イベント

オーランド近辺のイベント日程です（２０１４年　１月）。Orlandosentinelの記事より。

Nov. 29, 2013 – Jan. 5 2014: Carillon Concert at Singing Tower. Lake Wales. Enjoy one-hour carillon concerts from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in honor of Edward W. Bok, founder of Bok Tower Gardens. He died Jan. 9, 1930, less than a year after his beloved Singing Tower was dedicated. Included in regular admission. 863-676-1408. www.boktowergardens.org/calendar
Nov. 29, 2013 – Jan. 5 2014: Poinsetta Display. Lake Wales. The River of Stone at the Visitor Center courtyard features hand-made displays while unique white poinsettias steal the show in hanging arrangements outside of Pinewood Estate. Included with admission. Enjoy a spectacular show of unique poinsettias on display during the Christmas at Bok Tower Gardens season. Visitors can learn the story behind this traditional Christmas plant and get ideas for making your own poinsettia displays at home. www.boktowergardens.org/calendar
Nov. 29, 2013 – Jan. 5 2014: Winter Walking Tours. Lake Wales. Volunteer garden guides lead visitors on an hour-long walking tour sharing information about the winter flora and fauna, with tours leading from Pinewood Estate to the Singing Tower. Monday through Saturday, 11:45 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. Sunday at 1:45 p.m. Meet one of our volunteer garden guides at Pinewood Estate as you start on an hour-long tour of the Gardens. These are great opportunities to ask questions or learn the names of plants and animals found on the property.Your tour will take you through the Gardens and end at the Tower lawn viewing area overlooking the moat and the Great Brass Door. Inquire about tours upon your arrival to the Gardens. No reservations are required. Included with admission. www.boktowergardens.org/calendar
Jan 1: Cocoa Village Farmer’s Market. Cocoa. The City of Cocoa’s Farmers Market is held every Wednesday from 9am – 4pm in Mryt Tharpe Gazebo Square in downtown historic Cocoa Village. Vendors will have fresh produce, jams, sauces, fruits, honey, flowers and more for sale! http://www.visitspacecoast.com
Jan. 1: First Friday Art Walk. Melbourne. Every first friday of the month, the Eau Gallie Arts District hosts a First Friday Art Walk. The public is invited for this plein-air celebration of art, music and food. Galleries and shops will have special discounts or events and there’s always live music.  For more information, please call(321) 253-5553 or (321) 259-8261 or visit EGAD’s website. http://www.eaugalliearts.com/
Jan 2: Cocoa Village Farmer’s Market. Cocoa. 9a.m. Rockledge. Every Thursday from 9am to dusk, the City of Rockledge hosts a farmers market at Levitt Park on the corner of Fiske Blvd and Levitt Parkway Drive. Items sold include: fresh produce, honey & jellies & jams, baked goods, flowers & plants, handmade soap & bodycare, and arts & crafts. Levitt Park and Fiske Blvd. 32955. http://brevardfarmersmarkets.com/rockledge_farmers_market
Jan. 3: First Friday Art Walk. Melbourne. Join us the first Friday of every month for our Art walk. Galleries, Shops, Boutiques, Museums and Restaurants remain open late. Includes: Studio & Galleries with Exhibition Openings, Art Demonstrations, Refreshments, Area Artists & live Music in the Eau Gallie Rotary Band Shell within Eau Gallie Square, passport program with chance to win $50 EGAD bucks each month that you can spend in the district. Many months have themes, such as EGAD in Bloom in April, Red, white and Blue in July, a dog friendly event for the Dog Days of August and a Tree lighting Ceremony in December. Our friends at the Foosaner Museum also offer a free jazz concert each First Friday from 5:30-8:30. Free. Eau Gallie Boulevard Melbourne, FL 32935 321-574-2737. http://www.eaugalliearts.com/calendar/
Jan. 3: Jazz Friday at Fossaner Museum of Art. Melbourne. Every first Friday of the month the Fossaner Museum of Art hosts Jazz Friday in their galleries. Expect great music from local favorites. Admission is free for members of the Museum and $10 for non-members. 1463 Highland Avenue, Melbourne FL 32901. 321-433-4470. http://www.foosanerartmuseum.org
Jan. 4: First Saturday Jam. Barberville. On the first Saturday each month visit the Pioneer Settlement for entertainment and fun for the entire family. 9 a.m to 4 p.m. Includes informal music jams, free workshops, a chili cook-off, yard sale. 386-749-2959. www.pioneersettlement.org
Jan. 4: Old Eau Gallie Farmer’s Market. Melbourne. Held every Saturday from 8 am – 2 pm at Eau Gallie Square Park in Melbourne. You can expect to find vendors selling items to include: fresh produce, honey, hot food and drinks, homemade pasta sauce and bread, baked goods, handmade jewelry, arts & crafts items, and much more! For more information, visit the market’s website or call 321-917-0721. Corner of Eau Gallie Blvd. and Highland Avenue 32935.
