Greater Pensacola Parents Holiday Happenings Edition (December 2024)

The holiday fun begins and our guide tells you where to go!

FromThePublisher

A group of my college roommates planned a little mini-reunion recently. I was so excited to spend a weekend laughing, tailgating, and just hanging out with all of them. The weekend was to start with dinner out Friday night, spending the night at one of the old roommate’s houses, tailgating, attending the game together Saturday, and then just hanging out and laughing the rest of the weekend. I could not wait to go! I even bought a new team sweatshirt to wear, complete with sequin footballs! The day before I was supposed to leave town, the stress of everything that I felt like I had to do before I left started to overwhelm me. I was dealing with pressing magazine deadlines and a house needing to be cleaned (I hate coming home to a mess), and I had no idea what to pack with the fickle weather. My excited mood quickly changed to the point that I just didn’t know if I could do it. I needed everything to be “just so” before I was able to relax and have fun.

Why do we do that to ourselves? Why do we overthink and overcomplicate things? Why do we strive for “perfection” when there really is no such thing? If you are like me, you may find yourself doing that more often than you would like, especially around the holidays. In an attempt to make everything magical for everyone else, we end up losing our own joy. Even sadder, many of the things we stress over don’t even matter to those around us. If this sounds like you, I invite you to join along with me and put into practice Christa Melnyk Hines’s 10 Commandments for More Holiday Cheer. In Hines’s feature, you will find some helpful reminders of things we can do to trade the “have to do” list for a “get to do” list. A great first place to start is outsourcing some of the cooking. There are some great places to help with holiday meals, treats, and more.

And since we won’t be stressing over pressed napkins or perfectly wrapped presents, that means we will have a lot more time to enjoy some of the fun things this holiday season has to offer, and boy, are you in the right place to find holiday activities. In this issue, you will find our annual Holiday Happenings, which is a list of tree lightings, Santa sightings, holiday shows, and much more! And to make sure you don’t run out of fun ideas for family time, this month’s issue also includes Pam Molnar’s feature, An Advent Calendar of Family Fun When I first read Molnar’s feature, I was so excited. These suggestions are definitely going on the fridge, and I am already gathering supplies to make them happen! As if those resources are not enough, you will also find some wonderful community activities in the Family Calendar.

With all that being said, I do hope that you will join me this holiday in trying to be ok with “good enough.” Admittedly, it will be hard for me, but I am going to try and just enjoy the process and all of the good things this season has to offer. Being overtired and stressed opens the door to missing some really wonderful moments. Oh, and yes, I did go on the trip, and I had an amazing weekend with some even more amazing friends!

lynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com

Becoming a Student of Your Child

Teachers, counselors, pediatricians, and everyone else who works with children are distressed by how often parents are unaware of how their choices, behaviors, and words may negatively impact development. Emotionally healthy parents raise emotionally healthy children, but becoming healthy requires a tremendous amount of work and effort. Instead of “doing the work” parents often want a “quick fix” for their children’s unruly behavior.

from your children, you must be a willing student.

I truly believe that children are here to teach us much more than we will ever teach them. Children teach us to love unconditionally, protect faithfully, find joy in the little things, overflow with patience, display kindness in difficult circumstances, show gentleness even when they are irrational, and practice self-control. However, to learn

Sometimes, parents are so concerned about controlling their child’s behavior that they stop focusing on becoming a better person. This is the hardest part of parenting that very few people discuss.

First, take the time to self-reflect daily. Every night, ask yourself these three questions and keep notes so you can see your progress.

1. What did you do well as a parent today?

2. What do you wish you had done differently?

3. Should you take any action to correct it? Do you need to apologize to your child? Do you simply need to make a different plan for how you will react in the future?

1. Think about things your child said to you and think about the importance of their words without making assumptions. For example, a bad grade on a test is as crushing to them as being fired would be to you.

2. Did you rush into judgment when you should have been more curious? For example, did you make your child stop play ing cars and make them do something with you? Should you have just joined your child in that activity instead?

Dr. Beth Long received her education in Counseling Psychology from Chapman University. She is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Board Certified Behavior Analyst. Beth has worked in six unique clinical environments across the country and currently owns Works of Wonder Therapy in Montgomery. Beth utilizes the knowledge from a variety of different disciplines to give her patients the best care possible. To learn more visit www.worksofwondertherapy.com. by

Second, try to see the world through your child’s eyes daily.

3. Identify your priorities and focus daily on what is in your control. What do you care about most? Work, family, your relationship with God, physical fitness, having fun, friendships, etc. If these things are important to you, do your daily actions correctly reflect your priorities? If not, what changes need to be made? Are your actions teaching your children your priorities? If not, what changes need to be made?

Allow your children to help you grow into the best person you can be. Take the time to be their willing student. Stop focusing on their immediate behavior and become intentional about shaping them into amazing adults that you would be proud to know.

Child meal sites across the Gulf Coast are offering healthy, FREE meals for children, ages 18 and younger.

Holly Jolly Mall Walk

Get ready for the new Holly Jolly Mall Walk in Pensacola.! Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida is hosting this festive 5k event inside Cordova Mall in Pensacola on Saturday, December 14th from 7:00 AM10:00 AM. Enjoy a fun 5k route inside the mall, and sip on hot cocoa, enjoy sweet treats, play games, win giveaways, and groove to holiday tunes – there’s a sleigh full of surprises waiting. Let’s walk together and make a difference in our community. Please visit https://runsignup.com/Race/FL/Pensacola/HollyJollyMallWalk for more information.

Ballet Pensacola Presents

The Nutcracker

Ballet Pensacola presents The Nutcracker at The Saenger Theatre, December 20 -22, 2024. Get your tickets today for everyone’s favorite holiday tradition! Please visit https:// www.pensacolasaenger.com/events/copy-thenutcracker-2024/ to purchase tickets.

White Tie Christmas

A family friendly, rocking holiday concert featuring the festive music of The Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Springsteen, McCartney, The Eagles and other holiday classics at the Pensacola Bay Center in Downtown Pensacola on Friday, December 20th. Please visit https://www.pensacolabaycenter.com/events/detail/white-tie-rockensemble-25 for more information.

Pensacola International Airport Runway 5k

Join us for a 5k on the runway at Pensacola International Airport on December 7. All registered participants receive an event t-shirt, race bib with timing, and a finishers medal. Proceeds benefit the USO of Northwest Florida. Please visit https://runpensacola. com/event/runway-5k/ for more information.

Ho Ho Hustle

Join us on December 14, 2024 for the Ho Ho Hustle. A Pensacola classic. This FUN Holiday 5k is for the entire family. Bring the kids and hustle along the scenic course, drink hot chocolate and experience holiday cheer. Enjoy a fun Holiday themed party for the whole family to enjoy after the race. Delicious Christmas-y treats & hot chocolate, pictures with Santa. Visit https:// runpensacola.com/event/2024-ho-ho-hustle/ to register.

Pensacola Christmas Parade

Come join the fun beginning at 5:30pm on Saturday December 14th in downtown Pensacola. You will not want to miss this event that draws over 50,000 people each year, including nearly 100 entries, and eight bands from Escambia County, Santa Rosa County, and New Orleans. The parade also features the nationally renowned Blue Angels flight team and a host of organizations from around the region. Preceding the parade is the 1.2 miles Christmas Parade Dash, sponsored by the Pensacola Runners Association. All profits of the Cox Pensacola Christmas Parade go to the local high school band booster organizations.

Pensacola Winterfest

Pensacola Winterfest is a family favorite. It is a Christmas celebration that kicks off in November and runs until just before Christmas Day. The celebration consists of a series of trolley tours that run through Pensacola and are themed after popular Christmas stories like The Grinch and Polar Express. Kids can also have their photo taken with Grinch and Santa while they enjoy fake snow and dance with their favorite characters in preshow events at Winterfest Plaza. Ticket prices vary. Visit https://pensacolawinterfest. org/ for more information.

Sea Turtle Soirée

Join us for the 2024 Sea Turtle Soirée, a fundraising event on December 7th, 2024, at The Club at Hidden Creek in Navarre. Enjoy a variety of cocktail options provided by the full cash bar available and a delicious selection of tapas plates catered by Where Y’at Seafood Market. Capture the memories with a photo booth experience. All proceeds from the event will go towards the Navarre Beach Sea Turtle Conservation Center. Please visit https://navarre-beach-seaturtle-conservation-center.square.site/2024seaturtlesoiree for tickets.

2nd Annual Festival of Live Radio

Radio Is Not Dead and Sandcastle Radio are excited to announce the 2nd Annual Festival of Live Radio January 29 - February 2, 2025. Admission is free and the show address is 1010

N. 12th Ave., Studio 228, Pensacola. In preparation for the festival, Radio Is Not Dead & Sandcastle Radio are hosting Teen Talk Show, a six-week after school workshop in live radio production! The 6-week workshop begins January 13 and is $120 per student for 12 hours of instruction and radio time. To register for the workshop or for more information visit studio228.net.

Pensacola Little Theatre

Presents A Christmas Story

December 13-22. A Christmas Story follows young Ralphie Parker’s quest for a Red Ryder BB gun in 1940s Indiana. Despite warnings of “You’ll shoot your eye out,” Ralphie navigates childhood challenges, including bullies and family dynamics, in his pursuit of his ultimate Christmas Wish. Please visit www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/ shows-and-events/a-christmas-story to purchase tickets.

Holidays at the House 2024

Bring your festive spirit to our holiday market benefiting the families of Ronald McDonald House on December 8, 2024. The event will feature photos with Santa, market vendors, door prizes, live music, and more. Holidays at the House is a FREE event featuring a ticketed brunch. Please visit https:// rmhc-nwfl.org/events/holidays-at-thehouse/ for more information.

Montessori School of Pensacola Volleyball Team Makes Finals

The Montessori School of Pensacola volleyball team made school history this season, with both teams reaching the Catholic Youth Sports League (CYSL) finals. Our 6th-8th grade girls won their semifinals game, finishing the season 10-1, while our 4th-5th grade team won their finals game with an undefeated record of 10-0! Congratulations to our incredible athletes.

Catholic High Schools Make Reading Fun

On Halloween Day, Senior members of the Pensacola Catholic High School Student Ambassadors and Student Council, who were dressed in costumes, visited with students at Oakcrest Elementary and Global Learning Academy to brighten their day and read stories. Oakcrest Elementary School and Global Learning Acad emy are both Partners in Education schools that CHS collaborates with throughout the year.

Aletheia Christian’s Seniors and Kindergarten Buddies

One of Aletheia Christian’s most beloved traditions brings together seniors and kindergartners for a year-long journey of friendship and fun. They read, play, and build bonds with one other throughout the school year. Last month, these seniors and their kindergarten buddies spent some time playing games together outside. They had a ball.

Five Students Named National Merit Scholarship Semifinalists

Three students from Pensacola High School and one from Booker T. Washington High School were named semifinalists in the 70th annual National Merit Scholarship Program. Escambia County semifinalists:

Pensacola Catholic High School: Emma Thompson

Pensacola High School: Annabelle A. Apel, Charles B. Benson, and Isabelle R. Jenkins. Washington High School: Sophie B. Thompson

These academically talented high school seniors have an opportunity to continue in the competition for some 6,870 National Merit Scholarships worth nearly $26 million that will be offered next spring.

Celebration of Writing at BTW High

On Friday, October 18, Booker T. Washington High School held their #WhyIWrite event at the BTWHS library. This event is organized by the Advanced Placement English/Language Arts teachers (Juanita Bordelon, Mary Kate Griffith) and the School Media Specialist. This is a national event that BTWHS celebrates every year. The AP ELA students have set up booths that showcase all of the reasons why writing is important and pertinent to everyday life. All 9th and 10th grade students attend the event and experience fun writing activities ranging from black out poetry to rap battles. It is fun to see the students engaged and interacting with their peers. The students are given a passport, and they get their passport stamped

Music and Movement Classes for Young Children, Ages 0-7

Quiz-Saders Out to a Great Start

The Pensacola Catholic High School Quiz-Sader Team, moderated by History Teacher, Mr. Leo Bowersox, competed in the Escambia County Fall Scrimmage on Thursday, October 17. In this first competition of the season, they went 4-0 beating Escambia, Tate, Milton, and Pensacola High Schools. They have two more scrimmages scheduled in November and December and are working hard to qualify for the national tournament. Way to go Quiz-Saders. Pictured: Mr. Bowersox, Henry Bowersox, Bobby Pennebaker, Alastair Casler, Cov Thomson, and Viv Cserep. Not pictured: Max Hubmann and Brody Ryan.

PCHS Adds Woodworking Class to Curriculum

Pensacola Catholic High School has added a Woodworking class to their elective course offerings. The Woodworking I course currently accommodates 30 students during two class periods of 15 students each and is led by Mr. Jacob Reilly, who also teaches Literature and Religion.

Two gracious volunteers, Dr. Jacque LeBeau and Dr. Gerry Goyins, who are both CHS Past Parents, also assist with the hands-on components. In the class, students are learning basic woodworking skills and knowledge including planning and design, selection and identification of materials, woodshop safety, use of hand power tools, and the production of woodworking projects. Pictured are students proudly displaying one of their first completed projects, cutting/cheese boards.

Science Saturdays for Pensacola Youth

Science Saturdays have returned for this school year with free enrichment classes in Pensacola. Science Saturdays is a handson science program for kids in grades 3-7. Events take place on Saturday morning, monthly during the school year. Grades 3 and 4 attend from 9 to 10:30 a.m., and grades 5-7 attend from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. An IHMC researcher or a community scientist leads each session. Past activities have included such topics as roller coasters, genomics, lemon batteries, secret codes, bridges, computer game design, 3-D printing, and hacking for good guys. Science is fun and so are Science Saturdays. Registration begins two weeks prior to each session

The 90-minute educational sessions are a big part of the community outreach by the Florida Institute for Human and Machine Cognition. Please visit https://www.ihmc.us/life/science_saturdays/ for more information.

Aletheia Christian Family Movie Night

Aletheia Christian hosted its first ever Family Movie Night under the stars last month. Families brought chairs and blankets and enjoyed watching The Peanuts Movie on the big screen. Student Leadership students sold yummy concessions like popcorn and cotton candy, families played lawn games together, and enjoyed being together as a school community.

Pensacola Native Places in Triathlon at Paris Paralympics

Pensacola’s Emma Meyers posted a top-10 finish in the triathlon at the 2024 Paris Paralympics on Monday. Emma Meyers who is the youngest member of the U.S. Paralympic Triathlon Team was the top American finisher in the PTS4 triathlon. Meyers, who just graduated from Booker T. Washington this past spring, is set to compete for the NCAA Triathlon team at Colorado Mesa University, where she is the first para-athlete to sign with an NCAA triathlon team.

