Hello & happy holidays! We have such a fun issue this month! I’d like to give a HUGE thank you to everyone who shared their recipes for our very first cookbook issue—your creativity and generosity made it something truly special. It’s definitely one you will want to hang on to. If you make anything, please take a pic and let me know how it turned out.
To our loyal readers, thank you for choosing us every month and letting us be part of your lives. We’re so grateful for your continued support. And to our advertisers and supporters, you make everything we do possible, and we couldn’t do this without you. We’re excited to see what 2025 has in store for us.
Have a peaceful December and a very happy holiday season. I’ll see you in 2025!
Amy Sexson Editor/Partner
Destroyer
Media & Marketing
Haven & LKLD Magazines
Winter Haven Farmers Market centralfloridaTiX.com
JANUARY 2025
Be part of Central Florida (art) history, and see everything first when you join as a Member of The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art at Florida Southern College! Get first access to all exhibitions, receive exclusive invitations to Members Receptions and Member-exclusive events, and meet special guests and lecturers all year long.
DON’T MISS THE 2024-25 SEASON
• Dutch Impressionism: The Hague School, 1860-1930
• Rodin at The AGB: Selections from the Cantor Collections
• Hair & Newton: The Rise of the Highwaymen
• American Art Since the 1960s
• Frank Lloyd Wright & The College of Tomorrow
• Warhol Condensed: From Marilyn to Soup and Back Again
• And so much more!
Plan your visit at agbmuseum.org.
AT FLORIDA SOUTHERN COLLEGE
ASHLEY GIBSON BARNETT THE MUSEUM of ART
LOCAL NEWS
AVELO ADDS ANOTHER ROUTE
Avelo Airlines added Nashville as its ninth destination from Lakeland Linder International Airport in November. And the city’s airport director said passenger service, now in its fifth month, is meeting the goal of 60% of passengers being tourists coming to Lakeland and 40% being locals flying out. The Nashville flights will begin on March 6 and run on Thursdays and Sundays. The airline already offers flights to Philadelphia/Wilmington, Manchester/Boston, Rochester, New York, New Haven, Connecticut, Atlanta, Charlotte/Concord, Hartford, and San Juan, Puerto Rico out of Lakeland Linder International Airport. Kris Hallstrand, director of Lakeland’s airport, said Nashville is a a request that kept popping up on the airport’s social media sites. She has been pushing for a Michigan destination, but adds she can only encourage because she has no say in where the private company flies.
LAKELAND REGIONAL’S HAIGHT HONORED
Dr. Daniel Haight, Lakeland Regional Health’s vice president of community health and medical director of infection prevention, has been named a Fellow by the Infectious Diseases Society of America. Haight was one of 128 individuals chosen to receive the FIDSA designation this year because they have demonstrated a commitment to advancing the field of Infectious Disease, Dr. Steven K. Schmitt, the organization’s president, announced. In addition to his duties at Lakeland Regional Health Medical Center, Haight also teaches medical students and resident physicians and is the medical director of Westminster Lakeland/Florida Presbyterian Homes on Lake Hunter. Haight served as director of the Florida Department of Health in Polk County for 16 years. Following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, he was the chair for a decade of the health committee of the Regional Domestic Security Task Force for the nine counties around Tampa Bay.
ANNUAL SWAN VET CHECKUP
Forty-four swans were collected on Lake Morton during the city of Lakeland’s 44th annual Swan Roundup. My Pet’s Animal Hospital veterinarian Dr. Price Dickson concluded they “looked good,” with a few treated for mites. Two will need surgery: one with a cyst on the neck and one that has bumblefoot that needs medical attention. Bumblefoot is a bacterial infection of heavier waterfowl species that can cause lesions or abscesses. The large birds, which have become a symbol for the city, are captured once a year in order to give them a full physical. City parks employees captured the birds by boat in the lake or by hand on the shore, placing them in holding pens for 24 hours to calm them down before the vet exams. The swan count was lower than in past years. In 2023, the city captured 50 birds, which was also lower than average. At least eight swans have died this year — hit by cars around the lake. The flock added to its population when cygnets hatched.
NORDSTROM RACK COMING
By this time next year, Lakeland fans of Nordstrom Rack should be able to drive to Lakeside Village instead of Brandon or Tampa to shop at the offprice retailer. A Nordstrom Rack store is planned for the vacant 30,000-squarefoot building previously occupied by Bed Bath & Beyond, a Lakeside Village spokeswoman confirmed. It is projected to open in fall 2025, according to a press release from parent company, Nordstrom Inc., a luxury fashion retailer based in Seattle. Nordstrom Rack specializes in apparel, accessories, beauty products, home decor and shoes. Customers will be able to pick up and return online orders from both Nordstrom and Nordstrom Rack at the Lakeland location, according to the press release.
24,000 HOUSEHOLDS NOTIFIED
More than one-third of Lakeland households received letters last month, notifying them that their water pipes could contain lead. Lakeland homeowners were not alone –– millions of people across the country received similar notices, required under an initiative of the Environmental Protection Agency to identify and eliminate lead pipes nationwide within 10 years. Lead is a potent neurotoxin that can harm mental and physical development. The city sent letters to every residence built before 1977 when Lakeland banned lead as a construction material. That includes 23,963 of the 63,623 homes in the water utility’s service area. City Water Compliance Manager Tania McMillan said Lakeland hasn’t found any lead service lines. But it will have to send each customer a letter annually until their household’s lines have been checked — which might take up to four years.
VALET PARKING RETURNS
A new valet parking service kicked off in November for people who want to come to downtown Lakeland in the evening, but worry they might have to hunt for parking. Marcos Fernandez, owner of Nineteen61 on Main Street, has teamed with 863 Parking & Guest Services to provide valet parking Thursdays through Saturdays from 5 to 10 pm. Patrons can find the valets at the west corner of Kentucky Avenue and Main Street. For people eating and drinking at Nineteen61 or its rooftop lounge, Bar Vasco, the service is free. People patronizing other businesses pay $7. Fernandez said other downtown restaurant owners are talking with him about joining forces to validate their customers’ parking, too.
KOREAN BBQ AND HOT POT
Korean barbeque and Chinese hot pot restaurants are fairly new to Lakeland — but the tradition of gathering communally and grilling or simmering meats, vegetables, and noodles in flavorful broth dates back many centuries. Over the past year, Lakeland has gained three eateries where dining is an interactive cultural and culinary experience: Hong BBQ & Hot Pot –– 5125 S. Florida Ave; KPOT Korean BBQ & Hot Pot –– 1568 Town Center Dr. in Lakeside Village; Fire Spot Buffet –– 4250 U.S. Highway 98 N. All of the restaurants offer allyou-can-eat pricing. Diners get their own steaming pots in which to cook whatever they want. Barbeque is grilled on communal tabletop skillets. Some of the ingredients, like beef, shrimp, chicken and pork, are familiar to mainstream American palates. But others — like tripe, duck blood, beef aorta, baby octopus, tongue, pork liver, frog legs, and chicken gizzards — might not be.
FLOODING FROM MILTON
While Hurricane Milton is long gone, some residents continue to struggle with its aftermath. Both Lake Bonny and Lake Seward homeowners and renters saw their homes flooded for weeks after the storm passed. City and county officials coordinated with state and federal officials to bring in commercial-sized pumps and hoses in order to drain the water out of both lakes. National Weather Service officials said Lakeland saw 13.13 inches of rain during the storm at a time when the ground was already saturated, and lakes and rivers were already full from Hurricanes Helene and Debby, along with summer rains. The last time Lakeland saw a similar deluge was in 1960. Officials are now assessing what can be done so this 1,000-year flooding event never happens again.
NEW EMERGENCY MANAGER
David Charles Cox, 53, the city of Lakeland’s new emergency management director, took the emergency management helm at the beginning of November – three weeks after one of Lakeland’s worst natural disasters left neighborhoods flooded along the shores of Lake Bonny. Cox’s accomplishments: 28year Marine Corps veteran with deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria and northern Africa. He remains a colonel in the Marine Corps Reserves; 20-year FBI agent and supervisor in organized crime, gang task force, white collar crimes and public corruption divisions; A crisis-management coordinator on mass shootings, kidnappings, counter-terrorism events and special events –– including Super Bowls and New Year’s Eve celebrations as part of his FBI duties; A volunteer firefighter; A practicing attorney in Florida. Cox, the sole employee of the Emergency Management Department, will be working closely with Lakeland Police Chief Sam Taylor and Fire Chief Doug Riley.
FOOD-TRUCK COURT
Two Lakeland entrepreneurs have unveiled plans to transform a former used-car lot east of downtown into a food-truck court called Main Street Eats and “turn something ugly into something beautiful and useful.” The plan jumped its first hurdle in November when the Lakeland Planning & Zoning Board unanimously approved a conditional-use permit for the property at 1112 E. Main St.; it’s on the north side of Main Street between Ingraham Avenue and North Lake Parker Avenue. In addition, the Lakeland Community Redevelopment Agency has given preapproval to the project and a reimbursement figure of $175,000 of the expected $450,000 they predict they will have to spend to fix up the site. Butch Rahman, one of the developers, told the zoning board that the project fits with the city’s plans to revitalize an area struggling with blight. He hopes to see it open by summer.
MUSEUM STORE SUNDAY
Dec. 1, 1 – 5 pm at the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art. “Be A Patron” at the shop and find quality gifts, handcrafted items, and local finds. Best of all, your purchase will directly support your favorite museum. polkmuseumofart.org
POLAR EXPRESS: AIRMAIL
Dec. 13 & 14, 5 – 9 pm at the Florida Air Museum. Begin the evening with a reading of the classic children’s story “Polar Express” then board a Boeing 727 for a “flight” to deliver your personal letter to Santa at the North Pole. Register in advance. aceedu.org
POLK TOP 10
HOLIDAYS ON CENTRAL
DUTCH IMPRESSIONISM
Throughout December at the Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art. Immerse yourself in the beautiful 19th century world of the Netherlands but also broaden your understanding of Dutch Impressionism: The Hague School1860 – 1930. polkmuseumofart.org
THE GIFT OF THE MAGI
Dec. 13 – 15 at the Gem Theater in Mulberry. A one act play about a young couple unable to afford presents for each other on their first Christmas together. Each sacrifices a treasure to provide a gift for the other. centralfloridatix.com
LAKELAND CHRISTMAS PARADE
Dec. 5, 7 pm. Begins with fireworks over Lake Mirror at 7 pm. The parade leaves the RP Funding Center, going down Lemon St towards downtown where it turns at Main St to Cedar St and winds around Lake Mirror, travels Orange St and ends at the RP Funding Center. lakelandgov.net
TUCK EVERLASTING
Dec. 13 – 15 at Lakeland Community Theatre. A musical about eleven-year-old Winnie Foster yearning for a life of adventure beyond her white picket fence and meeting the magical Tuck family. lakelandcommunitytheatre.com
Dec. 7, 10 am – 4 pm at Central Park in Downtown Winter Haven. Thousands of guests will descend upon downtown Winter Haven to enjoy specialty foods, interactive experiences and shopping from hundreds of vendors at two holiday markets - a traditional Mistletoe Market and local favorite, Bandit Market. FB @ destroyermediaandmarketing.
MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAYS
Dec. 14 & 15, 10 am – 3 pm at Bok Tower Gardens. Family fun with aerial acrobatics of fairies and elves, Freddie Gnome-sted at El Retiro, and a lively gnome hunt. Visit the Outdoor Kitchen for photos with the Christmas Cookie Baker and enjoy a sweet treat. boktowergardens.org
SNOWFEST
Dec. 7, 5 – 9 pm along Lake Mirror. Stroll along the Francis Langford Promenade at Lake Mirror and take a photo with Mr. & Mrs. Claus in a snow globe, arts and crafts vendors, food trucks and more. lakelandgov.net
TOAST TO THE HOLIDAYS
Dec. 14, 7 pm at Branscomb Auditorium. Enjoy favorites like “White Christmas” and “Sleigh Ride,” along with lively overtures and a sing-along. Featuring vocalists Elizabeth Lyons, Holly Parrish, John Partain, and Tyler Campbell. This concert promises a merry celebration for all! flsouthern.edu/ffa
Stay Awhile STOP BY &
Your new home at Lake Howard Heights is waiting for you, and our family can’t wait to meet you.
For a limited time, we’ll cover your moving costs! Imagine how grand life will be:
• Sweeping views of Lake Howard
• Hassle-free apartments
• Social clubs and wellness programs
• Independent and assisted living services
Come and meet our Team while enjoying a complimentary lunch. Let us know if you need transportation, and we will coordinate a driver for you.
ORLANDO TOP 10
EPCOT INT’L FESTIVAL OF THE HOLIDAYS
December 1 – 30 at EPCOT. Eat seasonal food from around the world, meet Santa, experience the Candlelight Processionals led by celebrities, and hear holiday storytellers throughout the park. disneyworld.disney.go.com
WINTER MARKET
Dec. 14, 10 am – 2 pm at Leu Gardens. Stroll through the festive Gardens, take photos with Santa, and shop from the market offering plants, home goods, and gifts. Stop by the Historic Leu House for festive carolers, and Foxtail Coffee for a seasonal treat. leugardens.org
THE NUTCRACKER
Dec. 6 – 22 at the Dr. Phillips Center, presented by the Orlando Ballet. Experience the tale of Clara, a young girl, whose extraordinary journey intertwines with that of a life-sized Nutcracker, magically brought to life. drphillipscenter.org
REINDEER RUN
Dec. 14, 7:15 am at SeaWorld Orlando. The Greg Warmoth Reindeer Run Presented by AdventHealth for Children is a run or walk through the pathways of SeaWorld. Celebrate your finish in a Winter Wonderland, complete with holiday treats for everyone. trackshack.com/event/236
KRAMPUS FEST
Dec. 8, 2 pm – 9 pm at The Plaza Live. Feel the alpine spirit! Free to attend, with live music, food, drinks, Christmas vendors, costume contests and plenty of punishment. While kids are welcome in the earlier hours, after dark, they recommend attending with a parent or chaperone. FB @TheMilkDistrict
CHRISTKINDLMARKT
Dec. 14 & 15, 11 am – 10 pm at Luminary Green Park in Orlando. A traditional German Christmas market with authentic food & drinks, shopping, live music, performances, a visit from St. Nikolaus, a Krampus Walk and more!