Jan. 4-5: Dade’s Battle Re-enactment & Trade Fair. Bushnell. Often called a massacre, the battle that sparked the Second Seminole War definitively gave first blood to the Seminoles. This annual re-enactment takes history buffs back in time to the Indian ambush of U.S. Major Francis Langhorne Dade and his troops in 1835, a battle that only three of his 107 men survived. Florida may be a vacation destination for many now, but for a weekend, the Dade Battlefield Society provides a glimpse into the hard road that led us here with its Civil War-era encampment and demonstrations. From 9 a.m. Saturday-Sunday, Jan. 4-5 (with battles at 2 p.m.). Dade Battlefield Historic State Park, 7200 County Road 603, Bushnell $5 adults, free ages 5 and younger. 352-793-4781. dadebattlefield.com
Jan. 4, 11, 18, 25: Winter Music Series at the Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards. Clermont. Each January, Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards is the hot spot for live music, winery tours, and wine tastings. The winery is located west of downtown Orlando, on a 127-acre estate in gently rolling countryside. 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Free admission. 800-768-WINE. www.lakeridgewinery.com
Through Jan. 5: Light Up UCF! Orlando. Check out UCF’s fifth annual event offering 50 nights of music, lights and ice, where you can skate at an outdoor ice rink outside of the UCF arena, along with carnival rides and special holiday events. Prices vary. lightupucf.com
Jan. 8-12: Walt Disney World Marathon and Walt Disney World Half Marathon. Lake Buena Vista. Thousands of participants are expected for the annual event that charts a course through Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot. The two races are the climax of a whole weekend of fitness fun that also features Disney’s Health and Fitness Expo in The Milk House at Disney’s Wide World of Sports Complex. Admission $190 for half marathon and marathon. 407-938-3398. www.disneyworldsports.com
Jan. 8-9: Town Center at Cagan Crossing Art and Craft Festival. Clermont. Fine arts, fine crafts, food. At U.S. 27 and Cagans Crossing Blvd. Show  hours Sat.  10a.m. – 5p.m., Sun.  10a.m. – 4p.m.  Friday Set-up after 3 p.m.  or 6a.m. on Saturday. Free admission and parking. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Jan. 9-14: NASCAR Preseason Thunder Fan Fests. Daytona Beach. Kicking off the “Road to Daytona” which culminates with the 56th running of the Daytona 500 on Feb. 23, 2014, Preseason Thunder testing begins Thursday and Friday, Jan. 9-10, with the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series participating in two days — and four sessions — of on-track activity. NASCAR Nationwide Series testing will follow on Saturday and Sunday, Jan. 11-12, with the NASCAR Camping World Truck Series testing on Monday and Tuesday, Jan. 13-14. All test sessions are scheduled to run from 9 a.m.-Noon ET, and again from 1-5 p.m. ET.  For ticket information for all Speedweeks events, call 1-800-PITSHOP or go online at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com
Jan. 11: Discovery Saturdays: Animal Encounters. Lake Wales. 11a.m. to 2p.m. Discover live animal encounters with Swamp Girl Adventures. Included with admission. Get up-close-and-personal with live animal encounters at the Gardens, presented by Swamp Girl Adventures. Get a chance to touch the animals, ask questions, and learn about wildlife, conservation, identification, and responsible pet ownership. www.boktowergardens.org/calendar
Jan. 11: Fly-in Breakfast. Titusville. Every second Saturday of the Month, the Valiant Air Command and Warbird Museum hosts a FLY-IN BREAKFAST from 8am-11am.  To participate is only $8 per person and includes a full, hot breakfast catered by Chef Larry! To attend, please RSVP two days in advance by either calling (321) 268-1941 or by email. Menu: pancakes, omlet station, sausage, fruit and coffee/juice.Please RSVP at least 2 days prior to 321-268-1941 or vacwarbirds@bellsouth.net with the expected number in your party. http://www.vacwarbirds.org
Jan. 11: Guided Nature Hikes. Titusville. Every Saturday, Enchanted Forest Sanctuary hosts 45-minute interpretive nature hikes beginning at 10:00am.  Bring a hat, water and walking shoes. No reservations needed. Groups of 5 or more, please RSVP. 444 Columbia Avenue, Titusville, 32780. http://www.brevardcounty.us/
Jan. 12: The Great American Songbook with Jeff Shadley. Melbourne. Superstar entertainer, Jeff Shadley will join the the Space Coast Symphony Orchestra and Jazz Orchestra on Friday, January 11 to celebrate the Great American Songbook. Featuring classics by George and Ira Gershwin, Cole Porter, Harold Arlen, Johnny Mercer, Jimmy Van Heusen, Dean Martin, and Frank Sinatra, this concert promises to be a treat you won’t want to miss! 3p.m. 5625 Holy Trinity Drive, 32940. http://www.spacecoastsymphony.org
Jan. 13: Moonlight Carillon Concert. Lake Wales. Enjoy a carillon concert under the light of the full moon. It’s a unique opportunity to visit the Gardens after-hours and have a light dinner at the Blue Palmetto Café. $5 per person. Free for members. Enjoy an hour-long carillon concert by Geert D’hollander. Visitors are encouraged to stroll through the torch-lit pathways and explore the Gardens under the light of the full moon. The Blue Palmetto Café will remain open until the concert begins. Admission begins at 5 p.m. www.boktowergardens.org/calendar
Jan. 15-17: Florida Flywheelers 27th Annual Antique Engine & Tractor “Swamp Meet.” Fort Meade. http://www.floridaflywheelers.org
