedures starting in the first weeks of life,” said Frank Scholl, MD, chief of the Heart Institute, who led Ariana’s multiple surgeries. “God bless the whole staff,” her parents said. “Our daughter wouldn’t be here without them.”

JDCH.com/Heart

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“I Trusted Them with Her Life” - Sarah, Mother of Vivienne (pediatric cancer survivor)

COMPASSIONATE CARE WHEN YOU NEED IT MOST When Sarah brought her 2-year-old daughter, Vivienne, to the Emergency Room at Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital, she didn’t expect to learn that her daughter had cancer. After the diagnosis, hematology and oncology teams worked to help little Vivienne fight her disease. Today, she’s an energetic 6-year-old who has been in remission since 2017. Salah Foundation Children’s Hospital is dedicated to caring for children of all ages. With a passion for caring, our team offers hope and healing through the following services: • Child Life Services • Comprehensive Pediatric Diabetes Center • Hematology Oncology • Neonatal Intensive Care Unit – Level III

• Pediatric Acute Care & Medical/Surgical Treatment • Pediatric Emergency Department • Pediatric Intensive Care Unit – Level I • Pediatric Sedation

To find a pediatric specialist, visit BrowardHealth.org/Find-Doctor. 1600 S. Andrews Avenue, Fort Lauderdale

Read more of Vivienne’s story at BrowardHealth.org/Patient-Stories.

contents

DECEMBER 2019

departments 10 BROWARD & BEYOND News about the people, places and events in our community.

30 FAMILY MAN Whether creating or maintaining holiday traditions, it’s important to keep it simple.

32 HOME TECH 15 handy app ‘elves’ to get you through the holidays.

34 SPECIAL NEEDS How to lighten the overload for holiday-challenged families.

36 CALENDAR OF EVENTS Entertaining and noteworthy things to see and do in every corner of Broward County.

38 WORDS OF WISDOM It takes growing up to discover the true gifts of the holidays.

features

FINDING FORGIVENESS

JOY FOR THE HOLIDAYS

ON THE COVER:

Holding on to grudges can hurt you — and your kids.

From frosty festivals to playful parades, here’s our guide to the many ways to celebrate the season.

Makayla Moncaleano, 5, of Doral A Cover Angels runner up

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Photographer: Lisa Nalven

OPEN HOUSE JAN 12, 2020

1pm-3pm for

28 years

We Accept VPK

Summit-Questa Montessori Open House Sunday January 12, 2020 1pm - 3pm 5451 SW 64th Ave Davie, FL 33314 954-584-3466 | www.summitquesta.com

Join Principal Judy Dempsey on a campus tour Nov 20 and Dec 11

Judy Dempsey, Owner, Principal, Recipient of the 2016-2017 AISF Distinguished Educator of the Year Award & Author of Turing Education Inside-Out

The tour will take you through all of our levels of Montessori classrooms from toddler-8th grade, as well as our grounds including our gym, pools, farm, edible gardens and peace sanctuaries. Visit our website or call today to sign up for a tour.

Our mission is to enrich family life in Broward County by offering the highest quality publication and an unparalleled commitment to our readers and our community. PUBLISHER Lisa Goodlin ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Stacey Jacques EXECUTIVE EDITOR Michelle Liem ASSISTANT EDITOR Greg Carannante ASSOCIATE EDITOR Shannon Pease-Severance SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGERS Suzy Miguelez • Sheila Ranson Rick Charnack CREATIVE DIRECTOR Carrie B. Weeks PRODUCTION ASSISTANTS Toni Kirkland • Linda Seavey DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Tom Gonzales CONTACT US: 4611 S. University Drive, #224 Davie, FL 33328 Phone (954) 424-7405 info@browardfamilylife.com

For information on where to find Broward Family Life, or to become a distributor, call 954-424-7405 or e-mail info@browardfamilylife.com Comments and suggestions are welcome.

Broward Family Life is published twelve times per year by Family Life Media Group. It is distributed free of charge throughout Broward County. Broward Family Life is not responsible for statements made by advertisers or writers. We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of information we print, but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from omissions or errors. All photography and letters sent to Broward Family Life will be treated unconditionally, assigned for publication and copyright purposes and are subject to unrestricted right to edit and comment editorially. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is forbidden.

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A N F D Holiday U Y presented by

Join Broward Family Life at Promenade at Coconut Creek for a day of shopping, dining, holiday fun and interactive activities for the entire family!

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7 | 11AM - 4PM | FREE TO ATTEND Enjoy balloon creations, face painting, holiday performances, activities provided by the Florida Panthers and Miami Marlins fire truck rides, Santa Claus* AND MORE! *Santa Claus will be available between 12PM-4PM. Sponsored by:

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&beyond

BROWARD

Kids of Character NEW TV SERIES FOSTERS KINDNESS IN CHILDREN

est-selling author Brad Meltzer had three good reasons to start writing his fantastically successful “Ordinary People Change the World” series of children’s books: his daughter and two sons. “I wrote these books because I just was tired of my own kids looking at people who are famous for being famous and reality TV show stars and loud-mouthed athletes and thinking that those were heroes,” said Meltzer, who lives in Fort Lauderdale. “I have so many better heroes that I could give to them.” He collaborated with award-winning illustrator Chris Eliopoulos to make “Ordinary

Now a new PBS KIDS TV show is bringing the books to life. Xavier Riddle and the Secret Museum, an animated adventure-comedy series that recently began airing on WPBT-Ch. 2 weekdays at 9am, is about a boy (Xavier), his sister (Yadina) and their best friend, Brad (uh-huh, that Brad). In each episode, they encounter a problem (like being bullied), then go to their secret museum. There they can go back in time to meet an inspiring historical hero — Rosa Parks, for example, who teaches them how to deal with bullies. Meltzer, who serves as executive producer of the five-episode series, is no stranger to success. Every

People Change the World” one of the most successful children’s series of the last decade. “These books are our way of fighting back, to help kids build character, kindness and compassion, one real hero at a time,” Meltzer says on his website.

10... 9... 8... Noon! New Year’s Eve is generally regarded as a holiday for adults — but not if a couple of local museums have something to say about it. Both Young At Art Museum and the Museum of Discovery and Science are hosting “Noon Year’s Eve” countdown celebrations on Dec. 31 to get the party started a little early for the younger party-goers. YAA’s Rock’n Noon Year’s Eve Party features festivities for the whole family from 10am-3pm. There’ll be a countdown to a balloon drop at noon, as well as live music, dancing and hands-on New Year’s art activities leading up to a sparkling cider toast and balloon-drop finale. The party is free with paid museum admission of $14/adult and child, $12/senior and Broward resident, $11/military family, and member/free. YAA is at 751 SW 121st Ave., Davie. For more information, please visit www.youngatartmuseum.org At the same time on the eastern side of the county, MODS will hold Noon Year’s Eve: 2020 Kick-Off, with not one but three different ball drops, at 10am, noon and 2pm. The festivities will include fun tinkers, rockin’ deejay, 2020 festivity gear and a hands-on science exploration for the entire family. The celebration is free with paid museum admission of $24/adult, $22/senior, $19/child (2-12) and military member, and free/child (under 2) and member. The museum is at 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale. For more information, please visit www.mods.org

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one of his thrillers for adult readers has made The New York Times bestseller list, and his first non-fiction book, The First Conspiracy, was kept out of the top spot only by Michelle Obama’s Becoming earlier this year. For more information, please visit www.pbskids.org/xavier or www.bradmeltzer.com

A positive picture for Pines families As 2019 draws to a close, Pembroke Pines families would have to admit it was a pretty good year for the city. Residents of the county’s second-most populous community were given a couple of reasons to be positive about the Pines: It was not only named as a top place to raise a family in the state, it was also named as the happiest place in South Florida. The southwest Broward city of 170,000 residents came in at No. 33 — the highest-ranking city in the state — in the “Best & Worst Places to Raise a Family” study by financial website WalletHub. In the website’s other ranking, the city’s small-town feel with big-city features may have contributed to it being No. 28 on the list of the most content cities nationwide — the only municipality in South Florida to crack the top 50. For the “Best & Worst” study, researchers considered housing cost, health systems, education and child care, and amenities for fun and recreation. Pembroke Pines also scored high in the education/ child-care group, in which it was No. 13. For the “Happiest Places” study, also of 182 cities, WalletHub researchers focused on emotional and physical well-being, income and employment, and community and environment.

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Sing and dance (canta y baila) in this interactive concert for children featuring a joyous blend of music in English and Spanish.

Love Is Te Quiero Sunday, December 15 2:00 P.M. - 3:00 P.M. Nova Southeastern University Alvin Sherman Library 3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr., Blvd. Fort Lauderdale- Davie, Florida 33328

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December 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

FINDING HOLDING ON TO GRUDGES

ou may be at work, at home, or in a waiting room when the mental video clip starts rolling — the one highlighting the slights behind that grudge you hold tight. Painful memories cycle before your mind’s eye, reminding you of just how justified your grudge is — from the time the relationship-assailant started flinging barbs your way to the final affront that became the proverbial last straw in your association with him or her. The more your thoughts stir up old wounds, the more you grow from annoyed to seething. The clip ends with you declaring that you are “mad as hell and not going to take it anymore,” or some other line-in-the-sand proclamation. Pulse racing and teeth clenched, you steel yourself to strike back hard if someone dares to utter the overly simplistic suggestion to “just let it go.” Why should you “let it go” when you’ve been wronged — and perhaps wronged for a long time — by a relative, friend, or co-worker? Well, you may just want to let go of your grudges, not for the sake of letting the offenders off the hook, but to stop the damage that grudges can cause to your emotional and physical well-being. Moreover, reclaiming your sense of wellness helps to ensure the same for your children, who are watching the way you handle adversity and taking cues from you on how to manage their own conflicts. HOLDING ONTO GRUDGES HURTS YOU On the surface, nursing a grudge can feel like the right thing to do. After all, grudges signal that someone has crossed a line with us, that our dignity matters, and that we had the strength to stick up for ourselves, either by distancing ourselves from the offender or being guarded and combative whenever the offender is near.

