Journey
PROGRAM THREE | DECEMBER 20 – 21, 2024
Sarasota Opera House
Sir Frederick Ashton’s Les Patineurs
George Balanchine’s Rubies
Sir David Bintley’s
The Spider’s Feast (World Premiere)
Venice Performing Arts Center
December 13 - 14, 2024
Accompanied by the Venice Symphony
Sarasota Opera House
December 22 - 23, 2024
The Sarasota Ballet in Sir Peter David Bintley’s The Spider’s Feast | Photo by Frank Atura
Dylan
Queering the Season
BenDeLaCreme
and Jinkx Monsoon’s
holiday show brings joy ‘where it’s needed’
Ryan Williams-Jent
Jinkx Monsoon and BenDeLaCreme are both powerhouse performers, something audiences around the world have known about the drag icons for over a decade. Monsoon won the fifth season of “RuPaul’s Drag Race” in 2013 and was subsequently crowned “Queen of all Queens” in 2022 in its all-winners spinoff, and DeLa is also no stranger to making “Drag Race” herstory herself.
She made her debut in its sixth season, winning Miss Congeniality, and was largely seen as a frontrunner on “All Stars” season three. Instead of securing a crown, however, she eliminated herself rather than a competitor.
In recent years Monsoon has featured on and Off-Broadway, securing significant roles in “Chicago” and “Little Shop of Horrors,” and appeared on Disney+'s “Doctor Who.” DeLa has also become an in-demand director, something evident in “The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show.”
Co-created and co-written by Monsoon and DeLa, and separate from their film “The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Special,” the latter has directed the tour since its inception. It returns for its sixth iteration this holiday season.
“As another year defiantly slaps the ‘well at least it can’t get any worse’ out of our mouths, we need ways not just to cope, but to gather strength,” DeLa announced the 18+ tour, which stops at Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center Nov. 13 and Clearwater’s Ruth Eckerd Hall Nov. 14.
“Are there any tools greater than comedy, sequins and song? Yeah, absolutely. But those are the gifts Jinkx and I have to share, and we hope you’ll share them with us,” she continued. “All the lights and songs and trappings of the holidays were created to help get us through the coldest, darkest part of the year … In a world that feels increasingly dark, please come make some light with us. We will gladly share our warmth.”
“I seriously can’t believe it’s the holidays again already,” Monsoon added. “Who has time to plan festivities when the world is bananas? What are we supposed to do when everything feels so chaotic?
“Well, what DeLa and I do is put on a show,” she continued. “The holidays are upon us whether we like it or not, but the Jinkx and DeLa team are well equipped to bring you the holiday cheer and warm feeling of community we all need in the harsh winter months.”
Watermark got into the holiday spirit with Jinkx and DeLa ahead of time. The duo discussed their latest holiday tour, why they’re intentionally bringing it to Florida and more.
WATERMARK:
HOW WAS THIS YEAR’S SHOW CONCEIVED?
DeLa: That’s oftentimes our question too! Like, we’ve done SO MUCH with these shows in seven years… What can we do next? Every single year we seem to find ways to get wilder and more ambitious, and part of that is just that we’ve already run through all the most obvious Christmas tropes, so we’ve gotta get weird! This one is in some ways a whole new direction ... it’s influenced by both the madness in the world around us and our insistence that we can find joy within it. So we batted around a bunch of our thoughts about the world today, found another classic holiday story we could turn on its head, peppered in some of the incredible music 2024 has gifted us and a few original ditties, and we got ourselves a show!
WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR MAJOR TAKEAWAYS FROM PREVIOUS ITERATIONS OF THE SHOW?
Jinkx: I think what I appreciate the most about our production is its authenticity: it is a show by queer people, for queer people and allies — performed and designed and crewed and promoted and written and directed by — you guessed it: queer people. I think it sends a clear message to the more exploitative business people out there, who have taken advantage of queer performers. I like that we are able to create the work and working environment we both desire and hope to foster.
WHY IS THIS YEAR’S SHOW A MUST-SEE FOR THOSE WHO HAVE SEEN PREVIOUS VERSIONS?
DeLa: It's got everything you expect from Jinkx and DeLa — all-new costumes and visuals, all-new comedy, all-new music, all-new dance … but this year we’re tackling our most narratively
dense show yet. No one has seen us do an “epic quest” quite like this. And we’re messing with a holiday classic we’ve never touched before. We’ve run through most of 'em, so that means we were saving this one for something good. But our bottom line is always creating something cathartic and hilarious and joyous. And every year we need that more than the last.
WHY IS IT A MUST-SEE FOR THOSE WHO HAVEN’T, OR DON’T ATTEND A LOT OF HOLIDAY SHOWS?