Jan. 16-19: Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival. Fellsmere. This festival is celebrating its 23nd year of serving up frog leg dinners to hungry festival goers. In addition to frog legs and gator tail, the festival features a lineup of activities including live entertainment, a midway, crafters, pony rides and helicopter rides. At Mesa Park. 321-268-5224. www.froglegfestival.com
Jan. 16-19: Marked for Life Female Tattoo Artist Expo. Orlando. Doubletree by Hilton Orlando Airport, 5555 Hazeltine National Drive, Orlando. $15 daily. Kids under 15 free with adult admission. 407-568-9200. http://deanaskinart.com/flyer.htm
Jan. 17-26: DeSoto County Fair. Arcadia. 61st edition of the DeSoto County Fair. all funds raised go into maintaining our fairgrounds, producing the yearly fair, and the awarding of ten $1,000.00 scholarships to deserving DeSoto County High School Graduates. Our Fair consists of pageants for the young ladies and talent shows for the youth and adults. In the barn, beef, swine, rabbit, poultry and goats are exhibited and judged. Beef and swine are sold at auction to benefit our exhibiting youth.  863-494-5678. www.desotocountyfair.org
Jan. 17-Feb. 23: Melbourne Civic Theatre – There Goes the Bride. Melbourne. Presenting Ray Cooney and John Champan’s hilarious comedy THERE GOES THE BRIDE as their first performance for the 2014 season. A true classic, There Goes the Bride, has all the standard elements of a great production: mistaken/assumed identities, mad hysteria and yarn spinning. 321-723-6935. 817 E Strawbridge Ave, Melbourne. http://www.mymct.org/index.php
Jan. 17-20: Otronicon. Orlando. Video gaming expo at the Orlando Science Center: Friday: 10:00a.m. – 9:00 p.m., Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 9:00 p.m., Sunday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m., Monday: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. 777 E. Princeton St., Orlando; $27 adults, $20 ages 3-11; 407.514.2223.
Jan. 17-26: Mecum Auction and Collector Car Show. Kissimmee. 10 days of auction and 3,000 vehicles. Osceola Heritage Park, 1875 Silver Spur Lane, Kissimmee; $20; 321-697-3333. http://www.mecum.com/auctions/schedule.cfm
Jan. 18: Winter Dog Day. Lake Wales. Leashed and friendly dogs are invited for this special day with activities including dog health and safety information and adoptions. Dog admission: $5 each, with 50% of the proceeds benefitting the Humane Society of Polk County. Bok Tower Gardens is going to the dogs for a good cause for one day only this winter! Leashed and friendly dogs will be invited to visit to help support the Humane Society of Polk County, which will receive 50 percent of the event proceeds. Tips on health, safety, dog grooming and adoption, as well as some special friends who need a good home will be available only from 9 a.m. to noon. “Ask a Vet” and “Ask a Trainer” experts will be on hand to answer questions and doggie boutique items will be for sale, in addition to pet adoptions and micro-chipping. Judges will select the cutest, most unusual, owner look-a-like, most talented and best kisser dogs with prizes provided for the top three winners in each category. Water bowls will be located throughout the Gardens. www.boktowergardens.org/calendar
Jan. 18: Go Dog Go 5k Beach Run, Dog Dash and Dog Walk. New Smyrna Beach. Participants in the 5K will start and end race at Norwood’s, following a safe, scenic course through the New Smyrna beachside. This year’s race features an advanced chip-timing system for up to 350 runners, so register early. Also featured will be a 1/5-mile Dog Dash down historic Flagler Avenue, and a 1/2-mile Dog Walk following the same route. Events are staggered so participants can enter all three. 954-536-1141. http://www.sevhumanesociety.org Jan. 18: 3rd Annual Florida Key Lime Pie Festival. Merritt Island. The Florida Key Lime Pie Company is presenting the 3rd Annual Florida Key Lime Pie Festival held at the Kiwanis Island Park in Merritt Island. 10 a.m.- 6 p.m. Top chefs, food vendors and restaurants will showcase dishes to the theme of “Fresh from Florida.” There will be a Miss Florida Key Lime Pie contest, Florida Key Lime Pie Eating Contest, Key Lime Chili head’s Hot Sauce Competition, Best of Florida’s Bartenders Key Lime Pie Martini and Key Lime Pie Margarita Challenge. 951 Kiwanis Island Park Road. Merritt Island, FL 32952. $10 Adults $5 For Children age 5-12. Children 4 and under Free. www.floridakeylimepiefestival.com
Jan. 18: Cruisin’ Downtown DeLand Classic Car Show. DeLand. Every 3rd Saturday of the Month (Except November). East Indiana Avenue in Downtown DeLand. Classic cars & rods line East Indiana Avenue in Downtown DeLand. Live DJ, giveaways, shopping & dining. 4-8 p.m. Free. 386-624-5027. www.MainStreetDeLand.org
Jan. 18-19: Central Florida Scottish Highland Games. Winter Springs. Traditional Scottish sporting events take the field for a day of history, culture and excitement. Also included are drum and bagpipe competitions, highland dancing, sheepdog demonstrations, archery competitions and Scottish singers. At Central Winds Park. Admission adults $20 on Saturday and $15 on Sunday, students $10 with ID, children $5; advance tickets priced less. 407-426-7268. www.flascot.com
Jan. 18-19: 34th Annual Brooksville Raid Re-enactment. Brooksville. Annual Civil War re-enactment. Camps open at 9:00am. Battle re-enactments, artillery demonstrations, entertainment, food, vendors. Tour the “authentic” Confederate and Union camps and enjoy the Grand Review on Sunday. Bring your chair and your camera. Adults: $8.00; Age 6-12: $4.00; under age 5 or Scouts in uniform: Free. For accommodations visit www.naturallyhernando.org. Sand Hill Scout Reservation, Brooksville FL 34613. 352-799-0129.