FORGIVENESS CAN HURT YOU — AND YOUR KIDS However, once we shed the armor of our indignation, we find that holding a grudge doesn’t heal the underlying injury. In fact, stewing over past slights causes us to remain stuck in feelings of anger, resentment and vengefulness. These feelings of unforgiveness then compound the emotional harm by leading to anxiety, depression or stress that, in turn, can cause us to approach new relationships with defensiveness and distrust. Moreover, the negative feelings sustained by our long-held grudges can take an enormous toll on our physical health. Research has found that people who maintain long-term grudges experienced higher rates of a host of ailments, like heart disease, cardiac arrest, high blood pressure, stomach ulcers, arthritis, back problems, headaches and chronic pain. Given this profound mind-body connection, holding onto a grudge (no matter how seemingly justified) is not worth the damage to our relationship with others, our emotional well-being or our physical health. If that isn’t reason enough to let go of our rancor toward a transgressor, consider that the harmful effects of long-standing grudges also hurt those we most want to protect: our children. OUR GRUDGES HURT OUR CHILDREN, TOO Choosing to nurse a grudge can induce such stress and depression that it can negatively affect the way we parent our children. “Make no mistake, parental stress has an impact on kids,” advises Katie Hurley, a child and adolescent psychotherapist who notes how often her young patients tell her how stressed out their parents are. In particular, stressed parents exhibit less patience with their children and are quicker to yell at them. They are also quicker to yell at each other, at times within earshot of the kids. As a result of this heightened tension in the home, children experience their own stress, anxiety and other negative emotions. If your grudge is also causing you to be depressed, consider that studies have shown that depression also negatively affects our parenting. Depressed parents are less emotionally engaged with their children and less likely to adequately socialize children. This, in turn, puts the children at a disadvantage in achieving normal emotional development.

BY DOLORES SMYTH Even if a parent isn’t stressed or depressed by a grudge, the time that a parent spends dwelling on a grudge means less time spent on fostering an emotionally positive home for a child. According to Dr. Gail Gross, a family and child development expert, emotionally engaged parents who create a home that is “deliberately filled with warmth” enhance a child’s emotional well-being, temperament and ability to cope with stress. Aside from being impacted by a parent’s disposition, children are also significantly influenced by the way their parents interact with others. Children watch how their parents react to difficult people, and often imitate parental behavior when they find themselves in similar situations. This is a sobering thought for any parent bent on maintaining grudges. Considering the influence we have as parents in shaping our children’s emotional well-being and behavior, it is incumbent upon us to serve as better examples by adopting an attitude of forgiveness. WHAT FORGIVENESS IS — AND ISN’T Whether you decide to forgive for your children’s sake, your own sake, or because of your spiritual beliefs, forgiveness does not mean excusing the harm done to you. Forgiveness also does not require associating with the person who harmed you. Instead, forgiveness means consciously choosing to let go of hostility towards an offender, whether or not the person apologized, for the sake of moving on from the offense. Importantly, as you shift your thinking away from anger and toward forgiveness, you will stop viewing your past through the lens of how you’ve been victimized. Adopting a forgiving attitude brings with it significant benefits. Among them: • Reduced anxiety, stress and depression • Lower blood pressure • Improved heart health • A stronger immune system • Reduced hostility toward others • Improved self-esteem • Healthier relationships • A greater sense of peace, hope and joy • More restful sleep continued on page 14

December 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

Forgiveness, continued from page 13

ADOPT AN ATTITUDE OF FORGIVENESS No matter your age, you can choose to reap the benefits of a forgiving attitude at any time. The following tips can help you start incorporating forgiveness into your thoughts and actions: • Reflect on the totality of the circumstances surrounding the grudge. Have a final “sit down” with everything the offender did that upset you, reflect on why it hurt you so much, and examine how you’ve reacted to the wrongdoing since. The goal here is not to re-traumatize yourself, but to fully understand your reaction to the offense and give yourself the compassion your offender did not. • Consider that the offender might actually deserve your empathy. Is the offender herself a victim of abuse or mistreatment? If so, the offender’s behavior toward you may have been less about hurting you and more about the offender’s misunderstanding of what constitutes acceptable behavior. • Accept that the offender may never own up to the pain he caused you. If the offender is aware of how deeply he upset you and still has not sought amends, let go of the expectation that he will — or can — take responsibility for his behavior. Letting go of this expectation frees you from being disappointed each day that your much-owed apology doesn’t materialize. • Choose to genuinely forgive. When you forgive someone to please your spouse or to keep others from feeling uncomfortable, true forgiveness cannot take root. Instead, forgive because you are determined to move on from past hurts — whether or not you choose to reconcile with the offender — and because you want to stop any emotional or physical damage the grudge may be causing. • Commemorate the forgiveness. Forgiving someone who caused you pain is a big step forward that deserves commemorating. If contacting the person who wronged you is unwise or impossible, commemorate your decision to forgive by confiding in someone else whose guidance you trust, or by writing down your reasons for choosing to forgive. • Forgive yourself for holding a grudge. Whether you’ve recoiled from a hurtful situation for several weeks or several years, forgive yourself for taking as long as you took to consider forgiveness as a way of dealing with the offense at issue.

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• Seek help if the grudge you want to let go of won’t let go of you. If you are unable to release a grudge after sincere effort, consider seeking guidance from a spiritual leader, a confidante or a mental health provider. Releasing your hostility toward someone who hurt you can help you see that transgressor as human and flawed, potentially leading you to regain affection for that person, says Karen Swartz, M.D., director of the Mood Disorders Adult Consultation Clinic at The John Hopkins Hospital. In some instances, this may pave the way for a reconciliation. In other cases, reconciliation may be impossible because the offender has passed away, or undesirable because the offender is still abusive or refuses to admit the wrongdoing occurred. Even if reconciliation is not the goal, however, adopting an attitude of forgiveness is a worthy pursuit for its bounty of benefits. MANAGE YOUR TRIGGERS An ounce of (grudge) prevention is worth a pound of (forgiveness) cure. To prevent foreseeable slights from accumulating into the basis for a new grudge, take proactive steps to avoid situations you know will end up making your blood boil. For example, if you have a friend who is consistently and unapologetically late, avoid planning time-sensitive activities with her. If a relative habitually makes comments at your expense, avoid being alone with him, call him less, or put him on speaker when he calls if you think doing so will discourage him from making insulting remarks. If a co-worker has a reputation for stealing credit from others in the office, document all of your hard work and loop your boss into your progress as often as possible to claim all credit due to you. People will do things we find offensive or downright infuriating all of the time, whether those people mean to upset us or not. It’s easy to make these slights larger than life by replaying them in our thoughts until our sense of indignation practically screams that a grudge is justified. However, you can choose to stop the reel, take steps toward forgiveness, and consider how to better manage your triggers going forward. Think of the health benefits that forgiveness brings to you. If that’s not enough, think of the health benefits that forgiveness brings to your children.

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GREAT FAMILY FAMILY SHOWS SHOWS AT AT BROWARD BROWARD CENTER CENTER GREAT Presents

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COM PILE D BY

SHA NNO N PE ASE -SEV ERA NCE

Ah, the magic of the holidays... From frosty festivals to playful parades, there are so many ways to celebrate the season.

COCONUT CREEK HOLIDAY FUN DAY

Saturday, December 7 Join Promenade at Coconut Creek and Broward Family Life magazine for a spectacular holiday celebration featuring 30 exhibitors, interactive games for kids, music, on-stage performances, giveaways and more. Santa will be on site starting at noon for photos. Free. 11am-4pm, Promenade at Coconut Creek, 4443 Lyons Rd., www.promenadeatcoconutcreek.com

SANTA’S LITTLE ELVES WORKSHOP

Memorial Park, between City Hall and the Community Center on 90th Ave., 954-434-4300 www.coopercityfl.org

BRUNCH WITH SANTA Saturday, December 14

Make a craft, play holiday games and receive a photo while visiting with Santa. For residents only. Pre-purchase required. $10/adult, $7/child. 10am, Cooper City High School, 9401 Stirling Rd., 954-434-4300 www.coopercityfl.org

CORAL SPRINGS

Saturday, December 7

DOWNTOWN IN DECEMBER

Kids ages 3-6 can create gifts for loved ones, write a letter to Santa and make an elf hat. $30/resident, $40/non-resident. 9:30am-noon, Coconut Creek Community Center, 1100 Lyons Rd., 954-545-6670 www.coconutcreek.net

Saturday, December 7

Bring the family for some holiday treats, snow and other fun winter surprises. Free. 5-9pm, City Hall, 9500 W. Sample Rd., www.coralsprings.org

FLASHLIGHT CANDY CANE HUNT

A MAGICAL CIRQUE CHRISTMAS

Wednesday, December 18

Sunday, December 8

Use a flashlight to find candy canes hidden around the park. Event also includes bag decorating and a short holiday show. Ages 3-8. Parental supervision required. Space is limited. $10/resident, $15/non-resident. 6:30-8pm, Coconut Creek Community Center, 1100 Lyons Rd., 954-545-6670 www.coconutcreek.net

The producers of Broadway’s smash hit The Illusionists deliver this new, spell-binding holiday production with talented performers and breathtaking feats. 7pm, The Center, 2855 Coral Springs Dr., 954-344-5990 www.thecentercs.com

MENORAH LIGHTING

Wednesday, December 11

Sunday, December 22

Stop by the Promenade at Coconut Creek to see the Menorah Lighting at 5:30pm Dec. 22. Additional Chanukah Wonderland activities including music and arts & crafts are scheduled from Dec. 18-29. Promenade at Coconut Creek, 4443 Lyons Rd., www.promenadeatcoconutcreek.com

HOLIDAY FANTASY OF LIGHTS Through December 31

A spectacular drive-through display of illuminated trees and animated figures. $18. 6-10pm, Tradewinds Park, 3600 W. Sample Rd., 954-357-8870 www.holidaylightsdrivethru.com

COOPER CITY

HOLIDAY PARADE

Enjoy the bright lights at the city’s annual holiday parade with floats, bands, entertainment and more. 7pm, along Sample Road, from Coral Springs Drive to City Hall, www.coralsprings.org