Take Stock in Children Scholarship Program

Take Stock in Children of Escambia County welcomed 40 new scholars at the annual Take Stock Kickoff Dinner. There are now 166 students in grades 7-12 in this program for college scholarships. Take Stock in Chil dren is a statewide non-profit organization operating locally under the Escambia County Public Schools Foundation. Take Stock provides “scholarships, mentors & hope” to deserving young people selected at the end of their 6th or 7th grade year through a needbased application process. Scholarship donations from local foundations, organizations, businesses, and individuals are matched dollar-for-dollar when scholarships are purchased from Florida Prepaid College Foundation each year and are held until students graduate from high school. The new students were selected from the following schools:

Bailey Middle – Catalia Molina, Emma Willits

Bellview Middle – Daniel Finley

Beulah Middle – Crystal Gutierrez, Azaleah Ramos

Brown Barge Middle – Jade Bardoo, Ameria Jordan, Faith Lawson, Janiyah Roberson

Dixon School of Art & Science –Helen Cummings, Naomi Cummings, Amaya Hooper, Zalayvia Jones Ernest Ward Middle – Amanuel Dubose Jr., Logan McClurg, Nevaeh Tidd Ferry Pass Middle – Jordan Bain, Thomas Bain, Harmony Farrington, William Jemison, Sophia Palmer, Sariyah Washington Florida Virtual School –

Kydriah Badilishamwalimu Montessori School – Reed Erb Ransom Middle – Kaylynn Grzejka, Desiree Hicks, Abbie Huynh Khale Moorer

Warrington Prep – Billy Dorsey, Dumarian Hawkins, Logan Kerr, Christian Rivera Jr., Tevin Robinson, James Smith, Arhianna Watts-Riley, Ja’Nae White

Workman Middle – Journey English, Harmoni Epps, Mahayla Epps, Trinity Marvray

Five ECPS Schools Recognized as “Rising Stars”

The East Coast Technical Assistance Center has recognized five ECPS schools as “Rising Stars.”

The East Coast Technical Assistance Center (ECTAC) is a non-profit Florida network that provides training, advocacy, and professional networking opportunities in support of the development and implementation of the Elementary and Secondary Education Act (ESEA) programs, like Title I, Part A, for our fifty-four member school districts across the state of Florida.

The Exceeding Expectations Project, an ECTAC initiative that began in 2012, identifies “Award Schools” with high concentrations of poverty that are showing outstanding results: both achievement and progress in improving academics through strategic problem solving, capacity building, and the implementation of sustainable systems.

For the first time, during the 2025 Exceeding Expectation Conference, ECTAC will also recognize “Rising Stars” schools that are above the 2024 state poverty average of 71.6% and increased two letter grades from 2023 to 2024. While these schools did not achieve all of the required criteria to be named an “Award School”, we want to acknowledge their outstanding school grade accomplishment. The following ECPS schools have been identified as eligible “Rising Stars”.

Bellview Elementary School

Global Learning Academy

L. D. Mcarthur Elementary School

Reinhardt Holm Elementary School

Warrington Elementary School

“We are so proud of the hard work going on in all of our schools, and this recognition validates our commitment to better outcomes for all of our students,” said Superintendent Keith Leonard. Rising Star Principals will be invited to participate in a facilitated Panel discussion during one or more concurrent sessions at the Exceeding Expectations Conference.

C.A. Weis Elementary School Honored as “Community Partnership School of the Year”

C.A. Weis Elementary School has been named the “Community Partnership School of the Year” in recognition of its outstanding achievements through the Community Partnership Schools™ (CPS) model. The designation honors C.A. Weis for its commitment to advancing student success, family engagement, and community health since becoming the first elementary school in Florida to implement this pioneering model nearly nine years ago. The CPS model was initiated in partnership with Children’s Home Society of Florida (CHS), the University of Central Florida, and key community organizations to address educational and social challenges in underserved areas. Each Community Partnership School benefits from a 25-year agreement and collaboration among four core partners: a lead nonprofit agency (CHS, which leads over 30 of Florida’s 40 CPS programs), the local school district (Escambia County), a secondary education partner (University of West Florida), and a healthcare provider (Community Health Northwest Florida). The award underscores the effectiveness of the Community Partnership Schools™ model as a catalyst for holistic student development and stronger, healthier communities across Florida. Locally, CHS provides Community Partnership School programming with the same core partners at Bellview Middle School and Pine Forest High School, completing a feeder pattern for the students in our community from kindergarten through high school graduation.

Escambia Children’s Trust Healthy Schools Initiative

Escambia

Children’s Trust commits to funding on-site health services at 6 schools.

O.J. Semmes

Elementary and Global Learning Academy will be the first of six schools to participate in the Escambia Children’s Trust Healthy Schools Initiative. The national Healthy Schools Initiative/Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child program is supported by the Centers for Disease Control and is a framework for addressing health in schools. On-site medical, dental and eye services; social service support; nutrition and health education; mental health services; community, school and family engagement opportunities; on-site after school physical and academic support programs; and mentoring are among the services available at schools as part of the initiative.

STEM Day at Oakcrest Elementary

On October 31st, 2024, Oakcrest Elementary School participated in a STEM Day where teachers planned integrated lessons encompassing Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics in the form of engineering design activities. Students participated in these activities throughout the day and were engaged in real-world problem-solving, fostering their application of scientific and mathematical principles, the engineering process, and current technologies.

In addition, STEM Day activities also involved community partnerships with organizations such as FPL (the local electricity provider), Bobcat (a heavy equipment manufacturer), and the Fire and Rescue department. These partners provided interactive presentations to teach students about various STEM-related careers. These community collaborations helped broaden students’ perspectives on the diverse career paths available within STEM fields. One of the key goals of STEM education is to bridge the gap between the traditionally isolated subjects and provide learners with a more integrated learning experience. In this way, students can better understand the cross-cutting concepts and practical applications of STEM disciplines, which can help address the common issue of students becoming disinterested when learning these subjects in isolation. Through these engaging and relevant learning experiences, we hope to inspire our students’ curiosity and passion for STEM fields, better preparing them for future academic and career pursuits.

Please email news schoolnews@ greaterpensacolaparents.com!

School Choice Expo a Success

October’s School Choice Expo was a huge success. Hundreds of families packed the gym, atrium, and cafeteria at Booker T. Washington High School and were dazzled by the vast array of academies and programs available at our middle and high schools. A very special thank you to our host school and to all of those who contributed to making this such a successful event.

Aletheia Christian High Adds New Building

After Fall Break, our Aletheia Christian high school students and teachers returned to a brand new building! Both were so excited to be back on our main campus and to have such beautiful new classrooms to learn and instruct in. This new building has six classrooms, work spaces for teachers, and, of course, restrooms. This was a big moment in Aletheia history as we continue to grow.

CLA Eighth-Grade Students Witness the American Dream

On Friday, November 1, 2024, Creative Learning Academy’s eighthgrade students had a front-row seat to democracy in action at the United States District Court for the Northern District of Florida. These students attended Pensacola’s final Naturalization Ceremony of the year, where 39 individuals from diverse backgrounds took their Oath of Allegiance and officially became American citizens. The ceremony was more than just a spectator event for our competent young learners. Mahalla Berhan and Koto Meece both delivered heartfelt speeches about their ideas of exactly what it means to be an American. Their classmates also played a crucial role by leading the Pledge of Allegiance for all attendees. In a touching gesture, the students presented gifts to the youngest and “wisest” (oldest) new citizens, symbolizing the wide range of ages embracing their new nationality. The experience didn’t end with the ceremony. The students had a unique opportunity to meet with Federal Judges Miles Davis and Clifton Drake. During this special meet and greet, the learners asked questions about life as a judge and gained insights into the naturalization process. This firsthand look at the journey to U.S. citizenship left a lasting impression on the students, helping them understand the dedication and effort required to become an American citizen. It’s clear that this field trip went beyond textbook learning, offering CLA students a real-world Middle School civics lesson they won’t soon forget.

CREATIVE LEARNING ACADEMY’S

NEW MIDDLE SCHOOL

BUILDING IN PROGRESS!

We are excited for the opportunities our new Middle School will create for innovative learning, collaboration, and growth. The new building will truly be a place where our school community can come together, thrive, and imagine new possibilities for the future.

NEW MIDDLE SCHOOL BUILDING FEATURES

Innovative Collaborative Spaces

Two State of the Art Science Labs

Design Lab: Project-based learning and Design Thinking hub for K–8 students

LAUNCH framework to foster creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills.

Middle School Classrooms (8 Total)

Designed for 16–18 students

Creative Learning Commons

Outdoor Collaboration & Recreation Areas

Nature-based learning spaces.

Outdoor deck for lunch, projects, and gatherings

Recreation area for PE, breaks, and sports

Two newly designed playgrounds

Preprimary

Lower School

The first time I attended the wedding of a friend, I knew exactly what to do. I brought a gift, set it on the gift table, and sat on the bride’s side of the aisle. I took advantage of the open bar, and joined the other guests in celebrating the couple. Later, I’d learn you have a year to give a gift, and never to expect the cake to be moist. By the time I got married, I’d been in so many weddings I could have filled the role of bridesmaid blindfolded with my hands bound behind my back. I was a pro when it came to helping friends tie the knot.

But when it came to helping friends through divorce, I was as comfortable as a seventh-grader at a school dance.

For years, I’d known how to help my bestie through any crisis. I’d functioned as wingman, fashion advisor, therapist, career counselor, and dog sitter. I was there when she met her now ex-husband, and I was there to soothe her nerves the first time she met his parents. I knew not to bother talking her out of chocolate pudding for breakfast or running alone at night. Yet, I didn’t know exactly how to help when she got divorced.

If, like me, for most of your adult life, the full extent of your knowledge of how to help a friend navigate a divorce consists of snippets from a grown-up conversation you overheard in the 80’s, read on.

The following tips are based on the experiences of friends of have been through divorce and were kind enough to share their stories with me.

Don’t Interrogate

When you ask questions about how the split happened, you might think you’re expressing interest or concern, but it doesn’t necessarily come off that way. As one of my friends recalled over a decade after the fact, “Many people had a million nosy, judgy questions that just made me cry even harder. Like I was supposed to explain to them how it came about.” Remember, the vibe you’re going for is Friends, not CSI.

Don’t Judge

You might have your own ideas about why the marriage didn’t last, but that is not what your friend wants to hear right now (or maybe ever). Comments like “Of course your marriage didn’t work out because you’re too...” are helpful only if they end with “too good for him/her.” Unless your friend specifically asks you what you think went wrong, keep it to yourself. Said one friend, “The people who were just completely accepting and supportive were the best.”

Validate

Divorce has essentially flipped your friend’s whole life upside down. Regardless of the circumstances, the process can be scary, disorienting, and overwhelming, which can cause him or her to second guess the decision. One friend described, “going blank” at times, like you would during trauma. She recalled how important it was for friends to remind her of the details of why she made the choice to leave and all the actions she took to try to save the marriage.

Be a Haven

When your friend is going through a divorce, she may not know where she fits in anymore, especially if she’s separated (emotionally or geographically) from family. An invitation to dinner, especially at the holidays, goes a long way.

If dinner isn’t your jam, give your friend liquid nutrition and laughs. One friend remembered, in the tender weeks following her divorce, “the best person just made time to let me crash on her couch after her kids went to bed and we drank beer and watched the kind of trashy shows that make you feel like your life is pretty together.”

Give a Gift

It doesn’t have to be fancy or expensive to show you care. One friend, recalling her long-ago divorce, mentioned a simple fridge magnet with a heart on it that a friend sent her. “Every time I opened the refrigerator I knew she was thinking of me.”

Do a Task

It’s nice to say, “Let me know if there’s anything I can do,” but what really helps is rolling up your sleeves and working. One friend recalled being grateful when someone cleaned out her fridge without being asked, when another friend helped reset all her bank passwords, and for the people who took on housework and childcare.

Show Up

And keep showing up, over and over. Said one friend, in the wake of her divorce, she was grateful for a handful of friends

who kept showing up, extending invitations to coffee, and “con tinuing to call, even when I was at the point where I ‘should’ be okay but I wasn’t, and asking how I was, then not flinching when I gave an honest response.”

Be a Cheerleader

Let your friend know you believe in them. One friend described the wrenching decision to leave his partner just one month prior to the wedding and how powerful it was to receive a letter from a family member. “[She wrote that] I made the most difficult deci sion of my life. Plenty of people would have gone through with [the wedding]. I carry that card in my bag every day. It meant the world to me when I felt like I was the worst type of human being.” Other friends recalled appreciating the advice to go out, have experiences, and figure out who you are without him, and to be selfish for a while.

It turns out, being a friend through a divorce isn’t much different than being a friend through the rest of life’s messes.

As my best friend recalled, while she and her ex were splitting up, I did better than I thought I did, as a friend. “You didn’t give advice and you listened, and that’s the best you can do for someone.”

This article was originally published on Motherly.

Pam Moore is an award-winning freelance writer, intuitive eating coach, and host of the Real Fit podcast. Get her free guide to improving your body im age at pam-moore.com.

Whether you want a hearty meal or a cheesy, delicious side, it is hard to resist a homemade Macaroni and Cheese. It is the perfect comfort food for every holiday and, honestly, every regular day, too.

Zuleiska (Zee) Walls of Pensacola loves this dish and believes she has perfected the most delicious recipe for this crowd-pleaser.

“I came up with this recipe after trying multiple mac and cheese recipes that were good but were not IT for me,” shared Zee. “So, after years of playing around, I settled on this one. It has now become the mac and cheese of every holiday, from Easter to Christmas and any regular day in between.”

Zee is originally from Guaynabo, Puerto Rico. It was there, at 22 years old, that she met her husband Derek, who was on active duty in the Navy. After just three short months, the two married, and Zee relocated with him to Virginia. After 11 years there, the couple moved to Pensacola and decided to call the Panhandle home. Zee is an avid home improvement and decor DIYer. You can follow some of her impressive projects on Instagram @fromwallstohome.

Together, they have one daughter, Anna (12). As a middle schooler, she enjoys talking with friends, listening to music, and shopping. She also practices fencing.

“I do the majority of the cooking; we try to cook and eat at home as much as

possible not only because it is cost-efficient but also because it’s healthier,” Zee shared. “We are very casual and keep things very simple with everyday dinner. We gather around the kitchen island on our barstools to eat and talk.”