Jinkx: We are the holiday show for everyone, and I mean everyone, as you don't even have to like the winter holiday season to enjoy our show — in fact, I prefer it!
DELA, WHAT ARE SOME OF THE CHALLENGING AND REWARDING PARTS OF DIRECTING THE SHOW?
DeLa: The most challenging part is it’s just a BEAST. Being the director, producer, and co-writer gets especially wild when you’re grassroots the way we are. In the last two days I have had multiple meetings with my co-producers, our PR team, three costume designers, one puppet maker, a composer, a music producer, a set designer, my lighting designer, my director of photography, my dancers and my choreographer. I have sent out casting notices for a video shoot, storyboarded two videos, sketched multiple costume designs, and prop mock-ups, and then emergency speeddriven to find last minute replacement fabric and run it to FedEx JUST in time to overnight ship it to Chicago. And that’s between Jinkx and I writing multiple songs and pages of dialogue. So that’s the most challenging part, but it’s also the most rewarding part. Because I get to collaborate with all these brilliant people who trust me enough to want to work that hard with me, because they believe in what we are making.
I like getting to be the person pulling together all that creative genius into one cohesive thing, and I can make it through this hard part because I know what it is like to be on that stage with those incredible audiences freaking’ out. Jinkx and I and the entire team get to feel all the appreciation for all the hours we put in. And I get to share that with the people I work with who are also my chosen family.
JINKX, HAS YOUR OTHER WORK IMPACTED HOW YOU APPROACH TOURING?
Jinkx: I think everything impacts the next thing — you never know when one skill set might apply to the other. That's what I love about being an artist — anything can find its way into the work if you're clever. I have learned that my life in live entertainment has greatly impacted my skills and attributes as a film/ camera actor, and vice versa, because at the end of the day, it's all about the same thing: having authentic, genuine conversations with the audience and fellow performers.
YOU’RE CO-FOUNDERS OF DRAG PAC, WHICH FIGHTS TO PROTECT LGBTQ+ RIGHTS. WHY WAS BEING A PART OF IT IMPORTANT TO YOU?
DeLa: Political action and drag go hand-inhand ... political action and just being queer go hand-in-hand. Or being a member of any marginalized community and not hiding. Our bodies and our presence in the world are politicized no matter what, so damn right we’re going to be in charge of it. There is a lot of change that needs to happen in this country and DragPAC’s mission is to empower people to make that change. It’s not happening unless we all MAKE it happen. I’m just grateful that I can apply the skill sets I have to maybe motivate people, and to remind them we ALL have our own unique skills we can use in this fight.
Jinkx: I believe firmly in people being educated in the truth — not a warped, twisted version of the truth, that fits a very hateful, narrow-minded, bigoted narrative. My hope is to encourage the younger generation to look into the actual facts — the actual plans of the politicians making our laws. I believe that there is a lot of work to be done in our government, but most immediately, our civil liberties and long held American ideals are being threatened by a party that wishes to replace democracy with a religious based fascist regime. While I want people to decide for themselves — I want to help present them with the hard truths of what [elections mean] for our freedom as a society, and our ability to protest, dissent, and hold our government accountable in the future.
YOU’LL BE VISITING FLORIDA AND OTHER STATES KNOWN FOR PASSING ANTILGBTQ+ LAWS. WHY IS THAT IMPORTANT TO YOU?
Jinkx: It's important to me as a trans person who has experienced a lot of safety and comfort, based on my geography. It honestly makes me so upset that there are many trans individuals hurting right now, because they are being affected by bigoted laws already implemented by their city or state. I hate that one's agency over their own body; when it comes to their reproductive rights, or their gender expression, etc., that their freedom is determined by their geography in this country — a country that boasts a fair and equal standard of living for all of its citizens, but has never once delivered on that promise. I bring this show to those places to try to share some hope and enthusiasm for queer communities that are surrounded by negativity.
DeLa: This is a dark scary time for all of us, but it’s closer to some people’s doorsteps, and it is important they know that we’re with them, even if we’re not always there physically. Year after year we’re bummed we can’t get everywhere — there are only so many days in the holiday season. But this year we knew there were certain places we needed to be even if it meant missing some others. This show is about joy and laughter and hope, and we’re taking it where it’s needed.
WHAT MESSAGE DO YOU HAVE FOR YOUR LGBTQ+ FANS HERE IN FLORIDA?
Jinkx: I won't give up or stop using my voice to speak out for our community — so long as our rights and freedoms are threatened, anywhere.