FB @schmankerlstubnorl
HOLIDAY POPS
Dec. 8, 6 pm – 7:30 pm. Performed by the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra on the Central Park Main Stage in Winter Park. Bring your blanket and a picnic for a concert program of holiday favorites that will be sure to put everyone in the spirit of the season. orlandophil.org
MARK TREMONTI SINGS SINATRA
Dec. 14, 8 pm at the Dr. Phillips Center. Accompanied by surviving members of Sinatra’s band as well as other top-notch players, Tremonti is a Grammy Award-winning multiplatinum musician that will make you think “ol’ blue eyes” is back. drphillipscenter.org
NOSFERATU WITH RADIOHEAD
Dec. 9, 9:30 pm at the Enzian. The inaugural film in this series couples F.W. Murnau’s century old masterpiece “Nosferatu” (1922) with genre-undefinable alt rock band Radiohead’s mind-blowing “Kid A” (2000) and “Amnesiac” (2001). enzian.org
POP-TARTS BOWL
Dec. 28, 3:30 pm at Camping World Stadium. In the new College Football Playoff era, the bowl will match the top selection from the ACC (inclusive of Notre Dame) outside of the CFP series against the second selection from the Big 12 outside of the CFP series. floridacitrussports.com
Magnolia
TAMPA TOP 10
TREE LIGHTING
CHRISTMAS TOWN
Every day at Busch Gardens. Indulge in new holiday-inspired food & drink, meet fun characters like Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer and friends, all under the nearly 70 miles of twinkling lights throughout the entire park. buschgardens.com
SOME LIKE IT HOT
Dec. 10 – 15 at the Straz Center. The story of two musicians forced to flee the Windy City after witnessing a mob hit. With gangsters hot on their heels, they catch a crosscountry train for the life-chasing, life-changing trip of a lifetime. strazcenter.org
CHRISTMAS IN THE WILD
Select nights in December at ZooTampa. Featuring one of Tampa Bay’s largest light displays, holiday treats, amazing wildlife and new festive adventures. This year is bigger, better, and brighter than ever, with entertainment for whole family. zootampa.org
WHITE CHRISTMAS THE MUSICAL
Dec. 13 – 22 at the St. Petersburg City Theatre. Based on the beloved, timeless film, this musical adaptation features 17 Irving Berlin songs. It’s 1954 and Veterans Bob Wallace and Phil Davis have a successful songand-dance act after World War II. spcitytheatre.org
Dec. 2, 5 pm – 9 pm at Armature Works. This special event will be full of fun surprises featuring friends from the North Pole, live performances, a holiday market, and more! The Tree Lighting is at 7pm on the Armature Works Front Lawn. Seasonal drinks will be available for purchase for 21+ attendees. armatureworks.com
SANTA’S SCIENTIFIC WORKSHOP
Dec. 14, 5:30 pm – 8:30 pm at MOSI. Sleigh the day and dive into a magical blend of holiday cheer and scientific wonders, where every moment has hands-on fun for the whole family. Hang out with Santa Claus or write him a letter at the center. mosi.org
ART ON THE HOUSE
Every Thursday from 4 pm – 8 pm at the Tampa Museum of Art. Bring the family and celebrate 100 years of art in Tampa. Visit the Welcome Desk and tell the Visitor Experience and Engagement Representatives what price you’d like to pay for admission. tampamuseum.org
TAMPA HOT CHOCOLATE RUN
Dec. 15, 7 am at the Tampa Convention Center. America’s sweetest run is back! Choose the 5K, 10K, or 15K distances with a post-run party that’ll make you go “cocoa” crazy. You and your friends will experience the ultimate chocolate celebration. hotchocolate15k.com
ELF IN CONCERT
Dec. 7, 2 pm & 7 pm at the Straz Center. Watch as Buddy the elf travels to New York, in full elf uniform, in search of his real father. This holiday season, watch your favorite holiday classic on a giant screen as every note of John Debney’s score is played live. strazcenter.org
RELIAQUEST BOWL
Dec. 31, noon at the Raymond James Stadium. The Tampa Bay Bowl Association hosts a college football game featuring teams from the SEC and Big Ten Conference. The game is a culmination of a weeklong schedule of events throughout Tampa Bay. reliaquestbowl.com
cookin’ good lookin’ what’s
Community cookbooks are a beautiful way to bring people together, celebrating the traditions, flavors, and stories that make our community unique. They’re more than just a collection of recipes; they’re snapshots of history and culture shared from one kitchen to another. Thank you to everyone who contributed their cherished recipes! I hope you all find something delicious to cook or bake and share it with people you love! (send pics!)
COCKTAILS
cup sugar
cup orange juice (fresh is best, but juice is OK too)
cinnamon stick
whole cloves bottle of dry red table wine (no need to splurge on the good stuff)
orange slices and strips of zest, if available 1/4 3/4 1 5 1 eggs separated (whites and yolks)
shannon’s favorite glühwein
shannon carnevale winter haven
1. Add all ingredients to a sauce pot or other pot large enough to hold the ingredients.
2. Bring to a simmer.
3. Let simmer for just a minute or two, to make sure it’s evenly heated.
4. Take off the heat and allow to sit for at least ten minutes.
5. Pour into small mugs and enjoy with friends and family.
“Glühwein is German hot mulled wine. This Glühwein recipe is a favorite in our home when the weather turns crisp, especially when we have guests over. It’s also at the heart of one of my favorite holiday traditions. Starting Thanksgiving week, we eagerly await the first cold snap – or December 11, two weeks before Christmas, whichever comes first. That’s when we make this Glühwein, turn on some holiday music, and start putting up the Christmas lights outside. If the tree’s already up, we’ll decorate it and the inside of the house, too.
Experiment with extra whole spices like star anise or additional cloves, if you’d like! I‘m not a fan of clove, so 5 is just right for us. The recipe is simple and easy to adjust to suit your family’s taste. Not a regular red wine drinker? Glühwein is traditionally made with Spätburgunder, a German pinot noir. Cabernet and dry red blends work well, too. Avoid very oaky or tannic red wines, they can turn bitter when heated. This recipe works great with non-alcoholic wine as well—just look for one that’s not too sweet.”
cup sugar
pint (or more) of good bourbon cup (or more) of good rum
quart of heavy cream
naughty list eggnog
t . michael stavres winter haven city manager
1. Blend 10 egg yolks, slowly stir in 3/4 cup of sugar.
2. Pour bourbon, rum, and cream into the egg mixture and combine.
3. Beat 10 egg whites until light and fluffy. Fold egg whites into bourbon mixture.
4. Enjoy responsibly.
“Note – this is real eggnog, so if you are a connoisseur of the stuff in the grocery dairy aisle, you might want to fasten your seatbelt and designate a driver.”
hot toddys m.j.’s
m . j . carnevale winter haven deputy city manager
(This scales to large batches easily, just multiply the ingredients by the number of people you are serving)
1. Bring your water to a boil in a small pot. Add your tea bag(s) and steep for a few minutes, then remove the tea bag(s).
2. Measure out your honey and lemon juice in a heat proof vessel. (Pyrex measuring cups work well for larger batches). Mix enough of the warm tea into the honey and lemon juice to dissolve the mixture and then add to the pot with the tea.
3. Pour bourbon into pot with tea mixture and mix thoroughly. Pour into mug(s) and serve. Garnish with a slice of lemon if you have it. Best enjoyed with friends in a cozy setting.
“This is one of my friend group’s absolute favorites on a cool night, especially if camping or somewhere like a ski cabin. It has been steadily refined by my wife and I over the years. The ingredients are simple, so get the best quality versions of them you can find. It originated from a desire for hot spirited beverages that could serve the masses in a house we lived in during college with many friends, but poor insulation and no heat. It is a perennial feature on our cool month adventures.”
homemade kahlua
t . michael stavres winter haven city manager
1. Make coffee. Run 3 1/2 cups of water through a full cup of quality coffee grounds using a regular drip coffee machine; you should yield approximately 3 1/4 cups of finished coffee.
2. Transfer coffee to a sauce pot and add 4 cups brown sugar. Heat to just a boil and then remove from stove.
3. Add one full size vanilla bean. For best results, slice the bean long-ways to expose the inside. Let sit until room temperature.
4. Add 1 liter of your favorite vodka. For a unique twist, try a flavored vodka such as peppermint. Once blended, bottle and enjoy.
“This is a great homemade gift. You can make a large batch and bottle in festive mason jars to give to friends and families. Or you can just keep it all for yourself. Not judging!”
1/2
1
1 1
pound sifted flour
pound shortening (half butter and half margarine)
pound sharp cheese (grated or run through food processor)
teaspoon red pepper (more if you like it nippy)
pecan halves
1. Sift flour and pepper several times.
cheesewafers
mrs . richard d . pope circa 1970
2. Work flour gradually into grated cheese and shortening until soft and pliable.
3. Wrap and chill for several hours.
4. Pinch off pieces and roll into marble-size balls. Place on cookie sheet. Press a half pecan into each ball.
5. Bake at 400 degrees for about 8 minutes. Cool on brown paper or paper towels. Do not overcook! Freezes well.
“Yields about 250 small biscuits. This dough can be forced through a cookie press or rolled out on a floured surface and cut with a fancy cutter.”
8 6 1/4
1/4 1/4
ounce tube crescent dough
ounces Brie cheese
cup orange marmalade
cup whole cranberry sauce
cup chopped pistachios, pecans or walnuts
fresh rosemary for garnish
brie bites cranberry
nikki ellegard whpd police officer
1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees and grease a 24-count muffin pan with nonstick cooking spray.
2. Cut the Brie into small, 1 inch squares and set aside in the refrigerator until ready to use.
3. In a small bowl, mix together marmalade and cranberry sauce.
4. On a lightly floured surface, roll out crescent dough to form an evenly sided rectangle and pinch seams together. Cut into 24 squares. Press squares into muffin cups.
5. Add one Brie square to each cup. Drizzle a little of the cranberry sauce mixture on top and around cheese square. Sprinkle nuts on top.
6. Bake for 10-13 minutes or until golden brown and dough is cooked through. Garnish with fresh rosemary if you’d like.
eggs
cup your favorite mayonnaise
tablespoons yellow mustard (or Dijon to add a little heat)
teaspoon onion powder
teaspoon garlic powder
teaspoon celery seed
teaspoon paprika
salt and pepper to taste
Optional: we topped our deviled eggs with fresh dill and pickled onion
deviled lisa’s eggs
lyndsey venrick
winter haven
1. Boil eggs for 9 minutes. Immediately put into ice cold water to stop the eggs from cooking further. Once cool, carefully peel and halve all eggs.
2. Remove all yolks and add them to mixing bowl. It’s ok if you mess up a few egg whites while peeling and removing yolks. You ideally want more yolks than whites.
3. Add all spices and condiments to mixing bowl. All spices are to taste- have fun with it and add your own spices in! Try curry powder, dill, chili powder- anything! Blend using hand mixer on medium until mixture is light yellow and smooth. Taste and adjust spices as needed.
4. Spoon yolk mixture into egg whites. If you’re feeling fancy, use a piping bag to pipe yolks into the eggs. Garnish with a sprinkle of paprika or other fun toppings and enjoy!
“This recipe is based on my stepsister’s deviled egg recipe- it’s always a favorite at family gatherings. We took that recipe and added tasty toppings. That’s the fun part of deviled eggs- you can literally add any spices or toppings you like to make them your own! Makes up to 24 deviled eggs (depending on how good you are at peeling)”
rolls of Ritz crackers
large cooking apples, diced and peeled
sticks melted butter
dressing nana’s apple
mayor bill mutz lakeland
1. Dice apples. Dampen crushed Ritz with 1 cup water – not too much water.
2. Combine beaten eggs with sugar, butter, salt and pepper. Add raisins.
3. Sprinkle sugar on top and spray with spray butter if you have it.
4. Cook at 325 degrees for 45 minutes. (Don’t overcook!) Makes two 9x13 pans.
nana’s
spoon bread
mayor bill mutz lakeland
2%
1. Let milk come to a rolling boil. Stir in corn meal slowly and carefully.
2. Stir in well-beaten egg yolks, butter, sugar, and salt.
3. Fold in beaten egg whites very thoroughly.
4. Put in 9x13 pan, and then put that pan into a pan of water while baking. Bake at 325 degrees for 40 minutes.
“These excerpts are from a book one of our daughters-in-law compiled as a Christmas gift to Pam, including the best recipes from our Family’s Legacy. And the two that I am submitting are both great for holiday dinners and are two of my favorites personally. By the way, my Mom’s grandma’s name was Nana.”
slices white bread
large sweet onions
bunch of celery
trapnell bowen’s dressing gramma gertrude
kimberly moore
lkldnow reporter
1. Boil 6 eggs.
2. Toast the bread and then cut or tear into squares.
3. Finely chop the onion and celery and then sauté in butter.
4. Boil giblets and neck in at least four cups of water.
5. Cook rice per instructions.
6. When cooked, remove the meat from the neck bones and finely chop giblets.
7. Chop sage.
8. After the turkey is cooked, remove a lot of the grease from the roasting pan, retain meat scraps. Mix ingredients in the roasting pan and stir in some of the broth until almost pasty.
9. Mix in two raw eggs and add salt and pepper to taste.
10. Bake at 350 for 45 minutes.
“In 1933, my Great Grandmother Gertrude Trapnell Bowen sat around a quilt with her daughter June, stepdaughter Erline (my grandmother), and other in-laws, sewing a crazy quilt, chatting and having lunch. Gramma, as my Dad called her, raised six of her husband’s children from his first marriage and then she had five of her own. My great-great grandmother would arrive to these quilting bees by horse and buggy, as her husband didn’t trust automobiles.
My Dad, Maurice Moore, remembers walking under that quilt as a 3-year-old boy, watching as the needles pierced the fabric and the light shined through the joined shapes. I used that quilt in college and still have it on a quilt stand in my bedroom. His grandma raised him starting about that time and would sit him in the kitchen with her. As she cooked, she would explain to him what she was doing and why. His chore some days would be to churn the butter by hand. He also had to chop firewood for the stove. They cooked vegetables from a farm they owned and dressed chickens from the yard.
At Thanksgiving and Christmas, she made this dressing recipe, which is now at least 120 years old – and the best dressing I’ve ever had.”
Grapefruits Sugar
grapefruit chalet suzanne broiled
blair petersen updike lake wales
1. Choose flat grapefruit so they won’t roll around in your pan, or you could take a small slice off the bottom to flatten it. Half and section each grapefruit. Start by cutting out the core so there will be a reservoir for the delicious juices.
2. Place in a pan and sprinkle cinnamon sugar over the top. Be generous. Place on rack at top and preheat broiler.
3. Broil grapefruit until the tops caramelize. It was not unusual for them to burn the rinds at the restaurant, and chef would just trim anything super burned off, or just send it out that way because as Carl said, “don’t worry it’s dark out there.”
“Here’s the part that’s going to cause some of you problems…Top with fried salty chicken liver. If it were up to me, I’d probably just buy them and retoast before serving rather than dealing with frying in the house. How did this insane combination come about you say? One night at the Chalet there was a big party. One of the hors d’oeuvres was fried chicken livers, but they came out too late to be passed. When it came time to serve the grapefruit, they discovered they were out of the maraschino cherries they usually dropped on top, so my Aunt Vita, not wanting to waste anything, plopped a chicken liver on the top of each grapefruit as they went out the kitchen door. The salty fried flavor of the liver is delicious with the bitter-sweet cinnamon caramel of the grapefruit.
This feels like a recipe from another time, now that the Chalet has been gone for a decade, and canker wiped out most of the backyard grapefruit trees. For those who are unfamiliar, the Chalet Suzanne was a Restaurant and Country Inn on the north-side of Lake Wales. It was a patched together amalgam of old Florida, with pecky cypress and sunny pastel paints, and old-world with dark wood antiques, Persian rugs, stained glass, Moroccan lamps, and painted Turkish tiles. It attracted movie-stars, royalty, and a whole cast of interesting characters who often reached it via the grass private airstrip.
My Aunt Vita married into the Hinshaw family who owned the Chalet and ran it together with her husband Carl for the rest of her life. I did my time there as a 16-year-old, bussing tables for minimum wage (which was probably like $4.75 back then, but you were allowed as much sweet tea and romaine soup as you could consume) and got to observe the goings on in the kitchen. Since the closing of the Chalet my family has continued to make some of the dishes for special occasions including this favorite broiled grapefruit.”
1/4
5 1/2
5-6
cup canola Oil
large onions, chopped fine teaspoon minced garlic
chicken breast tenderloins, cut into small pieces
Hillshire Farm sausage link, chopped into small cubes
3 1/2
4 1/2
cups uncooked white rice
cups water
Cajun seasoning such as onion powder, garlic powder, Tony’s Chachere, paprika or herbs (optional)
jambalaya granny’s cajun
lynsey pippen little bus books
1. Brown onions in oil until very dark, in your black iron pot. (Stir frequently to prevent burning.) Add a little water and simmer a few minutes until consistency thickens.