Jan. 18-19: Blue Spring Manatee Festival. Orange City. Two-day festival featuring manatee viewing from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Valentine Park on W. French Ave. off Hwy 17-92 in Orange City. Central Florida Zoo presentations and animal ambassadors, arts and crafts, dancing, walk-on-water balls, good, face painting, shows and rides, sand sculpting and entertainment. January 18 and 19 (Saturday & Sunday), 2014 Time: Saturday 9:00AM – 5:00PM and Sunday 9:00AM – 4:00PM. Cost: Donation of $4.00 per person, children 12 and under FREE.  themanateefestival.com
Jan. 19-20: Unity Heritage Festival. Winter Park. With gospel artists and family events: 1-5:30 p.m. Jan. 20, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Jan. 21. Residents and local businesses will come together to celebrate the City of Winter Park’s 12th annual Unity Heritage Festival on Sunday and Monday. The annual festival will promote family history and raise funds for the Educational Fulfillment Fund for local economically disadvantaged youth. Activities will include children’s games, food and retail vendors, entertainment by various gospel artists, and the presentation of the annual Heritage Award. Shady Park, 721 W. New England Ave., Winter Park; free; 407-599-3275. http://cityofwinterpark.org/Calendar
Jan. 19: Live at the Gardens! Music at Pinewood Series featuring David Pedraza Viola & Piano Duo. Lake Wales. David Pedraza on the viola and Anastasiya Timofeeva on the piano will perform classical pieces with works from composers George Enescu, Benjamin Britten and Paul Hindemith. $25 per person. Reservations required. www.boktowergardens.org/calendar
Jan. 22-27: 17th annual Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival. Titusville. The 2014 Festival is located at: Eastern Florida State College – Titusville Campus (Brevard Community College) 1311 North US1 Titusville, Florida 32796. The theme of the festival will be about RAPTORS – interesting and intriguing birds of prey. We will be offering new classroom presentations and field trips as well as having four great Keynotes. 800-460-2664. www.spacecoastbirdingandwildlifefestival.org
Jan. 23-25: 20th Yeehaw Junction Bluegrass Festival. Yeehaw Junction. This festival presents pickin’ and foot-stompin’ music at Yeehaw Junction on Jan. 23-25. The music fest also features arts, crafts and carnival fare. Admission is $25 per day for one day, and $75 for the weekend at the gate ($65 in advance if purchased by Jan. 18). Children ages 12 and younger are free with paid adult ticket. For details, visit www.yeehawbluegrass.com
Jan. 24: 4th Friday DeLand Art Walk & Art in the Alley. Deland. 6-9p.m.Downtown DeLand is the place to be on 4th Fridays! Enjoy the Art Walk along the Boulevard, see demonstrations and meet artists hosted by our local merchants. Continue your stroll to Artisan Alley for more festivities including the farmer’s market and Art in the Alley. www.FourthFridayDeLand.com
Jan. 24: Fourth Fridays Art Walk. Sanford. Central Florida’s only monthly juried art show. With exhibits and music at participating venues. 6-9 p.m. This month’s theme is “Seminole’s Got Artalent” and submissions are only open to Seminole County Public Schools high school students .Downtown Sanford, First Street, Sanford, FL, 32771. Free. 407-323-2774. www.sanfordinfo.com
Jan. 24: Donizetti’s The Elixir of Love. Daytona Beach. Donizetti’s delightful opera, The Elixir of Love, tells the charming and comic story of a magic love potion and the fate of a love triangle involving a lovable bumpkin, a gallant sergeant and the beautiful town flirt. The full-scale production features English supertitles and a 40-piece orchestra. Tickets range from $50 to $80. 386-253-2901. www.dbss.org
Jan. 24-26: Images, a Festival of the Arts. New Smyrna Beach. A 37-year history of artistic excellence, offering more than $70,000 in prize and patrons’ monies. Free and open to the public. 386-423-4733. Friday, 1-5p.m., Saturday 9a.m.-5p.m., Sunday 10a.m.-5p.m. www.imagesartfestival.org
Jan. 24-26: Orlando Home & Garden Show. Orlando. noon-8 p.m. Jan. 18, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Jan. 19, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Drive, Orlando; $8 adults, $5 seniors and retired military, free active military and ages 16 or younger; 407-685-9800.