Jinkx Monsoon and BenDeLaCreme will bring “The Jinkx and DeLa Holiday Show” to Orlando’s Dr. Phillips Center Nov. 13 and Clearwater’s Ruth Eckerd Hall Nov. 14. For more information and to purchase tickets and/or VIP experiences, visit JinkxAndDela. com. Watch “The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Special” at JinkxAndDeLaMovie.com.
Photo by Jacob Ritts
Photo by Jacob Ritts
From vibrant and ornate to intimate and serene, CityArts Orlando is a venue that provides a unique, delightful, and inspiring experience for its visitors.
Indoor/Outdoor Space for up to 80 people.
SIX INDIVIDUAL ART GALLERIES | CAFE SPACE | COURTYARD
VENUE AMENITIES
• (12) 60’’ round reception tables seating 8 guests comfortably per table
• Reduced rate garage parking one block from the building
• Flexible room configuration to suit large or small groups
• (80) Black resin chairs
• (8) 6’ tables
• (7) cocktail tables
• One event coordinator will work closely with the client to ensure that the event proceeds smoothly and efficiently
To Gift & To Get
With the holiday season upon us, it is that time of year for exchanging gifts with your family and friends. Getting them something special and hopefully getting something special in return isn't the biggest part of what the holidays are all about but, if we are being honest, it is one of the best parts.
Every year, we ask the folks here at Watermark to write their letters to Santa and say what they would like to get each holiday season. But again, we also recognize the joy in giving as well, so we are changing things up a bit this year. Along with asking each person what they would like to get, one gift under $50 and one gift over that amount, we also asked them to suggest a charity or nonprofit organization that they would recommend donating to in honor of the holiday season.
No matter how you choose to celebrate this holiday season, we hope you have a wonderful and safe time, and hopefully can take a few moments to give, either monetarily or with your time, to some of these amazing organizations.
Rick Todd Publisher/Owner
For my gift under $50 I have chosen two. To know me is to know I LOVE charcuterie. I found these two gems at ZaZoo’d, located at 631 Central Ave. in St Petersburg. They are the Cardboard Book - Charcuterie Essentials Set and Cardboard Book - Charcuterie Spreaders. Together they cost $49.98 and are the perfect addition to my charcuterie addiction. You can check them out at GetZaZood.com.
For my over $50 gift I would like the AKASO Mini Projector, Pocket-Sized DLP Portable Projector, 1080P Cookie Projector. My husband and I are upping our cookie-making game and this will go a long way to help me improve my cookie and cake decorating skills. It is currently $239.99 on Amazon.com.
A nonprofit I would like to draw attention
to is PFLAG. They have chapters in both Central Florida and Tampa Bay. They work to help change attitudes and create an environment of understanding so that our LGBTQ+ family members and friends can live in a world that is safe and inclusive. I picked them because they are often overlooked, and any donation size can make a huge difference to their organizations. Find out more at PFLAG.org.
Jeremy Williams Editor-in-Chief
Hey Big Guy,
Another year almost over and it is time to tell you how good I have been and see if you will be ever so kind and bring me what I ask for this holiday season.
This past year has been a bit of a chaotic one so I’d like something to help me see into the future so I can be prepared for what next year brings. I think I can do that with a deck of tarot cards from Avalon, located at 1211 Hillcrest St. in Orlando. But not just any tarot deck will do.
This ‘90s kid wants the “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” tarot deck and guidebook for $27.99.
If you’re looking to spend a little more than $50 on me, I have
been looking at upgrading my current Microsoft Surface to a Surface Laptop. Specifically, I am looking at the 15-inch, black Surface Laptop Copilot + PC with the Snapdragon X Elite 12 core processer, 64GB RAM and 1 TB SSD. It will only set you back $2,499.99 and you can get it at Microsoft.com.
If you are able and willing to help out a nonprofit this season, I cannot recommend enough that you donate to the Contigo Fund. It is a nonprofit, philanthropic group that was born out of the Pulse tragedy. They are an organization focused on giving a voice to LGBTQ+ and Latinx individuals, immigrants and communities of color by providing grants and funding to other local community organizations, meaning your one donation goes toward helping many groups. Learn more about Contigo Fund’s work at ContigoFund.org.
Ryan Williams-Jent
Managing Editor
I love T-shirts with a message — the bolder the better — and some of my favorites have been from Wide Sky in St. Petersburg. Celebrating a decade of business this year, the “ultimate destination for quirky local designs and high-quality custom screen-printing services” has become a Tampa Bay staple. A medium “St. Pete Pride Pelican” shirt, which sells for $28, would be a great way to celebrate the holidays this
year. Its available at WideSkyLife.com or at the St. Pete Pier, near the end of the marketplace. I’ve also got my eyes set on the X-Mansion from LEGO, a Marvel must-have for any longtime “X-Men” fan like me. At 3,093 pieces, it’s sure to keep me busy for a good chunk of the holiday season — which happens to include my
40th birthday in December. I'm happy to say that's well within LEGO’s suggested age range of 4-99. You can get it at LEGO.com at a cost of $329.99.