BETHLEHEM REVISITED

Friday-Tuesday, December 13-17 Walk through Bethlehem of 2,000 years ago, experience the sights and sounds of the marketplace and streets crowded with families taking the census, and see the Christ child in the manger. Donations accepted. Friday, Monday & Tuesday, 7-9pm; Saturday & Sunday, 6-9pm. First United Methodist Church of Coral Springs, 8650 W. Sample Rd., 954-752-0333 www.bethlehem-revisited.com

LIGHT UP COOPER CITY

THE NUTCRACKER

Holiday fun includes twinkling lights and luminaire candles, youth performances, children’s activities, a craft show and a visit with Santa. Free. 6-9pm,

A delightful production of the holiday classic. 2pm, The Center, 2855 Coral Springs Dr., 954-344-5990 www.thecentercs.com

Friday, December 6

Saturday-Sunday, December 14-15

DANIA BEACH LIGHT UP THE NIGHT Thursday, December 5

Lots of festive fun for the family including a Tree Lighting Ceremony, children’s play area, and a special guest arriving by fire truck. 6pm, Dania Beach City Hall, 100 W. Dania Beach Blvd., 954-924-6800 www.daniabeachfl.gov

DAVIE LIGHTING OF THE GREENS Saturday, December 7

Evening includes the lighting of holiday displays, trees, kinaras and menorahs, live holiday musical performances, and a horse parade with the arrival of Santa. Free admission. 6-8pm, Davie Town Hall, 6591 Orange Dr., 954-797-1181 www.davie-fl.gov

OLD DAVIE CHRISTMAS Sunday, December 8

Bring the family for a visit with Santa, petting zoo, pony rides, old-fashioned games. 1-4pm, Old Davie School Historical Museum, 6650 Griffin Rd., 954-797-1044 www.olddavieschool.org

DISNEY’S FROZEN JR.

Friday-Saturday, December 13-14 Join Anna, Elsa, Olaf and other Frozen favorites for this musical stage adaption by Florida Children’s Theatre. $15. Bailey Hall at Broward College, 3501 Davie Rd., 954-763-6882 www.flct.org

GARDEN OF LIGHTS

Weekends, December 13-15, 20-22 & 27-29 See the botanical gardens and the historic Wray Home decked out with thousands of lights and decorations as holiday music fills the air. Included in daytime admission of $19.95/adult, $12.95/child or 25 percent off regular admission after 5pm. 5-8pm, Flamingo Gardens & Wildlife Sanctuary, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., 954-473-2955 www.flamingogardens.org

WINTER HOLIDAY SNOW PLAY Saturday, December 14

Enjoy visits with Santa, entertainment, winter games, and 20 tons of snow to play in. Free admission. 6-9pm, Bergeron Rodeo Grounds, 4271 Davie Rd., 954-797-1181 www.davie-fl.gov

continued on page 20

SANTA’S LITTLE HELPERS Saturdays-Sundays, December 14-15 & 21-22

Help Mrs. Claus pass out gifts to all the good critters, visit with Santa and play in the snow from 2-5pm. Stick around after 5pm to see the Garden of Lights display. Included with daytime admission of $19.95/adult, $12.95/child. Flamingo Gardens & Wildlife Sanctuary, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., 954-473-2955 www.flamingogardens.org

DISNEY’S FROZEN JR. Saturday, December 21

Broadway Kids Studio presents this story of true love and acceptance between sisters Anna and Elsa. See website for time and details. Miniaci Performing Arts Center, 3100 Ray Ferrero, Jr. Blvd., 954-693-7500 www.broadwaykidsstudio.com

ROCK’N NOON YEAR’S EVE PARTY Tuesday, December 31

A New Year’s Eve party with kid-friendly activities including a Balloon Drop at noon, entertainment, New Year’s activities and more. Free with admission of $12/Broward resident. 10am-3pm, Young At Art Museum, 751 SW 121 Ave., 954-424-0085 www.youngatartmuseum.org

KIDS NEW YEAR’S EVE BASH Tuesday, December 31

Kids can ring in the new year with bowling, pizza, party favors, an apple cider toast and more. Sessions on the top of each hour. $9. Noon-5pm, Sparez, 5325 S. University Dr., 954-434-9653 www.sparezbowling.com

DEERFIELD BEACH T OW N O F D AV I E

Holiday Lighting

of the greens Saturday, December 7th

6:15PM Lighted Horse Parade &

Santa arrives by Fire Engine Davie Town Hall 6:30pm Lighting of Town Hall 6591 Orange Dr. 7:00-8:00pm Music by the South Florida H.E.A.T. Band & Western High School Chorus 6pm-8pm

Holiday Snow Play Saturday, December 14th Bergeron Rodeo Grounds 6pm – 9pm Join the Town of Davie as we celebrate the Winter Holidays. Come enjoy 20 tons of snow, inflatable rides, games, crafts, photos with Santa and live entertainment!

For information 954-797-1181 or visit www.davie-fl.gov 20

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MOVIES IN THE PARK Friday, December 6

Bring the family for a screening of The Grinch in the park. Free. 7pm, Sullivan Park, 1700 Riverview Rd., Deerfield Beach, www.deerfield-beach.com

OCEAN WAY HOLIDAY Saturday, December 7

A magical evening with snow flurries, children’s activities, an ice skating rink and live entertainment. Free with items available for purchase. 5-9pm, International Fishing Pier, 200 NE 21 Ave., 954-480-4429 www.deerfield-beach.com

HOLIDAY HAYRIDE AND CAMPFIRE Friday, December 13

Start a holiday tradition by taking a hayride around the park and enjoying an old-fashioned marshmallow roast around a campfire. $3.50. Advance tickets required. 6:30-9pm, Quiet Waters Park, 401 S. Powerline Rd., 954-357-5100

WINTER WONDERLAND Saturday, December 14

An afternoon of frolicking, with two “snow hills,” holiday treats and a visit from Santa. Free. 10am-2pm, Quiet Waters Park, 401 Powerline Rd., 954-357-5100 www.broward.org/parks

ICE CREAM SOCIAL WITH SANTA Wednesday, December 18

Celebrate the season with a make-your-own ice cream sundae and other holiday fun. Free. 6:30-8:30pm, Dr. Leo J. Robb Gymnasium, 435 SW Second St., www.deerfield-beach.com continued on page 22

2019 HOLIDAY H A P PE NI NGS

THE YULETIDE CAROLERS

CHECK POMPANOCITICENTRE.COM FOR DATES & TIMES

This holiday season get delighted by The Yuletide Carolers as they evoke the memory of yesteryear with their authentic victorian costumes, harmonious voices and infectious holiday spirit.

SATURDAY, NOV. 30

SANTA’S ARRIVAL EVENT 11 A.M. - 1 P.M.

Here comes Santa Claus! Children of all ages and their families are invited to Santa’s Big Arrival Snow Party on Saturday, Nov. 30 from 11am to 1pm. Santa will be arriving in style via a Pompano Beach Fire Department Fire Truck with the assistance of BSO and there looks to be a 100% chance of “snow”! Special performance by the Snow Queen. Fun holiday activities for the kids, face painting, and more.

NOVEMBER 30 - DECEMBER 24

CLICK WITH OL’ SAINT NICK

Steer your sleigh toward Santa’s Chair in our Courtyard to take your own photos with Ol’ Saint Nick that you’ll cherish for years to come! Visit www.pompanociticentre.com for hours of operation.

FRIDAY, NOV. 29

BLACK FRIDAY OPEN EXTENDED HOURS

Stop by Pompano Citi Centre to take advantage of the extra Black Friday savings. Check with your favorite retailers for their hours of operations and for all your holiday shopping needs!

SATURDAY, DEC. 14

COOKIES & MILK WITH SANTA 3 P.M. - 5 P.M.

Children are invited to spend an early afternoon with Santa & Mrs. Claus during our Cookies & Milk with Santa event on Saturday, December 14 from 3pm to 5pm. Enjoy a nice story time with the Jolly Old Man and Mrs. Claus and participate in fun holiday activities and giveaways. Must RSVP at www.pompanociticentre.com. Space is limited.

SUNDAY, DEC. 8

PAWS & CLAUS 11 A.M. - 3 P.M.

Bring your furry friend (dogs only) to take a holiday photo with Santa.

Like us on Facebook and Follow us on Instagram & Twitter to find out more about holiday happenings, sales, and special events.

www.pompanociticentre.com

SW corner of Federal Hwy and Copans Road, Pompano Beach, FL 33062

December 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

FORT LAUDERDALE FORT LAUDERDALE CHRISTMAS PAGEANT

EVENTS

Holiday Fun at City Hall!

Downtown in December

Saturday, December 7 • 5-9 p.m. 9500 W. Sample Rd. • Free • “Ice” Skating Train Rides • Music • Tree Lighting • Snow The Nutcracker on a huge outdoor screen!

“Holiday Heroes” Parade

Wednesday, December 11 • 7 p.m. Along Sample Road from Coral Springs Drive to City Hall

Bands, floats and local entries will bring holiday cheer to Sample Road!

Bites-N-Sips

DO WN TO

Friday, January 3 • 6-10 p.m. City Hall • 9500 W. Sample Rd. Relax on the lawn with your chairs and blankets for music, cocktails and 15+ food trucks!

L SP RIN GS WN CO RA

Visit CoralSprings.org/events for updates and more fun things to do!