Jan. 25-26: Roxlex 24 at Daytona. Daytona Beach. The 52nd anniversary Rolex 24 At Daytona will be the first race for TUDOR United SportsCar Championship, the newly unified organization between the GRAND-AM Rolex Sports Car Series and the American Le Mans Series presented by Tequila Patrón. Celebrate the start of a new era, as America’s two major sports car racing leagues unify for their history-making first race. $30-$85. $85 for 4-day admission and parking. Kids 12 and under are free. www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com
Jan. 25-31: Polk County Youth Fair. Bartow. 863-519-8677. www.pcyf.net
Jan. 25: Art Walk on Flagler. New Smyrna Beach. Held on the fourth Saturday each month, Flagler Avenue livens up with entertainment and wine tastings at participating venues. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (wine walk 1-7 p.m.). Free ($25 for wine walk or $20 with previous month’s glass). Flagler Avenue, 100 Flagler Ave., New Smyrna Beach, FL, 32169. 386-428-1770. www.flaglergallerygroup.com Jan. 27-Feb. 2: 25th Annual Zora Neale Hurston Festival of the Arts and Humanities, Orlando/Eatonville. This festival highlights the life and works of one of America’s most celebrated collectors and interpreters of Southern rural African-American culture through theatrical performances, educational programs and a juried art show. The nine-day event takes place in various locations throughout Orlando and Eatonville, the nation’s oldest incorporated African-American municipality. Prices vary by activity. 407-647-3307. www.zorafestival.com
Jan. 31-Feb.1: Ocala Truck and Tractor Pull. Ocala. Featuring garden tractors, antique tractors, V-8 tractors, turbo engines, modified tractors, 2WD and 4 WD Pick ups. Presale tickets are $10. $12 at the gate. Gates open at 4p.m. Kids 6 and under free. flpullers.com
Jan 2014: 29th Annual MLK Holiday Parade. Orlando. Date TBA. Commemorate the life, legacy and values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the annual MLK Holiday Parade downtown. Free admission. 407-246-2121. www.cityoforlando.net
Tampa Bay-Sarasota (including Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Sarasota, Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, Palmetto, Tarpon Springs and Homosassa)
Jan. 4-5: Sunshine City Antiques and Collectibles Show. Venice. This nationally recognized show features nearly 100 exhibitors of antique furniture, art, pottery, jewelry, silver, toys, and glass. The event also features a two-day Antiques Appraisal Fair, held Saturday from 10a.m. to 5p.m. and Sunday from 10a.m. to 4p.m.., $5 per item. Admission $6. 727-892-5202. www.sunshinecityantiqueshow.com

Jan. 11: Sue Blue’s Historic Trolley Tours. Sarasota. Saturday Downtown historic tour from 10a.m. to 12p.m. Departs from the Crocker Memorial Church. Reservations required. Visit www.hsosc.com
Jan. 11-12: Coquina Beach Winterfest Arts & Crafts Show. Bradenton Beach. Right on Gulf Of Mexico Drive that runs from St. Armand’s Circle north to Anna Maria Island. High traffic area with lots of tourists from Longboat Key and Anna Maria Island that look forward to coming to this show. Limited Motor Home parking. $185.00. http://sunsetboulevardpromotions.com/
Jan. 12: Elvis Ultimate Birthday Bash. Clearwater. Back by popular demand, the top two “Elvises” return with one phenomenal show! Scot Bruce as the young Elvis and Mike Albert as the Las Vegas Elvis along with the Big “E” Band offer a rockin’ birthday party celebration of America’s first rock ‘n’ roll icon. This performance sells out every year! Tickets range from $18 to $35 (limited number of VIP seats are $35 each). The Ruth Eckerd Hall is at 1111 McMullen Booth Road. For details, visit www.rutheckerdhall.com
Jan 12: High Tea and Paintings Off Easel. Sarasota. Plein Air Artists will be painting outside while we sip tea inside. Artwork may be purchased off the walls or “off easel.” Reservations required, $25. 2-4p.m. www.hsosc.com
Jan. 16-25: Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival. Tampa. The 14th Annual Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival will be celebrating 500 years of Florida History. The 10-days of cultural event provide educational philanthropic and community based diversity to the Tampa Bay Community. TBBHF features local and nationally known speakers musicians artists poets and craftspeople. The Festival always encompasses the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. The highlight of the Festival is our free 2-day Heritage Street Festival at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in downtown Tampa. tampablackheritage.org
Jan. 16-26: Manatee County Fair. Palmetto. Showcase for the best of Manatee County. Includes exhibits and vendors, livestock shows and auctions, competitions, a midway, a variety of entertainment and great fair food. At Manatee County Fairgrounds. Admission $8 adults, $7 seniors 55 and older, $5 children 6-12, 5 and under free. 941-722-1639. www.manateecountyfair.com

Jan. 18: 88th Annual East-West Shrine Game. St. Petersburg. The East-West Shrine Game is the oldest college all-star game in the country and features the finest athletes in the U.S. and Canada. Tickets range from $6 to $60. 813-281-8686. www.shrinegame.com