2. Add garlic and cook on low to medium heat for about 15 minutes, covered.
3. Add uncooked chicken, sausage and a little water (look for the sizzle) and cook until browned.
4. Add rice and 4 1/2 cups water, stir. Bring to a boil then lower heat to simmer until rice is cooked.
Sprinkle Cajun seasoning as desired while rice is cooking. If you are unsure of the amount of seasoning, you can add more before serving from the pot. Serves 8-10 people.
“The difficulty with sharing written recipes in Cajun country is that most family recipes are never written, but passed down from the experience of watching “ya mom an dem” in the kitchen for many years. Personally, measuring ingredients is optional, but using a black cast-iron pot and wooden spoon is not. I’ve added Cajun to the title because it’s important to understand the difference between Cajun and Creole cooking. While both are flavorful parts of the Louisiana culinary experience, there are similarities and differences in ingredients. Where jambalaya is concerned the spices are the same, but Creole is red (tomatoes) and Cajun is brown (browned onions.) Creole is heavier on seafood, where Cajun leans towards pork and chicken. For my Falgout family, we like to mix and match our “meats” depending on if seafood is in season, but never. ever. add a tomato to Granny’s black iron jambalaya pot! And if you don’t like spicy, you should probably grab an extra glass of water (or sweet tea) before you get seated at the table.”
2 1/2 4 1 2 8 1/4 1 1/3 1/2 1/4 1 1 1/2 1 1 1/2 2
pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1 to 1 1/2 inch pieces, patted dry
salt and freshly ground pepper tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
medium onion, chopped cloves garlic, minced
ounces cremini or button mushrooms, sliced
cup dry sherry or white wine
cups chicken stock
cup sour cream
cup heavy cream
cup uncooked white rice, medium or long grain
teaspoons salt teaspoon Italian seasoning
teaspoon poultry seasoning
teaspoon paprika
tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
chickencasserole and rice
chief vance monroe winter haven police department
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large sauté pan on medium high or high heat (hot enough to brown but not burn). Season the chicken pieces all over with salt and pepper. Working in batches, brown the chicken pieces on both sides, about 1 to 2 minutes per batch. Add a little more olive oil if needed with every batch.
3. Remove chicken pieces and set aside in a bowl. The chicken does not have to be cooked through, only browned.
4. In the same sauté pan add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Lower the heat to medium, add the onions, and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes. Add the garlic; cook 30 seconds more. Remove onions and garlic to a shallow 9x13-inch casserole dish.
5. Raise heat to medium high and add the sliced mushrooms. Dry sauté the mushrooms (don’t add butter or oil), allowing them to brown lightly and release some of their moisture. Add the mushrooms to the casserole dish.
6. Add 1/4 cup dry sherry or dry white wine to the pan to deglaze it, scraping off the browned bits from the bottom. Let the sherry reduce to about 1 tablespoon, then add the chicken stock, and remove from heat. Stir in 1 1/2 teaspoons salt, the cream, and the sour cream.
7. Add the uncooked rice to the casserole dish. Then pour the stock, sherry, cream, and sour cream mixture over the rice. Add the Italian and poultry seasonings (or fresh herbs) and paprika to the dish. Stir the chicken pieces, rice, onion, mushroom, and herb mixture so that they are evenly distributed in the casserole dish.
8. Cover the casserole dish tightly with aluminum foil. Bake in a 375 degree oven for 45 minutes and then remove foil. (If the casserole still has too much liquid, let it cook a few minutes more, uncovered, until the excess liquid has evaporated away.)
“One day I was searching for a healthy, balanced meal that was both flavorful and easy to prepare. The combination of lean protein from the chicken and the wholesome grains from the rice makes it a perfect choice for a nutritious, satisfying dish without being too heavy. This recipe has become a family favorite of ours and I hope you will love it also.”
sandwiches pulled dr.pork pepper
pork shoulder
two-liter bottle of Dr. Pepper
brown sugar
small can of Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce
stick butter
package of sandwich buns
Dressing:
bag of cole slaw mix salad
rebecca macpherson lakeland
1. Preheat oven to 250 degrees.
2. In a roasting pan, layer the bottom with chunks of butter. You can also use one of those grill trays that keep the pork off the bottom of your pan.
3. Put the pork in and rub it all over with the adobo peppers. Depending on your preference for spicy meat, use a little or as much as you like.
4. Rub brown sugar all over the pork as well.
5. Pour the Dr. Pepper all over, I pour about an inch of Dr. Pepper on the bottom of the pan, so that the pork can really absorb all the ingredients.
6. Put pork in oven and cook it overnight. I usually get up twice to baste the pork with the juices, but you can leave it alone with aluminum foil over the top to prevent dryness.
The next morning, pull the pork apart and let the pieces soak in the juices.
Mix the Cole Slaw mix with the Poppyseed dressing and put that in a serving bowl. Get your buns, put some slaw on them` and pork, and enjoy the meal!
Melt butter in a skillet and add flour, stirring constantly until the color of peanut butter. Put all ingredients, including flour mixture, in a crock pot. Cook until hot but don’t boil.
“Dedicated to Aunt Wanda who passed away suddenly last December.”
1. Season chicken and sausage (salt/pepper to taste). Melt butter in saucepan and add chicken and sausage – cook until chicken and sausage are browned. Remove meat and set aside.
2. Add pepper, onion, scallions, celery, tomatoes, and garlic to pan – cook until softened. Stir rice into vegetable mixture.
3. Add water (or stock) and rest of seasonings, bring to a simmer.
4. Return meat to saucepan.
5. Cover and cook for about 20 minutes until water is absorbed and chicken is cooked through. Cook uncovered for a few more minutes to evaporate any excess moisture. Serve w/ bread of choice.
“I wasn’t (and I’m still not) much of a cook, but I saw this recipe in a newspaper column some 20 years ago or so. I thought it sounded good, so I made it. For many years, it was the only thing I could (or would) cook for my family. And though my recipe repertoire has improved over the years, this is still one of my favorite dishes to prepare.”
soup santa fe (chili)
kellie phillips director of development bonnet springs park
In Dutch oven or stock pot, cook meat and onion together until meat is browned. Stir ranch-style dressing mix and taco seasoning mix into the pot. Add remaining ingredients with the juice from all of the cans. Stir occasionally for 30 minutes on medium heat. Simmer for up to 2 hours. Add desired toppings and enjoy!
“This recipe was passed around the neighborhood families when I was a kid, so my mom used to always make it for our family! Anytime the temps dropped below 70, or the threat of a hurricane/power outage, or anytime we needed a cozy and filling meal, Santa Fe Soup was on the menu. Now, my brother and sister and I make it for those same reasons and have shared it with our friends and family as well.”
curry soup butternut
aaron venrick winter haven
1. Add olive oil to a large pot or Dutch oven over med-high heat.
2. Add squash, carrots and a large pinch of salt. Cook on med-high heat for 5 minutes stirring occasionally.
3. Add onion, curry powder and nutmeg. Cook for an additional 5 minutes stirring occasionally.
4. Add chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to med-low and simmer until squash and carrots are very soft. About 20 min.
5. Remove from heat. Add butter and stir to melt and combine.
6. With an immersion blender, blend until smooth. (You can use a normal blender for this, just make sure to remove the soup from the heat for at least 5 min and add to blender one cup at a time)
7. Add salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve with a tablespoon of heavy cream drizzled on top and naan bread. (Or any bread for that matter.)
“Now, I know this is in no way a “curry.” Although, the smell in your kitchen will say otherwise. And it does give you the warmth and spicy flavors that you would get from a curry. Enjoy!”
brad dantzler winter haven city commissioner
1. In a large pot, put potatoes, onions and small amount of water, bring to boil. When onions start to blanch, add fish.
2. When fish is half cooked, add the cream, butter and chopped celery, bring to a boil.
3. Cut the heat, add flour to the pot to thicken the soup. It’s critical to stir during the entire process so it won’t burn.
4. Leave on stove with no heat after it boils. Serve with salt, pepper, or hot sauce and oyster crackers.
shrimp ritz
dan chesnicka producing director theatre winter haven
For context, I’m a New England boy. In my family, clambakes last 3 days, we each have our own recipe for chowder, and preparing seafood is both an act of love and a bloodsport.
Holidays are not about turkey and ham, but about lobsters, clams, oysters, and other crustaceans.
Most of our efforts are incredibly complex, our secrets highly treasured and everything is cooked outside over a wood-burning fire. I spent years in my father’s shadow learning the tricks and he would haunt me if I were to share any generational secrets.
BUT… there is one thing the Chesnickas often make that is deceptively easy to accomplish and uses only a few simple store-bought ingredients. I’m sure my ancestors would not consider sharing this particular recipe a violation worthy of dishonor to the family name. Truthfully, this is something we make when we don’t have 3 days to prepare but are itching for a quality seafood fix.
You will need
1. The biggest shrimp you can find. Try for U4 or U6 if you can get them.
2. A box of Ritz Crackers (Please don’t get “Reduced Fat” or anything with any flavor beyond “Original” - I ask this so my father doesn’t turn in his grave)
3. A lot of butter. (I should mention that measuring devices are strongly discouraged in the Chesnicka household)
4. A few fresh lemons
Here is what you need to do -
1. Preheat your oven to 375 degrees.
2. Clean, shell, de-vein, and butterfly your HUMONGOUS SHRIMP. (To do this properly, you cut the shrimp in the opposite way you may imagine. Don’t go along the back, but from the underside, cutting deep until you reach the vein. Pull out that gross vein and clean the shrimp up. This takes a little care and skill so you don’t cut the shrimp in half. Take your time. If you do this right, it should lay relatively flat and look a little like a heart.)
3. Melt a stick or two of butter.
4. Crush up your Ritz Crackers to resemble crunchy breadcrumbs, place in a separate bowl.
5. Drag your cleaned HUMONGOUS SHRIMP through the melted butter and then drag that through the crushed-up Ritz Crackers to thoroughly coat the shrimp. *(Note: it is impossible to use too much butter or too much cracker. You can try, but if you do, please invite me over)
6. Place on a cookie sheet, cut side up - they should lie fairly flat.
7. Cut up your fresh lemon and squeeze EXACTLY 3 drops of lemon juice on each shrimp.
8. Put in oven and watch it like a hawk - don’t go too far, this happens pretty fast. When the tails start to turn up and they start to get golden brown, quickly flip your oven to “broil.” Keep watching it like a hawk. DO NOT GET DISTRACTED AT THIS POINT.
9. When you see the Ritz crumbs are lightly toasted - pull it out of the oven…. It’s done.
Serve with a draft of butter for dipping (like you would a lobster) and a cold beer. It is so delicious, no one will care what sides you pair it with.
Get on your knees and thank the heavens for the day you read this article in Haven Magazine. Pour out a tall-boy for my dad.
Let’s call this dish, RITZ Shrimp, which reminds me... get your tickets to all shows at the Historic Ritz Theatre!!!!!
DESSERTS
stick of butter
cups mini marshmallows
cups Corn Flakes
green food coloring
red hot candies or red M&M’s
cookies christmas wreath
m . j . carnevale winter haven deputy city manager
1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat. Add the marshmallows and continue cooking (and stirring) until melted.
2. Turn the heat off and add green food coloring until the marshmallows are a nice Christmas-y green.
3. Mix in Corn Flakes little by little stirring as you go until they are well coated and green. Remove the pot from the heat and let cool until you are able to handle the mixture.
4. Coat hands lightly in oil to help minimize sticking. Shape a small handful of the cornflake mixture into a small flat circle (wreath shape) with a small indentation in the middle. Place the shaped wreath onto a piece of wax paper to finish cooling. Continue shaping wreaths until mixture is all gone.
5. Place one red hot or red M&M in the center of each wreath. Enjoy.
“This was a tradition started by my grandmother, and is something my mom and dad made with my sister and I when we were kids, and is something my sister, my wife, and I still make whenever we get together for the holidays. They are delicious, quick, and a little messy to make, but the messiness adds to the fun. More than just a sweet treat, these are an activity that is a quintessential part of the holiday spirit in the Carnevale household.”
melted
pie coconut caramel
julie townsend executive director ldda lakeland
1. Mix together the crust ingredients, press into a pie plate. Bake crust for 15 minutes at 350 degrees. Let cool.
2. Beat the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk. Fold in Cool Whip.
3. For the topping, melt butter, add the coconut and pecans, let brown.
4. Once the crust is cooled, layer filling and then cooked coconut topping. Drizzle caramel (from a jar) over top. Cover and freeze.
8 ounce package cream cheese, softened can condensed milk
tablespoons lemon juice
large container of whipped topping cup of chopped pecans
quart mashed Florida strawberries - add sugar to taste if desired
(8”) graham cracker pie shells
finest fancy farms’
dee dee grooms lakeland
1. Beat condensed milk, cream cheese and lemon juice until well blended.
2. Fold in whipped topping.
3. Fold in chopped pecans.
4. Add crushed strawberries and gently fold into mixture.
5. Pour into graham cracker pie shells.
6. Chill for 2 hours. Garnish with whole or sliced strawberries on top before serving. Store in refrigerator. Makes 3 pies or 24 servings.
“Fancy Farms is a 140-acre Strawberry Farm in Plant City Fl. Strawberry Season in Plant City is from Thanksgiving to Easter. There are over 12,000 acres of strawberries grown in the Plant City area. Fancy Farms celebrated 50 years last year. We are honored to be the stewards of God’s land.”
brad dantzler winter haven city commissioner
1. Mix together cake mix, pudding mix, eggs, oil and water until well blended. Pour into lightly greased sheet cake pan; glass works better than tin. Sprinkle chopped pecans on top. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 – 35 minutes.
2. While cake is baking, mix together the glaze ingredients. After the cake has baked for 30 – 35 minutes, just as the top is beginning to brown a bit, pull it from the oven and poke holes (lots) in top with a fork. Spread the sugar mixture evenly over top and bake 5 – 8 minutes more. Serve warm. It will totally melt in your mouth, enjoy!
macaroons george burr’s date
sticks melted butter cups brown sugar
teaspoon baking soda dissolved in 1/4 cup hot water cup shredded coconut cup pecans, broken cup currants or ground raisins cups uncooked oatmeal eggs, separated cups flour rounded teaspoons baking powder teaspoon vanilla pound dates, chopped 2 2 1/2 1 1 1/2 4 4 1 1/2 2 1 1
josephine g . burr circa 1970
1. Add sugar to melted butter, beat until creamy. Add combined soda & hot water into butter mixture and mix.
2. Add coconut and oatmeal, cup by cup, well beaten egg yolks, pecans, raisins, and dates. Stir flour in slowly as mixture is thick and hard to handle, but persevere. Add baking powder to last of flour. Do not use the full 2 cups of flour unless needed. If mixture is too thick to drop from a spoon at the end of second cup of flour, use liberal measure of vanilla.
3. Fold in beaten egg whites and drop small amounts onto well greased cookie sheet.
4. Bake at 350 degrees for 10 minutes. Sometimes it takes a minute or so longer for well formed, brown cookies.
5. Remove from pan at once as they will break if left to cool on pan.
Store in air tight tins or jars and put wax paper between layers as they will be a bit sticky.