There’s no shortage of incredible nonprofits worthy of our support, but one that comes to mind for me is TransNetwork. It’s my belief that in our ever-expanding LGBTQ+ community, no one needs our support more than our trans siblings — and that’s something the organization understands from firsthand experience. TransNetwork launched in 2023 to help build “a future where everyone can live authentically and freely, regardless of their gender identity.” I hope that’s something everyone can get behind, before, during and after the holiday season. Learn more at MyTransNetwork.org.
Dylan Todd Creative Designer/Photographer
I love traveling, even if it's just between Tampa Bay and Central Florida. With all that travel, a nice backpack that I can fit my laptop and a few necessities in seems like something I should already have. Something like this faux leather bag I found on Amazon.com. It’s currently on sale for $38.99.
and textures that can really elevate a simple look. Don't mind me, I'm going through winter focusing on a hot guy summer in 2025! I wouldn’t mind picking out my own wardrobe but you can get an Atlas Body and Home gift card at linktr.ee/ AtlasBodyAndHome.
To go in my bag would be a new outfit or cute little bathing suit from St. Pete's very own Atlas Body and Home, located at 919 Central Ave. in St. Petersburg. They have a ton of unique patterns, textiles
If you are feeling charitable, I'd recommend donating to Diversity Arts, Inc., a nonprofit in Tampa Bay which aims to support underserved youth and communities by providing safe environments, guidance and materials for creative self-discovery, expression and socio-cultural interaction through art. Find out more at CreativePinellas.org/Place/ Diversity-Arts.
Caitlin Sause
Creative Designer
Dear Santa,
I am staying hopeful that even though I don't have a chimney I'll still find something from you under my tree this year.
For my first gift idea, I’m thinking locally. I am in the process of expanding my record
collection and Park Avenue CDs, located at 2916 Corrine Dr. in Orlando, has a copy of my favorite singer's debut album, “The Family Jewels” by Marina and the Diamonds. It’s only $24.98. You can check out what other records they have at ParkAveCDs.com.
Thinking of practicality, I am not a purse girl
— try as I might — so I have a keychain wallet and while it is so convenient it could use an upgrade. I've got my eyes on the Ridge wallet in tobacco brown leather. They are going for $125 at Ridge.com right now.
To give this year, I would love to highlight a local Orlando nonprofit — The Animal League Central Florida Humane Society. As an animal
softy I’ll be donating here this season, and you can too by going to TheAnimalLeague.org.
Danny Garcia Sales Director
For those who know me, it's no secret that purple is my favorite color. That’s why I work at Watermark, where purple is our prominent color. I also adore Skeletor, the sassiest villain from “Masters of the Universe,” with his blue-hued skin, yellow skull face and purple accessories —everything from his leather harness and hood to even his feline companion. Skeletor also wields a Purple Havoc Staff and Purple Power Sword, and for my gift, I’d love to have my own! Yes, it’s a bit over the $50 price limit at $59.99, but the Masters of the Universe Skeletor (Purple) BBTS 25th Anniversary
Exclusive LARP Stunt Replica Sword is the perfect gift for me to rule over Eternia! You can pick one up at BigBadToyStore.com. Earlier this year, I lost my miniature pinscher, Matilda, who was a part of my family for 16 wonderful years. Matilda came to me from a breeder in Costa Rica, found by my brother and brought to me as a Christmas gift many years ago. She was one of the sweetest dogs and even as she grew older and became a bit ornery, I loved her just the same. While I’m not quite ready yet, I’d like to continue my min-pin tradition and am asking for a min-pin puppy in the new year. I do believe in fostering and adopting — I’ve done so with my cat — but I’d really love another purebred min-pin. Min-pin puppies start at $900 at Puppies.com. Regarding giving a gift, I'd recommend we all give to our local LGBTQ+ centers. In Central Florida, I'm asking for a gift to the LGBT+ Center Orlando.
As someone who has visited The Center for social groups as a young queer teen to presently being the board president as an adult, I’ve seen firsthand the vital work The Center provides — from testing and the food pantry to education and mental health counseling. These programs rely on the hard work of staff, volunteers and the generosity of our community. Give however you can, whether it’s financially or by volunteering your time! You can give by going to TheCenterOrlando.org.