Through December 15

An inspirational spectacle featuring a festive opening with familiar carols and contemporary songs, followed by a musical drama of the nativity and life of Christ. Ages 4 & up. Check website for days, times and cost. First Baptist Church of Fort Lauderdale, 301 E. Broward Blvd., 954-831-1123 www.firstbaptistftl.com

NORTH POLE PAJAMA PARTY Weekends through December 22

Wear your pajamas or elf costume and celebrate the season with a holiday science show, treats, activities, museum exploration and an IMAX screening. $30. 9am, Museum of Discovery and Science, 401 SW Second St., 954-713-0930 www.mods.org

HOLIDAY LIGHTS CRUISE Through December 23

Check out the lights that line the shore while cruising the Intracoastal by way of Water Taxi. The tour includes sightseeing, holiday music and sing-alongs. Space limited. Advance purchase recommended. $30/adult, $15/child. 6:30 & 8:30pm, Fort Lauderdale Water Taxi, stop number 1 by the Riverside Hotel, 954-467-6677 www.watertaxi.com

THE POLAR EXPRESS TRAIN RIDE Through December 29

Put on your pajamas and climb aboard this onehour magical trip to meet Santa. Set to the sounds of the motion picture, the adventure includes hot chocolate, a cookie and a keepsake sleigh bell. $50-$70. Brightline Station, 101 NW Second Ave., 754-209-0214 www.ftlthepolarexpressride.com

CHRISTMAS ON LAS OLAS Tuesday, December 3

Kick off the season at this 57th-annual winter wonderland featuring live entertainment, snow sledding, ice skating, vendors, music, a holidaythemed bounce house and more. Free. 5-10pm, on Las Olas Boulevard between SE Sixth and SE 11th Avenues, www.lasolasboulevard.com

LIGHT UP SISTRUNK Friday, December 6

Presented by

6PM – 10PM Friday – Sunday | Nov. 29 – Dec. 1 Thursday – Sunday | Dec. 5 – 29 Experience the Palm Beach Zoo at night and enjoy: Special Animal Encounters Cookie Decorating Photos with Santa Visit PalmBeachZoo.org to plan your adventure today.

A one-of-a-kind holiday celebration with fun and entertainment including a tree lighting, holiday activities and more. 5-9pm, Sistrunk Boulevard, from NW Ninth to NW 11th avenues, 954-828-7275 www.fortlauderdale.gov

FLORIDA SINGING SONS Saturday, December 7

Florida Singing Sons Boychoir performs Joy Hope Peace. 7pm, The Sanctuary Church, 1400 N. Federal Highway, Fort Lauderdale, www.singingsons.org

COOKIES WITH SANTA Saturday, December 7

Bring the kids for a one-of-a-kind professional photo session with Santa and a gourmet cookie to take home. Participants will receive two digital photos via email after the event. Pre-registration required. $25. Stranahan House, 335 SE Sixth Ave., 954-524-4736 www.stranahanhouse.org

WHIMSICAL WONDERLAND Sunday, December 8

An evening for families with live entertainment, a story time, arts and crafts, face painting and more.

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$20/adult, $5/child, 6 and under/free. 5:30-8:30pm, Bonnet House, 900 N. Birch Rd., www.bonnethouse.org

THE NUTCRACKER

Friday-Sunday, December 13-15  The Arts Ballet Theatre transports the audience to a land filled with snowflakes and sugar plums in this holiday classic. $21.50-$41.50. Parker Playhouse, 707 NE Eighth St., 954-462-0222 www.parkerplayhouse.com

WORLD’S LARGEST HOLIDAY THEME PARK

Over 100 Rides, Shows, Games & Attractions!

WINTERFEST BOAT PARADE Saturday, December 14

Line up along Fort Lauderdale’s waterways to enjoy the dazzling annual boat parade, from downtown Fort Lauderdale to Lake Santa Barbara in Pompano Beach. Free. 6:30-8:30pm, reserved grandstand seating at Hugh Taylor Birch State Park, 954-767-0686 www.winterfestparade.com

VOTED

T BOELS IDAY

H OUT HANG

HOLIDAY RIVER TOUR December 16-23

See the Victorian holiday decorations of the Historic Stranahan House Museum and take a boat ride along the New River to view homes decorated for the season. $35, reservations required. 7pm & 8:30pm, Stranahan House, 335 SE Sixth Ave., 954-524-4736 www.stranahanhouse.org

SANTA ON THE BEACH

OPEN CHRISTMAS EVE

BOGO OFFER $29.00 Value

Friday, December 20

Santa and his elves spread good cheer and candy on Fort Lauderdale Beach. Santa arrives at 12:45pm. Fort Lauderdale Beach Park, 1100 Seabreeze Blvd., 954-828-5363  www.fortlauderdale.gov

KWANZAA UJAMAA CELEBRATION

& CHRISTMAS DAY

Buy One Adult Single Day Ticket, Get One Child Single Day Ticket FREE!

Use Promo Code BFLBOGO. LIMITED TIME OFFER. ONLINE ONLY.

*Offer must be purchased online prior to 12/19/19 at 11:59 pm EST. Tickets valid through 1/5/20. Not valid on Saturdays and Christmas Day. Offer may not be combined with any other coupon or discount offer.

MIAMI • TROPICAL PARK • OFF 826 & BIRD ROAD OPEN DAILY @ 5 PM • OCT. 31, 2019 - JAN. 5, 2020

WWW.SANTASENCHANTEDFOREST.COM

Saturday, December 28

Bring the family to celebrate the fourth principle of Kwanzaa, cooperative economics. 1-6pm, Bass Park, 2750 NW 19 St., 954-828-8498 www.fortlauderdale.gov

DOWNTOWN COUNTDOWN Tuesday, December 31

Celebrate the New Year with the family with activities that include live entertainment, a kids’ zone and a larger-than-life illuminated anchor. 4:30pm-1am, at SW Second Street and SW Fifth Avenue, 954-828-7275

HALLANDALE BEACH SOUTH FLORIDA CHASSIDIC CHANUKAH FESTIVAL Wednesday, December 25

Music, free Chanukah gelt and goodies for kids. Free admission; food available for purchase. 7pm, Gulfstream Park, 901 S. Federal Hwy., 954-458-1877 www.chanukahfestival.com

SYMPHONY IN LIGHTS Through December 31

A spectacular dancing light show with thousands of animated lights and towering Christmas tree all synchronized to music. There will be Santa and snow on Dec. 14, 21, 22 & 23. Free. 6-11pm, Gulfstream Park, 901 S. Federal Hwy., Hallandale Beach, 954-454-7000 www.gulfstreampark.com

HOLLYWOOD HOLLYWOOD BEACH CANDY CANE PARADE Saturday, December 7

A magical evening under the stars featuring floats, continued on page 24

December 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

CELEBRATE

THE HOLIDAYS AT MODS

SLEEP AT THE MUSEUM:

OLAF’S FROZEN SCIENCE OVERNIGHT

SATURDAY, DEC. 7 @ 6:30 P.M. TO SUNDAY, DEC. 8 @ 8 A.M. Like Olaf, we’re really big fans of summer in south Florida! For the first time in forever, join MODS as we explore the science behind Elsa’s icy powers, experiment with dry ice, watch a subzero science show, sample liquid nitrogen ice cream and watch the new Disney film, Frozen 2, in IMAX.

marching units and bands with a hometown flavor. Free. 7-9pm, along the Hollywood Beach Broadwalk, 954-921-3404 www.hollywoodfl.org

CHRISTMAS NEAR THE BEACH Saturday, December 14

A community tradition that includes singing, dancing, musicians and more. Free. 4-9pm, ArtsPark at Young Circle, Hollywood Boulevard and Federal Highway, www.christmasnearthebeach.com

LAUDERDALE-BY-THE-SEA CHRISTMAS-BY-THE-SEA Wednesday, December 4

Prices include dinner, all activities and Museum exploration.

FOR TICKETS, please visit modsolafovernight.eventbrite.com, email booking@mods.net or call 954.713.0930.

NORTH POLE PAJAMA PARTY EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY FROM DECEMBER 7–22 Start a family tradition and wear your pajamas or elf costume for this festive event! Enjoy all Museum exhibits, a holiday science show, sip hot chocolate, concoct elf slime and decorate holiday ornaments. Ticket includes an invitation to journey to the North Pole for a classic holiday film in our AutoNation® IMAX® Theater.

FOR TICKETS, please visit northpolepj.eventbrite.com, email booking@mods.net or call 954.713.0930.

FOR MORE HOLIDAY EVENTS, PLEASE VISIT MODS.ORG. 401 SW Second Street • Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 • 954.467.6637

An evening of old-fashioned family fun, entertainment and activities including Santa’s arrival by fire truck and a tree lighting at 6pm. Free. 5-8:30pm, Anglin’s Square, Commercial Boulevard and El Mar Drive, 954-640-4200 www.lauderdalebythesea-fl.gov

CHANUKAH FESTIVAL Sunday, December 22

Celebrate Chanukah with music and a menorah lighting by the sea. 5:30-8:30pm, Beach Pavilion, One Commercial Blvd.

LIGHTHOUSE POINT LIGHTHOUSE A’GLOW Wednesday, December 4

Spend an enchanted evening with holiday fun and activities. 6:30-8:30pm, Frank McDonough Park, 3500 NE 27 Ave., 954-943-6500 www.city.lighthousepoint.com

CHRISTMAS CELEBRATION Wednesday, December 11 MODS Ad_Broward Family_Nov 2019 2.indd 1

11/11/19 1:58 PM

A live Nativity scene brings the story of Christmas to life after the Trinity Worship Team sings Christmas carols at the sanctuary’s main entrance. Free. 7:15pm, Trinity Church, 3901 NE 22 Ave., www.trinitychurchlighthousepoint.com

MARGATE WINTER FESTIVAL

Friday, December 13 A family-friendly festival with children’s activities, live performances, kiddie rides, photos with Santa and more. 6-10pm, Margate Boulevard from US 441 to NW 58 Street, 954-972-6458 www.margatefl.com

MIRAMAR THE NUTCRACKER

Friday-Saturday, December 20-21 A classical holiday ballet presented by Ballet Etudes for the whole family to enjoy. $32-$60. Friday 8pm, Saturday 5pm. Miramar Cultural Center, 2400 Civic Center Place, 954-602-4500 www.miramarculturalcenter.org

HANUKKAH DIY CRAFTS Saturday, December 21

Celebrate Hanukkah by creating your own holiday crafts. 3pm, Miramar Branch Library, 2050 Civic Center Place, www.broward.org/library

NORTH LAUDERDALE HOLIDAY PARADE & TREE LIGHTING Saturday, December 14

Get your jingle on with a parade at 4:15pm at 64th Terrace and Boulevard of Champions, ending continued on page 26

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Holiday Happenings Tropical Holidays

Hanukkah Celebration

December 14th – 24th

December 15th | 11:00am-4:00pm

Tis the Season Sensory Friendly Saturday December 14th | 9:00am-11:00am

Mini Merry Monday December 16th | 10:00am-6:00pm

Noon Year’s Eve Celebration December 31st | 11:00am-4:00pm

Miami Children’s Museum receives both private and public funding. MCM is sponsored in part by the City of Miami; the Miami-Dade County Department of Cultural Affairs and the Cultural Affairs Council, the Miami-Dade County Mayor and Board of County Commissioners; and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs, the Florida Arts Council and the National Endowment for the Arts.