“This recipe began as a simple oatmeal cookie, but my husband, whose hobby was cooking, made this recipe from it. Very Delicious.”
pecan balls
wendy whitehead - venters
whitehead construction
1. Mix the first 3 ingredients together. Add flour and pecans. Form/roll into small balls.
2. Bake on parchment lined baking sheet at 350 degrees until brown. (about 15 minutes)
3. Roll in powdered sugar while hot, twice.
“This is MY all-time favorite childhood Pecan Ball recipe that my mom still makes for me and my siblings and our children each year. Every year, she says it will be her last year making them, and then we beg her (she secretly loves this) to make them just one more year. In years past, she would drop off batches to one of us to pass along to our kids and siblings’ families, but weirdly, in transit, a few containers would get lost, and someone would get blamed for eating someone else’s, so now Mom hand delivers them to us during the Christmas holiday.”
crunch treat spookies & cream
cups rice cereal Oreos
cup white chocolate chips
ounces mini marshmallows (reserve two cups)
ounces condensed milk
stick butter
teaspoon vanilla extract
teaspoon salt
jasmine simmons lakeland
1. Start by lining a 9 x 13 pan with aluminum foil. Be sure to grease the bottom and sides of your tray for easy removal, both from the pan itself and the bar treats.
2. In a large mixing bowl, add rice cereal. Next, crumble the Oreos individually into large pieces. They break down as the mixture comes together so keep them big.
3. In a separate bowl reserve one cup of white chocolate chips and two cups of marshmallows. These are our inclusions. They will be added in after the initial mix to avoid melting. When we do this, it reveals a cross section with pockets of ooey-gooey cookie, cream, and marshmallow.
4. On the stove top, slowly melt the butter in a large pot. Once melted, add your bag of marshmallows and begin stirring continuously. When your mixture is homogeneous, add in the condensed milk and stir together.
5. Now we’re gonna add some finishing touches to the marshmallow mixture. Start by adding the salt to balance the sweetness. Then add your gel food dye. Add the vanilla last. This helps to preserve the essence from being evaporated.
6. Pour the marshmallow mixture into the prepared dry ingredients. Remember to withhold your inclusions from earlier. Stir until fully incorporated, scraping the bottom for dry bits.
7. I suggest gloving up for the final steps. The mixture will still be warm when you add the white chocolate chips and mini marshmallows. With your hands, scoop upwards and rotate in the cardinal directions until ingredients are fully incorporated.
8. Packing in the rice treat is a breeze when using gloves. Press the sides and corners first to help create a defined boundary. Work towards the center and back out to the corners. Then we press and pack to form one solid bar. The goal is to crush the pieces together.
9. Lastly, cover tightly and freeze for 45 minutes. To ensure a sharp cut line, I divide the treats when they are cold.
10. Double wrap any leftovers. These require airtight storage. For best results, I suggest making them fresh for your occasion.
Jasmine Simmons is a Lakeland baker, who enjoys baking up wildly delicious food. “I got my start baking professionally with Mitchell’s Coffeehouse, where I quickly learned and grew to become a head baker. I toiled away with Honeycomb Breadbakers, as an artisan bread baker. Now, I am the newest member of the team at Bandidas Bakeshop. My career path in baking has become a journey back to myself and my childhood passions. Of which, this recipe is inspired. Now that I’m older they’ve become a holiday staple. Which has evolved from family tradition to friends. It can easily be doctored to fit any occasion. My lifelong pal and I make them every Halloween. Whether we’re together or states apart, it’s become a tradition of celebrating our connection.”
cup milk
cup sugar
cup corn starch
tablespoons butter
egg yolks
egg whites
cup orange sections
marinated in Orange Curacao or Kirsch Liquor
confectioners sugar
teaspoon orange extract
ORANGE SAUCE
egg yolks
cup granulated sugar
pinch of salt
pint of whipped cream
teaspoon orange extract
chalet orange
souffle
bertha henshaw chalet suzanne , lake wales circa 1970
1. Bring milk to a boil with sugar. Add corn starch which has been mixed with a little water, and cook for 2 minutes. Remove from fire.
2. Add butter, yolks and 1 teaspoon of orange extract.
3. Lastly, add the stiffly beaten whites of 8 eggs.
4. Lay the well-drained orange sections in mold in an attractive pattern, pour mixture into mold.
5. Bake in 300 degree oven. When about done, sift confectioners sugar over top and glaze quickly in oven. (souffle will jiggle in the middle and be firm around the edges when done.)
Orange sauce:
1. Combine egg yolks, sugar and salt. (We are assuming over a low heat to dissolve the sugar and thicken the yolks) Add orange extract to whipped cream and combine with egg yolk mixture at the last moment. (Recipe didn’t clarify how to make the sauce, please share if you know!)
1. Grease or line an 8x8 baking dish with parchment paper. Alternatively, use a foil disposable pan.
2. Melt stick of butter and cup of peanut butter in the microwave in a medium- to large-sized microwavesafe bowl, until butter is just melted. Add vanilla and stir until uniform. Add sugar and stir until smooth. If there are lumps, microwave mixture for 10-15 seconds at a time — stirring between each time — until lumps dissolve.
3. Pour into prepared pan. Cover and refrigerate for about 2 1/2 hours, until set. Slice.
Alternative Recipe:
1. Allow fudge to set. After 2 1/2 hours in the fridge, remove fudge.
2. Melt 1-2 cups chocolate in the microwave. Pour melted chocolate on fudge and spread evenly with spatula or butter knife.
3. Dust sea salt on top of chocolate.
4. Pop fudge back in refrigerator for 30 mins to an hour. Slice.
5. Enjoy fudge. Remember you’re loved, accepted, and wanted while you enjoy your sweet treat.
1/2
cup butter
2 1/2 1/4 1/4
cup sugar egg
teaspoon vanilla cups flour
teaspoon baking powder
teaspoon salt
equipment needed: cookie press
cookies spritz
jane martin winter haven city librarian
1. Cream butter and sugar, beat in eggs & vanilla. Gradually blend in flour, baking powder & salt. Chill the dough.
2. Fill the cookie press and press dough onto ungreased cookie sheet. Sprinkle colored sugar on top of cookies.
3. Bake 10 minutes at 375 degrees.
“The only thing I make every year are the cookies. It is a recipe I have had since my childhood.”
for holiday gifts sugar cookies best ever...
2 cups sugar
1 1/2 cups butter, at room temperature
4 eggs
1 teaspoon vanilla
5 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
jane mcginnis winter haven
1. Beat sugar and butter together until fluffy. Beat in eggs and vanilla and stir in remaining ingredients.
2. I like to refrigerate the dough for a bit and then roll dough to 1/4 inch thickness. Cut in shapes with cookie cutter, place on baking sheets that have been covered with parchment paper.
3. Bake in a preheated 400 degree oven for 6 – 8 minutes. Cool on wire rack and then have fun decorating these delicious treats.
“I have been baking these for every one of the 62 years we have been married.”
sweet potato pie norma’s black bottom
large, orange fleshed sweet potatoes
tablespoons butter, melted cup packed light brown sugar cup sugar large eggs, beaten cup half-and-half teaspoon cinnamon teaspoon nutmeg your favorite pie dough
prima yawa winter haven
1. Roll out the pie dough into a 13-inch circle and 1/8 inch thick. Transfer to a 9-inch pie pan and gently fit dough in. Trim the dough to leave a 1-inch overhang. Gently fold the dough under itself so the edge is flush with the edge of the pan. Flute the dough, cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate while making the filling.
2. Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil over high heat. Add the potatoes and reduce the heat to medium, cook until tender. Drain and run under cold water until cool enough to handle.
3. Peel the potatoes and place in a medium bowl. Mash with electric mixer until very smooth. Measure out 3 cups of potatoes, keeping the extra for another use.
4. Preheat oven to 400 degrees.
5. Uncover pie shell, brush interior with some of the melted butter. Sprinkle 1/4 cup of brown sugar over the bottom of the pie shell. Bake until dough is set and just beginning to brown, about 15 minutes. If the pie shell puffs, do not prick it.
6. Meanwhile in a medium bowl, using an electric mixer on low speed, mix the sweet potatoes, sugar, eggs, half-and-half, cinnamon, and nutmeg. Spread into partially baked pie shell.
7. Reduce oven temperature to 350 degrees. Bake pie until knife inserted in the center comes out clean about 90 minutes. Cool completely on a wire rack. Cover and refrigerate until ready to serve.
NUTRITION AND STRENGTH TRAINING
For Moms and Daughters | A Two-Part Event with Erica Mulholland Performance Coach, Author, Speaker, and Podcast Host JANUARY 15 + APRIL 9, 2025 | 6-7 PM
Leadership, Wellness, and Listening with Bradley James Davies Award-Winning, Best-Selling Author, Speaker, and Coach FEBRUARY 12, 2025 | 6-7 PM
Thank you to our community sponsors who make this series possible.
ANCHOR CPS Investment Advisors • Pineywoods Benefits • Truist Investment Services, Inc. - W. Russ Dyer GOLD 863 Elite Volleyball Academy • Highland Homes • Oakley Transport RED Bender Transportation • Cornejo Orthodontics • Cypress Signs • Dental Solutions of Winter Haven • Florida State University Family Medicine Residency Program • Hawkins Construction, Inc. • Hamic Previte & Sturwold, P.A. Lakeland Aircraft Maintenance, LLC • Noble Citrus • R. Nickson Interiors • VETS ER • Winter Haven Oral Surgery • Watson Clinic Obstetrics & Gynecology - Dr. Taylor Cook SAINTS RK Roofing and Sheet Metal • Scott Orthodontics BLUE Paw Haven
DISCOVER Peace
ON Earth
Enjoy a relaxing stroll through beautiful displays of poinsettias, begonias, evergreens, and other seasonal greenery throughout the Olmsted Gardens. Ring in the season with daily holiday carillon concerts.
RING IN THE HOLIDAYS WITH THE SILVER BELLS BIG BAND
DECEMBER 7
MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAYS FEST FEATURING THE NUTCRACKER
DECEMBER 14 & 15
HOLIDAY CHARCUTERIE BOARD
DECEMBER 21
YULETIDE: A WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION W/ THE BYRNE BROS
DECEMBER 21
PEACE INTO THE NEW YEAR CONCERT WITH PAISLEY CRAZE JANUARY 4
CAMELLIA TOUR
JANUARY 7 & 21
PEACE INTO THE NEW YEAR CONCERT WITH MOONFLOWER JANUARY 24
STARRY, STARRY NIGHT: EVENING OF STARGAZING, ART, & SCIENCE JANUARY 31
Cranberry Margaritas
1 ½ cups 100% cranberry juice
¾ cup fresh lime juice
¾ cup tequila
½ cup Cointreau or triple sec Ice
In a cocktail shaker, add all ingredients and shake until blended. Serve over ice in sugar- or salt-rimmed glasses, garnished with fresh cranberries and lime wedges if desired. Please drink responsibly, 21+ only. Have one for me!
WORDS Shannon Carnevale
Natural Resources and Conservation Extension Agent
UF/IFAS Extension Polk County
HAVE YOU SEEN ME? THE BLACK AND WHITE TEGU
Florida has become home to a new invasive species over the last decade: the black-and-white tegu (Salvator merianae), a large, omnivorous lizard species originating from South America.
While sightings in Polk County remain relatively rare, breeding populations have established themselves in nearby Hillsborough County, Miami-Dade, Charlotte County, and recently – an emerging population was found in St. Lucie County.
Adults have few predators and can give birth to large numbers of offspring per year, increasing the risk of populations spreading beyond their established ranges and impacting surrounding areas. Tegus are continuing to be seen in the Southeast, with reports of them reaching as far as the Carolinas.
Tegus’ adaptability—including their ability to brumate (a form of reptilian hibernation)—gives them a unique advantage in surviving Florida’s occasional winter chills. As they spread, concerns have grown about the ecological impact of this invasive lizard, particularly in regard to its interactions with native and endangered species.
In April of 2021, Tegus (all species within genera Salvator and Tupinambis) were added to Florida’s Prohibited species list. Below, we’ll explore the tegu’s biology, habitat, and its impact on local wildlife, as well as what Polk County residents can do to help.
DIET AND FEEDING HABITS
The Argentine black-and-white tegu is an opportunistic omnivore, which means it can consume a wide variety of foods depending on availability. If they can catch it, or fit it in their mouth, they are likely going to try eating it. Tegus are known to eat:
• Fruits and Vegetables: Tegus have a particular liking for berries, figs, and other fruits they can forage from the ground or lowhanging plants.
• Insects and Small Invertebrates: They feed on insects, worms, and other small invertebrates, which makes them direct competitors with native insectivores.
• Eggs: Tegus are adept at finding and consuming eggs, especially those of ground-nesting birds and reptiles. This poses a significant threat to native and endangered species in Polk County, including the gopher tortoise and certain groundnesting birds.
• Small Animals: Tegus have been observed preying on small mammals, amphibians, and other reptiles, which further adds to their impact on the ecosystem.
This varied diet, combined with their ability to adapt to new food sources, allows tegus to survive in a range of habitats and significantly impacts Florida’s native species.
ECOLOGICAL IMPACT ON NATIVE AND ENDANGERED SPECIES
The spread of tegus in Polk County presents multiple ecological risks. Their diet includes the eggs of ground-nesting species’ eggs, putting native and endangered animals at high risk. They have been documented eating alligator eggs and gopher tortoise hatchlings. It’s currently thought they could also present a threat to sea turtle eggs and hatchlings, ground-nesting birds and shorebirds, and even American crocodile eggs.
The eggs of the gopher tortoise, a keystone species in Florida, are also at risk from tegu predation. Gopher tortoises play a vital role in their ecosystem, as their burrows provide shelter for more than 350 other species. By preying on their eggs, tegus could disrupt gopher tortoise populations, with cascading effects on the broader ecosystem.
Beyond these direct threats, recent research suggests that tegus may carry non-native parasites and pathogens, which they could introduce into Florida’s ecosystems. The potential for tegus to spread diseases to native wildlife could compound their ecological impact, adding another layer of threat to already vulnerable populations.
REPORTING TEGU SIGHTINGS IN POLK COUNTY
Tegus are established in some remote areas of Polk County, but
sightings remain relatively rare, making reports valuable for tracking their spread. Residents are encouraged to report any tegu sightings by calling the IVE-GOT-1 hotline at 1-888-IVEGOT-1 or using the IVE GOT 1 app, available on most mobile app stores.
The hotline connects callers to local wildlife agencies, including the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC), who use sighting data to track tegu populations and respond to new invasions. If you have trouble attaching photos to the IveGot1 online form or the IveGot1 smart phone app, you can email them to ExoticReports@MyFWC.com. If you encounter issues attaching photos through the IveGot1 online form or app, you can email them to ExoticReports@MyFWC.com. Please note the animal’s exact location, date of sighting, approximate size, and, if possible, include a photo.
Although tegus are generally not aggressive, they may bite or scratch if cornered, so maintain a safe distance.
HOW POLK COUNTY RESIDENTS CAN HELP
The spread of invasive species like tegus is a growing environmental issue that requires both community awareness and action. By staying vigilant and reporting sightings, Polk County residents can contribute directly to conservation efforts.
Residents can also support native species by maintaining Florida-friendly landscapes and restoration of native ecosystems on public lands. Another important way residents can help prevent the spread of invasive species is to never release a pet into the wild – especially a reptile or other “exotic” wildlife. Surrender unwanted pet tegus or other “exotic wildlife” to the FWC’s Exotic Pet Amnesty Program.
For more information on invasive species and local conservation initiatives, contact us at the UF/IFAS Extension Office in Bartow. Our phone number is 863-519-1041 or you can reach me directly at scarnevale@ufl.edu or on Instagram at @PolkNR.
PHOTO UF/IFAS Photo byTyler Jones
WORDS
Anne Yasalonis
Residential
Horticulture Extension Agent
Master
Gardener Volunteer Coordinator
UF/IFAS Extension Polk County
Andrea Nikolai
Family and Consumer Sciences Extension Agent
UF/IFAS Extension Polk County
Growing and Cooking Leafy Greens in Central Florida
Growing leafy greens in central Florida during the winter offers a fantastic opportunity to cultivate fresh, nutrientpacked vegetables. Cool season gardening focuses on crops that thrive in our mild winters. Most leafy greens grow from September to March, depending on temperatures. Here’s a guide to help you grow and enjoy your cool-season greens.