The Walls are a family of picky eaters who not only prefer casual at-home meals but also

like to keep dinner quick and easy.

“I keep it simple and serve this homemade mac and cheese with a rotisserie or grilled chicken, and sometimes a steak for my husband and a vegetable side here and there,” Zee said.

With a full schedule of Christmas festivities planned, Zee looks forward to the lights and decorations most. She also enjoys the beautifully wrapped presents under the Christmas tree and family gatherings. It is at the family meals around the table where you can find Zee’s Homemade Mac & Cheese.

Homemade Mac & Cheese

Ingredients:

• 1 (16oz box) Elbow macaroni; cooked

• 1 (16oz box) original Velveeta cheese

• 1/2 stick of butter

• 1/4 cup flour

• 1 cup milk

• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

• *Optional: Ritz Crackers, about half a sleeve

Directions:

1. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.

2. Melt a half stick of butter in a medium sized saucepan on low-medium heat.

3. Once butter is melted, whisk in flour a little at a time while stirring.

4. Slowly add milk while stirring, and let boil a little until it thickens.

5. Add Velveeta and mix in until melted

6. Mix with already cooked elbow pasta.

7. Grease a 9 x 13 baking dish.

“It’s an easy recipe with easy-to-find ingredients, available at any store; it goes well with pretty much any meat dish and is usually universally liked by all ages,” Zee said. “It also makes a large amount serving multiple size families and it keeps well in the fridge for left overs. My favorite is serving it with rotisserie chicken on nights that time is working against me.”

8. Pour cheesy noodles in baking dish and bake for 25 minutes.

Ritz Cracker Crust:

1. Crush about half of a sleeve of Ritz crackers in a ziplock bag.

2. Melt 2 to 3 tbsp of butter.

3. Pour the melted butter in the bag of crushed crackers, mix well and sprinkle over the Mac and cheese before baking.

Gabriele has been married to her husband Daniel for 17 years. Together they have three incredible children – two boys, ages 16 and nine, and a sweet girl who will be two in August.

Gabriele is a full-time Sales Director for Mary Kay Cosmetics. When she isn’t spending time with family or building her business, she supports her husband who is the Lead Pastor and Planter of Forward Church in Gulf Shores.

Traditionally, Advent calendars are small gifts you open for 24 days in December. This year, plan 24 activities to enjoy with the family during the holiday season. Not sure where to start? Check out our list.

1. Make a blanket fort and read a Christmas book. Simply put a large blanket over the kitchen table, add cozy pajamas and a few pillows.

2. Try Christmas Carol Karaoke. Head over to Karafun.com where you will find instrumental versions of Christmas songs as well as lyrics.

3. Have a gingerbread house contest. Break the group into teams or work individually to complete your gingerbread house kit.

4. Purchase cheap canvas and paints from a craft store to paint winter scenes that you can continue to display in January. Holiday paint-by-number sets are fun, too.

5. Have a puzzle night. If you have a competitive family, purchase a few of the same puzzle (100-300 pieces) and see who can finish it the fastest.

6. Make a hot cocoa bar. Fill a crockpot with your favorite hot cocoa recipe and offer mix-ins like candy canes, sprinkles, whipped cream and marshmallows.

7. Make gifts for Amazon and UPS drivers. Fill a dollar store mug with a hot cocoa pack, and add a candy cane with a note that says, “Just add water.”

8. Listen to a Christmas radio show. You can find old radio shows on Spotify or YouTube. Cozy up on the couch with your comfy blankets and warm drinks and enjoy listening.

9. Make plantable holiday cards. Add torn paper and water to a blender to make a pulp. Add wildflower seeds. Flatten out to dry. Decorate and give to friends.

10. Sponsor a family and go shopping together. If you choose a family to sponsor for the holidays, take the kids along to pick out food, clothes or toys.

11. Get outside to play Winter Olympics games. Your games can include relay races, snowball distance throwing or freeing objects from a block of ice.

12. Visit your local fire station, hospital or police department and drop off some treats. Instead of cookies or candy, try water bottle flavors, granola bars or winter essentials like lip balm.

13. Decorate your bedroom doors. Use removable hooks and tape to hang up garland, battery-operated lights or personalized art on your kids bedroom doors.

January 29th 2025, 4:30 pm Pensacola Library

February 5th 2025, 4:30 pm Molino Library

February 8th 2025 Youth Arts Day Pensacola Museum of Art

Dive in this Fall with our Weekend Deal

Every Saturday and Sunday

Under 14 Free with Adult Admission

Small community theatres and local high schools usually have a holiday play or musical that runs in December. Prices are lower and sometimes free.

15. Participate in a holiday-themed 5K. Check out FindARace. com to find December races in your area. Invite family and friends to dress up in Santa hats and run for a charity or just for fun.

16. Thrift sweaters to make your own Ugly Christmas Decorate with garland, pom poms, buttons, felt, beads

17. Go on a Christmas decoration scavenger hunt in the You can find printables online or create your own. You can also do this with Bingo cards.

Create a little basket of goodies – store bought or homemade and leave it at their front door. Leave it anonymous and encourage them to pay it forward.

19. Make a Christmas tree on the wall with Christmas cards If you don’t know how to display your Christ mas cards, why not put them on the wall in the shape of a tree.

20. Make food for the birds. Add two cups of birdseed to 1 cup of each of peanut butter, lard, cornmeal, flour and oats. Place in molds until dried. Hang in a nearby tree and watch them eat.

21. Make appetizers for dinner. If you want to try out new holi day appetizers or sides before preparing them for your guests, this is a fun way to do it.

22. Cut out snowflakes. You can find directions to make snow flake cutouts on Instructables.com or YouTube. Hang in windows or doorways.

23. Do some pre-holiday pampering. Choose a day at the spa or salon or pamper yourself at home with store bought face masks, nail polish and bubble bath.

24. Give Mrs. Claus the night off. With all the shopping and wrapping complete, take time to just admire your hard work and count your blessings. Another holiday season is in the books.

Pam Molnar is a writer and mother of three. The joy and craziness of the holiday season fuel her creativity for the rest of the year.

Now through January 5, 2025

Magic Christmas in Lights ad on page 11

@ Bellingrath Gardens and Home 12401 Bellingrath Gardens Rd Theodore, AL 36582

Explore the enchanting Annual Magic Christmas in Lights at Bellingrath Gardens & Home—a festive paradise on the Gulf Coast. Wander through a dazzling 65-acre Garden estate adorned with thousands of lights. The Bellingrath Home adds to the ambiance with holiday finery and poinsettias.

251-973-2217 bellingrath@bellingrath.org www.bellingrath.org

All Season

Holiday Ice Skating

@ Pensacola Bay Center

201 East Gregory Street Pensacola, FL 32502

Enjoy an hour of skating at the Pensacola Bay Center while experiencing the holiday ambience. Please visit website for a listing of most up-to date times and prices.

850-432-0800 www.pensacolabaycenter.com/ events/detail/public-skate-1

Now through December 15, 2024 (weekends), December 19-23, 2024 North Pole Experience @ OWA

1501 South OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535

Step into the magical North Pole, where families can capture festive photos with Santa, write letters to the big man himself, lend a hand in the Elf Workshop, and enjoy playful Reindeer Games before warming up with cozy seasonal refreshments. Get into the holiday spirit like never before with OWA’s epic Christmas Tree Shows that choreograph lights and music in an unforgettable experience 251-923-2111 www.VisitOWA.com/Christmas

Now through December 24, 2024

Santa Photos at Cordova Mall

@ Cordova Mall

5100 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504

We’re making a list and checking it twice –reserve your Santa photo today. Visit https:// cordovamallsantaphotos.splashthat.com/ to book your photos. 850-477-7562 www.cordovamall.com

Now through December 24, 2024

(Select days, see our website)

Winterfest Activities

@ Downtown Pensacola

223 South Palafox Street Pensacola , FL 32502

Wander along the streets throughout the holidays and see live street performances, concerts and more! Santa and Grinch photos, Great Christmas Tree Heist, Polar Express, The Grinch’s Merry Match, Scrooge Tour and more!

850-583-1365 www.pensacolawinterfest.org

Now through December 24, 2024, Weekends and December 21-24

Photos with Santa at the Wharf

@ The Wharf

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561

Ho Ho Holiday photo time with Santa. Children can also bring their wish list letters to give to Santa or write one in his village. Open Fridays (3-6 pm), Saturdays (10am–6pm) and Sunday (noon–6pm). December 21-23 (10am–6pm), December 24 (10am–2pm) 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

Now through December 25, 2024

Sowell’s North Pole Christmas Light Display

7650 Sowell Road Milton, FL 32570

Come enjoy a Christmas light show, train rides, photos with Santa, camel rides and more! Our elves are hard at work in the elf shack to provide Hot Cocoa, Pop Corn, and other holiday snacks. Open nightly 5:30pm - 9:00pm. www.sowellfarms.com/northpole

Now through January 20, 2025

Ice Skating Rink

@ The Wharf

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561

Let us bring winter to you! Grab a pair of skates and glide, spin or fall into the season on real ice.

NOVEMBER Schedule November 15-24: MondayFriday: 4-10 pm; Saturday: 10 am-10 pm; Sunday: Noon-8 pm. November 25-27 + 29-30 (Thanksgiving Break): 10 am – 10 pm. CLOSED Thanksgiving Day. (251) 224-1000 www.alwharf.com

December 1, 2024

1st Annual Family Christmas Fest

@ Museum Plaza

300 S Tarragona St Pensacola, FL 32502

Join us for the Family Christmas Fest with live

Christmas music and food/coffee trucks. Time: 5pm-8pm.

https://downtownpensacola.com/events/familychristmas-fest-2

Pet Photo Night with Santa

@ Cordova Mall

5100 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504

Pet Photo Night, 6pm-7:30pm, Visit https://cordovamallsantaphotos.splashthat.com/ for more information. 850-477-7562 www.cordovamall.com

December 3, 2024

East Hill Makers Market

Holiday Edition

@ Cordova Square

1101 N. 12th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32503

Join us for an afternoon outdoor market and enjoy shopping with local artisans, food trucks, music, photos taken with Santa Claus, and more. Our annual holiday tree lighting with carols (at 5pm). 2pm-5pm. www.facebook.com/events/504941001949611

The Prophecy-A Trans-Siberian Orchestra Tribute

@ Saenger Theatre

118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502

The Prophecy is launching its 18th touring season of an extravagant Christmas musical production! This powerhouse group of classically trained musicians come together to create nothing short of an electrifying evening of holiday rock music. 7:30pm www.pensacolasaenger.com

December 3-4, 10-12, 18-19, 20-21

Santa at the Library

@ Various locations

Stop by your local library for Santa pictures and fun activities this holiday season. Stop by your local library for Santa pictures and fun activities this holiday season. December 3, 5:30pm, December 18,10:30am, December 21, 1:30pm, December 21-Pensacola Library, December 3, 10:30am, December 20, 4:30pm-Southwest, December 10, 5:30pm-Century, December 4, 10:30am, December 19, 5:30pm-Molino, December 4, 4:30pm, December 17, 10:30pm-Bellview, December 12, 10:30am-Westside, December 10, 3pm, December 19, 10:30am-Tryon www.mywfpl.com

December 4, 13, 2024

Holiday Crafts-Southwest Library

@ Southwest Library

12248 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL 32507

Come by the library to make Christmas Crafts. Cookie Plate Decorating - Thursday, December 5, 4 p.m., Gingerbread House Building - Friday, December 13 4 p.m 850-436-5060 www.mywfpl.com

December 5, 2024

Wreaths of Joy

@ Hadji Shrine

800 W 9 Mile Rd Pensacola, FL 32534

Enjoy a four-course meal featuring cuisines from around the globe, cultural entertainment, auctions and more! Proceeds support The Arc Gateway’s programs for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 850-434-2638 www.wreathsofjoy.org

December 5, 12, 2024

Holiday Crafts-Pensacola Library

@ Pensacola Library

239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL 32502

Come by the library to make Christmas Crafts. Watercolor Snowflakes-Thursday, December 5, 5:30 – 6:30 p.m., Handmade Felt OrnamentsThursday, December 12, 5:30 850-436-5060 www.mywfpl.com

December 6, 2024

Choral Society of Pensacola’s Magnificat @ Cathedral of the Sacred Heart 1212 E. Moreno St. Pensacola, FL 32503

Begin the Advent journey to Christmas with a

joyous Baroque masterpiece by one of the world’s greatest composers, Johann Sebastian Bach. Soloists will be Pensacola Opera’s Jan Miller Studio Artists. 7:30pm 850-484-1847 www.choralsocietyofpensacola.org/

Let It Snow Show at the Pensacola State College Planetarium

@ Pensacola State College Planetarium 1000 College Blvd Building 21 Pensacola, FL 32504

Enjoy the Let it Snow Show at the Pensacola State College Planetarium!“Let it Snow” features a variety of Christmas classics with a stunning grand finale by the Trans Siberian Orchestra. The soundtrack is visually enhanced with fun animations and full dome scenery. performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/

Lighted

Boat Parade

@ Sabine Marina to Pensacola Beach Boardwalk Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Boat Parade-6:30pm. A kid’s party will occur from 4-6pm at Shaggy’s Pensacola Beach. Following the boat parade, Santa will make his way to the Quietwater Shell to greet the children, followed by a brief firework display. 850-932-1500 info@visitpensacolabeach.com www.pensacolabeachchamber.com

Northwest Florida Symphony Orchestra “Holiday Pops”

@ Mattie Kelly Arts Center at NWF State College 100 College Boulevard East Niceville, FL 32578 Holiday Pops Christmas on Broadway-7pm. 850-729-6000 shiresj@nwfsc.edu www.MattieKellyArtsCenter.org

December 6-7, 2024

A White Tie Christmas-OWA Theater

@ OWA Theater

205 N OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535

Swing into the spirit of the holidays with A White Tie Christmas at OWA Theater on December 6th and 7th at 7:30 pm. Join us as the White Tie Rock Ensemble takes center stage for a mesmerizing tribute to the iconic Trans-Siberian Orchestra. https://visitowa.com/white-tie-christmas/

2024 Christmas Caravan Arts & Crafts Show

@ St. Christopher’s Episcopal Church

3200 North 12th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32503

Gifts, arts/crafts, food and more! Free admission. Entertainment, kids activities and puppy dogs for adoption! Friday 9am - 4pm, Saturday 9am - 3pm. 850-433-0074 www.scpen.org

St. Mary’s Winterfest Arts & Crafts Fair

@ St. Mary’s Episcopal Church - Parish Hall 6850 Oak Street Milton, FL 32570

Just in time for Christmas, enjoy browsing one-ofa-kind custom jewelry, art, woodcrafts, candles, baked goods and other creative handiwork. Retail sales vendors also will showcase their great products as well. Hours-Friday 11am-6pm, Saturday 9am-2pm 850-623-2905 stmarysmilton.wixsite.com/church

Rally Gulf Coast Holiday Shopping Soirée

@ SCI Building

220 W Garden Street Pensacola, FL 32502

Join us December 6, from 10am-3pm with an

shopping experience at the SCI Building, enjoy complimentary champagne, brunch bites and sweets, a live DJ, local celebrity gift wrapping, photo booth, and more. Fun continues Saturday, December 7-local stores will donate a portion of the sales to fight childhood cancer. www.visitpensacola.com

December 6, 7, 12, 19, 2024

Shining Light Players Present A Christmas Carol

@ The REX Theatre

18 N Palafox St Pensacola, FL 32502

All the Christmas warmth and magic of Dicken’s timeless classic are neatly packaged in this imaginative adaptation. Share the mystery, the excitement and the joy with those you love as we launch the Christmas Season.