Daisy Chamberlin Account Manager
Dear Mr. Claus,
I hope you're doing well at the North Pole! I’ve been extra good this year, helping around the house, doing my homework and being kind to others. For Christmas, I would love to get a PlayStation 5, starting at $449.00. I’ve heard it’s amazing with super cool games and
graphics. I know you pick one up at Cybertron Video Games, located at 6732 Aloma Ave. in Winter Park. They can also be found online at
CybertronGames.com.
Speaking of gaming, I’ve also been eyeing “Hades 2” on Steam, so if you could throw in a $30 steam gift card — available at SteamPowered.com — in my stocking it would be much appreciated. I promise to share the PlayStation with my family and friends and keep being good next year too! Thank you for all the
joy you bring each Christmas. I’ll make sure to leave some cookies and milk for you and carrots for the reindeer.
If you are looking to give back this season, Liberation Cat House is a compassionate nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing at-risk cats and kittens in the Central Florida region through fostering. Their mission is to provide care for sick, injured or medically vulnerable felines, offering them a safe haven until they are healthy and ready to find permanent, loving homes. The organization relies on the generosity of animal lovers to continue its lifesaving work. I encourage our friends and family who have the means to support this crucial organization, especially during this giving season, to help ensure these vulnerable animals get the second chance they deserve at a happy life. Learn more at LiberationCatHouse.com.
Happy Holidays!
Dishing with Ginger Minj
Hey,
fam, it’s Ginger wishing y’all a Very Merry Minjmas and a Happy New Queer! I love a Holiday spread full of fabulous foods, especially new takes on old faves. Turkeys, carbs and sweets … OH MY! Put on your stretchy pants and switch things up this season with some of my favorite recipes! They’re sweet, they’re savory, they’re so good they’ll make your granny proud!
Granny's Basic Mac N/ Cheese:
INGREDIENTS:
2 cups of uncooked elbow macaroni
1/3 cup of milk
1/3 cup sour cream
16 oz block prepared cheese like Velveeta
2 tbsp iodized salt
2 tbsp black pepper
2 tbsp salted butter
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
Put a pot of water on high to boil.
Season water with 1 tbsp salt, 1 tbsp pepper.
Cut prepared cheese block into cubes.
Warm your milk.
Add macaroni to the rapidly boiling water. Cook until al dente. Drain cooked pasta into colander. DO NOT RINSE.
Pour drained, cooked pasta back into the pot. Add butter to the hot pasta. Mix until melted. Return the pot of buttery pasta to the stove on a low, simmering heat.
Add cheese cubes, warm milk, 1 tbsp salt, 1 tbsp black pepper, and 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper. Mix until melted. Add sour cream, mixing until creamy and blended. Allow to sit for a few minutes to set up. Or don’t—it’s your call! Just enjoy it!
CeeJay's Seriously Good Turkey Rub:
This rub works best on a standard 15-20 lb turkey. INGREDIENTS:
4-5 sticks unsalted butter, room temperature
1/2 cup room temperature chicken or vegetable stock
1 cup dry white wine
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
2 tablespoons chopped garlic
1/2 tablespoons granulated garlic
1/2 tablespoons granulated onion
1/2 tablespoon salt
1/2 tablespoon white pepper
Add butter into a stand mixer with paddle attachment. If you don’t have a stand mixer, a standard hand mixer will do. Add stock slowly until incorporated, then add stock until incorporated. Mixture will look broken, but that's okay. Next add all the dry ingredients into the mixture. Mix until incorporated.
Loosen the skin around the meat of your bird. To do this, gently slide your fingers between the skin and meat, being careful not to pierce the skin. Next, cover the bird with your mixture. Make sure to place some of the mix under the skin of your bird. If you have any left, add to the cavity of the bird.
Cook your turkey according to the instructions on the packaging. Make sure you baste your bird every 30 minutes to ensure it remains moist.
Aunt Glenda Faye’s Famous Fruit Salad:
This recipe freezes well if you leave out the bananas.
INGREDIENTS:
2 apples, chopped
2 oranges, segmented
3 bananas, sliced
1 cup green grapes, sliced
1 cup red grapes, sliced
1 small can maraschino cherries, drained (Keep the juice!)
1 small can of crushed pineapple, drained (Keep the juice!)
1 1/2 cup mini marshmallows
1/2 cup sweetened coconut flakes
1 large egg
1 cup sugar
Whip together the egg, sugar, and juices from the cherries and pineapple until combined and frothy, then cook 3 to 5 minutes.
While your mixture is cooking, combine all of the fruits, marshmallows and coconut flakes into a large bowl and mix well, taking care not to bruise the fruit. Pour your cooked mixture over the fruit, toss with care, and immediately refrigerate for at least as hour.