1. Selecting the Right Leafy Greens
There are quite a few leafy greens that grow in the cool season. When selecting what type of greens to grow, consider what you enjoy eating, how you can offset grocery bills, or just try something new! If you’re new to gardening or need a refresher, here are some choices:
• Lettuce: Loose-leaf varieties include the Simpson types, Red Sails, Royal Oak, Oak Leaf, and Salad Bowl. Romaine varieties include Parris Island Cos and Outredgeous. Butterhead types include Ermosa, Bibb, Tom Thumb, and Buttercrunch. The loose-leaf types are a great place to start if you are new to growing lettuce.
• Kale: Varieties like Tuscan and Curled are popular. Look for Winterbor and Redbor varieties as well. Harvest outer leaves first. You can eat the ornamental varieties but they are often bitter.
• Collards: Collards can be grown in both warm and cool season gardens in central Florida. Select varieties such as Georgia, Georgia Southern, Top Bunch, and Vates. Harvest outer (lower) leaves first. Collards can be started from seed and are known for their resilience and extended harvesting window.
• Swiss Chard: Just like collards, Swiss chard can be started from seed and has an extended harvesting window. Select from Bright Lights, Bright Yellow, Fordhook Giant, Lucullus, and Red Ruby. Harvest outer leaves first.
• Spinach: Spinach, particularly varieties suited for warmer climates, does well here in cooler months. Varieties such as Melody 3, Bloomsdale Longstanding, Tyee, and Space should be selected. You can either harvest the entire bunch or just the outer leaves if you would like a continual harvest.
• Mustard Greens: Mustard greens add a peppery flavor to dishes. Grow Southern Giant Curled, Florida Broad Leaf, Tendergreen, Giant Red, Green Wave, or Mizuna varieties. Harvest outer leaves first.
• Cabbage: Cabbage varieties for Florida include Rio Verde, Flat Dutch, Round Dutch, Wakefield types, Copenhagen Market, Savoy and Red Acre. Cabbage is high in vitamins, particularly C.
• Turnip Greens: If growing for the tops (greens), select
Seven Top and Sogoin varieties. Turnip greens will lend a spicy flavor to dishes like mustard greens.
Start these vegetables from seed or purchasing transplants to ensure a successful season. Check out the Florida Vegetable Gardening Guide for more tips on seasonal vegetable gardening.
2. Growing and Caring for Winter Greens
• Location and Sunlight: Leafy greens need ample sunlight to thrive. Place them in an area with full sun exposure for at least 6 hours a day. Plant in the ground, raised bed, or containers.
• Soil Preparation: A well-drained, nutrient-rich soil is essential. Enrich it with compost or a balanced fertilizer to support growth.
• Starting from Seed or Transplant: Leafy greens can be started from seed or from transplants. Sow lettuce seeds shallow as they need light to germinate.
• Watering Needs: Keep the soil moist but not soggy, as greens prefer regular watering. Watering early in the day reduces disease risks and keeps plants hydrated through warmer afternoons.
• Pest Management: Regularly inspect plants for pests. If management solutions are needed, contact your local Plant Clinic for the best options.
3. Benefits of Crop Rotation
To maintain soil and plant health, crop rotation is essential. This practice prevents the buildup of soil-borne diseases and pests. For example, if you grew leafy greens or other Brassica (the family of vegetables that include greens) in a particular area last season, plant a vegetable from a different plant family there this season.
4. Harvesting and Using Your Bounty in the Kitchen
Harvest individual leaves as needed rather than removing the whole plant. This method encourages continuous growth. Research has shown that eating greens has been associated with brain health by aiding in preserving memory and thinking skills and slowing cognitive decline. Dark greens are rich in vitamins A, C, K, and folate and have heart-healthy potassium and fiber. After harvesting, try these delicious, nutritious recipes to make the most of your winter greens.
Kale is a nutrition-powerhouse and can be delicious in salads, soups, smoothies, or sautéed with scrambled eggs. The key to using kale in salads is to give the leaves a
massage first! Grab the leaves by the handful and squeeze them like you would a stress ball. This breaks down some of the fibers that make the leaves so tough. Have you tried wkale chips yet? Cut into pieces, drizzle with a little olive oil, add a dash of salt or your favorite no-salt seasoning, and bake at 350 degrees for 10-15 min. They are especially terrific for that person in the house not yet sold on kale or collards! You can even crumble them after roasting and sprinkle on lasagna, spaghetti, or popcorn.
And if you’d like another way to enjoy your greens, how about lettuce, kale, or collard wraps? Just spread some avocado or hummus on the leaf, then add your favorite toppings—such as shredded carrots, purple cabbage, radishes, bell peppers, a slice of turkey, beans, a little cheese. You could even use these wraps instead of tortillas for your next taco; your brain and heart will love it! For easier rolling, try softening the leaf by massaging a small amount of olive oil onto the leaf with your finger. If you use your pointer finger, you won’t get a ‘green thumb’!
With these tips, you’re ready to enjoy a productive and rewarding winter garden. By following UF/IFAS guidelines and experimenting with creative ways to use your harvest, you’ll keep your kitchen stocked with fresh, flavorful greens all season long. Happy gardening!
For more information on seasonal vegetable gardening and preparing your harvest, contact UF/IFAS Extension Polk County at (863) 519-1041 or visit us online at sfyl.ifas.ufl. edu/polk. The Plant Clinic is open Monday-Friday, 9 am-4 pm to answer your gardening and landscaping questions. While we are not open to walk-in visits at this time, give us a call, or email us at polkmg@ifas.ufl.edu. If you need more fun ideas for using your produce or finding a new way to enjoy it, feel free to email andreanikolai@ufl.edu. If you are not in Polk County, contact your local UF/IFAS Extension Master Gardener Volunteer Plant Clinic.
The Florida Master Gardener Program is a volunteer-driven program that benefits UF/IFAS Extension and the citizens of Florida. The program extends the vision of the University of Florida/Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences, all the while protecting and sustaining natural resources and environmental systems, enhancing the development of human resources, and improving the quality of human life through the development of knowledge in agricultural, human and natural resources and making that knowledge accessible.
An Equal Opportunity Institution.
SPCA Medical Center is discounting all spay and neuter procedures by 20% through the end of the year. All surgeries include a pre-surgical exam, anasthesia monitoring, e-collar, pre-op pain injection, and 20% discount does not include in heat/pregnancy/cryptorchid or backyard cats.
When their grandparents begin dating, Amanda and Rafe are dubious of the match. When their paths keep crossing at the holiday market, it starts to feel like fate, prompting them both to wonder if taking a chance on love might gift them everything they’ve been wishing for.
LOVE YOU A LATKE
By: Amanda Elliot
Seth’s parents have been badgering him to bring a Nice Jewish Girlfriend home for Hanukkah. Abby needs his contacts to make her town’s first Hanukkah festival a success. What’s a little fake dating among friends? Love comes home for the challah-days in this sparkling romance.
WINTER COUNTS
By: David Heska Wanbli Weiden
A vigilante enforcer on South Dakota’s Rosebud Indian Reservation enlists the help of his ex to investigate the activities of an expanding drug cartel, while a new tribal council initiative raises controversial questions.
WINTERING
By: Katherine May
An intimate, revelatory book exploring the ways we can care for and repair ourselves when life knocks us down. A moving personal narrative shot through with lessons from literature, mythology, and the natural world, May’s story offers instruction on the transformative power of rest and retreat.
ONE BIG HAPPY FAMILY
By: Susan Mallery
Julie Parker is happy that her children do not plan to visit for Christmas, because she has been hiding her younger beau from them. When they instead want to spend the holiday at the family cabin, she discovers that more really is merrier.
DASH & LILY’S BOOK OF DARES
By:
Rachel Cohn and David Levithan
In a story told in the alternating voices of Dash and Lily, two sixteenyear-olds carry on a wintry scavenger hunt at Christmastime in New York, neither knowing quite what--or who--they will find.
Compiled by the staff of the Lakeland Public Library
100 Lake Morton Dr, Lakeland
A MIDWINTER’S TAIL
By: Sofie Kelly
When a guest drops dead at a gala to raise money for the library’s popular Reading Buddies program, Kathleen Paulson and her detective boyfriend must shovel through a wealth of suspects before the case gets buried.
A BOY CALLED CHRISTMAS
By: Matt Haig
Having received a single beloved toy in his life, an 11-year-old boy nicknamed “Christmas” travels to the North Pole when his father goes missing, where he befriends a surly reindeer and discovers an enchanted frozen world along the way.
Larry R. Jackson Branch
1700 N Florida Ave, Lakeland lakelandgov.net
THE BEAR AND THE NIGHTINGALE
By: Katherine Arden
A novel inspired by Russian fairy tales follows the experiences of a wild young girl who taps the mysterious powers of a precious necklace given to her father years earlier to save her village from dark and dangerous forces.
WINTER:
A SOLSTICE STORY
By: Kelsey E. Gross
Owl, Mouse, and Deer all watch as the light fades and dark surrounds them, but they have a gift of hope to share with their neighbors. The moon and stars shine down on a lone tree in the forest, and the animals gather around to bask in its light. Winter Solstice arrives as the winter sky brings magic for all to share.
The Temporal Screen: Robert, Rudolph & Rankin/Bass
There is a capacity within the best-told stories on screen to become timeless in a way that connects people across generations, despite the differences in years between those watching them.
During the holiday season, we are reminded to extend uncommon kindness and promote inclusion to those outside our social spheres. We’ve long been encouraged by a multitude of traditions to see ourselves as more similar than different, to foster a moment of peace and light during the darkest months of the year.
Sixty years ago this December, a beloved tale was transformed into a television special brimming with heart, unforgettable voice talent, and a distinctive stop-motion technique known as “Animagic.”
When copywriter Robert May wrote the story of a reindeer born different, he did so during the darkest days he’d ever known. His wife was in the late stages of cancer, and he was deep in medical debt when he was given the assignment to create a “cheery” children’s book to distribute to shoppers at Montgomery Ward stores. After selecting a reindeer as the hero of his story, he drew from his own painful childhood experiences to craft the narrative, working in his spare time at home. He spent about 50 hours writing it and then read it to his young daughter. After his wife passed away, his boss asked if he wanted to pass the project to someone else, but he declined. Once finished, he gathered his young daughter, Barbara, and her grandparents in the living room to read it to them.
“In their eyes, I could see that the story accomplished what I had hoped,” he later reflected.
May had difficulty finding a publisher for what was now his “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” poem book. “Nobody wanted him, not with six million copies already distributed. Finally, I found a publisher—a little guy with a big nose—who said he knew what it was like for Rudolph and was willing to take a chance on a printing.”
In 1948, May persuaded his brother-in-law, Johnny Marks, to write the words and music for a musical adaptation of “Rudolph” (Marks would later be responsible for the music featured in the Rankin/ Bass TV special). The song became immensely popular and was recorded by Dean Martin and Perry Como, among others. In the following years, the story of “Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer” became cherished, celebrated, and loved by people all over the world.
On December 6, 1964, audiences watching the General Electric Hour on NBC enjoyed the story of Rudolph in a stop-motion style called “Animagic,” created by Rankin/Bass Productions. Arthur Rankin Jr. and Jules Bass founded the company Videocraft International, Ltd. in New York City on September 14, 1960. Prior to “Rudolph,” the duo created a television show called “The New Adventures of Pinocchio” and various television commercials, including some for future “Rudolph” sponsor General Electric.
The unique stop-motion animation style used by Rankin/Bass in most of their holiday specials created a textured world that felt closer and more tangible than those created by traditional cel animation. Notably utilized by “Gumby” creator Art Clokey, director George Pal, and special effects animator Ray Harryhausen, stop-motion animation is a
filmmaking technique where physical objects are manipulated and photographed frame by frame to create the illusion of movement. Rankin/Bass’s Animagic is characterized by doll-like characters with rounded body parts and textures like fabric, felt, and wood. These stylized puppets are filmed one frame at a time, giving the animation a choppy and playful look.
Although it was an American company, most of Rankin/Bass’s well-known “Animagic” stopmotion productions were actually created in Tokyo, Japan. During the 1960s, these projects were led by Japanese stop-motion animator Tadahito Mochinaga. Elements of Japanese animation appear throughout Rankin/Bass holiday specials, contributing to the unique aesthetic that continues to enchant viewers across years and generations.
At the time of its first airing, NBC was one of only three channels available in most households. Holiday television specials were not as common as they would soon become, so the program was heavily promoted using the star power of its voice actors. The voice actors were chosen to appeal to multiple generations and were animated to resemble the actors themselves—something that created a timeless quality for later audiences, for whom Sam the Snowman became synonymous with Burl Ives.
For the first time in over 50 years, Rudolph the RedNosed Reindeer is returning to NBC. The special will air on December 6 at 8 pm., with an encore on December 12 at 8 pm.
DECEMBER 2024 ADD YOUR EVENT
12 DAYS OF CHRISTMAS GIVEAWAYS
Dec 1, 2024, 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Visit Central Florida Welcome Center 101 Adventure Court, Davenport
December 1 - 12! To spread holiday cheer, Visit Central Florida’s Welcome Center is giving away a FREE GIFT each day (from December 1st - 12th) to the FIRST 100 PEOPLE that mention the giveaway. To take part, you must be 18+, visit us at our Visitor Center at 101 Adventure Ct. Davenport, FL and mention 12 Days of Christmas Giveaways! Gifts are limited to the first 100 people that mention the giveaway each day, and are NOT guaranteed. More info on FB @VisitCentralFlorida.
LAKE WALES ARCHITECTURAL TOUR
Dec 1, 2024, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Downtown Lake Wales
Orange Avenue, Lake Wales
This two-hour journey will immerse you in the architectural wonders and fascinating stories of our vibrant commercial district. Most of the buildings you’ll see have stood proudly for over a century, offering a glimpse into the past. Dress comfortably, bring water, and get ready to discover the captivating history of Lake Wales! Tickets are $10 (plus taxes and fees) and can be purchased in advanced from CentralFloridaTix.com.
DUTCH IMPRESSIONISM: THE HAGUE SCHOOL, 1860-1930
Dec 1, 2024, 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (The AGB) at Florida Southern College 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland Open Sunday: 1pm-5pm, Tuesday - Saturday: 10am-4pm, closed Mondays & major holidays. In this exclusive and eye-opening exhibition, venture beyond France for the remarkable — and undersung — history of Dutch Impressionism and the so-called Hague School of Art. The exhibition ends February 23, 2025. polkmuseumofart.org
MUSEUM STORE SUNDAY
Dec 1, 2024, 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM
The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (The AGB) at Florida Southern College 800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland Shop for the holidays! “Be A Patron” and you will find quality gifts, handcrafted items, and local finds. You’ll also find giveaways, member benefits and more! polkmuseumofart.org
MIND - BODY - SOUL - YOGA FOR HOLIDAY HARMONY
Dec 1, 2024, 4:00 PM - 5:15 PM
Yoga Haven
1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven
Are you looking to incorporate harmony and ease into your Holiday Season? Join Prima B. for an extraordinary Mind - Body - Soul - Yoga workshop, her signature class that combines Yoga, sound healing, and energy work to release aches, relieve stress and soothe the soul during this busy time of year. Give yourself the gift of inner peace and well-being this Holiday Season (It also makes a wonderful Holiday gift.) Sign up winterhavenyoga.com.
CANDLELIGHT RESTORATIVE YOGA & SOUND BOWLS
Dec 1, 2024, 5:00 PM - 6:15 PM
Yoga Haven
1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven
Indulge in the serene ambiance of Candlelight
Restorative Yoga harmonized with the resonant tones of Crystal Sound Bowls to deepen your relaxation. Perfect for all levels, this tranquil session offers a blissful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, promoting deep relaxation and inner peace. $25 for 75 minutes of relaxation and rejuvenation. Sign up winterhavenyoga.com.