980 macarthur causeway, miami, fl 33132 · 305.373.KIDS(5437) · miamichildrensmuseum.org December 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

at City Hall, followed by a tree lighting ceremony with holiday entertainment. 954-724-7061 www.nlauderdale.org

OAKLAND PARK FESTIVE FAMILY HAYRIDE Friday, December 6

Put on a holiday hat for a hayride around the park, and a marshmallow roast around a campfire to make s’mores. Advance tickets required. $3.50/person. 7-9:30pm, Easterlin Park, 1000 NW 38 St., 954-357-5190

HOLIDAY VILLAGE

Friday-Saturday, December 6-7 Have some holiday fun with children’s activities, a snow mountain, live music, a visit with Santa, a Christmas tree decorating competition, live entertainment and more. Free. Friday 5:30-10pm, Saturday 11am-11pm. Jaco Pastorius Park, 4000 N. Dixie Highway, 954-630-4500 www.oaklandparkfl.gov

PARKLAND LIGHT UP THE PARK Friday, December 13

Celebrate the season with local performers, arts and crafts, food trucks, games and a music holiday show. 5:30-8:30pm, Pine Trails Park Amphitheater, 10561 Trails End, 954-757-4105 www.cityofparkland.org

SNOWFEST

Thursday, December 19 Lots of wintery fun is in store for the whole family. Pre-registration required; Parkland residents only. 5-8pm, Pine Trails Park, 10555 Trails End, 954-757-4105 www.cityofparkland.org

Ask about our latest stage production of

“BTS”

as well as our Holiday and Frozen 2 Shows

Superstar Productions Provides Family Stage Entertainment for: • Birthday Parties • Special Events • Holiday Events • Corporate Events • City Events • Promotions

PEMBROKE PINES SNOW FEST

Saturday, December 7 Bundle up to play in tons of snow and participate in a variety of holiday activities. 4-8pm, Charles F. Dodge City Center, 601 City Center Way, 954-392-2116 www.ppines.com

WINTER PAJAMARAMA Wednesday, December 11

Wear your jammies for some holiday songs, stories and crafts before bedtime. 7pm, Southwest Regional Library, 16835 Sheridan St., 954-357-6580 www.broward.org/library

STORY TIME WITH SANTA Wednesday, December 11

Enjoy a storybook reading with the big guy at this special holiday event. 6:30-8pm, Barnes & Noble at The Shops at Pembroke Gardens, 14572 SW Fifth St., 954-437-7078

• Snow Blizzard machines

PLANTATION WINTER WONDERLAND Through January 4

A wonderland of more than 50 holiday trees, miniature train village, Hanukkah displays, Holiday Gift Shoppe and more. Closed Sundays and Mondays. Call for hours. Free. Plantation Historical Museum, 511 N. Fig Tree Lane, 954-797-2722 www.plantation.org/museum

www.Floridasuperstarproductions.com superstarproductions@comcast.net • (954) 389-1137 26

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LIGHT UP CITY HALL Saturday, December 7

Have some holiday fun at this event featuring Selfies with Santa, a screening of Home Alone,

music, arts and crafts, food trucks and more. 5-9pm, Plantation City Hall, 400 NW 73 Ave., 954-452-2510 www.plantation.org

HOLIDAY ORNAMENT WORKSHOP Saturday, December 14

Kids ages 6-11 can make their very own holiday keepsake. Pre-registration required. 2-3pm, West Regional Library, 8601 W. Broward Blvd., 954-765-1585

HOLIDAY PARTY

Tuesday, December 17 Games, stories, music and activities at the library’s Big Winter Holiday Party. All ages. 6-7:30pm, West Regional Library, 8601 W. Broward Blvd., 954-765-1585

JINGLE BELL JOG & ELF ROMP Saturday, December 21

Put a festive spin on fitness with a 5K run and fitness walk for the whole family. Includes an Elf Romp for kids 10 and under and a Youth Mile course. Registration fee depends on age. 5K begins at 8am, Sunset Park, 10600 Cleary Blvd., www.gflrrc.org

SANTA’S VISIT

Tuesday, December 24 Santa and his elves come down Plantation’s streets preceded by either a fire truck or police car with sirens. Listen and be outside so you don’t miss them. 5-10pm, 954-452-2510 www.plantation.org

POMPANO BEACH YULETIDE PARADE

Thursday, December 5 Line up for a hometown holiday parade along Atlantic Boulevard ending at McNab Park. Free. 6:30pm, along Atlantic Boulevard, 954-786-4111 www.pompanobeachfl.gov

TOYS IN THE SUN RUN Saturday, December 7

A toy drive and community gathering with performances, activities and entertainment benefitting Joe DiMaggio’s Children’s Hospital and other children’s charities. $10/person with an unwrapped toy, or $20/person without a toy. 11:30am-11:30pm, Pompano Beach Amphitheater, 1806 NE Sixth St., 954-868-1416 www.toysinthesunrun.com

FRidAy dEcEmBER 20 Motorcade with Santa begins at noon and arrives on Fort Lauderdale Beach at 12:45 PM.

1100 SEABREEZE BoulEvARd

Don’t miss Santa Claus’ traditional candy giveaway along Fort Lauderdale Beach!

Kwanzaa UJAMAA Celebration

SATURDAY

DEC 28 1-6 PM BASS PARK

2750 NW 19th Street Fort Lauderdale

PAWS AND CLAUS DAY Sunday, December 8

Bring your furry friend to capture a holiday photo with Santa. Dogs only, and leashes are required. Free. 11am-3pm, Pompano Citi Centre, 1955 N. Federal Highway, 954-943-4683 www.pompanociticentre.com

POMPANO BEACH & LIGHTHOUSE POINT HOLIDAY BOAT PARADE Friday, December 13

Whether you are watching or participating, this is a great procession on the Intracoastal Waterway, starting at Lake Santa Barbara heading north to Hillsboro Boulevard. 6:30-10pm. www.pompanobeachchamber.com

COOKIES & MILK WITH SANTA

New Year’s eve Tuesday • december 31 4:30 Pm – 1:00 am sw 2Nd street aNd sw 5th aveNue Live enTerTainmenT Kids ZoNe FamiLy acTiviTies Larger-thaN-Life iLLuminaTed anchor

Saturday, December 14

Kids can enjoy story time with the Jolly Old Man and Mrs. Claus and participate in fun holiday

www.fortlauderdale.gov/events | (954) 828-PARK (7275)

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December 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

activities. Free, but reservations are required. 3-5pm, Pompano Citi Centre, 1955 N. Federal Highway, 954-943-4683 www.pompanociticentre.com

CAMP NEW WINT–EJR an 3

Dec 23

Camp Chameleon For ages 5-15

Awesome Camp Fun since 2009!

THE YULETIDE CAROLERS Saturday, December 14

Get into the holiday spirit as The Yuletide Carolers evoke the memory of yesteryear with their authentic Victorian costumes, harmonious voices and infectious holiday spirit. 3-4pm, Pompano Citi Centre, 1955 N. Federal Highway, 954-943-4683 www.pompanociticentre.com

SUNRISE SUNRISE ARTS & CRAFTS FESTIVAL FEATURING WINTER WONDERLAND Saturday, December 7

Activities involve nature, creative arts, athletics, and DAILY field trips. Field trips include: ice/roller skating, laser tag, arcades, movies, bowling and more!

954-815-9054

Markham Park State Rd.84 & Weston Rd. Sunrise

www.campchameleon.com Camp Chameleon is fully licensed and insured.

A community tradition of arts and crafts, entertainment, food and children’s activities is combined with Winter Wonderland, with additional family activities and snow play for kids. Festival is free; Winter Wonderland $5. 10am-4pm, Sunrise Athletic Complex, 11501 NW 44 St., 954-747-4600 www.sunrisefl.gov

THE NUTCRACKER BALLET Sunday, December 15

The Russian Ballet of Orlando presents the holiday classic about a young girl who dreams of a Nutcracker Prince. All ages. Reserved seating, $20/adult, $10/child. 1pm & 5pm, Sunrise Civic Center Theatre, 10610 W. Oakland Park Blvd., 954-747-4646 www.sunrisefl.gov

TAMARAC SANTA’S BRIGHT AND MERRY NIGHT Tuesday, December 3

A festive night featuring a Christmas tree and Menorah lighting, photos with Santa and a short holiday movie on an outdoor screen. 6-8pm, Caporella Park, 5200 Prospect Rd., 954-597-3620 www.tamarac.org

HOLIDAY LIGHTING FESTIVAL Wednesday, December 4

Kick off the holidays with the city’s official tree and menorah lighting. Free. 6-8pm, Tamarac Community Center, 8601 W. Commercial Blvd., 954-597-3620 www.tamarac.org

RUDOLPH’S WINTER WONDERLAND Friday, December 13

A holly jolly night of fun featuring reindeer games, bounce houses and activities and a special appearance by Santa and Rudolph. 6-8pm, Tamarac Park, 7501 N. University Dr., 954-597-3674 www.tamarac.org

PAWS WITH CLAUS HOLIDAY PAW-TY Saturday, December 14

Dogs can be photographed with Santa and participate in a howling holiday time. 9-11am, Gary B. Jones Park for People and Pups, 8101 Southgate Blvd., www.tamarac.org

WESTON TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY Sunday, December 1

Kick off the season with a tree lighting, snow, live shows, characters, bounce houses and other entertainment. 4-8pm, Weston Town Center, 1675 Market St., 954-349-5900 www.westontowncenter.net

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WILTON MANORS BREAKFAST WITH SANTA Saturday, December 7