You can find more recipes from Ginger Minj in her cookbook/memoir, "Southern Fried Sass: A Queen's Guide to Cooking, Decorating, and Living Just a Little Extra," available wherever books are sold.
ONTHEMAINSTAGE
February 7 + 9, 2025
February 7 + 9, 2025
Steinmetz Hall
Steinmetz Hall
4 performances
4 performances
December 6-8, 2024
December 6-8, 2024
Alexis + Jim Pugh Theater
Alexis + Jim Pugh Theater
Holiday Events
The holidays are all about spending time with the ones you love and creating lasting memories, and some of the best memories are those spent out and about town seeing a show, attending a concert or taking in all of the lights and decorations. We have gathered together quite a few local events that are happening throughout the holiday season for you to check out and make those memories. So while you are decorating the house, buying gifts and picking up relatives from the airport, be sure to take some time and enjoy some of these seasonal offerings with your friends and family.
Central Florida
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, select days Nov. 8-Dec. 20, Magic Kingdom, Walt Disney World. 407-9395277; DisneyWorld.Disney. Go.com
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, select days Nov. 8-Jan. 2, SeaWorld, Orlando. 407-545-5550; SeaWorld.com/ Orlando
"Wreck the Halls," Nov. 15Dec. 21, Winter Park Playhouse, Winter Park. 407-645-0145; WinterParkPlayhouse.org
ICE! featuring "Elf," Nov. 15-Jan. 4, Gaylord Palms Resort, Kissimmee. 407-586-0000; GaylordPalms.com
3rd Annual Merry Navidad in St. Cloud, Nov. 16, Downtown Historic District, St. Cloud. 407-892-3671; DowntownSaintCloud.org
Festival of Trees: Let the Joy of the Season Shine, Nov. 16-24, Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando. 407-896-4231; OMArt.org
Holidays at Universal Orlando, Nov. 22-Dec. 31, Universal, Orlando. 407-2244233; UniversalOrlando.com
"A Christmas Carol," Nov. 22-Dec. 15, Athens Theatre, DeLand. 386-736-1500; AthensDeLand.com
"A Christmas Story," Nov. 22-Dec. 15, Heneger Center, Melbourne. 321-723-8698; HenegerCenter.com
Central Florida Ballet presents "A Christmas Nutcracker Tale," Nov. 22-23, Dr. Phillips Center's Steinmetz Hall, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Colorful Christmas, Nov. 23-Jan. 5, Crayola Experience, Orlando. 407-757-1700; CrayolaExperience.com/Orlando
UCF Knights Season of Joy, Nov. 25, Dr. Phillips Center's Steinmetz Hall, Orlando. 407358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
A Celtic Christmas, Nov. 26, Dr. Phillips Center's Walt Disney Theater, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
"A Christmas Carol," Nov. 27-Dec. 22, Orlando Shakes, Orlando. 407-447-1700; OrlandoShakes.org
"A Christmas Story," Nov. 27Dec. 22, Theater Winter Haven, Winter Haven. 863-294-7469; TheaterWinterHaven.com
"Elf" in Concert, Nov. 29, Dr. Phillips Center's Walt Disney Theater, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Candlelight Processional, Nov. 29-Dec. 30, Epcot, Walt Disney World. 407-939-5277; DisneyWorld.Disney.go.com
Dazzling Lights, Nov. 29Jan. 5, Harry P. Leu Gardens, Orlando. 407-246-2620; DazzlingOrlando.com
Home For the Holidays, Nov. 30, Dr. Phillips Center's Steinmetz Hall, Orlando. 407896-6700; OrlandoPhil.org
"Clare and the Chocolate Nutcracker," Nov. 30, Dr. Phillips Center's Walt Disney Theater, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Light Up Sanford Tree Lighting Ceremony, Dec. 1, Magnolia Square, Sanford. 407688-5000; SanfordFL.gov
Derek Hough in Dance for the Holidays, Dec. 3, Dr. Phillips Center's Walt Disney Theater, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Christmas in the Park, Dec. 5, Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, Orlando. 407-645-5311; MorseMuseum.org
Orlando Tree Lighting Ceremony, Dec. 6, Lake Eola Park, Orlando. 407-246-2555; DowntownOrlando.com
Orlando Ballet presents "The Nutcracker," Dec. 6-22, Dr. Phillips Center's Steinmetz Hall, Orlando. 407-436-1733; OrlandoBallet.org
"A 1940's Radio Christmas Carol," Dec. 6-22, Osceola Arts, Kissimmee. 407-846-4643; OsceolaArts.org