HOLIDAY HANDPRINT WALK-IN EVENT
Dec 2, 2024, 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM
PicassoZ Art Cafe
4636 Cleveland Heights Blvd, Lakeland
Stop by during one of our Holiday Handprint Walk-In Events and we will assist your creation of one-of a kind handprint art! Pick it up when it is out of the kiln (usually in about a week). No reservations are required for this event.
TRIVIA NIGHT
Dec 2, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Cob & Pen
1221 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland
Every Monday at 7:30 pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity every Monday. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive
14TH ANNUAL FESTIVAL OF WREATHS
Dec 3, 2024, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Polk County History Center & Genealogical Library
100 East Main Street, Bartow
Bid on wreaths until Dec. 12. View and bid on festive wreaths that were decorated by Polk individual residents, organizations and businesses. Find that special wreath to bring home and add to your own holiday decor. More info at polk-county.net.
YAPPY HOUR - PAWPRINT ORNAMENT EVENT
Dec 3, 2024, 4:30 PM - 7:30 PM
PicassoZ Art Cafe
4636 Cleveland Heights Blvd, Lakeland
Bring your furry friends between 4:30-7:30pm and we will assist you in creating a special ornament made with their paw print! This event will be held outside on our sidewalk. Please make sure your furry friends are leashed. No pre-purchase or reservations needed. Plenty of barking space.
TRIVIA TUESDAYS
Dec 3, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Grove Roots Brewing Company
302 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven
Every Tuesday at 6:30pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity. More info on FB @TriviosityLive
YOGA FOR PAIN RELIEF
Dec 4, 2024, 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven
This yoga class is supported by a series of curated poses, breath work and meditation to bring balance to your body; thus, aiming towards a pain free life and the opportunity to create more space and connection to yourself. All levels. Sign up winterhavenyoga.com.
KALOS CELTIC MUSIC
Dec 4, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Music inspired by the maritime traditions of Scotland, Ireland, Scandinavia and North America. Please email Sally at sandhd@verizon.net or call (863) 293-1510 for information or to make reservations. The suggested donation at the door for this concert is $25.00. The KALOS house concert starts at 7:00 with entrance open at 6:30 for open seating inside. You will be given the address when you make reservations.
MERRY AND BRIGHT EXHIBIT OPENING
Dec 5, 2024, 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Mulberry Cultural Center
103 E Canal Street, Mulberry
Celebrate our local student artists (and their teachers) with our annual student art exhibition, “Merry and Bright.” Awards will given the last week of the exhibition. We will host a cookies and punch exhibit opening on December 5th from 5:00 p.m. -6:30 p.m.
All are welcome!
CLAY CLASS - ELF TRIO
Dec 5, 2024, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
PicassoZ Art Cafe
4636 Cleveland Heights Blvd, Lakeland
In this fun class we will teach you how to hand build 3 little holiday helpers. Prepare for 1-2 hours of messy fun! Space is limited to only 10!
WINTER HAVEN CHRISTMAS TREE LIGHTING
Dec 5, 2024, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Central Park
1-35 4th Street NW, Winter Haven
Light up the big tree! Celebrate the beginning of the holidays by watching the giant Christmas tree light up for the first time this season! Guests will have hot cocoa & cookies, live music and special guests. mywinterhaven.com
43RD ANNUAL LAKELAND CHRISTMAS PARADE “CHRISTMAS AT SWAN LAKE”
Dec 5, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Lake Mirror, Lakeland
The event will start with a fireworks display over Lake Mirror at 7 p.m. As the first firework is launched, the parade will officially begin. Leaving the RP Funding Center, the 1.25-mile parade route travels down Lemon Street toward downtown. The parade then turns at Main Street to Cedar Street and winds around Lake Mirror, travels Orange Street and ends at the RP Funding Center. The theme for this year’s parade is “Christmas at Swan Lake.” lakelandgov.net
IT’S A WONDERFUL LIFE: A LIVE RADIO PLAY
Dec 5, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Theatre Winter Haven
210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven
Dec. 5 - 22 on the Second Stage. This beloved American holiday classic comes to captivating life as a live 1940s radio broadcast. With the help of an ensemble that brings a few dozen characters to the stage, the story of idealistic George Bailey unfolds as he considers ending his life one fateful Christmas Eve. theatrewinterhaven.com
A CHRISTMAS STORY
Dec 5, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:30 PM
Theatre Winter Haven
210 Cypress Gardens Blvd, Winter Haven
Dec. 5 - Dec. 22. Set in the 1940s in the fictional town of Hohman, Indiana, the musical follows 9-year-old Ralphie Parker and his quest for the Holy Grail of Christmas gifts—an Official Red Ryder carbine-action 200-shot Range Model air rifle. theatrewinterhaven.com
MIND, BODY & SOUL YOGA
Dec 6, 2024, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
102 Burns Ln, Winter Haven
A holistic approach to yoga that integrates mental, physical, and spiritual aspects. It seeks to harmonize the mind through mindfulness and meditation, strengthen the body through physical postures (asanas), and nourish the soul by connecting with inner wisdom and spirituality. This practice aims to achieve overall well-being and balance in all three dimensions. buffylaroux.com
ORANGE BLOSSOM REVUE
Dec 6, 2024, 3:00 PM
Lake Wailes Park
499 E Park Ave, Lake Wales
Watch Wyatt Ellis, Robert Earl Keen, and The War & Treaty play live. Presented by the Blossom Charitable Foundation, Inc., proceeds from the event go to help underwrite art, education, and recreation programming in the Lake Wales community. Dec. 6 & 7. orangeblossomrevue.com
BPPV (POSITIONAL VERTIGO) EXPLAINED IN 30 MINUTES OR LESS
Dec 6, 2024, 5:00 PM - 5:30 PM
Bespoke Physical Therapy
25 3rd Street NW, Winter Haven
Have you ever sat up, or rolled over, bent forward, or tilted your head back, and then experienced a strong sensation that the world was spinning? If so, you likely have experienced Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo, commonly called “BPPV.” This condition is extremely common, and extremely treatable. During this talk learn what BPPV is, what causes it, how it’s treated, and more. centralfloridaitix.com
DECEMBER 2024
FIRST FRIDAY WINTER HAVEN & CAR SHOW
Dec 6, 2024, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Downtown, Winter Haven
Guests can enjoy food and drink specials from downtown bars and restaurants, shop with downtown businesses who stay open late for the event, and catch live musicians and other entertainment at multiple venues. Car show along Magnolia Ave. Find all the details on our website: winterhavenfirstfriday.com
WINTER HAVEN SANTACON 2024
Dec 6, 2024, 6:00 PM - 11:59 PM
Downtown Winter Haven
Exclusive food and drink specials will be available starting at 6pm from participating locations to those with buttons and wristbands. Wear Santa costumes, Mr. & Mrs. Claus outfits, elf costumes, Santa hats, reindeer antlers, that ugly Christmas sweater that grandma gave you! SantaCon buttons and wristbands can be purchased from centralfloridatix.com.
FIRST FRIDAY: HOLIDAY SPECTACULAR
Dec 6, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Downtown, Lakeland
First Friday! Downtown shops and restaurants will be open late. Don’t miss the Makers Market, featuring local artists and creators, on North Kentucky Avenue, Food Trucks on Pine St., and the Classy Car Show on Tennessee Ave. Streets are closed to vehicles, so come prepared to walk about!
MULBERRY’S TREE LIGHTING AND COOKIE STROLL
Dec 6, 2024, 6:00 PM - 8:30 PM
The Gem Theater 118 NW 1st Avenue, Mulberry
Join us for the reading of the Christmas Story with musical performances by the Mulberry High School Choir followed by the official lighting of the city’s Christmas tree in downtown Mulberry complimented by performances by Purcell Elementary’s Choir.Gather up holiday cookies provided by downtown businesses and Mulberry’s non-profit groups while Mulberry High School’s jazz band plays sounds of the season. This is a free event!
THE SCHOOL OF MUSIC’S CHRISTMAS CONCERTS
Dec 6, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Bush Chapel 955 Longfellow Blvd, Lakeland
On December 6th and 7th presented by the School of Music at Southeastern University. Tickets are sold online and at the door -- but please be advised that seats are limited. music.seu.edu/events
HAVENDALE CHRISTMAS PARADE
DEC 6, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Havendale Boulevard
Parade route is from the Spring Lake Shopping Plaza in Winter Haven down Havendale to the Publix in Auburndale. Hosted by the City of Auburndale & the City of Winter Haven. mywinterhaven.com
CODE 787
Dec 6, 2024, 8:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Balmoral Bar & Grill
124 Kenny Boulevard, Haines City Code 787 TODA la noche junto a DJ Miguel. Hora: 8:00pm a 12am. ENTRADA GRATIS.
CAFFEINE & GASOLINE
Dec 7, 2024, 8:00 AM - 10:00 AM Bonnet Springs Park 400 Bonnet Springs Boulevard, Lakeland
All exotic, classic, luxury, hot rod, and import cars are welcome! Spend your Saturday morning scoping out and showcasing cars at BSP! Coffee and breakfast items will be available for purchase. No registration is required. bonnetspringspark.com
LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET
Dec 7, 2024, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM North Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland Every Saturday. A project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority. Visit the market every Saturday for crafts, food, produce and more. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org
HISTORIC CEMETERY TOUR
Dec 7, 2024, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM Palm Cemetery, Bartow
A walking tour of the historic Evergreen and Palm Cemeteries. The cemetery anchors the legacies of Black pioneers in Polk County who endured enslavement, promoted agriculture and served our nation across several military engagements. Enter the cemetery via U.S. Highway 60 West, just past the intersection of Baker Avenue and West Main Street. Across the street from Thunder Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram at 1425 W Main St. in Bartow. polk-county.net
YOGA IN THE GARDENS
Dec 7, 2024, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Bok Tower Gardens
1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales
This inclusive class includes gentle yoga movements that move our spine in all directions, breathing techniques and extended relaxation infused with a sprinkling of yoga philosophy. All levels are welcome and beginners are encouraged to attend. Bring your yoga mat and join us on the Olmsted House Lawn. Registration required. boktowergardens.org
WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET
Dec 7, 2024, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM Winter Haven Farmers Market
Every Saturday from 9am - 1 pm! Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. We are across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com
SELFIES WITH SANTA
Dec 7, 2024, 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Polk County History Center & Genealogical Library 100 East Main Street, Bartow
Join Santa on Dec. 7 OR Dec. 21! Santa Claus and his elves will be returning to his study at the History Center for “Selfies with Santa” during the 14th Annual Festival of Wreaths. Reservations are required. Contact the museum to reserve your space, call (863) 534-4386 or email jaymejamison@polk-county.net.
GOURMET GOODIES GRINCHMAS
Dec 7, 2024, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Gourmet Goodies Bake Shop 68 4th Street NW, Winter Haven Free event for the whole family! Bring your camera to take photos with the Grinch; Yummy Grinch Treats Available; Costume Contest & Prizes; FREE Grinch Cookie for EVERY Child; Don’t worry, the Grinch will stay until every child in line has taken their photos! VIP ticket available for purchase. More info on FB @GourmetGoodies
BIRDING ON THE BOARDWALK
Dec 7, 2024, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Bonnet Springs Park
400 Bonnet Springs Blvd, Lakeland
Guests will have the opportunity to use our collection of birding scopes at the Observation Dock and checkout binoculars and birding guides for independent use along the Mims Family Boardwalk! Join us at the Blanton Family Lagoon Observation Deck for this fun opportunity, open to guests of all ages with adult supervision. bonnetspringspark.com
FAIRY HOUSE BUILDING WORKSHOP
Dec 7, 2024, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Bok Tower Gardens 1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales
December 7 & 8th! Join the Fairyhouse Ladies, Vikki and Ronda, for a two-day workshop where you will build your own beautiful fairy house creation. All building materials are provided, but please bring a high temp glue gun with glue sticks. Attendance on both days is required. No experience is necessary. Participants must be 18 or older. boktowergardens.org
HOLIDAYS ON CENTRAL HOLIDAY MARKET
Dec 7, 2024, 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Central Park
1-35 4th Street Northwest, Winter Haven
Shop from over 100 curated vendors from all over Central Florida, visit with Santa, have lunch from one of many food trucks, and have fun!!! Thousands of guests will enjoy specialty foods, interactive experiences and shopping from hundreds of vendors at two holiday markets - a traditional Mistletoe Market and local favorite, Bandit Market. More info on FB @destroyermediaandmarketing.
HOLIDAYS AT LEGOLAND
Dec 7, 2024, 10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
LEGOLAND® Florida Resort
1 Legoland Way, Winter Haven
Weekends throughout Nov. & Dec. From 10 am – 8 pm. Guests can send letters to LEGO Santa, rock around the giant LEGO tree to holiday tunes, take “elfies” with their favorite holiday LEGO Characters, and enjoy seasonal treats! legoland.com/florida
ORANGE BLOSSOM REVUE
Dec 7, 2024, 12:00 PM
Lake Wailes Park
499 E Park Ave, Lake Wales
Watch Van Plating, Emily Nenni, Sam Grisman Project, Steep Canyon Rangers, and JJ Grey & Mofro play live. Presented by the Blossom Charitable Foundation, Inc., proceeds from the event go to help underwrite art, education, and recreation programming in the Lake Wales community. orangeblossomrevue.com
BALMORAL ALL DAY CHRISTMAS
Dec 7, 2024, 12:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Balmoral Bar & Grill
124 Kenny Boulevard, Haines City
Join us for a festive extravaganza where the spirit of Christmas comes alive! Immerse yourself in a day full of joy, laughter, and holiday cheer as we host an array of exciting activities and delightful experiences for the whole family. centralfloridatix.com
THE CHRISTMAS GALA: HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Dec 7, 2024, 2:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Branscomb Memorial Auditorium
1100 Johnson Avenue, Lakeland
The Florida Southern College Music Department combines all its musical resources to perform holiday classics in both traditional and innovative
arrangements. Inspired by the holiday spirit, all ensembles from the FSC Orchestra, Symphony and Jazz Bands, and Choirs perform music for you, the audience, to help put you in the holiday mood. flsouthern.edu/ffa
FLIGHT BEFORE CHRISTMAS
Dec 7, 2024, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Florida Air Museum
4075 James C. Ray Drive, Lakeland Airplanes are the star of the show as you walk through a maze of twinkling lights and enjoy warm apple cider, hot chocolate, and cookies. Make sure to get your selfie with Santa and personally give him your holiday wish list. Special Guest – Santa Claus. Admission: $10 adults, $5 kids (under 12) pay at the door. Museum members are FREE! aceedu.org
SNOWFEST
Dec 7, 2024, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Lake Mirror, Lakeland
Happy Holidays! Stroll along the Francis Langford Promenade at Lake Mirror and take a photo with Mr. & Mrs. Claus in a snow globe, plus arts and crafts vendors, food trucks and more. lakelandgov.net
RING IN THE HOLIDAYS WITH THE SILVER BELLS BIG BAND
Dec 7, 2024, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Bok Tower Gardens
1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales
This evening will feature contemporary hits and holiday favorites played by the area’s finest musicians. Enjoy a concert experience like none other atop Iron Mountain while hundreds of twinkling luminaries light the paths. Geert D’hollander will provide a pre-show concert. Bring your chairs, blankets, and picnic baskets. The Blue Palmetto Café will also be serving al fresco selections for purchase at the Tower. boktowergardens.org
CHRISTMAS MARKET BY THE POOL
Dec 8, 2024, 12:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Balmoral Bar & Grill
124 Kenny Blvd, Haines City
Join us for a day filled with festive cheer, shopping, and relaxation by the pool! Discover unique gifts and treasures from local artisans and vendors, featuring everything from handcrafted jewelry to stylish decor and fashion pieces. Uncover perfect finds to make your holiday extra special, all while basking in the warm holiday spirit!