850-207-6877 www.shininglightplayers.com/a_ christmas_carol

beautiful gingerbread house. 3pm 850-456-4828 www.crossviewpensacola.org

Gulf Breeze Jolly Holiday Market

@ Gulf Breeze Parks and Rec Community Center 800 Shoreline Dr Gulf Breeze, FL 32561

The Jolly Holiday Market will be inside the Gulf Breeze Parks and Recreation Community Center from 9:00 A.M. – 2:00 P.M. Local businesses, artists, and vendors are all encouraged to join in selling their homemade and festival items.

850-934-5140 www.gulfbreezeparksandrecreation. com/christmas-parade

Holiday Market

@ Community Maritime Park

301 W Main St Pensacola, FL 32501

Come get your Holiday shopping done early at the Holiday Market at Community Maritime Park

December 6-22, 2024

Emerald Coast Theatre presents

“All Is Calm: the Christmas Truce of 1914”

@ Emerald Coast Theatre

560 Grand Boulevard (Suite 200) Miramar Beach, FL 32550

All Is Calm: The Christmas Truce of 1914 tells the true story of the first Christmas Eve of World War I, when soldiers across the Western Front laid down their weapons to celebrate Christmas together.

850-684-0323 www.emeraldcoasttheater.org

December 7, 2024

Pensacola Youth Ballet

Community Nutcracker

@ Mainstage Theatre University of West Florida Performances at 2:00pm and 7:00pm. Tickets maybe purchased by visiting our website and clicking on the nutcracker image. www.pensacolayouthballet.com

Gingerbread House Party

@ Crossview Church

4945 Saufley Field Rd. Pensacola, FL 32526

We would love to invite you and your neighbors kids to our annual gingerbread house party. We will have all the supplies you need to create a

from 10am-6pm. Vendors, Food Trucks, Bounce House, and Live Entertainment. Santa will be there from 1pm-4pm. www.apexshowsandevents.com

Milton Christmas Parade

Highway 87 (Stewart Street) Milton, FL 32570

Bring the Family to see the festive creativity of Parade Participants, listen to Carols, and find the spirit of the Season December 7th, 2024 at 6 pm.

850-623-2339 www.facebook.com

Navarre Christmas in the Park

@ Navarre Park

8513 Navarre Parkway Navarre, FL 32566

Gifts, vendors, entertainment, concessions, cookies and hot chocolate, games, santa’s workshop, visits with santa and more. 9am-4pm. 850-939-3267 www.navarrechamber.com

Navarre Community Christmas Parade

@ Navarre Library Navarre, FL 32566

Parade at 1pm at the Navarre Library and end in the back parking lot of Centennial Bank. Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive by fire truck and be available for photos with children in Navarre Park as soon as the parade ends. www.navarrechamber.com

Navarre Jingle Bell Run

@ Holley-Navarre Fire Station

8618 Esplanade Street Navarre, FL 32566

Navarre Chamber Foundation will help you start your holiday season with “Bells on” with this Family Fun Run through the local neighborhood. 8:00am start. Registration available online. 850-939-3267 www.runsignup.com

Pace Christmas Parade

@ Pace High School Pace, FL

Join us Saturday, December 7th for the revival of the Pace Christmas Parade Presented By your Pride of the Red, White and Blue- PHS Band https://allevents.in

Pancakes with Santa and Holiday Market

@ Gulf Coast Kid’s House 3401 North 12th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32503

Enjoy a pancake breakfast, photos with Santa, holiday market vendors, craft stations, Animal Tales show, Christmas cookie walk, hot chocolate bar, and more. Proceeds benefit Gulf Coast Kid’s House. 8am-11am. Tickets-$10 and can be purchased at Gulf Coast Kid’s House or dayof at the event.

850-595-5800 www.gulfcoastkidshouse.org

Pensacola Lighthouse

Christmas Gala

@ Pensacola Lighthouse

2081 Radford Blvd Pensacola, FL 32508

Join us for our annual Christmas Gala on December 7th! It’s completely free, and we can’t wait to celebrate with you. Enjoy some yummy cookies & hot cocoa, play fun games, and snap a picture with Santa! 2pm-6pm www.visitpensacola.com/events/christmas-gala/

Santa Drop

@ Flora Bama

17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL 32507

Kick-off the Christmas season watching Santa skydive onto the beach and enjoy activities for kids in the Flora-Bama tent. 11am - 2pm. 850-492-0611 www.florabama.com/annual-events

Sensory Santa - Autism Pensacola

@ Marcus Pointe Baptist Church

6205 North W Street Pensacola, FL 32505

Book your appointment to meet with Santa from 9am-1pm. This magical experience is designed specifically for children and families living with autism, offering a private, sensory-friendly visit with Santa. Enjoy a holiday experience tailored to your needs. 850-434-7171 www.autismpensacola.org

Winter Wonder Ride

@ Museum Plaza

Pensacola, FL 32502

A scenic ride from Museum Plaza to downtown Pensacola. Post ride music, games, and food. Proceeds purchase new bikes and helmets for needy children.

850-485-1889 https://onbikespensacola.org/

December 7-8, 2024

16th Annual Gingerbread Decorating Class

ad on page 9

@ Pensacola Cooks Classroom

4051 Barrancas Ave, ite C Pensacola , FL 32507

$70 per “family’ (2 people). During the two-day

class, you will assemble, design and decorate your own Gingerbread house to take home and proudly display. Saturday, December 7, 3:005:00pm and Sunday, December 8, 3:00-5:00pm. For more information and to reserve your spot visit https://pensacolacooks.com/classes-and-events or call 850-261-3868.

850-261-3868 https://pensacolacooks.com/classesand-events

December 7-8, 14-15, 2024

Christmas Zoobilee

at Gulf Breeze Zoo

ad on page 3

@ Gulf Breeze Zoo

5701 Gulf Breeze Pkwy Gulf Breeze, FL 32563

Christmas ZOObilee includes winter-themed bounce stations, visits from Santa, live music and entertainment, a Candy Cane Market full of gifts, sights, smells, and tastes of the season, including unique gifts from local artists and delicious holiday treats. 10am-4pm. Call or visit our website for more information.

850-932-2229 info@gulfbreezezoo.org www.gbzoo.com

December 7-8, 2024

A Pensacola Christmas

@ First Baptist Church Pensacola

500 N Palafox St Pensacola, FL 32501

Join us for an incredible evening celebrating the birth of Jesus through a stellar performance with the Pensacola Children’s Chorus. December 7-8 at 6 PM.

850-433-5631 www.fbcp.org

December 7, 14, 21, 2024

Alyssa’s Holiday Market Events

@ Alyssa’s, The Refinery & Alyssa’s Etc. 4586 Chumuckla Highway Pace, FL 32571

Get a head start on your Christmas lists with our Holiday Markets. Visit us online or check our Facebook page. Market times: 9am - 3pm. 850-994-9114 www.shopalyssas.com

December 8, 2024

Caring Santa at Cordova Mall

@ Cordova Mall

5100 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504

A time for children with special needs and their families to visit with Santa and have a photo taken. The environment will accommodate the needs of the children. 9:00-10:30AM. Registration required and can be made online at https://cordovamallsantaphotos.splashthat.com/ 850-477-7562 www.cordovamall.com

Holidays at the House

@ Ronald McDonald House Charities of Northwest Florida

5200 Bayou Blvd Pensacola, FL 32503

Bring your festive spirit to our holiday market and brunch benefiting the children and families of Ronald McDonald House. The event will feature photos with Santa, market vendors, door prizes, live music, and more! 11am-2pm 850-477-2273 https://rmhc-nwfl.org/

Surfing

Santa Beach Parade

@ Via de Luna to Casino Beach Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Make your way to Pensacola Beach to see Santa

Claus close out the annual Surfing Santa Beach Parade at 2pm.

850-932-1500 www.pensacolabeachchamber.com

Winter Wonderland - Woodbine Church

@ Woodbine Church

5200 Woodbine Road Pace, FL 32571

Winter Wonderland from 6-8pm. Enjoy inflatables, a hay ride through the nativity story lighted by Christmas lights, photo ops with Santa, a hot chocolate bar, carnival games, and more. This event is free.

www.woodbinechurch.org/

December 9, 2024

Jingle Jangle Playdate with KINDERMUSIK

ad on page 9, 11

@ Labelle Performing Arts 8253 Chellie Rd Pensacola, FL 32526

Bring the whole family to participate in a memorable musical experience celebrating the holidays! Mixed Ages classes available for ages birth to 5. Cost is $25 per child per class and includes a take home instrument and music download. Class time options: 9:00 am or 10:30 am. www.kidtopia.kindermusik.com

Holiday Crafts- Tyron Library

@ Tyron Library

1200 Langley Ave Pensacola, FL 32504

Come by the library to make Christmas Crafts. Giant Gingerbread - Monday, December 9, 3:30 p.m. Call for more information. 850-471-6980 www.mywfpl.com

December 10, 2024

A Ceremony of Carols

@ University of West Florida Center for Fine and Performing Arts 11000 University Parkway, Building 82 Pensacola, FL 32502

A festive program featuring a twentieth-century classic by Benjamin Britten and other music for the season. The Choral Society of Pensacola’s Treble Ensemble performs under the direction of Isabelle Peterson, with harpist Katie Ott and pianist Meredith Stemen.7:30pm 850-484-1847 www.choralsocietyofpensacola.org/

December 10, 13, 21, 2024

Holiday Crafts-Westside Library

@ Westside Library

1301 W Gregory St. Pensacola, FL 32502

Come by the library to make Christmas Crafts and a fun scavenger hunt. Season’s Greetings Scavenger Hunt - Tuesday, December 10th, All Day, Winter Candy Mosaics - Friday, December 13th

3:30 p.m., Snow Painting - Saturday, December 21st 11:30 a.m.

www.mywfpl.com

December 11, 2024

An Evening with Santa @ Cokesbury Church 5725 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504

Come meet Santa, enjoy a kid-friendly dinner, crafts and more. An adult must stay with children for this event. 6:00pm-7:30pm. Sign-up online at www.CokesburyChurch.com/Santa. Contact Kathy Minor at Kathy@CokesburyChurch.com for more information.

850-476-5818 www.cokesburychurch.com

Navarre Chamber Annual Holiday Open House

1804 Prado Street Navarre, FL 32566

Stop by for this free event from 5pm-7pm to enjoy some holiday fun, and indulge in some holiday drinks & treats. To help support Caring & Sharing of South Santa Rosa County, attendees are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food donation.

www.navarrechamber.com

December 13, 2024

Jingle Jangle Playdate with KINDERMUSIK

ad on page 9, 11

@ Labelle Performing Arts Northeast Location 4634 Lori Lane Pace, FL 32571

Bring the whole family to participate in a memorable musical experience celebrating the holidays! Mixed Ages classes available for ages birth to 5. Cost is $25 per child per class and includes a take home instrument and music download. Class time options: 9:00 am or 10:30 am. www.kidtopia.kindermusik.com

Story Tyme with Grandma

Jenkins - Santa is Coming to Florida ad on page 18

@ Pensacola Children’s Museum 115 East Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL 32502 Join Grandma Jenkins at 11:00am for holiday stories and cookies. Free public reading program. December 13: Santa Claus is Coming to Florida 850-595-5985 www.historicpensacola.org

December 13-14, 2024

Christmas Lights Drive-Thru ad on page 7

@ Campus Church on the campus of Pensacola Christian College

250 Brent Lane Pensacola, FL 32503

Bring your family and friends to see the over 350,000 Christmas lights on the campus of Pensacola Christian College. Enjoy a cup of hot chocolate and Christmas music as you reflect on the true reason for Christmas—the Savior of the World, Jesus Christ, is come! We will also be collecting non-perishable food items. 6pm - 8:30pm. https://campuschurch.com/

December 13–15, 2024

Pensacola Children’s Chorus Presents Christmas on the Coast @ Saenger Theatre

118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502

Kick off the most wonderful time of the year with a sensational holiday concert that promises to warm your heart, lift your spirits and take you on a joyous journey like no other. 7:30pm, Friday and 2:30pm, Saturday, Sunday 850-434-7760 http://www.pensacolasings.org/

December 13-22, 2024

Pensacola Little Theatre presents A Christmas Story

@ Pensacola Little Theatre Mainstage Theatre

400 South Jefferson Street Pensacola, FL 32502

Pensacola Little Theatre presents A Christmas Story. A Christmas Story follows young Ralphie Parker’s quest for a Red Ryder BB gun in 1940s Indiana. Despite warnings of “You’ll shoot your eye out,”. Ralphie navigates childhood challenges, including bullies and family dynamics, in his pursuit of his ultimate Christmas Wish.