Winter Wonderland, Dec. 7, Winter Aprings Town Center, Winter Springs. 407-327-1800; WinterSpringsFL.org
Cirque Mechanics Winter Wonder Shoppe, Dec. 12-29, Seneff Arts Plaza, Orlando. 407358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Christmas in the Park, Dec. 13, Eddie Lee Taylor Community Center, Melbourne. 321-6087450; VisitSpaceCoast.com
"A Christmas Story" a Youth Theater Production, Dec. 13-15, Dr. Phillips Center's Alexis & Jim Pugh Theater, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Sleigh - It's Actually Christmas!, Dec. 13-22, Orlando Shakes, Orlando. 407447-1700; OrlandoShakes.org
Violectric Holiday Show, Dec. 14, Lake Eola Amphitheater at Lake Eola Park, Orlando. 407246-2555; DowntownOrlando. com
Christkindlmarkt (German Christmas Market), Dec. 14-15, Luminary Green Park, Orlando. 407-246-2555; DowntownOrlando.com
Holiday Brunch w/ Michael Andrew, Dec. 15, Judson Live, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Orlando Gay Chorus' "Merry Everything: The Gayest Time of the Year," Dec. 18, The Ritz Theater, Sanford. 407-321-8111; RitzTheaterSanford.com
Phantasmagoria's Victorian Haunted Holidays, Dec. 19, The Ritz Theater, Sanford. 407321-8111; RitzTheaterSanford. com
Holiday Heartstrings: A CeCe Teneal Experience, Dec. 19-20, Judson Live, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Holidays in Space 2024, Dec. 20-30, Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex, Merritt Island. 855-433-4210; KennedySpaceCenter.com
Tampa Bay
“Holidays in the Sunshine City,” Through Jan. 2025, Locations vary, St. Petersburg. 727-893-7441; StPeteParksRec. org/HolidayEvents
“How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical,” Nov. 12-17, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org
“A Christmas Carol” with Gerald Dickens, Nov. 13, Arthur Murray, Clearwater. 727-203-4919; ArathurMurrayClearwater.com
“The Jinkx & DeLa Holiday Show,” Nov. 14, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727-791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com
Christmas Town, Nov. 15-Jan. 5, Busch Gardens, Tampa. 813884-4386; Busch Gardens.com/ Tampa
14th Annual Ybor City Tree Lighting, Nov. 20, Ybor City. 813-248-3712; Ybor.org
Winter Village, Nov. 22-Jan. 5, Curtis Hixon Park, Tampa. WinterVillageTampa.com
Tampa Bay Holiday Market, Nov. 23-24, St. Petersburg Coliseum, St. Petersburg. 727-893-8523; TampaBayHolidayMarket.com
93.3 FLZ’s Jingle Ball ft. Niall Horan, Teddy Swims & more, Nov. 26, Amalie Arena, Tampa. 933FLZ.com/JingleBall
Riverwalk Holiday Spectacular, Nov. 26-Jan. 8, Tampa Riverwalk, Tampa. 813221-1539; TheTampaRiverwalk. com
Tampa Bay's Festival of Lights & Santa's Village, Select nights Nov. 28-Dec. 29, Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, Brandon. 813-7373247; HillsboroughCountyFair. com
Holiday Lights & Carnival Rides, Nov. 28-Dec. 29, Central Park, Largo. 727-587-6720; PlayLargo.com
“The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical,” Nov. 29-Dec. 22, Stageworks Theater, Tampa. 813374-2416; StageworksTheatre. org
Christmas in the Wild, Select Nights Nov. 29-Dec. 23, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, Tampa. 813-395-8552; ZooTampa.org
Holiday Lights in the Gardens 2024, Nov. 29Jan. 4, Florida Botanical Gardens, Largo. 727-5822117; FLBGFoundation.org/ HolidayLights
“Dave Koz and Friends Christmas Tour 2024,” Nov. 30, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727-791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com
Shopapalooza Festival, Nov. 30-Dec. 1, Vinoy Park, St. Petersburg. 727-322-5217; Shopapalooza.com
Pentatonix: “Hallelujah! It’s A Christmas Tour,” Dec. 3, Amalie Arena, Tampa. 813-3016500; AmalieArena.com
Preservation Hall Jazz Band: “Creole Christmas,” Dec. 3, Nancy & David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre, Clearwater. 727791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com
Derek Hough: “Dance For The Holidays,” Dec. 4, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com
“Christmas with C.S. Lewis,” Dec. 5-6, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org