CAROLING AT THE MUSEUM
Dec 8, 2024, 2:00 PM
Museum of Winter Haven History
600 Pope Ave NW, Winter Haven
The program features Jeremy Rath at the Steinway grand and includes: Winter Haven’s Jingle Bell connection, presentation of a little known group of Christmas music called the “The Alfred Burt Carols” and a program closing sing-a-long of familiar carols The program is free and seating is limited. Text your. name to 863-206-6855 to reserve space. Museum doors open at 1:15.
WELCOME GANESHA COMMUNITY PARTY
Dec 8, 2024, 5:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven
MORE EVENTS ONLINE
A community gathering to welcome Ganesha. With much gratitude, we invite you to be part of our community as we welcome Ganesha to Yoga Haven. A potluck with a free yoga class, a time to offer blessings and seek release from obstacles. winterhavenyoga.com.
LAKE WALES CHORALE HOLIDAY CONCERT.
Dec 8, 2024, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Holy Spirit Catholic Church
644 S 9th Street, Lake Wales
Celebrate the start of the holiday season with a beautiful night of music with the Lake Wales Chorale, accompanied by a chamber orchestra. (863) 676-8426; lakewalesartscouncil.org.
SIP, DIP & DECORATE - CHRISTMAS THEMED
COOKIE DECORATING CLASS
Dec 9, 2024, 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Camp Margaritaville Auburndale
361 Denton Avenue, Auburndale
Join us for an evening of holiday fun and creativity at our Christmas themed Sip, Dip & Decorate cookie decorating class! Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a complete novice, this workshop promises an enjoyable experience for all. centralfloridatix.com
TRIVIA NIGHT
Dec 9, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Cob & Pen
1221 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland
Every Monday at 7:30 pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity every Monday. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive
CHRISTMAS WITH THE CARPENTERS
Dec 10, 2024, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Historic Ritz Theatre, Inc, 263 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven
One day, two shows: 5PM and 8PM. Performed at The Historic Ritz Theatre. Visit theatrewinterhaven.com for tickets.
CLAY CLASS - TERRACOTTA GINGERBREAD ORNAMENTS
Dec 10, 2024, 5:30 PM - 7:00 PM
PicassoZ Art Cafe
4636 Cleveland Heights Blvd, Lakeland
Create gingerbread ornaments from raw terracotta clay. Perfect for beginners! Only $16! There are a limited number of spots available for this class, so secure yours today!
TRIVIA TUESDAYS
Dec 10, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Grove Roots Brewing Company
302 3rd Street SW, Winter Haven
Every Tuesday at 6:30pm.Play trivia hosted by Triviosity. More info on FB @TriviosityLive
A STAR-STUDDED CHRISTMAS
Dec 10, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Lions Club Park
175 N Nekoma Avenue, Lake Alfred
Doors open at 5:00 p.m. Dinner is available for $10. Menu will be baked turkey, dressing, mashed potatoes, green beans, gravy, bread, and a dessert. Cash Bar will be open at 5:00 p.m. Singing, laughing, raffles, and lots of Christmas Cheer. centralfloridatix.com
YOGA FOR PAIN RELIEF
Dec 11, 2024, 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Yoga Haven
1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven
This yoga class is supported by a series of curated poses, breath work and meditation to bring balance to your body; thus, aiming towards a pain free life and the opportunity to create more space and connection to yourself. Wear comfortable clothes. We use a yoga mat and sometimes a yoga block and yoga blanket. All props are provided by the Studio. All levels. winterhavenyoga.com.
FREE CHRISTMAS TRIVIA
Dec 11, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Swan Brewing
115 West Pine Street, Lakeland
The most wonderful time of the year calls for some festive fun! Join us for Christmas Trivia at Swan Brewing, where we’ll quiz you on holiday movies, songs, traditions, and more. FB @swanbrewingco
SANTA CLAUS IS COMING TO SWAN BREWING!
Dec 11, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Swan Brewing
115 West Pine Street, Lakeland
Santa will be hanging out on the patio, spreading holiday cheer! Bring the whole family to say hi to Santa, join in the holiday fun, and enjoy some Christmasthemed trivia for a chance to win festive prizes! FB @swanbrewingco
AFTER HOURS AT THE MUSEUM
Dec 12, 2024, 4:00 PM - 8:00 PM
The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (The AGB) at Florida Southern College
800 E Palmetto Street, Lakeland
At 6 pm, take a Director’s Tour with Dr. Alex Rich as he provides visitors with in-depth art historical and curatorial insight into the Museum’s current exhibitions. polkmuseumofart.org
ROCK PIANO WITH JACE
Dec 12, 2024, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Balmoral Bar & Grill
124 Kenny Blvd, Haines City
You know our famous Dueling Pianos... Now get ready for an epic night of Rock Piano with JACE! Join us for a high-energy performance that’ll have you singing along and rocking out all night! centralfloridatix.com
ASSISTED LIVING THE MUSICAL: THE HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Dec 12, 2024, 8:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Historic Ritz Theatre, Inc
263 W Central Avenue, Winter Haven
Dec. 12 - 15. The hilarious comedy team of Compton and Bennett are off their walkers once again in this all new, hysterical holiday sequel to the runaway hit about the nursing home and beyond. Christmas and retirement will never be the same. theatrewinterhaven.com
MIND, BODY & SOUL YOGA
Dec 13, 2024, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
102 Burns Ln, Winter Haven
Mind, Body & Soul Yoga is a holistic approach to yoga that integrates mental, physical, and spiritual aspects. It seeks to harmonize the mind through mindfulness and meditation, strengthen the body through physical postures (asanas), and nourish the soul by connecting with inner wisdom and spirituality. winterhavenyoga.com
ACTIVE FIRST RESPONDERS APPRECIATION LUNCHEON
Dec 13, 2024, 12:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Balmoral Bar & Grill
124 Kenny Blvd, Haines City
All Active First Responders will enjoy a free lunch prepared by the Chef. In addition, we are adding another element of giving back to our community through the help of Toys for Tots. If possible, we ask attendees to bring an unwrapped, new toy for donation. centralfloridatix.com
MUSICAL HAMMERS FREE CONCERT
Dec 13, 2024, 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Winter Haven Public Library
325 Avenue A NW, Winter Haven Free concert in the Multi-Purpose room. Their
DECEMBER 2024
repertoire is ever-changing, including Appalachian fiddle tunes & Reels, Old-time Waltzes, Hymns, Celtic jigs & hornpipes, Patriotic marches, and Holiday tunes. Musical Hammers Band members love to share the beauty of music played on the hammered dulcimer, accompanied by guitar, vocals, penny whistle, banjo and psaltery, plus an occasional surprise instrument.
MAKE IT MAGICAL
Dec 13, 2024, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Lake Wales
Holiday event & jazz concert in downtown Lake Wales. Stroll through a winter wonderland as historic Downtown Lake Wales transforms into a festive paradise. The night will be filled with holiday shopping, local crafts, live music, and dazzling holiday décor to get you in the spirit! More info on FB @lakewalesmainstreet
POLAR EXPRESS: AIR MAIL EDITION
Dec 13, 2024, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM Florida Air Museum
4075 James C. Ray Drive, Lakeland
Dec. 13 & 14. Begin the evening with a reading of the classic children’s story “Polar Express” then board our Boeing 727 for a “flight” to deliver your personal letter to Santa at the North Pole. Once you’ve “landed”, enjoy some hot chocolate and cookies while watching Santa circle the globe in our Science on a Sphere laboratory. Register at aceedu.org
TUCK EVERLASTING: YOUTH EDITION
Dec 13, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Lakeland Community Theatre
121 South Lake Avenue, Lakeland
Dec. 13 - 15. Eleven-year-old Winnie Foster yearns for a life of adventure beyond her white picket fence, but not until she becomes unexpectedly entwined with the Tuck family does she get more than she could have imagined. lakelandcommunitytheatre.com
DECEMBER’S FLOATING SOUND BATH
Dec 13, 2024, 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Serene Private Residence in Lakeland, FL
This special session will include a time for reflection on the year, with a unique exercise to let go of anything that no longer serves you. As part of this transformative experience, you’ll write down what you’d like to release and watch it wash away, followed by a peaceful float session to welcome in new intentions for the year ahead. centralfloridatix.com
SANTA’S CALLING
Dec 13, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Get a call from Santa!
Fill out an online application to get a call from Santa to your child - limited to the first 450 entries. Calls made Tuesday, December 10, between 5 and 8:30 pm. Children participating must be available to take the call during those times... Santa’s got a TIGHT schedule this time of year. lakelandgov.net
VIENNA LIGHT ORCHESTRA CHRISTMAS TOUR
Dec 13, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
RP Funding Center 701 West Lime Street
World-renowned musicians and stunning vocalists from seven different countries bring the warmth and nostalgia of your favorite holiday classics. This awe-inspiring performance, filled with soaring strings, timeless melodies, holiday lights, snowfall, and more, promises to create unforgettable moments of joy for all!
viennalightorchestra.com/1213-lakeland-christmas
THE MISSING PIECE THEATRE PRESENTSGIFT OF THE MAGI
Dec 13, 2024, 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Gem Theater
110 Northwest 1st Avenue, Mulberry
Dec. 13 - 15. This is a touching and beautiful story
(presented as a One Act) of a young couple unable to afford presents for each other on their first Christmas together. Each sacrifices a treasure to provide a gift for the other but, in so doing, they work at almost tragically funny cross-purposes. This is a play about young love and the value of giving. Added Bonus - Each night will also include a special appearance from a local community choir to help you get into the holiday spirit! centralfloridatix.com
LATIN NIGHT W/ ALBERT TORRES PASSIONES BAND
Dec 13, 2024, 8:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Balmoral Bar & Grill
124 Kenny Boulevard, Haines City
Latin Night w/ Albert Torres Passiones Band. El grupo viene ready para ponerlos a gozar en la Noche Latina. Entrada y estacionamiento gratis. ¡No te pierdas esta noche especial llena de ritmo, tradición y espíritu navideño! centralfloridatix.com
SANTA’S RUN FEST
Dec 14, 2024, 7:00 AM - 10:30 AM
401 Avenue B Northwest, Winter Haven Run for charity! Santa’s Run Fest is a 5k, 10k, and Kids Sprint race to support community youth. Hosted by the Winter Haven Optimist Club. More info at santasrunfest.org.
HOLLY JOLLY JINGLE JOG 5K AND REINDEER DASH KIDS’ FUN RUN
Dec 14, 2024, 7:30 AM - 9:00 AM Cleveland Heights Golf Course 2900 Buckingham Ave, Lakeland
Join the City of Lakeland for the most festive 5k around! Get your littlest reindeer involved with our Reindeer Dash on the greens of hole 9a at the Cleveland Heights Golf Course. Not up for a 3.1-mile run, jog, or walk?
Register for the virtual option to get a shirt, or join us in Santa’s Village for some festive fun and City info booths. JBJog.com
LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET
Dec 14, 2024, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
North Kentucky Avenue, North Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland, 33801, United States
Every Saturday. A project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority. Visit the market every Saturday for crafts, food, produce and more. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org
WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET
Dec 14, 2024, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Winter Haven
Every Saturday from 9am - 1 pm! Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. We are across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com
MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAYS FESTIVAL WITH THE NUTCRACKER
Dec 14, 2024, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Bok Tower Gardens
1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales
Dec. 14 & 15th! Come dressed in your holiday fairy best, for a holiday fantasy for fairies, fauns, elves, and gnomes of all ages! Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus as they enjoy a weekend of relaxation in the Gardens before the big day arrives. Atop Iron Mountain, be astounded by the mesmerizing aerial acrobatics of fairies and elves as they dance upon the air. Meet Freddie Gnomested at El Retiro, and participate in a lively gnome hunt. Visit the Outdoor Kitchen for photos with the Christmas Cookie Baker and enjoy a sweet treat. boktowergardens.org
FRESH HOLIDAY CENTERPIECE WORKSHOP
Dec 14, 2024, 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Bok Tower Gardens
1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales
Join Bloom Box Floral designers Laurel and Michael Lopes for a fun, educational hands on program creating a “Champagne Holiday” table centerpiece. Silver and gold accents adorn fresh evergreen foliage with beautiful long lasting blooms. All material and instruction included. boktowergardens.org
JINGLE & MINGLE
Dec 14, 2024, 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Polk County History Center & Genealogical Library
100 E Main Street, Bartow
Celebrate the joys of the season through song. Enjoy your favorite Christmas tunes as you tour the museum during the 14th Annual Festival of Wreaths. View the display of wreaths during the downtown Bartow Mistletoe Market. Live performance by the Berkley Charter School Chorus at 11:00 a.m. polk-county.net
MUSICAL HAMMERS
Dec 14, 2024, 1:30 PM - 3:00 PM
Bok Tower Gardens
1151 Tower Blvd, Lake Wales
The Musical Hammers Band consists of hammered dulcimer musicians playing and singing tunes, accompanied at times by guitar, penny whistle, mandolin, banjo and psaltery and even a steel drum. Enjoy your Lunch and many Christmas Favorite Tunes and Familiar Singalongs. Find them playing live on the Terrace. boktowergardens.org
POLAR EXPRESS: AIR MAIL EDITION
Dec 14, 2024, 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Florida Air Museum
4075 James C. Ray Drive, Lakeland
Begin the evening with a reading of the classic children’s story “Polar Express” then board our Boeing 727 for a “flight” to deliver your personal letter to Santa at the North Pole. Once you’ve “landed”, enjoy some hot chocolate and cookies while watching Santa circle the globe in our Science on a Sphere laboratory. Register at aceedu.org
LIGHT UP BSP
Dec 14 - 31, 2024, 6:00 PM- 8:30 PM Bonnet Springs Park
400 Bonnet Springs Rd, Lakeland
Two weeks of non-stop fun! Explore the parks with nightly holilday activities including Santa, festive performances, holiday lights, and more! Familyfriendly and free. bonnetspringspark.com
HOLIDAY NIGHT MARKET
Dec 14, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Downtown, Lakeland
Shop for the holidays! This event will span five blocks of Kentucky Avenue from Lemon St. to Oak St., with art, home goods, gifts, and the best mix of eclectic and traditional holiday wares by makers and vendors from all around Central Florida. downtownLKLD.com
MULBERRY’S CHRISTMAS VILLAGE
Dec 14, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM Spence Park
1100-1198 Northeast 1st Street, Mulberry
Enjoy a community event filled with Christmas cheer, visits with Santa, local vendors, and more! Spence Park will be full of vendors, fun, and Santa’s workshop. The event begins immediately following the city’s annual Christmas parade. Free to attend. Roads will be closed to traffic in the NE quadrant at 5:00 p.m.
MULBERRY CHRISTMAS PARADE: HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Dec 14, 2024, 6:00 PM - 7:00 PM
1100 NE 1st Street, Mulberry
This year’s theme is “Home for the Holidays.”Enjoy floats, walking units, and decorated cars celebrating the holiday season throughout the streets in Mulberry’s NE quadrant. Roads close at 5 pm, Parade begins at the Mulberry High School at 6 pm.