850-432-2042 https://www.pensacolalittletheatre. com/shows-and-events/a-christmas-story

December 14, 2024

Beulah Bash

@ Escambia County Equestrian Center 7750 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL

Come Christmas shopping done at one of our many vendors, enjoy local food trucks, see our car show, and enjoy plenty of entertainment for all ages including kids crafts, inflatables, and more. 9am-3pm.

https://pensacolachurch.org/christmas/

Bowling with Santa - Autism

Pensacola

@ Cordova Lanes

2111 Airport Blvd Pensacola, FL 32504

Come bowl with Santa Claus. Enjoy 2 hours of bowling, shoe rental, drinks, and holiday treats at this fun family event. Recommended ages of 11 & older for this event. Free to attend. Advanced registration is required. 850-434-7171 www.autismpensacola.org

Breakfast with Santa

@ Spirit Stables

9886 Jeno Rd Milton, FL 32570

Enjoy breakfast with Santa, pony rides, crafts, face painting, hay rides, bouncy house, silent auction and a visit with Santa. 9am-1pm. All proceeds benefit Horse Healing, a non-profit that serves mentally, emotionally and physically handicapped individuals. 9am-1pm. 850-830-0176 www.spiritstablesflorida.com

Candlelight Night

@ Alyssa’s, The Refinery & Alyssa’s Etc. 4586 Chumuckla Highway Pace, FL 32571

We transform the store into a magical “Christmas Village” by shopping only by Christmas lights, candle lights, and lamps with all the overhead lights turned off. We charge $5 or 10 canned goods. 6pm-8pm 850-994-9114 www.shopalyssas.com

Christmas Parade Dash

Garden St Pensacola, FL 32502

A Holiday tradition for the whole family. Run or walk the one-mile course then stay to enjoy the Pensacola Annual Christmas Parade. Costumes are strongly encouraged. 5pm www.pensacolarunners.com

Cox Pensacola Christmas Parade

@ Downtown Pensacola Pensacola, FL

Enjoy floats and marching bands. Also featuring the nationally renowned Blue Angels flight team and a host of organizations from around the region. 5:30pm http://coxpensacolachristmasparade.org/index.html

Deck the Walls 2024

@ Woerner Landscape Pensacola 1332 Creighton Road Pensacola, FL 32504

Get into the festive spirit and unleash your creativity by making your own beautiful wreath. You’ll have the opportunity to mingle with fellow moms, share ideas, and get inspired by the joyous atmosphere. www.eventbrite.com/

HoHo Hustle

3012 E Cervantes St Pensacola, FL 32503

This FUN Holiday 5k is for the entire family. Bring the kids and hustle along, drink hot chocolate and experience holiday cheer. Party: A fun Holiday themed party for the whole family to enjoy after the race! Delicious Christmas-y treats & hot chocolate, pictures with Santa. 8:00am https://runpensacola.com/event/2024-ho-ho-hustle/

Holly Jolly Mall Walk

@ Cordova Mall

5100 N 9th Ave Pensacola, FL 32504

Join us inside Cordova Mall at 7:00AM for a 5k walk festive cheer. Enjoy holiday activities: hot chocolate, treats, games and giveaways, and music. All funds raised will go towards Big Brothers Big Sisters of Northwest Florida 850-433-5437 bbbsnwfl.org/holly-jolly-mall-walk/

Lighthouse Private Christian Academy

Christmas Market

8604 Bobby Brown Rd. Milton, FL 32570

Concessions, Arts & Crafts, specialty booths and more! $5 admission at the door, kids 12 and under are free. 10am-4pm. lighthousepca.com

Milton’s Holiday Fest

@ Jernigan’s Landing

5158 Willing St Milton, FL 32570

Come get your holiday shopping done early from 10am-4pm at Jernigans Landing. Enjoy Christmas music, bounce house, vendors, food trucks and Santa (12pm-2pm).

www.apexshowsandevents.com/12%2F9-miltonholiday-fest

Pensacola Arts MarketWinter Bazaar

@ Cordova Square

1101 N 12th Ave Pensacola, FL 32501

Celebrate Local Art this holiday season by shopping and supporting over 40 vendors. This is an all-ages event, and we’ll have free arts and crafts activities for the little ones, live music, food trucks, and more. 11am-4pm.

Rat Pack Holiday Revue

@ OWA Theater

205 N OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535

Join us for a timeless Christmas experience with The Rat Pack Revue at OWA Theater on December 14th at 7:30 pm. https://visitowa.com/entertainment/owa-theater/

Studer’s Annual Gingerbread House Competition

@ SCI Building

220 West Garden Street Pensacola, FL 32502

Our Annual Gingerbread Competition Event will be held Saturday, December 14, 2024 from 11:00am-2:00pm. Our event is open to the public and entry is free. We will have holiday bingo, entertainment, children can decorate cookies, enjoy hot coco, view all the amazing gingerbread houses made and take a trip up to the North Pole to see Santa. www.eventbrite.com/e/gingerbread-house-competition-registration-961701965467

December 14-15, 2024

Elf Academy

@ OWA

1501 South OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535

Bring the little ones to Downtown OWA where they’ll learn all the ins and outs of being one of Santa’s valued elves! 251-923-2111 https://visitowa.com/christmas-at-owa/

Christmas Concert

@ Olive Baptist Church

1836 E Olive Rd Pensacola, FL 32514

Join us on Saturday, December 14th at 3pm or Sunday, December 15th, at 3pm or 6pm for our yearly Christmas concert. 850-476-1932 www.olivebaptist.org/christmas

December 14, 21, 2024

Holiday Crafts-Bellview Library @ Bellview Library 6425 Mobile Hwy Pensacola, FL 32526

Come by the library to make Christmas Crafts. Decorative Glass Ornaments - Saturday, December 14 - 1:00 p.m., Winter Break Journal - Saturday, December 21st,- 11:00 a.m. www.mywfpl.com

December 15, 2024

LaBelle Performing Arts

Christmas Concert

ad on page 11

@ LaBelle Performing Arts

8253 Chellie Rd Pensacola, FL 32526

LPA Music Students are enjoying their Christmas music. They will be performing for friends and family on December 15 at 5:00 at LaBelle. We are excited for them to perform for the first time this year in such a familiar place with such a supportive audience. What better time to shine than singing and playing music at Christmas! 850-944-5650 www.labelleperformingarts.com

Breakfast in Bethlehem

@ Pine Terrace Baptist Church

6212 Pine Blossom Road Milton, FL 32570

This event takes kids on an immersive experience into the first days of Jesus’ life. They will go to several stations to hear from key parts of the Christmas story and enjoy 1st century snacks. (3 years-5th grade) and they need to bring a can of food to cover their “taxes.” 9:00am-11:15pm. 850-623-3954 www.ptbc.org

Cordova Lanes Child-Adult Holiday Doubles Tournament

@ Cordova Lanes

2111 Airport Boulevard Pensacola, FL 32504

This tournament is for one child (5-18) and one adult (19 and up). Entry fee is $25 per team. Two shifts to choose from, 12pm and 3:00pm.Call or visit the website for registration information, handicap info and additional details. Ask about our Saturday Youth League for ages 5 - 18. 850-477-2300 www.cordovalanes.com

December 16, 2024

Jingle Jangle Playdate with KINDERMUSIK

ad on page 9, 11

@ Labelle Performing Arts 8253 Chellie Rd Pensacola, FL 32526

Bring the whole family to participate in a memorable musical experience celebrating the holidays! Mixed Ages classes available for ages birth to 5. Cost is $25 per child per class and includes a take home instrument and music download. Class time options: 9:00 am or 10:30 am. www.kidtopia.kindermusik.com

December 16-17, 2024

Christmas at The College Concert

@ Pensacola State College-Ashmore Auditorium Pensacola, FL 32504

Join the Pensacola Civic Band at the Ashmore Auditorium and celebrate the season through music. 7:30pm www.pensacolacivicband.org/our-season/christmasat-the-college-2024/

December 19-23, 2024

Breakfast with Santa @ OWA 1501 South OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535

Join Jolly old Saint Nicholas for a holiday-themed breakfast and make Christmas memories that will last a lifetime. Join us for an exclusive Breakfast with Santa, where families can enjoy a delicious breakfast, engage in holiday crafts, and capture magical moments with Santa himself. It’s the perfect way to kick off the holiday season with fun for all ages!

251-923-2111 https://visitowa.com/christmas-at-owa/

December 20, 2024

Couples Cook: A Puerto Rican Christmas ad on page 9

@ Pensacola Cooks Classroom 4051 Barrancas Ave, Ste C Pensacola , FL 32507

$100 per couple, adults only. 6pm-9pm. This is an interactive, hands-on class where demonstration by the lead chef is also incorporated. You will “learn by doing” at a cooking station and/or prep table with kitchen tools and an apron provided. Expect to work as individuals, in pairs, or teams of 4 based on the recipe components. You will eat what is prepared. For more information and to reserve your spot visit https://pensacolacooks.com/ classes-and-events or call 850-261-3868 850-261-3868 https://pensacolacooks.com/classesand-events

December 20, 2024

Jingle Jangle Playdate with KINDERMUSIK

ad on page 9, 11

@ Labelle Performing Arts Northeast Location 4634 Lori Lane Pace, FL 32571

Bring the whole family to participate in a memorable musical experience celebrating the holidays! Mixed Ages classes available for ages birth to 5. Cost is $25 per child per class and includes a take home instrument and music download. Class time options: 9:00 am or 10:30 am. www.kidtopia.kindermusik.com

Gallery Night - Ugly Sweater Weather

@ Palafox street between Garden & Main Pensacola, FL 32502

Join us for an evening filled with local artists, live music, sparkling holiday lights, and a cheerful atmosphere that welcomes all ages. Wear your best (or worst!) holiday sweater, and come celebrate the season with us in downtown Pensacola. 5pm-9pm www.gallerynightpensacola.org

White Tie Rock EnsembleA White Tie Christmas

@ Pensacola Bay Center

201 East Gregory Street Pensacola, FL 32502

A family friendly, rocking holiday concert featuring the festive music of The Trans-Siberian Orchestra and other Holiday Classics at the Pensacola Bay Center. 8pm 850-432-0800 www.pensacolabaycenter.com/events/ detail/white-tie-rock-ensemble-25

December 20-22, 2024

Ballet Pensacola Presents: The Nutcracker

@ Saenger Theatre

118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502

Experience the magic of the beloved holiday classic, The Nutcracker! Tickets available online. 850-595-3880 www.balletpensacola.org

The Making of Scrooge: A Christmas Carol Prequel

@ OWA Theater

205 N OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535

This captivating Seward Studios production invites families to step back in time to 1802 England and witness the early years of Ebenezer Scrooge. This festive performance promises a delightful evening of holiday tunes, drama, and fun for the whole family — making it the perfect way to share some Christmas cheer!

https://visitowa.com/a-christmas-carol/

December 20, 23, 24, 2024

Christmas Movies on the Tiki Deck at Laguna’s ad on page 8

@ Laguna’s

460 Pensacola Beach Boulevard Pensacola Beach, FL 32561

Step into the wonder of the season and join us at Laguna’s for a jolly holiday movie lineup that’s sure to bring smiles to faces both young and young-at-heart! Get ready to laugh, dream, and make magical memories with some of our favorite holiday classics: How the Grinch Stole Christmas on December 20th at 6 pm, a Home Alone movie marathon on December 23rd starting at 12 pm, and a Christmas Eve favorite, The Polar Express, on December 24th at 12 pm. Warm up with hot chocolate, roast s’mores by the fire, and enjoy popcorn, happy hour specials, and more. This season is all about making memories! Bring your family and friends, settle in for some holiday cheer, and let the magic of the movies fill your heart. For details visit us online, lagunaspb.com/holiday-fun. 850-677-3905 www.lagunaspb.com/holiday-fun

December 21, 2024

Adventures with Santa at Laguna’s ad on page 8

@ Laguna’s

460 Pensacola Beach Blvd Pensacola Beach, FL

Create magical moments this holiday season at

Laguna’s with Adventures with Santa on Dec. 21st! Bring your holiday wishes and enjoy some jolly fun with Santa himself. For details visit us online, lagunaspb.com/holiday-fun. 850-677-3905 www.lagunaspb.com/

PCKids Jr. Chefs:

Gifts from the Kitchen ad on page 9

@ Pensacola Cooks Classroom

4051 Barrancas Ave, Ste C Pensacola, FL 32507

$75. Your child will join our PCKids culinary instructors in the Cooking Classroom as it is transformed into Santa’s Workshop. Your son or daughter will prepare and take home delicious edible gifts (packaged, too!) from savory to sweet... great ideas for family, neighbors, and friends.This is an interactive, hands-on class where your child “learns by doing” at his own cooking station with all kitchen tools and an apron provided. For more information and to reserve your spot visit https:// pensacolacooks.com/classes-and-events or call 850-261-3868. 1pm-5pm 850-261-3868 https://pensacolacooks.com/classesand-events

The West Florida Railroad Museum “Santa Clause Visit”

5003 Henry St Milton, FL 32570

Santa will be visiting the Museum. There will be coca and cookies for the children in the Dining Car, Train rides and children’s activities. Photos with Santa will be available. Time: 11:00am-2:00pm 850-501-6249 conductor@wfrm.org www.wfrm.org

December 21-22, 2024

Sugarplum Festival

@ OWA

1501 South OWA Blvd Foley, AL 36535

A sweet holiday festival dedicated to arts and crafts vendors, sugary treats, and all things sugarplum! (251) 923-2111 /visitowa.com/christmas-at-owa/

December 22, 2024

Family Cooks Class: Christmas Cookie Flooding ad on page 9

@ Pensacola Cooks Classroom

4051 Barrancas Ave, Ste C Pensacola , FL 32507

$60 per student (Ages 18+) and $45 per student (Ages 6-17). Attendees will learn rolling and cutting cookie dough, piping methods and tips, Royal Icing: making and flooding, and creative decorating. Each family leaves with 1 dozen, decorated cut-out Christmas cookies. For more information and to reserve your spot visit https://pensacolacooks.com/classes-and-events or call 850-2613868. 2:00pm - 5:00pm 850-261-3868 https://pensacolacooks.com/classesand-events

Birthday Party for Jesus

@ Cokesbury Church

5725 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504

Children who are toddlers through 5th grade will play birthday party games, make decorations, and eat cake to celebrate Jesus’ birthday. 9:30am, 11:00am 850-476-5818 www.cokesburychurch.com

December 23, 2024

PCKids/Teens, Jr. Chefs:

Cookies for Santa ad on page 9

@ Pensacola Cooks Classroom

4051 Barrancas Ave, Ste C Pensacola, FL 32507

$45 per student. Your Jr. Chef will be busy with our PCK Elves baking an assortment of cookies (can be adjusted for gluten and sugar intolerances) on a decorative plate....including pressed, cut-out, drop, roll and slice, no-bake, and stamped cookies for Santa. For more information and to reserve your spot visit https://pensacolacooks. com/classes-and-events or call 850-261-3868. 1:00pm - 4:00pm 850-261-3868 https://pensacolacooks.com/classesand-events

Tidings of Comfort & Joy Concert

@ First United Methodist Church 6 E Wright St Pensacola, FL 32501

WUWF invites you to the annual Tidings of Comfort & Joy concert. 6:00pm and 8:00pm performance. Tickets: $15 per person. Tickets available online.

www.wuwf.org/tidings-of-comfort-joy

December 23, 26, 27, 30, 31, January 2, 3, 2024

First City Art Winter Break Camps

ad on Inside Back Cover

@ First City Art

1060 N Guillemard Street Pensacola, FL 32501

Each camp will include fun hands-on art activities. Participants will have the opportunity to explore different materials and learn new techniques. Teachers will offer projects with flexibility, allowing participants the opportunity to make self-directed artistic choices in specific mediums. Projects and guidelines are provided, but artistic freedom is encouraged! Full Days are open to ages 6-12 and run 9am - 4pm. Half Days are open to ages 5-12 and run 9am - 12pm or 1pm - 4pm.