Enjoy a pancake breakfast with Santa and friends, storytime, crafts, bounce houses, pony rides and more. 9:30am-noon, Hagen Park Community Center, 2020 Wilton Dr., 954-390-2130 www.wiltonmanors.com

SANTA BY THE SEA

SCHOOL IS OUT! CAMP DISCOVERY IS IN! CHILLY CHEMISTRY & SNOWFLAKE SCIENCE 4-DAY CAMP DEC. 23–27

Wednesday, December 11 If you live by the water in Wilton Manors, step outside and wave hello to Santa who will be sailing around the Island City with his elves to spread holiday cheer. Santa sets sail at 5:30pm from the Colohatchee Park Boat Ramp, 1975 NE 15 Ave., www.wiltonmanors.com

JEDI TRAINING ACADEMY 5-DAY CAMP DEC. 30 –JAN. 3

PALM BEACH COUNTY ZOO LIGHTS

Thursdays-Sundays through December 29 Start a new tradition with family and friends by strolling the zoo while it’s twinkling with more than one million eco-friendly lights. $14.95/adult, $12.95/child. 6-10pm, 1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach, 561-547-9453 www.palmbeachzoo.org

THERE’S NO BUSINESS LIKE SNOW BUSINESS Sunday, December 8

Audience participation is encouraged at this interactive wintertime show featuring snowman Frosty Windowpanes and singing snowflake Snowi LaFlurry. Each child’s ticket includes juice and cookies after the show. $8/adult, $6/child. 11am & 2pm, Willow Theatre at Sugar Sand Park, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton, 561-347-3900 www.sugarsandpark.org

Secure your child’s spot today by calling 954.713.0930 or email booking@mods.net.

401 SW Second Street • Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312 • 954.467.6637

BFL Ad_Winter Camps.indd 1

10/11/19 3:03 PM

GINGERBREAD HOLIDAY CONCERT Sunday, December 8

Family-friendly concert for all ages featuring seasonal classics and holiday cheer. $35. 3-5pm, Boca Raton Resort & Club, 501 E. Camino Real, Boca Raton, 561-237-7000 www.lynn.edu/events

ORNAMENTS NATURALLY Saturday, December 14

Create holiday decorations using shells, sea beans, pine cones and unusual natural materials. Materials are provided. Reservations and prepayment recommended. $7/member, $10/non-member. 10am & 1pm, Gumbo Limbo Nature Center, 1801 N. Ocean Blvd., Boca Raton, 561-544-8605 www.gumbolimbo.org

MIAMI CITY BALLET’S THE NUTCRACKER

Friday-Sunday, December 27-29 The Miami City Ballet presents George Balanchine’s dazzling choreography. Showtimes vary. Kravis Center for the Performing Arts, 701 Okeechobee Blvd., West Palm Beach, 561-832-7469 www.kravis.org

Every effort has been made to provide up-to-date information, however changes and cancellations do occur, especially due to weather. Please double check details before setting out for your celebration.

December 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

FAMILY man

A time for tradition IT’S THE LITTLE THINGS THAT BRING FAMILIES TOGETHER BY PERRY P. PERKINS

grew up with a mom who was really, really into Christmas — not like normal people are into Christmas, but more like from Thanksgiving to New Year’s our home looked like the Mall of America Christmas Town stuffed into a two-bedroom apartment. Think: crazy cat lady, but with carols instead of calicos, and twinkle lights instead of tabbies. (There were cats, too… don’t even get me started.) Traditions were a big deal to Mom. From setting up the all-important lazy Susan with nuts and hard candies (the good stuff didn’t come out until Christmas Eve… it’s like she didn’t trust me or something) to hanging everyone’s stocking in front of the (sometimes faux) fireplace. There was the same stack of records, the Christmas village on the coffee table and, of course, the tree with the old-fashioned fat lights

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and thick drape of “icicles” that we’d still be pulling out of the vacuum cleaner until the next July. Once everything was in place, the garlands hung and the living room bathed in the soft red and green glow of the tree, then it was Christmas. Whether it’s reading “The Night Before Christmas” in front of the fire on Christmas Eve, lighting the Hanukkah menorah, or leaving out cookies and milk for Santa, traditions have been a part of the holidays since, well, since there have been the holidays — and for good reason. Throughout history, traditions have built a sense of stability and safety. Regardless of whatever else is happening, we look forward to coming together in these familiar rituals. It tells us that our traditions, our families, are stronger and more important than the events of

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the outside world, that they will live on, regardless of what changes life brings. This understanding builds trust and security. Children especially feel accepted within their “tribe” when they’re welcomed to take part in traditions. Ritual helps them to bond with one another and with the rest of the family. Kids who feel connected with their family are less likely to seek out that connection, and the acceptance they desperately need, in other places. In our increasingly digital world of “Facebook friendships,” this human connection is more important than ever. Equally important, our traditions connect us to our past. Whether it’s Great-Great-Grandma’s gravy boat brought from the “old country” and saved for Christmas dinner, or retelling the story of Grandpa going out in a blizzard to get a tree, traditions are a physical and

spiritual link to our heritage — a way to pass along the oral traditions of us, who we are and where we came from, as families have been doing for thousands of years. Whether creating or maintaining holiday traditions, it’s important to keep it simple. Having every member of the family over for a feast was a lot easier back when it was two families who lived on the same street or in the same building. Give that family three or four generations to grow and you’ll find yourself with a logistical nightmare of flight schedules, hotel reservations and conflicting ideologies. If planning the “perfect holiday” ruins our holiday, we’re missing the point. It’s the little things: Hanging ornaments together, and remembering the special meaning or memory of each. Trudging out, Griswoldstyle, to find the family tree. Gathering in the kitchen to create that special stuffing or mashed potatoes that Grandma used to make. And don’t forget to bring in the little ones and teach them, too — that’s how traditions get passed on! Still looking for ideas? How about: • Find a local light show you can visit each year.

• Pick your “Family Christmas Movie” and snuggle up with a big bowl of popcorn. We like White Christmas, It’s a Wonderful Life and A Muppet Christmas Carol. • Call a local homeless shelter and find out what it’s running low on, then go shopping as a family and deliver your gift together. FYI: Going out for pie or ice cream afterwards will make this a more appealing tradition to the youngest members of the family. • Let each child pick out a new tree ornament or decoration that has special meaning to that year in their lives. (This is a favorite of ours.) At my house, growing up, it was cookies — specifically, Sugar Cookies on page 232 of The Betty Crocker Cookbook. I know this because I still have the cookbook, and while the rest of the book is “like new” (Mom didn’t do a lot of cooking), that page is folded, wrinkled and spotted with 40-year-old cookie-dough smudges. Every year, a week or so before Christmas, Mom and I would turn the kitchen into a bomb-zone of flour,

eggshells and candy sprinkles. We’d dig out Grandma’s old tin cookie cutters and cut out the same bells, trees and stars that Mom grew up making. A simple powdersugar frosting and some red and green food coloring, and we’d bake up enough cookies to feed a small army (a.k.a. me) while Bing crooned on the record player (yes, I’m that old) and the house would fill with the lovely smell of… Christmas. Mom’s been gone for three decades, but she’s still right there in the kitchen, every year, as we’ve helped our baby girl roll dough, press out shapes and spread frosting on the cookies… and the walls, and sometimes the dog. We hum along to the same old songs, tell the same old funny stories as we hang the old ornaments, and reconnect with our generations, with our tribe. Merry Christmas, Mamma… we won’t forget the lazy Susan. Perry P. Perkins is a chef and awardwinning writer whose stories have appeared in hundreds of publications. His Christmas tradition will be going into the oven any day now.

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HOME tech

Parents’ little helpers 15 HANDY APP ‘ELVES’ TO GET YOU THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS BY PAM MOLNAR

urviving the holiday season requires a little super power, a little creativity and a lot of organization. While it wouldn’t hurt to have Martha Stewart’s number in your phone contacts, most of us are not that lucky. Instead we have come up with 15 must-have apps that will make your holiday more organized, more helpful and more fun. 1. ELFSTER. If you are doing a Secret Santa gift exchange between friends, coworkers or family, this app is for you. Simply add your groups’ emails and it randomly chooses your exchange. It also includes wish lists so you know everyone’s preferences. This free app is available for iPhone and Android. 2. JUSTWINK. If holiday cards have become a chore, download the justWink app for iPhone or Android. Developed by American Greetings, this app offers cards that can be sent directly from the app as email, text, social media greeting and even snail mail. Bonus features include voice recordings and gift card attachments. 3. THE ADVENT APP. Available for iPhone, this app allows you to create personalized Advent calendars for 99 cents for family and friends. Every day they will receive a free personalized photo, text or a gift selected by you.

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4. ELF YOURSELF. Make silly dance videos of up to five people with images from your phone or Facebook. The app is free, but downloading and sharing the videos costs from 99 cents to $6.99. 5. AMAZON SHOPPING. Wouldn’t it be great to do all your shopping from your phone? This app is also great for price comparisons while shopping locally. With a subscription to Amazon Prime, you can also get free shipping and free access to Prime Video and Music. 6. ALLERGY EATS. This is a great guide for finding allergyfriendly restaurants in your area. Simply type in the allergen and your location in the search. The results are ratings based on actual experiences by other families. You have the option to leave comments, too. 7. ONE TODAY. This generosity app showcases a non-profit cause daily with a video and story. You can also browse for those causes that are closer to your heart. Make a donation of at least $1 with all proceeds going to the cause. Inspire others by encouraging them to match your donation or pay it forward by matching theirs.