TOAST TO THE HOLIDAYS
Dec 14, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Branscomb Memorial Auditorium
1100 Johnson Avenue, Lakeland
Get into the holiday spirit with Toast to the Holidays, a festive concert featuring cherished classics and joyful tunes. Enjoy favorites like ‘White Christmas’ and ‘Sleigh Ride,’ along with lively overtures and a sing-along. Featuring vocalists Elizabeth Lyons, Holly Parrish, John Partain, and Tyler Campbell. This concert promises a merry celebration for all! flsouthern.edu/ffa
IRONMAN 70.3
Dec 15, 2024, 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Lake Eva Community Park
555 Ledwith Avenue, Haines City
The 20th Year of IRONMAN 70.3 Florida!
The wide-open beauty of Haines City will welcome you as you commemorate an incredible 2024 season with your friends, family and teammates, all while taking advantage of the Florida scenery and countless amenities. More info on FB @IM703Florida
MAGIC OF THE HOLIDAYS FESTIVAL WITH THE NUTCRACKER
Dec 15, 2024, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Bok Tower Gardens
1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales
Come dressed in your holiday fairy best for a holiday fantasy for fairies, fauns, elves, and gnomes of all ages! Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus as they enjoy a weekend of relaxation in the Gardens before the big day arrives. Atop Iron Mountain, be astounded by the mesmerizing aerial acrobatics of fairies and elves as they dance upon the air. Meet Freddie Gnome-sted at El Retiro, and participate in a lively gnome hunt. Visit the Outdoor Kitchen for photos with the Christmas Cookie Baker and enjoy a sweet treat. boktowergardens.org
THE NUTCRACKER
Dec 15, 2024, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Polk Theatre
121 Florida Ave South, Lakeland
Bring the entire family! Experience the timeless story of The Nutcracker in this grand production, performed by beautiful dancers of the International Ballet of Florida and international guest stars. Audiences of all ages will marvel at the magic and wonderment of this stunning holiday presentation. polktheatre.org
TROVA Y PARRANDA CON SON KRIBE
Dec 15, 2024, 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Balmoral Bar & Grill
124 Kenny Boulevard, Haines City
¡Ven a celebrar la magia navideña puertorriqueña con nosotros en Trova y Parranda junto al talentoso Grupo Son Kribe! Disfruta de una noche llena de música tradicional, cultura, y alegría navideña para toda la familia. Entrada y estacionamiento gratis.
¡No te pierdas esta noche especial llena de ritmo, tradición y espíritu navideño! centralfloridatix.com
TRIVIA NIGHT
Dec 16, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Cob & Pen
1221 Florida Avenue South, Lakeland
Every Monday at 7:30 pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity every Monday. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive
TRIVIA TUESDAYS
Dec 17, 2024, 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Grove Roots Brewing Company
302 3rd Street Southwest, Winter Haven
Every Tuesday at 6:30pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity. More info on FB @TriviosityLive
YOGA FOR PAIN RELIEF
Dec 18, 2024, 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Yoga Haven 1511 6th Street SE, Winter Haven
This yoga class is supported by a series of curated poses, breath work and meditation to bring balance to your body; thus, aiming towards a pain free life and the opportunity to create more space and connection to yourself. Wear comfortable clothes. We use a yoga mat and sometimes a yoga block and yoga blanket. All props are provided by the Studio. All levels. winterhavenyoga.com
DINNER AND A SHOW: JOHNNY WILD’S
CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR
Dec 18, 2024, 6:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Historic Ritz Theatre
263 West Central Avenue, Winter Haven
Food served at 6pm, show begins at 8pm.
Join the Historic Ritz for a dinner and a show! Featuring an amazing dinner buffet and Johnny Wild’s Christmas Spectacular. theatrewinterhaven.com
TATIANA KALLMANN: OPERA
CHRISTMAS GALA
Dec 19, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Polk Theatre
121 Florida Avenue South, Lakeland
Happy Holidays! This holiday season, immerse yourself in the enchanting world of opera with the Opera Christmas Gala featuring the exceptional talents of Classical Crossover Soprano Tatiana Kallmann and Florida’s renowned Concert Pianist Teresa Ancaya. polktheatre.org
MIND, BODY & SOUL YOGA
Dec 20, 2024, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
102 Burns Lane, Winter Haven
Mind, Body & Soul Yoga is a holistic approach to yoga that integrates mental, physical, and spiritual aspects. It seeks to harmonize the mind through mindfulness and meditation, strengthen the body through physical postures (asanas), and nourish the soul by connecting with inner wisdom and spirituality. This practice aims to achieve overall well-being and balance in all three dimensions. buffylaroux.com
NAVIDAD LATINA CON RIKA RUMBA
Dec 20, 2024, 8:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Balmoral Bar & Grill
124 Kenny Boulevard, Haines City
¡VEN A BAILAR CON Rika Rumba! El grupo viene ready para ponerlos a gozar en la Noche Latina centralfloridatix.com
ADD YOUR EVENT
LAKELAND DOWNTOWN FARMERS CURB MARKET
Dec 21, 2024, 8:00 AM - 2:00 PM
Kentucky Avenue, Lakeland
Every Saturday. A project of the Lakeland Downtown Development Authority. Visit the market every Saturday for crafts, food, produce and more. downtownfarmerscurbmarket.org
YOGA IN THE GARDENS
Dec 21, 2024, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
Bok Tower Gardens
1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales
This inclusive class includes gentle yoga movements that move our spine in all directions, breathing techniques and extended relaxation infused with a sprinkling of yoga philosophy. All levels are welcome and beginners are encouraged to attend. Bring your yoga mat and join us on the Olmsted House Lawn. Registration required. boktowergardens.org
WINTER HAVEN FARMERS MARKET & HOLIDAY PARTY
Dec 21, 2024, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Winter Haven
Last market of 2024 and it’s a Holiday Party with Santa! Visit with Santa, and get your last-minute shopping done! Shop artisan food vendors, plants, food trucks, and more while supporting a healthy & connected community. We are across from Grove Roots on the NE corner of 3rd St. & Ave C SW in the old BB&T parking lot in downtown Winter Haven every Saturday. winterhavenfarmersmarket.com
HOLIDAY CHARCUTERIE BOARD
Dec 21, 2024, 2:00 PM - 3:30 PM
Bok Tower Gardens
1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales
Learn about pairing different flavors, textures, and colors to create an unforgettable culinary masterpiece. Your ticket includes all materials and food to build your charcuterie board and 2 different cheese tastings. boktowergardens.org
DANIEL BURN BAND LIVE
Dec 21, 2024, 7:00 PM - 10:00 PM
Balmoral Bar & Grill
124 Kenny Boulevard, Haines City
Join us poolside at Balmoral Bar & Grill for a lively evening of tunes, delicious food, and refreshing drinks. Free Entrance & Free Parking!
ARCHITECTURAL TOUR
Dec 21, 2024, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Polk County History Center & Genealogical Library
100 E Main Street, Bartow
Join Curator of Collections Bartholomew Delcamp as he portrays historic courthouse architect E.C. Hosford. Discover the neoclassical architectural elements that Hosford incorporated into the design that define this iconic Polk County landmark. This month’s focus is the Annual Festival of Wreaths. polk-county.net
SANTA’S PARTY IN PARADISE
Dec 21, 2024, 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Camp Margaritaville Auburndale
361 Denton Avenue, Auburndale
Delight in a festive brunch with Santa himself, plus engaging activities and crafts, including cookie decorating and creating holiday crafts. Be sure to wear your Christmas pajamas or festive attire to fully embrace the holiday spirit! Reserve tickets at centralfloridatix.com
ARCHITECTURAL TOUR
Dec 21, 2024, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Polk County History Center & Genealogical Library
100 E Main Street, Bartow
Join Curator of Collections Bartholomew Delcamp as he portrays historic courthouse architect E.C. Hosford. Discover the neoclassical architectural elements that Hosford incorporated into the design that define this iconic Polk County landmark. This month’s focus is the Annual Festival of Wreaths. polk-county.net
YULETIDE: A WINTER SOLSTICE CELEBRATION WITH THE BYRNE BROTHERS
Dec 21, 2024, 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM Bok Tower Gardens
1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales
On the longest night of the year, ring in the Winter Solstice. Enjoy a path of twinkling luminaries and live music on The Oval Lawn with The Byrne Bros., and Carillonneur Geert D’hollander will present a Moonlight Recital with sacred hymns. Bring your chairs and blankets. boktowergardens.org
DECEMBER 2024 MORE EVENTS ONLINE
THE DANIEL SPROUSE BAND LIVE
Dec 21, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:30 PM
Camp Margaritaville Auburndale
361 Denton Avenue, Auburndale
Get ready for an unforgettable night of live music by the Daniel Sprouse Band at Camp Margaritaville’s indoor venue - The Paradise Pavilion. Tickets will be available at door *card only* centralfloridatix.com
A CANDID CONVERSATION WITH GILBERT
KING PRESENTED BY LKLDNOW
Dec 21, 2024, 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Polk Theatre
121 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland
Join LKLDNow as they get candid with Gilbert King, Pulitzer prize-winning author of “The Devil in the Grove” and host of the acclaimed true-crime podcast Bone Valley. Proceeds from this event support LKLDNow and their mission to provide Lakeland with freely accessible local news. polktheatre.org
EVENING SOUND BATH WITH CRYTSTAL SINGING BOWLS
Dec 23, 2024, 5:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Bok Tower Gardens
1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales
During this experience Meditation Teacher & singing bowl specialist, Anthony Profeta will use Himalayan Singing bowls, Crystal Singing Bowls, tuning forks, and other vibrational tools to de-stress, restore balance, and bring well-being to your body, mind, & soul. Reserve in advance. boktowergardens.org
TRIVIA NIGHT
Dec 23, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM
Cob & Pen
1221 Florida Avenue South, Lakeland
Every Monday at 7:30 pm. Play trivia hosted by Triviosity every Monday. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive
MIND, BODY & SOUL YOGA
Dec 27, 2024, 9:00 AM - 10:00 AM
102 Burns Ln, Winter Haven
Mind, Body & Soul Yoga is a holistic approach to yoga that integrates mental, physical, and spiritual aspects. It seeks to harmonize the mind through mindfulness and meditation, strengthen the body through physical postures (asanas), and nourish the soul by connecting with inner wisdom and spirituality. buffylaroux.com
MULLED CIDER MAKING
Dec 27, 2024, 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Bok Tower Gardens
1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales
Perfect for the little ones! Visit the Hammock Hollow Ramble Barn for a sensory experience where your little ones can create an herbal sachet filled with mulled spices to make a warm spiced apple cider at home. boktowergardens.org
STELLA BEAT LIVE AT BALMORAL BAR & GRILL
Dec 27, 2024, 8:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Balmoral Bar & Grill
124 Kenny Boulevard, Haines City
Join us for a Latin and Top 40’s party you won’t want to miss. Bring your friends and groove to the beats.
CHILDREN’S STORY TIME AND CRAFT
Dec 28, 2024, 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Bok Tower Gardens
1151 Tower Boulevard, Lake Wales
Bring your little ones to Sabal Stage in Hammock
Hollow Children’s Garden, where imagination takes center stage. Enjoy winter tales brought to life, sing along to fun songs, and make a winter-themed masterpiece to take home. This event is ideal for families with young children. boktowergardens.org
THE VINYLS LIVE
Dec 28, 2024, 6:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Balmoral Bar & Grill
124 Kenny Boulevard, Haines City
Join us by the pool at Balmoral Bar & Grill for a lively evening of classic hits, great food, and drinks. Free Entrance & Free Parking!
TRIVIA NIGHT
Dec 30, 2024, 7:30 PM - 9:00 PM Cob & Pen
1221 Florida Avenue S, Lakeland Every Monday at 7:30 pm.
Play trivia hosted by Triviosity every Monday. Free to play. More info on FB @TriviosityLive
NEW YEAR’S EVE PARTY
Dec 31, 2024, 8:00 PM
Balmoral Bar & Grill
124 Kenny Boulevard, Haines City Ring in 2025 with an unforgettable night of live music with Phoenix 5, delicious food, midnight toast and great company! centralfloridatix.com
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NEW
WINTER HAVEN
IT’S WRITTEN IN THE STARS
ARIES
(March 21 - April 19)
The holiday buzz has you feeling like a festive firecracker, Aries! Your energy is contagious, and people are drawn to your warm spirit. While you may feel the urge to tackle everything, don’t forget to slow down and savor the holiday treats. A surprise visitor could bring joy (and maybe a bit of drama), so keep your cool.
TAURUS
(April 20 - May 20)
It’s the perfect season to indulge your senses, Taurus. Whether it’s wrapping yourself in a cozy blanket or enjoying some homemade goodies, you’re in your element. With Venus smiling down at you, romance is in the air, so be sure to steal a kiss under the mistletoe. Your bank account, however, might be feeling a bit thin— watch that holiday spending.
GEMINI
(May 21 - June 20)
You’re juggling holiday parties, last-minute shopping, and lively conversations like a pro, Gemini. The stars suggest making some time to reconnect with an old friend who reaches out. Mercury’s retrograde might toss a few hiccups your way with travel plans, so double-check everything before hitting the road.
CANCER
(June 21 - July 22)
Your home is your holiday sanctuary, Cancer, and this season brings you a chance to play host or hostess. As the moon lights up your chart, you’ll feel extra sentimental—perfect for reflecting on fond memories and creating new ones. A family member may need your shoulder to lean on; your kindness will be their greatest gift.
LEO
(July 23 - August 22)
December has you feeling festive and fabulous, Leo. Your natural charisma draws admirers at every gathering, and you’re in the mood to party. Just be careful not to burn yourself out, especially with Mars adding extra sizzle. Take a moment to appreciate the quieter joys of the season, and let someone else take the spotlight for a change.
VIRGO
(August 23 - September 22)
You’re in your element with all the holiday organizing, Virgo! You’ve got lists for your lists, but remember, perfection isn’t the point. There’s beauty in spontaneity, so let go a little and allow yourself some carefree moments. A surprise financial boost could ease holiday expenses—just in time to splurge on something nice for yourself.
SAGITTARIUS
(November 22 - December 21)
Happy birthday, Sagittarius! December is your month to shine. The cosmos are gifting you an extra dose of adventure, so you might feel a strong urge to break away from tradition and try something new. Keep an eye on your wallet, though—it’s easy to get carried away with spending in all the excitement.
CAPRICORN
(December 22 - January 19)
With the sun entering your sign later in the month, Capricorn, you’re in the spotlight. Career goals are front and center, but don’t forget to carve out time for festivities. The stars align for meaningful family connections, which will leave you feeling fulfilled. If you’re looking to make a change, the end of the year is the perfect time.
LIBRA
(September 23 - October 22)
This holiday season has your social calendar packed, Libra. You’re the life of the party, spreading cheer and balancing all the social circles with ease. Love might be in the air, with Venus casting its glow, so don’t be surprised if a winter romance sparks up. Be mindful, though— too many obligations could leave you feeling spread thin.
SCORPIO
(October 23 - November 21)
The stars suggest embracing a little mystery this December, Scorpio. There’s a secret holiday plan brewing, and you’ll be right in the middle of it! It’s also a good time to reflect and recharge, especially as the year winds down. Use that intuitive nature to navigate some emotional conversations that may arise.
AQUARIUS
(January 20 - February 18)
It’s a time for reflection and planning, Aquarius. As the year closes, you’ll find yourself dreaming up big ideas for 2025. The holiday season also brings opportunities for charitable deeds; give back, and you’ll find your spirits lifted even higher. A bit of unexpected travel could be on the horizon—embrace the spontaneity.
PISCES
(February 19 - March 20)
The holiday magic is especially strong for you, Pisces. You’re in a creative mood, perfect for making gifts or crafting some festive decorations. The stars favor romance and connection, so don’t hesitate to share your dreams with someone special. Amid all the joy, you might find yourself needing some downtime to recharge.