850-429-1222 Create@firstcityart.org www.firstcityart.org

December 23, 27, 30, 31

January 2, 3, 6

Play Pensacola Winter Break & Holiday Camp

ad on Inside Back Cover

@ E.S. Cobb Resource Center

601 East Mallory Street Pensacola, FL 32503

Holiday themed activities, sports, arts & crafts; crafts and more. Camp is for children ages 5-12 years. Register in person or online at webtrac. cityofpensacola.com under After School & Holiday Break. Hours are 8am - 6pm except on December 31 is 8am - 4pm.

850-436-5192 rsmith@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com

Play Pensacola Winter Break & Holiday Camp

ad on Inside Back Cover

@ Gull Point Resource Center

7000 Spanish Trail Pensacola, FL 32504

Holiday themed activities, sports, arts & crafts; crafts and more. Camp is for children ages 5-12 years. Register in person or online at webtrac. cityofpensacola.com under After School & Holiday

Break. Hours are 8am - 6pm except on December 31 is 8am - 4pm.

850-494-7360 hmatteson@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com

Play Pensacola

Winter Break & Holiday Camp

ad on Inside Back Cover

@ Woodland Heights Resource Center

111 Berkley Street Pensacola, FL 32503

Holiday themed activities, sports, arts & crafts; crafts and more. Camp is for children ages 5-12 years. Register in person or online at webtrac. cityofpensacola.com under After School & Holiday Break. Hours are 8am - 6pm except on December 31 is 8am - 4pm.

850-435-1750

tthomas@cityofpenscola.com www.playpensacola.com

Play Pensacola

Winter Break & Holiday Camp

ad on Inside Back Cover

@ Fricker Resource Center

900 North F St Pensacola, FL 32501

Holiday themed activities, sports, arts & crafts; crafts and more. Camp is for children ages 5-12 years. Register in person or online at webtrac. cityofpensacola.com under After School & Holiday Break. Hours are 8am - 6pm except on December 31 is 8am - 4pm.

850-436-5195 adesport@cityofpensacola.com www.playpensacola.com

December 24, 2024

Children and Family Christmas Eve Services

whole family for hands-on science exploration or sign up for one of our holiday camps.

877-937-6377 www.pensacolamesshall.org/

@ Cokesbury Church 5725 North 9th Avenue Pensacola, FL 32504

Children and Family Christmas Eve Service 4pm Interactive worship service with contemporary music, communion, and candle lighting. Traditional Christmas Eve Service 6pm Hymns, special music, a Christmas message, communion and candle lighting. 4pm, 6pm 850-476-5818 www.cokesburychurch.com

Lessons & Carols Christmas Eve Celebration

@ McIlwain Presbyterian Church 1220 East Blount Street Pensacola, FL 32503 McIlwain Presbyterian Church invites you to Lessons & Carols, a Christmas Eve Celebration, in the Sanctuary at 5:30pm on Christmas Eve. 850-438-5449 info@mcilwainchurch.org www.mcilwain.org

December 26, 2024 – January 4, 2025

Extended Holiday Hours at Pensacola Mess Hall

@ Pensacola Mess Hall

418 E Wright St Pensacola, FL 32501

The MESS Hall will be open every day from December 26–January 4 from 10AM–5PM. Bring the

December 28, 2024

Make it to the Line Run or Walk

@ Flora Bama

17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL 32507

Let’s all “Make it to the Line” just in time for Christmas! Run, jog, walk to the line at our 4-Mile Run/Walk and 1-Mile Fun Run. Race will benefit the Secret Santa program, helping local families in need. 850-492-0611 www.florabama.com/annual-events

December 30, 2024 – January 3, 2025

Holiday Camp at Pensacola Mess Hall

@ Pensacola Mess Hall

418 E Wright St Pensacola, FL 32501

Register your scientists, (Grades 1st - 6th), for Science Sampler Camps! Game design, mineralogy, rocket engineering & more. Half-day camp: 9am - 12:30pm. (Extended add-on until 4pm).

Pre-registration is required.

877-937-6377 www.pensacolamesshall.org

December 31, 2024

Kids Confetti Drop

@ The Wharf

23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561

If your little ones are too young to stay up until

midnight, join us at The Wharf for our annual Kids Confetti Drop, featuring tons of family friendly activities plus an early daytime countdown to the new year. Event time is 10 am – 2 pm. Confetti drop at noon! 251-224-1000 www.alwharf.com

New Year’s Eve Fireworks Display

Pensacola Beach Pensacola, FL

Keep your eyes focused on the Pensacola Beach skies this New Year’s Eve for a free firework display along the Pensacola Beach Boardwalk at midnight.

Pensacola Symphony Presents: Celebrate the New Year!

@ Saenger Theatre

118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL 32502

Acclaimed for their command of jazz vernacular, vocalist Sydney McSweeney and vocalist and trumpeter Byron Stripling join the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra for a swinging evening of classic standards from Gershwin, Berlin and friends. 7pm 850-595-3880 www.pensacolasaenger.com/events/pensacola-symphony-orchestra-celebrate-the-new-year24/

Reelin’ In the New YearNYE Street Party

@ The Wharf 23101 Canal Road Orange Beach, AL 36561

Reel in the new year with us at The Wharf for our New Year’s Eve Street Party. Live bands, family friendly and adult-centered fun all rounding off at midnight with our marlin drop and fireworks. 5pm-Midnight. 251-224-1000 info@alwharf.com www.alwharf.com

Ring in the New Year with the Turtle Drop

@ Navarre Beach Pier/Windjammers Navarre, FL

Join us as we ring in the new year with a dazzling turtle drop against a backdrop of a sky illuminated by fireworks. https://navarre100.com/

January 1, 2025

Polar Bear Dip

@ Flora Bama 17401 Perdido Key Drive Pensacola, FL 32507

Wear a crazy costume, bring the whole family and take a New Year plunge into the Gulf of Mexico! No registration is required. Event is from 12:00pm - 3:00pm. 850-492-0611 www.florabama.com/annual-events

Polar Bear Plunge

@ Paradise Bar & Grill

21 Via De Luna Dr Pensacola, FL 32502

Ring in 2025 with our Polar Bear Plunge! Head to Pensacola Beach at 2 p.m. and plunge into the Santa Rosa Sound at the annual Polar Bear Plunge. www.pensacolabeachchamber.com/polar-bearplunge/ GPP

Grading Family Movies: Streaming, Online Rentals, and Theatrical Releases

Red One

Santa’s been kidnapped! But fear not, the North Pole’s head of security is on the job. Teaming up with a bounty hunter, he launches a high octane, action-packed hunt to secure Santa Claus in time for Christmas. Overlong, stuffed with loose plot threads and lazy CGI, and lacking in charm, kids will nonetheless enjoy the frenetic action sequences. Adults will probably find the film hollow: like the toy that comes with a fast food meal, there’s no satisfaction and little long term entertainment value. Photo ©Amazon Studios

Hitpig is an animal bounty hunter and the Leapin’ Lord of the Leotard has hired him to catch and return Pickles, the elephant co-star of his upcoming Las Vegas show. When Hitpig finds Pickles, he has a change of heart and the two become friends –but the Leapin’ Lord is still obsessed with regaining his elephant The movie features madcap adventure and non-stop action, combined with highly creative fart jokes. The level of violence is higher than the norm and the movie is a bit low on charm but kids will enjoy it. Photo ©Viva Pictures

The Best Christmas Pageant Ever Theaters

When Grace volunteers to take over the Christmas pageant, she has no idea that the six Herdman siblings are going to insist on taking part They are practiced bullies, and when oldest sister Imogene decides they are going to star in the pageant, no other child is willing to audition. Will the pageant survive the Herdmans’ curiosity and unique perspectives? Is it possible that pageant-goers might even learn more about the reason for the season? Sweet, kind-hearted, and hopeful, this is a great choice for family viewing. Kids will enjoy the chaos and adults might appreciate the nudges towards self-assessment. Photo ©Lionsgate Films

In a fit of temper, Donn Fendler storms away from his group while hiking Mount Katahdin in Maine and gets lost, prompting a massive search and rescue operation Based on a true story from 1939, this absorbing, family-friendly survival film switches back and forth between the rescuers and Donn’s attempts to survive and find his way to safety. Clean and filled with messages about love, courage, grit, and ingenuity, it’s a great choice for teens and older kids. Photo ©Blue Fox Entertainment

As German bombs rain down on London, Rita makes the painful decision to evacuate her son to the countryside for safety. Angry and defiant, George jumps off the train and makes his way home, encountering the best and worst of his fellow Londoners. Along the way, he comes to terms with his mixed-race identity, experiences peril and loss, and becomes a local hero. Low on gore and high on drama, this film offers teens and adults a granular, on-the-ground view of the Blitz and an illustration of the power of family ties. Photo ©Apple TV+

Can The Kids Handle It?

Q. My husband and I began your plan a few months ago. We love the process of living on a budget, and how it has helped us gain control of our finances. Our kids are 14 and 13 now. Do you think it’s a good idea to include teenagers in budget meetings and financial discussions?

A. This is a great question! As long as you’re not in an extreme situation, like you’re looking at foreclosure or bankruptcy, or you’re on the opposite end of the spectrum sitting on a pile of wealth, I think it’s a wonderful idea. Teaching kids about money with a standard, regular, monthly budget is one thing. But as a parent, you don’t want to put your kids into situations they aren’t emotionally equipped to handle.

As long as mom and dad are having a discussion and making decisions—not fighting—it’s good for kids to hear the give and take where handling money is concerned.

Parents who never let their kids handle money, and never teach them proper money management techniques, run a high risk of turning financially irresponsible adults loose in the world. And that’s no good for anyone.

But walking through a typical, normal budget will show them how much money is coming in and how much things cost. They’ll see on paper exactly how much groceries or the electric bill costs. Then, when it’s right there in front of their eyes, they’ll begin to realize why mom and dad always tell them not to waste food, and to turn off the lights when they leave a room!

A. As long as you’re debt-free and buying with cash, I’m cool with it. A vacation home is a really nice “extra” as you start building wealth. It’s still basically a very large, very expensive toy. Still, it could become something of a money maker for you if you play your cards right.

But here’s another side to vacation home rentals that most folks don’t consider. You might make some money, but there will almost always be several weeks during a year when it sits there empty. Chances are you won’t get rich renting it out, but if you’re talking about something that’s more of a plan to offset the annual costs of your toy, I don’t think you’ll be disappointed.

Should I Buy a Vacation Home?

Q. How do you feel about someone buying a vacation home, then renting it out when they’re not there?

Be ready to deal with lots of spills on the carpet and damage from your guests, along with general maintenance and repairs. There’s always something that needs attention when you own a property. But if you can handle all that financially and emotionally, I think you’ll be fine.

Want to experience a more joyful holiday season this year that doesn’t leave you depleted, miserable and broke?

Here are 10 ways to shift your perspective and take command of this “hap-happiest” time of the year!

Thou shall qui T worshipping perfec T ion. Nothing burns holes into the fantasy holiday like real life. Maybe the tree is a lopsided, the dog ate your sevenyear-old’s gingerbread house, or you were so focused on creating the best holiday ever that you ended up too sick to enjoy it when the big day finally arrived.

“Decide to do things differently this year. Strive for the good and be satisfied with the good. Too often the focus is on the result, and we tend to lose focus on the beautiful process of getting to the result,” says therapist Julia Flynn, LCPC, CRADC.

Thou shall no T overcommi T . Decide ahead of time which activities won’t work this year. Instead of committing to five parties and multiple gift exchanges, choose a few that you’re enthusiastic about attending.

“Be firm, decisive and assertive, always coming from a place of love for everyone and keeping the focus on the origin of the holidays,” Flynn says, who specializes in helping women manage anxiety, depression and holiday overwhelm. “Graciously decline and send a nice card or note.”

Thou shall rediscover “ T he why.” Take time to reevaluate your priorities. How do you want the season to feel? What do you want your kids to remember most?

“Sometimes we need to take a step back and ask ourselves why this time of year is important to us because I think ‘the why’ gets lost. It just becomes an expectation of self and family—or whoever— to have it look a certain way,” says Maki Moussavi, a transformational coach, speaker and author of The High Achievers Guide: Transform your Success Mindset and Begin the Quest to Fulfillment. “Take a step back to assess, from an intangible,

emotional perspective, why the holidays are important.”

Thou shall res T . Self-care is essential all year long, but especially during the extra busy holidays when you’re stress level is more likely to sky-rocket. Pare down your list to what reasonably makes sense for your health, time and emotional wellbeing. And practice restorative techniques that relax and re-energize you.

Simple ways to recharge include a warm bath, watching a favorite TV show, a walk outside, curling up with a juicy novel, a nap or a massage.

Thou shall honor T hy family. Attempts to please others by saying yes to everyone else’s holiday gatherings without taking into account you and your family’s desires can cause undue anxiety, frustration and resentment.

“The holidays are about family time, appreciating one another and caring for each other. If the focus is switched to the less important gift exchanges and gatherings, all planned at the same time, you can’t enjoy the experience and the original meaning is lost,” Flynn says.

For those events that you’d like to attend, but can’t, firmly communicate to your extended family or friends that you value time spent with them and would like to discuss alternative ideas for getting together. And, don’t feel guilty about standing by your decisions.

“You have every right in the world to establish what you want your holiday tradition to be. You are not obligated to participate in somebody else’s version of the season,” Moussavi says.

Thou shall invi T e T hy par T ner’s par T icipa T ion. If you feel overwhelmed and stressed because you’re trying to manage the bulk of holiday prep on top of working and taking care of your family, ask your spouse for help. Discuss what you’d both like the season to look and feel like.