Jan. 18-19: Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks Art and Craft Festival. Tarpon Springs. Fine art, fine craft, food, music. Free admission. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Jan. 18-20: Festival of Chocolate. Tampa. MOSI will host Tampa’s third annual Festival of Chocolate, Florida s largest all-chocolate themed event. The event features the area’s best chocolate and confection companies selling tastes and treats of everything chocolate from truffles cakes and cupcakes to cookies brownies and ice creams. MOSI – Museum of Science & Industry. 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa FL 33617. 813-987-6000. www.mosi.orgt;a href=”http://ad.doubleclick.net/N4011/jump/trb.orlandosentinel/travel;;ptype=s;slug=orl-florida-travel-calendar-january;pos=2;sz=234×60;tile=2;at=ArtsandCulture;at=RoadRunning;at=EntertainmentEvents;at=Culture;at=Arts;iab=ent;iab=sports?” target=”_b;rg=ur;u=ptype|s!pos|2!sz|234×60!;ord=680393324? target=”_blank” rel=”nofollow”><img scr=”http://ad.doubleclick.net/N4011/ad/trb.orlandosentinel/travel;;ptype=s;slug=orl-florida-travel-calendar-january;pos=2;sz=234×60;tile=2;at=ArtsandCulture;at=RoadRunning;at=EntertainmentEvents;at=Culture;at=Arts;iab=ent;iab=sports?” width=”234;rg=ur;u=ptype|s!pos|2!sz|234×60!;ord=680393324? width=”234″ height=”60″ border=”0″ alt=””></a&a

Jan. 24-26: Gem, Jewelry and Bead Show. Sarasota. Dealers from across America will offer an outstanding variety of gems, jewelry, crystals, minerals, and beads for show and sale. Municipal Auditorium. 801 N. Tamiami Trail (Hwy. 41). Show Hours: 10a.m.-5p.m. daily. Admission: Adult $4.00. 727-892-5202. www.stpete.org/coliseum
Jan. 25: Lu the Hippo’s 54rd Birthday. Homosassa Springs. Park visitors, staff and schoolchildren are invited to attend Lu the hippo’s 54th birthday party. Join in singing Happy Birthday songs to Lu, enjoy cupcakes, and fruit punch. Lu will be presented with his own special birthday cake. Regular park admission applies. The party will be held at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. Parties are scheduled at 10 a.m. and at noon. 352-628-5343. www.floridastateparks.org
Jan. 25-27: 6th Annual Sarasota Indian Festival. Sarasota. This festival will feature an “East meets West” reenactment encampment focused on the way of life of the Native American people from both eastern and western tribes. Chippa Wolf from the Cherokee nation and his Native horse show will be featured along with Mark Barefoot, an award winning flute and drum maker and the guest entertainer for the fest. Their group will also be performing traditional Native American drumming, singing and various styles of dance. There also will be paintings, pottery, jewelry, sculpture, beadwork, leatherwork, along with traditional Seminole and Navajo food. Event is at the Sarasota Fairgrounds. Admission $7 adult, $3 children 6-12, 5 and under are free. 941-957-1877. http://www.visitsarasota.org/event

Jan. 25: Gasparilla pirate parade and street festival. Tampa. Held on the last Saturday of January each year, more than 350,000 decended on the streets of Tampa in 2012. The festival reminiscent of Mardi Gras has been going on in Tampa since 1904. The event pays homage to a Spanish pirate named Jose Gaspar, who sailed off the west coast of Florida in the 18th and 19th centuries. City leaders back in 1904 decided to adopt Gaspar for their own street festival to be on the scale of New Orelans’ Fat Tuesday. The crux of the early festival that continues today is pirates, namely high society members in pirate outfits, capturing the city. While they initially invaded on horseback, the yearly invasion soon came by sea, and now each year Ye Mystic Krewe invades aboard the Jose Gasparilla pirate ship, flanked by hundreds of more modern boats, sailing into Hillsborough Bay to downtown Tampa where they cermoniously seize the key to the city from the mayor. The invasion then gives way to the Invasion Brunch at the Tampa Convention Center, a parade with nearly 100 floats down Bayshore Boulevard rife with bead throwing as well as the daylong Pirate Fest Street Festival on Ashley Street in downtown Tampa. The invasion, parade and festival are all free. Festivities begin at 10 a.m. with the sailing invasion running from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.. The parade runs from 2-5:30 p.m. and the street festival into the night. Parking will be difficult to navigate. Expect to pay at least $20 or more to park in the sundry downtown garages. In years past, many people have taken advantage of park and ride services from Raymond James Stadium or parking in Ybor City and taking public transportation to the festivities. gasparillapiratefest.com
Jan. 25: Pinellas Folk Festival, St. Petersburg. Listen to dozens of the Tampa Bay area’s premier folk musicians on traditional folk, gospel, country and bluegrass music on stages throughout Heritage Village. Also historical demonstrations, food court, old-time games, storytelling, traditional craft demonstrations, traditional fiber arts show, Fleece to Shawl activities, antique cars and more. At Heritage Village from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission; suggested $5 donation. 727-582-2123. www.pinellascounty.org/Heritage/events_folkfest.htm