8. PINTEREST. Looking for a last-minute recipe while you are shopping? Pinterest offers millions of ideas for recipes, crafts, games and so much more. Pins will take you directly to the recipe or directions so you will have everything you need while at the store. 9. SIGN UP GENIUS. It takes a village to get through holiday planning and Sign Up Genius is a great way to divide up the tasks. Use it for bringing food to a potluck, driving the carpools or shift schedules at work. 10. CHRISTMAS RINGTONES. Get into the spirit of the holidays by assigning Christmas ringtones to your frequent callers, texts and other alerts. There are several free versions available for iPhone and Android. 11. CAPTURE THE MAGIC. This is a great app for kids who are questioning the reality of Santa. Take a picture of a room in your house and add Santa, elves or reindeer to the picture to â&#x20AC;&#x153;proveâ&#x20AC;? they exist. The free app is available for iPhone and Android. 12. HEADS UP. This fun app will be the hit of your next party or even just a timekiller while you wait in line at the store. Hold the phone up to your forehead facing the other players. They give you hints as to the word or phrase on the screen and you have to guess what it is. 13. ARRIVE. With all the online purchases being made, it is hard to keep track of the packages. Download Arrive, which syncs your email with Amazon, eBay, Walmart and many other online stores, to track all your package deliveries in one place. 14. SHUTTERFLY. What do you do with all those photos you take during the holidays? Get them off your phone and store them on Shutterfly for free. In addition, get free 4 x 4 or 4 x 6 prints through the app version only. 15. MINT. Keep track of your spending with this budget app. By having all your financial information in one place, you can track spending, investments and create a budget. Mint is made by Intuit, who created Turbo Tax and QuickBooks.

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SPECIAL needs

Season’s heedings HOW TO LIGHTEN THE OVERLOAD FOR HOLIDAY-CHALLENGED FAMILIES BY RACHAEL MOSHMAN

B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

e’ve entered the season of Merry and Bright. People ringing bells in front of the grocery store, carolers bursting into song, bright lights, smells of cookies, and festive sweaters are part of daily life. But the most joyful time of the year can be more like a nightmare for many children with special needs and their parents. Here are a few of the challenges: It’s too much. Seasonal festivities can be over stimulating and overwhelming. My daughter deals with anxiety and sensory issues. Just a trip to the grocery store is a lot for her to handle during the holidays. There are heavier crowds, louder music, strong smells of pine and cinnamon and well-meaning strangers offering holiday greetings. Parties, playdates and family gatherings offer even more stimulation. It highlights differences. Seeing other families enjoy the season so seemingly easily can add a bit of sadness to the holidays. Parents of children with special needs don’t know what life is like without needing to plan out everything they need to bring to make the day comfortable for their child and without having multiple backup plans for challenges that may arise. We often feel judged by friends and family who don’t understand the situation, which can make the holidays feel lonely. It’s just more to do. Decorating, buying gifts, baking cookies, going to parties, wrapping, etc., are fun for lots of people, but often parents of children with special needs already have overflowing plates. Adding just one more task might just make all those juggled plates crash — or at least that’s what it feels like.

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So how can you help these families? just too challenging for their sibling.” Parents of children with special needs • “Listen to the mom. If she tells you shared some thoughts: something, believe her. If she says no to Parents of children with • “The loud, fun, awesome party is bringing her child to a party or event, special needs don’t know overwhelming. We love you, we like to trust her. Don’t badger. It may be that what life is like without leave while the party is still fun. This means for her child that fun event would be a needing to plan out going home to quiet before our daughter nightmare. Don’t take a ‘no’ as a rejection.” starts to melt down. Please don’t try to talk • “Please just leave my child alone everything… us into staying or feel like you did something until he feels comfortable to come out of wrong. We’re glad you invited us.” his shell. Calling, teasing, picking up, • “Just because it isn’t a toy that’s hugging, bribing with food, and calling age-appropriate to physical age doesn’t him a brat does not help and actually mean it’s not age- appropriate to mental and makes it very difficult for his parents emotional age.” and siblings who have to deal with the fallout.” • “We can’t eat all your Christmas goodies. Don’t take offense, • “There’s a lot of grief around the holidays. Be sensitive to but the sugar stuff and other food allergies make eating everyone — adult and child. You don’t know everything anyone many treats a no.” is going through.” • “It’s really hard for us to go to parties or other people’s • “Always ask the parent before giving a child food or drink. houses. We want to see you. Offer to come to us instead.” You don’t know their allergies or limitations.” • “It’s really hard for my child to open wrapping paper because of limb differences. They appreciate your gift, and gift bags make it much easier for them to experience without frustration.” • “Gifts can be overwhelming. Experiences for the family are great, such as gift certificates to go bowling or to the zoo.” • “My child isn’t a behavior problem. Please don’t judge my parenting because my kid is tired and overwhelmed.” • “I love it when people offer to take my other children to do the big, fun holiday activities like festivals and parades that are

We still want to be invited. We want to spend the holidays with people we care about. It’s just not always possible in the way others expect. Ask what would make it easier and be flexible and understanding. And if all else fails, one mom said, “Please just bring me wine. And pie.” Or in my case, coffee and cookies. Rachael Moshman, M.Ed., is a mom, writer, early childhood education specialist and family advocate. Her favorite cookie is snickerdoodle.

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DecemberEvents HOW TO SUBMIT CALENDAR LISTINGS

Please e-mail listing information to events@browardfamilylife.com by the 5th of the month prior to the event date. Include the name of the event, location, address, date, time, brief description, price and telephone number for the public.

MUSEUMS & EXHIBITS Free First Thursdays Starry Nights THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5

Families enjoy free museum admission the first Thursday of every month with museum exploration, art projects for all ages and more. Free. 4pm-8pm, NSU ART MUSEUM FORT LAUDERDALE, One East Las Olas Blvd., 954-262-0258 nsuartmuseum.org

Kids’ Corner @ The Frank SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

Children up to 8 years old can build literacy skills while participating in a story time and related art activities. Free. Noon-1pm, THE FRANK, 601 City Center Way, Pembroke Pines, 954-392-2120 www.thefrankgallery.org

Olaf’s Frozen Science Overnight Adventure

Christmas Wonderland Holiday Spectacular

IT’S SHOWTIME! Elephant and Piggie’s – We Are In A Play SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1

This beloved children’s book comes to life as best friends Gerald and Piggie find themselves on a musical escapade. $16. 11am, 1pm & 3pm, BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS,

201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org

Annie

A sensory-friendly performance about a charming orphan named Annie is produced with reduced sound levels, no flashing lights, a quiet room and minimal special effects. $15. 1:30pm, BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS,

201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org

The Hip Hop Nutcracker SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

This contemporary dance spectacle and holiday mash-up for the whole family is set to Tchaikovsky’s timeless music. $29-$59. 3pm & 7:30pm, BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS,

201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org

Trans-Siberian Orchestra Winter Tour FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13

The Trans-Siberian Orchestra presents rock opera, Christmas Eve and other stories. 8pm, BB&T CENTER, One Panther Parkway, Sunrise, www.thebbtcenter.com

A Christmas Story The Musical DECEMBER 13-29

Have some laughs and warm your heart as this holiday movie is brought to life on stage.

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Showtimes vary. $49-$65. BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org

Pack your pjs and sleeping bag for a interactive overnight adventure that includes Frozen-themed experiments, activities and a movie. 6:30pm-8am, MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE, 401 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-713-0930 www.mods.org

Cirque du Soleil

Pointillism Animals

Head to the Big Top to experience the breathtaking feats and awe-inspiring scenery of Cirque’s Alegria. Showtimes vary. UNDER THE BIG

Create your own animal pointillism portrait using pre-cut animals in honor of Georges Seurat’s birthday. 10am-2pm, YOUNG AT ART MUSEUM, 751 SW 121 Ave., Davie, 954-424-0085 www.youngatartmuseum.org

DECEMBER 14-JANUARY 26

TOP NEXT TO THE HARD ROCK STADIUM,

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, DECEMBER 7-8

347 Shula Dr., Miami Gardens, www.cirquedusoleil.com

Christmas Wonderland Holiday Spectacular SUNDAY, DECEMBER 22

An enchanting show with glittering costumes, a dazzling cast and high-kicking chorus performers. $35-$75. 6pm, BROWARD CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 201 SW Fifth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.browardcenter.org

Muttville Comix

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 28

A fun-filled family show starring rescue dogs like Noodles the skateboarding Basset Hound and Murphy the ladder-climbing Fox Terrier. $18/adult, $12/child. 11am & 2pm, WILLOW THEATRE AT SUGAR SAND PARK, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton, 561-347-3948 www.willowtheatre.org

Swan Lake

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 29

View the beauty and elegance of The National Ballet Theatre of Odessa as 55 talented Ukraine dancers present this classical ballet. $38.69-$70.49. 3pm, PARKER PLAYHOUSE, 707 NE Eighth St., Fort Lauderdale, 954-462-0222 www.parkerplayhouse.com

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FRIDAY-SATURDAY, DECEMBER 13-14

Parents Night Out FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20

Kids can explore the museum, create art, play games, watch movies and participate in lots of after-hours fun. Ages 5-12. $50/non-member, $30/member. 6-11pm, YOUNG AT ART MUSEUM, 751 SW 121 Ave., Davie, 954-424-0085 www.youngatartmuseum.org

North Pole Pajama Party

WEEKENDS THROUGH DECEMBER 22

Wear your pajamas or elf costume and celebrate the season with a holiday science show, treats, activities, museum exploration and an IMAX screening. $30. 9am, MUSEUM OF DISCOVERY AND SCIENCE, 401 SW Second St., 954-713-0930 www.mods.org

Slime, Sand & Swirls TUESDAY, DECEMBER 24

Kids ages 5 and up can get crafty making colored slime, sand art and swirl painted ornaments. Pre-registration required. $5 resident, $6.25 non-resident. 11am-1pm, SUGAR SAND PARK, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton, www.sugarsandpark.org

FAIRS, FESTIVALS & SPECIAL EVENTS Holly, Jolly Holiday Event THROUGH DECEMBER 24

Celebrate the holiday season with storytelling, live entertainment, holiday characters, performances and more. Select evenings through Dec. 24. $30. 6-10pm, GOLD COAST RAILROAD MUSEUM, 12450 SW 152 St., Miami, www.gcrm.org

The Polar Express Train Ride THROUGH DECEMBER 29

Put on your pajamas and climb aboard this one-hour magical trip to meet Santa. Set to the sounds of the motion picture, the adventure includes hot chocolate, a cookie and a keepsake sleigh bell. $50-$70. BRIGHTLINE STATION, 101 NW Second Ave., 754-209-0214 www.ftlthepolarexpressride.com

on the first Sunday of each month. Free. 11am-2pm, ESPLANADE PARK, 400 SW Second Street, Fort Lauderdale, www.fortlauderdale.gov