“Sometimes it’s not that men don’t want to be involved. It’s that they are never invited to be, and they don’t ask,” Moussavi says.

Maybe your husband can mail the packages for out of town family, purchase tickets to the holiday play your family wants to see, or take charge of a few of the gifts.

Thou shall no T allow o T hers T o s T eal T hy happiness. Plan ahead for those individuals who love to bait you into an upsetting conversation at annual gatherings. Since you know how the person is likely to behave, rehearse how you will respond when they pounce.

“The only thing you can do is get better at making it clear what you will and won’t tolerate,” Moussavi says. “You have to shut it down. You standing up for yourself is normal, empowered adult behavior.”

Arm yourself with responses like: “I’m here to enjoy myself. I don’t want to talk about that right now.” Or, “Let’s agree to disagree.”

Also, physically exit from the situation by saying: “I’m going to go refresh my drink.” Or, “I have to make a call.”

Thou shall simplify. “The holiday can be manageable and simple if we allow it to be,” Flynn says. “What makes

the holiday so difficult is our own thinking about it. We make it difficult for ourselves.”

Experiment with small changes that can relieve your stress. Hire a caterer for your party. Forgo Christmas cards this year. For the relative who has everything, send flowers or make a donation in their name to an organization that is important to them.

Thou shall no T compe T e wi T h T hy neighbors. As Theodore Roosevelt once quipped: “Comparison is the thief of joy.” Some people enjoy casting their home in a professionallycreated holiday glow while others prefer to hang a festive wreath on their door and call it good. Do what brings you pleasure and makes sense for your budget.

Thou shall give from T hy hear T . Rather than twisting yourself in knots seeking the perfect present for everyone on your list, take a more light-heart ed approach to gift-giving. For example, give a t-shirt with a meaningful quote, a digital photo album commemorating a fun getaway, or an experience like tickets to the zoo or a concert. Volunteering your time is also a fulfilling way to give.

“If you are intentional, you can make the holidays about the ideas of love, caring for one another, understanding, enjoying quality time together and treating each other as the precious beings each of us are,” Flynn says.

GPP

Freelance writer Christa Melnyk Hines and her hus band are the parents of two sons and a menagerie of pets. Her intention this holiday is to slow down and focus more on the magic of the season and less on lopsided Christmas trees.

FamilyCalendar

Sunday December 1

Free Yoga in the Park

9:30 AM Bayview Park, 2001 East Lloyd Street Pensacola, FL, 32503 Classes are open to all ages and levels of experience. Certified instructors from Breathe Yoga and Wellness Center will provide instruction. The class is free, but you will need to BYOM (Bring Your Own Mat) and any other accessories you would like to use. Stay hydrated! cityofpensacola.com/1024/Area-Events-and-Activities

2nd Annual Pensacola Community Outdoor Flea Market Extravaganza ($2 entry at entrance. Kids 12 and under are free.)

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM, Community Maritime Park, 301 West Main Street Pensacola , FL, 32501 Come on out to 2nd Annual Pensacola Community Outdoor Flea Market Extravaganza and MORE! https://apexshowsandevents.com

Wednesday December 4

Palafox Market

4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Palafox Holiday Market, East Government St and, S Palafox St Pensacola , FL, 32502 The evening Holiday Market will be every Wednesday beginning Nov. 20 through Dec. 18. Come and support our local vendors under the beautiful holiday lights www.visitpensacola.com

PSC Winter Jazz Concert

7:00 PM Pensacola State College Ashmore Auditorium, Pensacola, FL The PSC Wind & Jazz Ensembles offer another entertaining evening of music as their smooth melodies fill the Ashmore Auditorium. December means it’s time for the annual Winter Concert, and this year the focus will be on music of famed English composer Ralph Vaughan Williams. performingarts.pensacolastate.edu/upcoming-events/

Friday December 6

Rising Tide – Opening Reception

5:00 PM 407 South Jefferson St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Rising Tide – Opening Reception. This exhibition is part of Ben Depp’s ongoing project documenting the rapidly shifting landscape of southern Louisiana. pensacolamuseum.org/event/risingtide-openingreception/

Rally Foundation Night - Ice Flyers

7:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 Help the Ice Flyers end childhood cancer in support of Rally Gulf Coast with a night dedicated to fundraising and awareness. Learn more about Rally Gulf Coast: https://rallyfoundation.org/rally-gulf-coast/ www.iceflyers.com

Shining Light Players Present A Christmas Carol 7:00 PM The REX Theatre, 18 N Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 All the Christmas warmth and magic of Dicken’s timeless classic are neatly packaged in this imaginative adaptation. Share the mystery, the excitement and the joy with those you love as we launch the Christmas Season! www.shininglightplayers.com/a_christmas_carol

Saturday December 7

Pensacola International Airport Runway 5k 10:00 AM Pensacola Airport, 2430 Airport Blvd Pensacola, FL, 32504 Join us for a 5k on the RUNWAY at Pensacola International Airport to benefit USO of Northwest Florida.

https://runpensacola.com/event/runway-5k/

Runway 5K

10:00 AM Pensacola International Airport, 2430 Airport Blvd. Suite 225 Pensacola , FL, 32504 The 12th Annual Runway 5K, sponsored by Pensacola International Airport, the City of Pensacola, and benefitting the USO of Northwest Florida, gives runners a different view of the airport while having fun and supporting a great organization. https://runpensacola.com/event/runway-5k/

Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with

regular park entry fees)

10:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages. www.floridastateparks.org/

Mutts & Mimosas

11:00 AM Union Public House Pensacola, 309 S Reus St Pensacola, FL, 32502 We are so excited to announce our MUTTS & MIMOSAS Christmas Paw Painting Event at Union Public House! This fun Christmas paw painting event will be one to remember. Let your pup lay the foundation with their paws on the canvas and you create a PAWsterpiece to keep for every holiday season to come! www.wolfgangparkandbrews.com/event-details/ mutts-mimosas-dec-22

Christmas Tree Decorating Party

5:30 PM Al’s Market and Ice Cream, 140 S Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for a great afternoon of Merry Tidings while we decorate the GIANT AJ’s Christmas Tree with treats & all day fun! https://business.pensacolachamber.com

Evening Under the Stars

5:45 PM - 10:00 PM, Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL Big Lagoon State Park along with the Escambia Amateur Astronomer Association would like to invite you to spend an evening gazing at the skies! Clear skies permitting, members of the Association will set up telescopes and binoculars to capture views of the moon, planets, and other celestial objects. The gaze will be held at the Amphitheater, telescopes will be set up on the SE side of the parking area. www.floridastateparks.org/

2024 Sea Turtle Soiree

6:00 PM The Club at Hidden Creek, 3070 PGA Blvd Navarre, FL, 32566 Join us for the 2024 Sea Turtle Soirée, a fundraising event on December 7th, 2024, at The Club at Hidden Creek in Navarre. Step into a world of glitz, glamour, and giving back! Look no further than this upcoming charity fundraiser event that promises to be an unforgettable evening of elegance and philanthropy. https://navarre-beach-sea-turtle-conservation-center. square.site/2024seaturtlesoiree

Shining Light Players

Present A Christmas Carol The REX Theatre, 18 N Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 All the Christmas warmth and magic of Dicken’s timeless classic are neatly packaged in this imaginative adaptation. Share the mystery, the excitement and the joy with those you love as we launch the Christmas Season! 3PM, 7PM www.shininglightplayers.com/a_christmas_carol

Art Academy for Autism (Free) Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 South Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Art Academy for Autism is an arts education initiative designed for children and young adults on the autism spectrum. This monthly program focuses on nurturing artistic development and abstract thinking skills within a group environment. Our art educators believe that self expression can help students build personal connections, increase selfesteem and self-awareness, and learn a wide variety of artistic skills. There is no charge for students to attend, but pre-registration for each session is required. Maximum of 8 students per session. 10:30-11:30am: Ages 5-9, 12:30-2:00pm: Ages 10-15, 2:30-4:00pm: Ages 16+ Young Adult www.pensacolamuseum.org

Sunday December 8

Junior League Diaper Drive-up Distribution

1:00 PM - 3:00 PM, 2016 W Garden Street Pensacola, FL, 32507 The Junior League of Pensacola will be hosting a diaper drive-up distribution event on Sunday, December 8 outside the Junior League of Pensacola office. This event will take place from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm, while supplies last. https://pensacola.jl.org/community/diapers/

Monday December 9

Pensacola Mess HallHomeschool Programs

($35 members | $40 nonmembers)

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Pensacola Mess Hall, 418 E Wright St Pensacola, FL, 32502 We invite young explorers ages 7-12 to take part in our Home School Science Explorations. Students will participate in hands-on science lessons designed to foster a life-long love for science.? Dec 9 – Creative Coding, additional session Dec. 16. 877-937-6377 www.pensacolamesshall.org/

Nitro Circus

7:30 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 Come experience fearless, adventure-driven and legendary performances put on by world-class athletes and world-class daredevils! www.pensacolabaycenter.com/

Wednesday December 11

Palafox Market

4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Palafox Holiday Market, East Government St and, S Palafox St Pensacola , FL, 32502 The evening Holiday Market will be every Wednesday beginning Nov. 20 through Dec. 18. Come and support our local vendors under the beautiful holiday lights www.visitpensacola.com

Thursday December 12

Shining Light Players Present A Christmas Carol 7:00 PM The REX Theatre, 18 N Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 All the Christmas warmth and magic of Dicken’s timeless classic are neatly packaged in this imaginative adaptation. Share the mystery, the excitement and the joy with those you love as we launch the Christmas Season! 3PM, 7PM www.shininglightplayers.com/a_christmas_carol

Friday December 13

Candlelight Concert

6:15 PM First United Methodist Church - Pensacola, 6 East Wright Street Pensacola , FL, 32501 Candlelight: Holiday Special Featuring “The Nutcracker” & More www.visitpensacola.com

FamilyCalendar

Saturday December 14

Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)

10:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages. www.floridastateparks.org/

86th Annual Camellia Show & Plant Sales

1:00 PM - 4:00 PM, Jean & Paul Amos Performance Studio, 1000 College Blvd, Bldg 23 Pensacola, FL, 32502 86th Annual Camellia Show & Plant Sales pensacolacamelliaclub.com/annual-camellia-show/

Preschool Art & Storytime (Free)

2:30 PM Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 South Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us alongside the West Florida Public Libraries to engage your preschooler in story time and art. During this free event at the Pensacola Museum of Art, a librarian will read selections of similarly themed books and encourage movement and participation. Afterward, an art educator will lead parents and preschoolers in an art project related to the reading selections. For ages 2-5 years old. Capacity is limited and pre-registration is highly recommended. www.pensacolamuseum.org

Monday December 16

Pensacola Mess Hall - Homeschool Programs

($35 members | $40 nonmembers) 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Pensacola Mess Hall, 418 E Wright St Pensacola, FL, 32502 We invite young explorers ages 7-12 to take part in our Home School Science Explorations. Students will participate in hands-on science lessons designed to foster a lifelong love for science.? Class – Creative Coding 877-937-6377 www.pensacolamesshall.org/

Make-A-Wish Central and Northern Florida proudly presents “Happy Holin Days” 6:00 PM Encounter Church, 825 W Nine Mile Rd. Pensacola , FL, 32534 Musical concert featuring Holin Saucer singing songs we all cherish during the holidays! She will be accompanied by a variety of local talent, Make-A-Wish Alumni and their families, staff, Board members, friends, and family. 6pm https://wish.org/cnfl

Pensacola Little Theatre Auditions

Pensacola Little Theatre, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Auditions for Short Attention Span Theatre. Sign up online at https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/auditions www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/auditions

Tuesday December 17

Pensacola Little Theatre Auditions Pensacola Little Theatre, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Auditions for Short Attention Span Theatre. Sign up online at https://www. pensacolalittletheatre.com/ auditions www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/auditions

Wednesday December 18

Palafox Market

4:00 PM - 8:00 PM, Palafox Holiday Market, East Government St and, S Palafox St Pensacola , FL, 32502 The evening Holiday Market will be every Wednesday beginning Nov. 20 through Dec. 18. Come and support our local vendors under the beautiful holiday lights. www.visitpensacola.com

Thursday December 19

Shining Light Players Present A Christmas Carol 7:00 PM The REX Theatre, 18 N Palafox St Pensacola, FL, 32502 All the Christmas warmth and magic of Dicken’s timeless classic are neatly packaged in this imaginative adaptation. Share the mystery, the excitement and the joy with those you love as we launch the Christmas Season! 3PM, 7PM www.shininglightplayers.com/a_christmas_carol

Saturday December 21

Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)

10:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages. www.floridastateparks.org/

Evening Under the Stars

5:45 PM - 10:00 PM, Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL Big Lagoon State Park along with the Escambia Amateur Astronomer Association would like to invite you to spend an evening gazing at the skies! Clear skies permitting, members of the Association will set up telescopes and binoculars to capture views of the moon, planets, and other celestial objects. The gaze will be held at the Amphitheater, telescopes will be set up on the SE side of the parking area. www.floridastateparks.org/

Ugly Sweater Night

7:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 With a specialty ugly sweater, a visit from Santa Claus and other holiday themed experiences, there is fun to be had for the entire family www.iceflyers.com

Thursday December 26

Youth Jersey Giveaway Night Presented by The Ice Flyers Foundation

7:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 Join us the day after Christmas and make sure you’re one of the first 1,500 kids (12 and under) in the building on Youth Jersey Giveaway Night to get your very own navy giveaway jersey courtesy of The Ice Flyers Foundation. www.iceflyers.com

Saturday December 28

Flora-Bama Make It To The Line Run / Walk

9:00 AM Flora-Bama Lounge, 17401 Perdido Key Dr. Pensacola, FL, 32507 Run, jog, walk or crawl to the line at our 4-Mile Run/Walk and 1-Mile Fun Run. The First 400 participants will receive run packets that include t-shirts and other goodies. www.florabama.com/make-it-to-the-line

Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)

10:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages. www.floridastateparks.org/

Military Appreciation Night Presented By Navy Federal Credit Union

7:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 Military personnel, Active,

retired and veterans, can purchase $12 (50% Off) lower bowl tickets for their entire party in person at the Pensacola Bay Center Box Office with valid identification. www.iceflyers.com

Saturday January 4

Farm Dog Event

7:00 AM - 7:00 PM, Escambia County Equestrian Center, 7750 Mobile Hwy Pensacola , FL, 32526 Bring your friendly dogs and partake in events such as Farm Dog, ATT, Fast Cat, Fetch it, Obedience Fun Matches, and Rally Fun Matches. We will also have a shot clinic. Food Trucks will be onsite. https://www.visitpensacola.com/events/farm-dog/

Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)

10:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages.

www.floridastateparks.org/

Pensacola Mardi Gras 12th Night Celebration

5:00 PM Downtown Pensacola, Pensacola, FL The 2025 Pensacola Mardi Gras season marks the 14th year for the OFFICIAL Pensacola Mardi Gras 12th Night Celebration, and man, what a great event this has become. Enjoy a parade and New Orleans Ramblers will lead our processionals and Second Line around Jefferson Street and Government Street, As the clock strikes 12 on Twelfth Night, marking the official start of the Mardi Gras season, the tantalizing aroma of freshly baked King Cake fills the air, beckoning revelers to gather and indulge in this delicious treat. https://pensacolamardigras.com/kick-off-celebration/

Wishes presented by First Dance Ballroom

7:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 First Dance Ballroom presents and evening of dancing to your favorite songs from animated classics performed by students and local celebrities. Proceeds benefit Sunset Wildlife Connection. www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Monday January 6

Swan Lake: State Ballet of Ukraine with Live Symphony Orchestra

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Experience the world’s most in-demand ballet, “Swan Lake,” presented by Classical Arts Entertainment and performed by the State Ballet Theatre of Ukraine. www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Saturday January 11

Pensacola Beach Run Half Marathon

7:30 AM Casino Beach Parking Lot, Pensacola, FL

One of the premier destination road races in the Southeast, the Pensacola Beach Run Half Marathon & 10k is the perfect way to kick off your New Year Resolution! https://pensacolarunners.com

Beginning Birding Guided Hike (Free event with regular park entry fees)

10:00 AM Big Lagoon State Park, 12301 Gulf Beach Hwy Pensacola, FL, 32507 Big Lagoon State Park, is offering a beginning birding guided hike. This program is open to all ages.

www.floridastateparks.org/

FamilyCalendar

Pensacola Symphony Orchestra: Dress Rehearsal

1:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join the Pensacola Symphony Orchestra for a working dress rehearsal of the Beethoven & Blue Jeans program. www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Preschool Art & Storytime (Free)

2:30 PM Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 South Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us alongside the West Florida Public Libraries to engage your preschooler in story time and art. During this free event at the Pensacola Museum of Art, a librarian will read selections of similarly themed books and encourage movement and participation. Afterward, an art educator will lead parents and preschoolers in an art project related to the reading selections. For ages 2-5 years old. Capacity is limited and pre-registration is highly recommended. www.pensacolamuseum.org

Pensacola Symphony Orchestra: Beethoven & Blue Jeans

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Dress up or dress down for this annual celebration of Ludwig van Beethoven, under the baton of guest conductor Laura Jackson. This rousing Pensacola Symphony Orchestra program features the composer’s Fifth Symphony along with Gioachino Rossini’s Overture to Barber of Seville and Jimmy López Bellido’s Fiesta. www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Mardi Gras Mambo

7:30 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 This event includes traditional Mardi Gras food, drinks, and entertainment highlighted with Krewe Royalty on stage with Lil Jon and Yung Joc. The night will conclude with a performance you don’t want to miss! www.pensacolabaycenter.com/events/detail/pensacola-mardi-gras-mambo-ft-flo-rida-1

Monday January 13

Pensacola Mess Hall - Homeschool Programs

($35 members | $40 nonmembers)

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Pensacola Mess Hall, 418 E Wright St Pensacola, FL, 32502 We invite young explorers ages 7-12 to take part in our Home School Science Explorations. Students will participate in hands-on science lessons designed to foster a life-long love for science.? Jan 13 – Storm Warning, additional class January 27. 877-937-6377 www.pensacolamesshall.org/

Pensacola Little Theatre Auditions

Pensacola Little Theatre, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Auditions for The Play That Goes Wrong. Sign up online at https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/auditions www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/auditions

Tuesday January 14

Pensacola Little Theatre Auditions

Pensacola Little Theatre, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Auditions for The Play That Goes Wrong. Sign up online at https://www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/auditions www.pensacolalittletheatre.com/auditions

Wednesday January 15

Harlem Globetrotters 2025 World Tour

7:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 Your favorite Globetrotter stars

are bringing out their amazing basketball skill, outrageous athleticism, and a non-stop LOL good time. www.pensacolabaycenter.com/events/detail/harlemglobetrotters-2026

Saturday January 18

Art Academy for Autism (Free)

Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 South Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Art Academy for Autism is an arts education initiative designed for children and young adults on the autism spectrum. This monthly program focuses on nurturing artistic development and abstract thinking skills within a group environment. Our art educators believe that self expression can help students build personal connections, increase self-esteem and self-awareness, and learn a wide variety of artistic skills. There is no charge for students to attend, but pre-registration for each session is required. Maximum of 8 students per session. 10:3011:30am: Ages 5-9, 12:30-2:00pm: Ages 1015, 2:30-4:00pm: Ages 16+ Young Adult www.pensacolamuseum.org

Thursday January 23

TobyMac’s Hits Deep 2025 Tour

7:00 PM Pensacola Bay Center, 201 E. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32501 TobyMac’s Hits Deep 2025 Tour www.pensacolabaycenter.com/

Friday January 24

Pensacola Opera- The Marriage Of Figaro

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 Pensacola Opera- The Marriage Of Figaro www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Saturday January 25

Adult/Teen Workshop: Collage & Layering Techniques ($45 PMA members / $50 non-members)

12:00 PM - 3:00 PM, Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 South Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Adult/ Teen Workshop: Collage & Layering Techniques with instructor Marce Wagner. No previous experience is necessary for participating in this workshop! All materials and supplies are included. www.pensacolamuseum.org

Bootleg Ball-A Fundraiser for the UWF Historic Trust

7:00 PM Museum of Commerce, 201 East Zaragoza Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us at the Museum of Commerce to sip on martinis, talk shop in the boardroom, and mingle with fellow movers and shakers from a bygone era. www.historicpensacola.org/plan-your-visit/calendarof-events/

Saturday January 25

Cordova Mall Ball

8:00 PM Cordova Mall, Pensacola, FL Join us for the Cordova Mall Ball with a portion of the proceeds from the event going toward the Studer Family Children’s Hospital at Ascension Sacred Heart. We will be live and in-person again with music, food tastings from area restaurants, a silent auction, and more.

www.givesacredheart.org/events/cordova-mall-ball

Sunday January 26

Pensacola Opera- The Marriage Of Figaro 2:00 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Monday January 27

Pensacola Mess Hall - Homeschool Programs ($35 members | $40 nonmembers)

9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, Pensacola Mess Hall, 418 E Wright St Pensacola, FL, 32502 We invite young explorers ages 7-12 to take part in our Home School Science Explorations. Students will participate in hands-on science lessons designed to foster a lifelong love for science.? Class - Storm Warning 877-937-6377 www.pensacolamesshall.org/

Tuesday January 28

Brown Bag Opera (Free)

12:00 PM Pensacola Opera Center, 75 S. Tarragona St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Brown Bag Opera is Pensacola Opera’s lunchtime recital series! Bring your lunch to the Opera Center and enjoy a free, laid-back concert featuring the 2024-25 Jan Miller Studio Artists performing favorite aria and musical theatre pieces. Brown Bag is the perfect way to add a little music in your afternoon. www.pensacolaopera.com

Wednesday January 29

A1A Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show

7:30 PM Saenger Theatre, 118 South Palafox Place Pensacola, FL, 32502 A1A Jimmy Buffett Tribute Show www.pensacolasaenger.com/

Every Monday

Baby Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for stories, songs, and rhymes. This program is suggested for babies ages 0 to 2 years and their caregivers. 850-436-5060 www.mywfpl.com

Every Tuesday

Baby Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Tryon Library, 1200 Langley Ave. Pensacola, FL, 32504 Join us for stories, songs, and rhymes. This program is suggested for babies ages 0 to 2 years and their caregivers.

850-471-6980 www.mywfpl.com

Family Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Southwest Library, 12248 Gulf Beach Highway Pensacola, FL, 32507 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot.

850-453-7780 www.mywfpl.com

Family Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Bellview Library, 6425 Mobile Highway Pensacola, FL, 32526 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot.

850-471-6360 www.mywfpl.com

FamilyCalendar

Every Wednesday

Family Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Pensacola Library, 239 N. Spring St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot.

850-436-5060 www.mywfpl.com

Every Thursday

Family Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Westside Library, 1301 W. Gregory St. Pensacola, FL, 32502 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot. 850-595-1047 www.mywfpl.com

Family Story Time at Your Library

10:30 AM - 11:00 AM, Tryon Library, 1200 Langley Ave. Pensacola, FL, 32504 Join us for exciting stories, songs, and movement. This program is suggested for children ages 2 to 5 years and their caregivers. STEAM Story Time will happen once a month at each location during the regular story time slot.

850-471-6980 www.mywfpl.com

Every third Friday

Gallery Night

5:00 PM - 9:00 PM, Downtown Pensacola, Pensacola, FL, 32502 Gallery Night is an all-ages community arts

and culture event which happens on the third Friday of each month from 5-9 p.m. www.gallerynightpensacola.org

Every Saturday

Palafox Market

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, 100 N Palafox Street Pensacola, FL, 32502 Shop for farm-fresh produce, plants, baked goods and more at the event that’s consistently voted “Best Farmers Market” and “Best Free Thing to Do.” www.palafoxmarket.com

Every first Saturday

West Florida Genealogical Society Meeting (Free)

10:30:00 AM - 12:00:00 PM, Downtown Pensacola Library , 239 N Spring Street Pensacola , FL, 32502 WFGS is for anyone interested in genealogy and family history. A brief meeting followed by presentation. info@wfgs.org www.wfgs.org

Every first and third Saturday

Hwy 87 Market

9:00 AM - 2:00 PM, Sand Dollar Plaza, 1900 Hwy 87 Navarre, FL, 32566 Enjoy a wide variety of booths, offering food items, art, decor, and so much more. 850-368-9500 www.facebook.com/sanddollar saturdays

Every other Saturday

Art Academy for Autism

1:30 PM Pensacola Museum of Art, 407 South Jefferson St Pensacola, FL, 32502 Art Academy for Autism

is an arts education initiative designed for children and young adults on the autism spectrum. Ages 5-9-Alternating Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 p.m., Ages 10-15-Alternating Saturdays from 1:30 a.m. - 3:00 p.m.

www.pensacolamuseum.org

Last Saturday of the month

Trash-Bash

8:00 AM - 10:00 AM, Sand Crab Pavilion, Navarre, FL, 32566 The Trash-Bash is a citizenscience program for community members of all ages held the last Saturday of every month from 8:00-10:00 am. Sign in at the Sand Crab Pavilion (look for the “Giving Sea Turtles More Tomorrows” banner). There will be a limited supply of gloves, buckets and pickers-you are welcome to bring your own!

www.navarrebeachseaturtles.org

Please send your calendar events to lynn@greaterpensacolaparents.com.

Please check with each venue prior to attending the event to verify the information provided is still accurate and up to date.

Safe Tech and Social Media Gift Ideas

for Kids Ages 6-16 This Christmas

As Christmas approaches, you may face the challenge of choosing fun but also safe and beneficial gifts for your children. In a world increasingly influenced by technology, plenty of options blend enjoyment with educational value while ensuring safety. So, I compiled a quick guide to help you select safe tech and social media ideas for kids aged 6-16 this holiday season.

Educational tech toys are a great way to ease young kids into the tech world. For younger children, consider tech toys that emphasize learning through play. Here are some gifts that can provide both entertainment and education:

Osmo Genius Starter Kit: This interactive learning game combines physical play with digital learning. Kids can engage in activities that cover math, spelling, and creativity while using an iPad or Fire tablet. It’s an excellent way to develop critical skills in a fun, engaging manner.

ing them access to safer platforms designed specifically for younger audiences:

Kidzworld Membership is a moderated social network that is tailored for kids aged 9-16, allowing them to connect, chat, and share content in a safe environment. A membership can provide a fun way to interact with peers without the risks associated with mainstream platforms.

PopJam App Gift Card is another alternative. PopJam is a creative platform for kids aged 7-12, where they can share art and engage with others in a kid-friendly space. A gift card can provide them with the chance to enhance their experience on this platform.

LEGO Boost Creative Toolbox combines the beloved LEGO building blocks with coding. This kit allows children to build and program robots and models. It’s a perfect blend of creativity and STEM learning, encouraging problem-solving and engineering skills.

Scribblenaut is another fun game for elementary school-age kids (adults can join in the fun, too!). The game involves creativity, learning, and spelling.

If we talk tech, we must talk about Safe Social Media Alternatives. If your child is ready to explore social media, consider gift-

It is also important that we explore safe phone alternatives. If you are hesitant about giving your child a smartphone, consider some safer alternatives that facilitate communication without the risks associated with full-fledged devices:

The Gabb Phone allows for calling and texting but does not have internet access or social media capabilities. It’s an excellent option for parents wanting to keep their children connected without exposing them to the distractions and dangers of smart devices.

A Relay Device is a screen-free communication device that works like a walkie-talkie. Kids can send voice messages to family members, making it a fun way to stay in touch without the complications of smartphones! Some of my best memories are of my brother and I running around with walkie-talkies we got for Christmas!

Gifts that encourage STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) learning can be both enjoyable and educational.

Consider the Kano Computer Kit. This DIY computer kit allows kids to build their own computer and learn coding through fun projects. It’s suitable for ages six and up, making tech learning accessible and engaging.

For older kids and teens interested in coding, a Raspberry Pi offers endless possibilities for building and programming projects. This gift can spark a lifelong interest in technology and programming.

Last but not least, don’t forget parental control devices and apps. Gifts like Circle Home Plus allow parents to manage screen time, filter content, and monitor usage across all connected devices in the home. Remember the router options are available. Gryphon is a great one to consider. The good news is that many of these routers, toys, and apps have sales between now and Christmas so that you can snag a good deal.

Remember, the goal is to create a balanced relationship with technology—one that fosters learning and connection while minimizing risks. Happy holiday shopping!

Kristi Bush serves as a national education consultant and social media safety advocate.

She is a licensed social worker with greater than 15 years of clinical practice and health care experience. She attended Troy and Auburn University where she studied social work and counseling. Kristi travels nationally and has spoken with thousands of children, parents, professionals and organizations about the benefits and threats associated with social media. You may reach Kristi through her website at www.knbcommunications.com.