Southwest Florida (including Naples, Fort Myers, Venice, Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda)
Jan. 4-5: 10th Bi-Annual Estero Fine Arts Show. Estero. The 10th Bi-Annual Estero Fine Arts Show features the work of artists from 30 states and Canada on Jan. 4-5. Glass, clay, wood, fiber, jewelry, sculpture, painting, photography, and metal will be on display. A youth art competition also takes place throughout the weekend. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. The festival is at the Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road. For details, visit www.hotworks.org
Jan. 5: River, Roots and Ruts Trail Run. Alva. The 10th annual event includes a 13.1-mile half marathon, relay races and a 5K run. At Caloosahatchee Regional Park, approximately 15 miles east of Fort Myers. 8 a.m. start time. 239-694-0398. www.rrrtrail.com
Jan. 10-12: Florida’s Creative Coast Weekend. Pine Island. On the second weekend each month November-April, Pine Island businesses offer themed artistic events. Galleries and shops are open extended hours on Friday, many offering special openings. Take a cooking class, or listen to live music. Other special events and workshops are planned at individual shops on Saturday and Sunday. 239-283-4842. www.floridascreativecoast.com
Jan. 11-12: Cape Coral Festival of the Arts. Cape Coral. This 29th annual street festival attracts some 85,000 people each year with 300 juried artisan booths and entertainment. Artists and craftspeople will be located on both sides of the median down the center of Cape Coral Parkway from Cape Coral Street to Vincennes. There will be plenty of food, activities for the kids, and fun for people of all ages. Live music is continuous from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, but the party continues up and down the street at local businesses on Saturday night. Admission is free. 239-443-7666. www.capecoralfestival.com
Jan. 11-14, Feb. 8-9, March 8-9: Bonita Springs National Art Festival. Bonita Springs. This annual outdoor exhibition features more than 200 nationally and internationally acclaimed artists working in a variety of media.Over 200 national and international artists applied to exhibit and sell their works in paintings, glass, jewelry, clay works, photography, sculpture and more. Food and beverages will be available. At Promenade Center. Although there is no admission fee, Art League volunteers ask for an optional $5 donation for the Center for the Arts. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 239-992-1213. www.artinusa.com/bonita

Jan. 11-22: 17th Annual Sullivan Street Craft Fair. Punta Gorda. Outdoor show featuring some 150 crafters, who offer affordable original works. Downtown. Free. 941-639-3720. http://www.artfestival.com/Festivals
Jan. 11-12, 18-19: Medieval Faire. Fort Myers. This annual event includes jousting, a human chess match, entertainment, live sword fighting, children’s games and rides, medieval clothing, period food and beverages, artisans, jugglers, magicians, and other live entertainment on seven stages. At Lakes Regional Park, 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. daily on dates shown. Admission $15 adults, $5 children, toddlers free. 239-839-8036. www.medieval-faire.com
Jan. 16: Downtown Gallery Walk. Punta Gorda. Held monthly on the third Thursday, 5-8 p.m. Visit any of the downtown merchants, restaurants and galleries for your game card. As always, there will be live entertainment, food and drink samplings, art, beauty and health demonstrations, a free trolley, and an evening of fun. Free; free parking. 941-505-1915. www.puntagordashopping.com

Jan. 17-20: Southwest Florida Nature Festival. Naples. Award-winning Filmmaker Elam Stoltzfus talks about the Florida Wildlife Corridor Expedition — a 1,000-mile expedition over a 100-day period from January through April 2012 that increased public awareness of and generated support for the Florida Wildlife Corridor project. Bear biologist Joe Guthrie, conservationist Mallory Dimmitt, photojournalist Carlton Ward Jr. and Stoltzfus made the trek from Everglades National Park to the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge in southern Georgia. The group traversed the wildlife habitats, watersheds, public and private lands and working farms and ranches that comprise the Florida Wildlife Corridor opportunity area. Stoltzfus, who is producing a documentary about the expedition, will share behind-the-scenes video clips and detailed stories about the journey through Florida. The presentation is offered on two nights to accommodate interest in the topic. Cost is $25 and includes wine and light refreshments. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged at rookerybay.org or by calling 239-417-6310 x401. Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center. 300 Tower Rd., Naples, FL 34113. 239-471-6310. www.rookerybay.org