“It’s A Wonderful Life: A Radio Play,” Dec. 5-23, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org
St Pete Pride’s Red & Green Fundraiser, Dec. 7, Sunken Gardens, St. Petersburg. 727-342-0084; StPetePride.org
Holiday Village, Dec. 7, Carrollwood Village Park, Tampa. 813-922-8167; CarrollwoodCenter.org
Dunedin Holiday Boat Parade & Tree Lighting, Dec. 7, Municipal Marina, Dunedin. 727-298-3000; Dunedin.gov
Holiday Succulent Wreath Workshop, Dec. 12, Cigar City Brewing, Tampa. 813-348-6363; CigarCityBrewing.com
The Polar Express Experience, Dec. 13, The BayCare Sound, Clearwater. 727791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com
Santa's Scientific Workshop, Dec. 14, MOSI, Tampa. 813-987-6000; MOSI. org
Trans-Siberian Orchestra:
“The Lost Christmas Eve Tour,” Dec. 15, Amalie Arena, Tampa. 813-301-6500; AmalieArena.com
Debbie Gibson: “Winterlicious Tour,” Dec. 15, Nancy & David Bilheimer Capitol Theatre, Clearwater. 727791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com
The Florida Orchestra: “Holiday Pops,” Dec. 20-22, Multiple venues, Tampa Bay. 727892-3331; FloridaOrchestra.org
Next Generation Ballet: “The Nutcracker,” Dec. 21, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-2297827; StrazCenter.org
“Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland,” Dec. 21, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade, Dec. 21, Pirate Water Taxi Stop, Tampa. 813-2237999; PirateWaterTaxi.com
“A Christmas Carol,” Dec. 23, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727-791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com
“Cirque Dreams: Holidaze,” Dec. 26-27, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org
“A Drag Queen Christmas” 10th Anniversary Tour, Dec. 28, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-2297827; StrazCenter.org
Business Directory
ARTS &
ENTERTAINMENT
THE CIRCUS ARTS CONSERVATORY 941-355-9805 CircusArts.org
CLERMONT PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
352-394-4800
ClermontPerformingArts.com
DUKE ENERGY CENTER FOR THE ARTS –MAHAFFEY THEATER 727-892-5767 TheMahaffey.com
FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE 941-366-9000
FloridaStudioTheatre.org
MAXWELL C. KING CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS 321-242-2219 KingCenter.com
OPERA ORLANDO 407-512-1900 OperaOrlando.org
ORLANDO FAMILY STAGE 407-896-7365 OrlandoFamilyStage.com
ORLANDO PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA 407-770-0071 OrlandoPhil.org
ORLANDO SHAKES 407-447-1700 OrlandoShakes.org
SARASOTA BALLET 941-359-0099 SarasotaBallet.org
THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA 727-892-3331 FloridaOrchestra.org
EVENTS AND FESTIVALS
ORLANDO INTERNATIONAL FRINGE FESTIVAL – FESTN4 OrlandoFringe.org
MILK MART
MilkMartOrlando.com
FAITH ORGANIZATION
ST. LUKES UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 407-876-4981
St.Lukes.org
FOOD + DRINK
BELLABRAVA 727-895-5515
BellaBravaStPete.com
STILLWATERS TAVERN 727-350-1019 StillwatersTavern.com
HEALTH & BEAUTY
CAN COMMUNITY HEALTH CANCommunityHealth.org
MOVING & STORAGE
1776 MOVING AND STORANGE, INC. 407-251-4770 1776Moving.com
MENTAL HEALTH COUNSELING
HUMANS HELPING HUMANS COUNSELING 813-563-9147
HumansHelpingHumansCounseling. com
MUSEUMS
CITYARTS 407-648-7060
DowntownArtsDistrict.com/CityArts
HENRY B. PLANT MUSEUM 813-254-1891 PlantMuseum.com
ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER 407-514-2000 OSC.org
THE JAMES MUSEUM OF WESTERN & WIDLIFE ART 727-892-4200 TheJamesMuseum.org
NONPROFIT ORGANIZATION
LGBTQ+ CENTER ORLANDO 407-228-8272 TheCenterOrlando.org
PHOTOGRAPHY
DYLAN TODD PHOTOGRAPHY 727-310-1212
DylanToddPhotography.com
SHOPPING & RETAIL
DOMA HOME FURNISHINGS 727-327-9400 DOMAHomeFurnishings.com
GOLD AND DIAMOND SOURCE 727-573-9351 GoldAndDiamond.com
TRAVEL & TOURISM
CENTRAL FLORIDA EXPRESSWAY AUTHORITY CFXWay.com
DISCOVER SARASOTA TOURS 941-260-9818 DiscoverSarasotaTours.com
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT BOARD DowntownOrlando.com/Holidays
I-DRIVE DISTRICT IDriveDistrict.com