Holiday Fun Day

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

Join Promenade at Coconut Creek and Broward Family Life magazine for a spectacular holiday celebration featuring 30 exhibitors, interactive games for kids, on-stage performances, giveaways and more. Santa will be on site starting at noon for photos. Free. 11am-4pm, PROMENADE AT COCONUT CREEK, 4443 Lyons Rd., www.promenadeatcoconutcreek.com

Sunrise Arts & Crafts Festival Featuring Winter Wonderland

THROUGH DECEMBER 31

A spectacular drive-through display of illuminated trees and animated figures. $18. 6-10pm, TRADEWINDS PARK, 3600 W. Sample Rd., Coconut Creek, 954-357-8870 www.holidaylightsdrivethru.com

Sunday Jazz Brunch SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1

Community gathering along Riverwalk with musical entertainment on three different stages, food, and a great family ambiance. Pets welcome. Held regularly

The Biggest Baby Shower Ever Miami TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10

Expecting and new parents can test out the latest gear, learn from the experts, meet other parents and receive giveaways at this fun-filled event. Tickets available online. 4:30-9pm, HILTON MIAMI DOWNTOWN, 1601 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.bigcitymoms.com

Mini Maker Faire

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

Holiday Fantasy of Lights

up with family entertainment at the end of the race. Pre-registration required. Run starts at 6:20am; festival from 9am-noon. CYPRESS BAY HIGH SCHOOL, 18600 Vista Park Blvd., Weston, www.westonrotaryrun.com

A show-and-tell style fair featuring robotics, maker workshops, 3D printing, visual art and live science demonstrations. 10am-4pm, SOUTH FLORIDA

A community tradition of arts and crafts, entertainment, food and children’s activities is combined with Winter Wonderland, with additional family activities and snow play for kids. Festival is free; Winter Wonderland $5. 10am-4pm, SUNRISE ATHLETIC COMPLEX, 11501 NW 44 St., Sunrise, 954-747-4600 www.sunrisefl.gov

SCIENCE CENTER AND AQUARIUM,

4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach, 561-832-1988 www.sfsciencecenter.org

Santa’s Enchanted Forest

Annual Rotary Run for Tomorrow & Health and Fitness Festival SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

Start the day with an invigorating run/walk and finish

THROUGH JANUARY 5

Lights, rides, food, games, entertainment and more make this holiday wonderland glow. TROPICAL PARK, corner of Bird Road and the Palmetto Expressway, Miami, 305-559-9689 www.santasenchantedforest.com

COMMUNITY ACTIVITIES Nature Lecture: Invasive & Exotic Species

Synergy Dragon Boat Races

Learn about Florida plants as an expert talks about invasive exotic species in South Florida. $5 donation requested. Noon-1pm, FERN FOREST NATURE CENTER, 201 Lyons Rd. South, Coconut Creek, 954-357-5198

See races of colorful boats that resemble stylized Chinese dragons. 8:30am-7:30pm, TY PARK, 3300 N. Park Rd., Hollywood, 954-232-7434 www.broward.org/parks

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1

Family Hayride and Campfire FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6

Enjoy a hayride around the park, followed by a campfire where you can roast marshmallows to make s’mores. $3.50. 7-9:30, EASTERLIN PARK, 1000 NW 38 St., Oakland Park, 954-357-5190

Rock the Park Plantation FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6

Bring a lawn chair or blanket for a night of live music and food trucks. Food trucks begin serving at 6pm, music starts at 7pm. CENTRAL PARK, 9151 NW Second St., Plantation, 954-452-2510 www.plantation.org

A December to Remember

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

Wear a tacky sweater or holiday onesie and gather with other teens to listen to holiday music, decorate cookies and participate in other fun activities. Ages 12-18. 2-4pm, WEST REGIONAL LIBRARY, 8601 W. Broward Blvd., Plantation, 954-765-1585 www.broward.org/library

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

Craftapalooza

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7

Kids of all ages can create something handmade for the holidays. 1pm, BROWARD COUNTY MAIN LIBRARY,

100 S. Andrews Ave., Fort Lauderdale, www.broward.org/library

Investigate It!

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

Each month features new investigations and experiments led by a park naturalist. 11am-noon, SECRET WOODS NATURE CENTER,

2701 W. State Rd. 84, Dania Beach, 954-357-8884

Trail Stroll

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8

Put on your walking shoes and take a guided boardwalk stroll through the mangrove swamp. All ages. Free. 10-10:45am, ANNE KOLB NATURE CENTER, 751 Sheridan St., Hollywood, 954-357-5161

Solar/Lunar Viewing

high powered telescopes. All ages. 6pm, MIRAMAR LIBRARY, 2050 Civic Center Place, Miramar, 954-357-8090

Curious Kids: Let’s Be Vets

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14

Kids can learn all about veterinarians through this hands-on educational workshop. Ages 5-7. Pre-registration required. $30/person. 10-11:30am, PALM BEACH ZOO,

1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach, 561-547-9453 www.palmbeachzoo.org

Music Under the Stars SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14

Enjoy an evening of music and entertainment under the stars. 7pm, THE GREAT LAWN, corner of Atlantic and Pompano Beach Boulevards, www.pompanobeachfl.gov

Butterfly Gardening Workshop SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14

Learn to identify and attract local butterflies to your own backyard. Workshops are held indoors, in the Grand Plaza. Free with admission of $29.95/adult, $21.95/child. 1pm, BUTTERFLY WORLD, 3600 W. Sample Rd., Coconut Creek, 954-977-4434 www.butterflyworld.com

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10

Nature Crafts

Join the South Florida Amateur Astronomers Association as they bring the universe closer with their

Children ages 3-10 are invited to drop by the Discovery Room and get

creative with recycled and natural materials. This month’s theme: Nature’s Gifts. $5. 10am-1pm, LONG KEY NATURE CENTER, 3501 SW 130 Ave., Davie, 954-357-8797

Holiday Movie in the Park

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20

Bring your lawn chairs and blankets for an outdoor holiday movie. Free. 6-9pm, MEMORIAL PARK, between Cooper City Hall and the Community Center, 954-434-4300 www.coopercityfl.org

An Evening with the Stars FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20

Look through telescopes to see what’s visible in the South Florida sky. Free. 7:30-9pm, FERN FOREST NATURE CENTER, 201 Lyons Rd. S., Coconut Creek, 954-357-5198 www.broward.org/parks

WANT MORE FUN? See our extensive list of holiday happenings on page 18 and check our online calendar at www.browardfamilylife.com

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14

Every effort has been made to provide accurate information. Changes and cancellations do occur. Please double check the details before setting out on your adventure.

December 2019 | B R O W A R D F A M I LY L I F E

WORDS of wisdom

Sweeter than snow cones IT TAKES GROWING UP TO DISCOVER THE TRUE GIFTS OF THE HOLIDAYS BY KARA MARTINEZ BACHMAN

used to think the ultimate holiday gift was a Snoopy Sno-Cone Machine. I not only wanted one, I dreamt of having one. I coveted that little machine, with its image of the “Peanuts” character and its shaved ice topped with syrups. It was kind of ridiculous for a kid who grew up in New Orleans to be obsessed with this thing. As the sno-ball capital of the world, the city did to the snow cone what it does with most food — it elevated it to new culinary heights. A fine-iced, creamy, exotic-flavored sno-ball in New Orleans doesn’t even resemble the hard, too-chunky, boring-flavored snow cone found in the rest of the world. Little me, however, would not be deterred. For several years, I asked for the stupid thing, and each time I was denied. Santa was never interested either, despite the fact that snow-ish gifts must have been very much up his alley. “That thing is garbage,” Mommy and Daddy would say. “What kinda sno-ball could it possibly make?” I had to concede they had a point. “Plus, it’s expensive. And you have to always buy more of the expensive syrups. FOREVER.” Once I became a parent, I realized it’s not so simple as that. The recipe of parenting doesn’t involve simple math; it requires convoluted computations. It involves weighing things. Measuring things. Sometimes, we parents even feel as if we’re mad scientists: We’re forced to weigh emotional costs, benefits, sacrifices, values, lessons learned. Sometimes the readings on the scale are fuzzy, or the scale isn’t calibrated correctly. Sometimes we make mistakes. Sometimes love has different weights, different measures, unexpected outcomes, and the results are difficult to interpret until we’re fully grown. For most of my young life, I was angry because my parents never made me feel loved via shaved ice. But instead of spending money on us, they’d focus time and energy on family traditions and things that don’t cost, that don’t require buying extra syrups. For instance, my mother would make Christmas crafts with us for hours. It’s been 17 years since she died, but each year I still place on my holiday tree a clothespin we turned into a toy soldier when I was a child. I remember her helping me draw on the soldier’s eyes and nose with a felt-tipped pen. My father would take us to chop down a Christmas tree. Not

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on a lot, but on someone’s vacant land. It would be ugly and small and look very much like Charlie Brown’s unlovable tree, but I have exciting memories of getting a tree from an actual forest instead of from a tree lot. There are no toys better than the excitement of getting an ugly tree you waited all year to make pretty with ornaments that you’d made with your mother. We’d participate in spiritual activities, lighting advent candles and following advent calendars. Some years, we’d attend Mass every night during Holy Week, wearing simple cotton dresses my mother had spent many hours hand-sewing for each of us. Although I don’t raise my own children in a faith tradition, I still recall those as the best of weeks, since the church was decorated with poinsettias and the air was filled with incense. No sno-cone syrups could ever fill the air with incense. I only saw the light when I had kids myself and they asked for ridiculous, expensive things I knew would break or soon get tossed unwanted into the garbage. I understood that gifts are nice, of course, but aren’t the be-all and end-all of the holidays for children. Holiday love is more about traditions, and sights and sounds, and dotting eyes on a soldier while held in your mother’s arms. Kara Martinez Bachman’s writing has appeared in numerous publications. She’s learned there are many holiday treats sweeter than even the finest New Orleans sno-ball.

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