Jan. 19: Sunshine Blues Festival. St. Petersburg. Doors open at 11:30a.m. Shows start at noon. Two stages, all day music festival. Tedeschi Trucks Band, Galactic, Leon Russell, Hot Tuna, Stanley Clarke, The Ringers, Tab Benoit, Bobby Lee Rodgers, Oli Brown. Early bird tickets on sale October 2nd at 10a.m. For details, visit www.sunshinebluesfestival.com
Jan. 18-19: Venice-Nokomis Rotary Art Festival. Venice. In addition to regular arts and crafts displays, this event also features an activities tent for children, free entertainment, and a car show. At Venice Airport Festival Grounds. Admission is $2, parking is free. 941-468-1254. www.venicenokomisrotary.org/art.html
Jan. 27-29: Goodland Mullet Festival. Goodland. The three-day festival attracts nearly 5,000 people to the tiny town of Goodland. Fried and smoked mullet are featured and a Buzzard Lope Queen and a Buzzard Lope Princess contest. The late Stan Gober, who was the owner of Stan’s Idle Hour Seafood Restaurant, had hosted the Mullet Festival and Buzzard Lope Queen Contest for 13 years. The Buzzard Lope is a dance based on “The Buzzard Lope Song” composed and sung by Stan. 239-394-3041. www.goodland.com/buzzard.htm
Jan. 27: Hollywood Hits! Symphony. Fort Myers. The Gulf Coast Symphony performs Hollywood Hits! with classics from the silver screen including hits from yesterday and today at 7 p.m. on Jan. 27. Admission to the event, at 8099 College Parkway, is free. For information, log on to www.gulfcoastsymphony.org
Jan. 2014: 27th Annual Circus Ring of Fame Induction Ceremony. Sarasota. Date TBA. The St. Armands Circle Ring of Fame was first started in 1987 as a way to honor world famous circus performers and the rich circus heritage of the Sarasota area. Among the circus greats who have been inducted are the five Ringling Brothers, P.T. Barnum, John Ringling North, and Emmett Kelley, the famed clown. 2011’s honorees were Andrews, Alberto and Alfredo Atayde, owners of the Circo Atayde Hermanos; John “Tarzan” Zerbini, a renowned animal trainer and owner of his own American Circus; Charles Schlarbaum, a long time circus bandmaster and Ward Hall, a veteran showman and sideshow performer At Harding Circle Park, St. Armands Circle. 941-957-1877. http://www.escape-to-sarasota.com/
South Florida and the Keys (including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Key Largo, Key West and the Treasure Coast)
Jan. 3: Discover Orange Bowl Football Game. Miami. Two of the top-ranked football teams in the country will compete for the Orange Bowl title. Game time is 8 p.m. At Sun Life Stadium. 305-341-4700. www.orangebowl.org
Jan. 3: Orange Bowl Swimming Classic. Key Largo. The Orange Bowl Swimming Classic attracts some of the best college swimmers in the country ?perhaps future Olympians? ? to Key Largo on Jan. 3. The competition, each year at Jacobs Aquatic Center, Mile Marker 99.6 oceanside, is a free-to-attend event that is part of the celebration surrounding the annual Orange Bowl college football game in Miami. For information, visit www.jacobsaquaticcenter.org
Jan. 5: Suntrust Sunday Jazz Brunch. Fort Lauderdale. Live outdoor concert series bringing the area’s best local jazz artists to the city’s scenic Riverwalk the first Sunday of each month. Listen to the soulful sounds on four different stages.  Everyone is welcome to attend, including well-behaved, leashed pets, and there is ample room to set up chairs, blankets and picnic baskets. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free admission. 954-828-5363. www.fortlauderdale.gov/events/jazzbrunch/

Jan. 9-18: Uncorked Key Largo and Islamorada Food and Wine Festival. Key Largo. Come on down to the Keys and enjoy all of the tasty temptations, and some of your favorite wines, as South Florida’s culinary experts step up to the plate to show you what Key Largo and Islamorada have to offer. 10 glorious days of wine tasting events, cooking demonstrations, wine dinners, live music, food and wine pairing classes, progressive wine dinners, art and wine shows, and of course, our fabulous sunsets, scuba diving, fishing, many tourist attractions, shopping, and a great time! $57 for regular admission, $77 plus tax for a VIP ticket. keylargofoodandwinefestival.com/

Jan. 9-18: Key Largo and Islamorada Food & Wine Festival. Upper Florida Keys. The festival offers a multi-sensory experience as Key Largo and Islamorada’s culinary experts step up to the “plate” on Jan. 9-18. The event features nearly 30 food, wine and spirits events including cooking demonstrations, themed wine dinners, food and wine pairing classes, progressive wine dinners, art and wine shows and the festival finale, “A Grand Tasting.” For details, call 305-394-3736. http://www.fkrm.com

Jan. 11-12: Redland Heritage Festival. Homestead. A tradition at Fruit and Spice Park since 1976, this annual festival features local arts and crafts, a large selection of tropical plants and great food. Children’s activities include a petting zoo, pony rides, an interactive puppet and magic show, and a wild and wonderful Everglades reptile show. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $8, children 11 and under are free. 305-247-5727. www.fruitandspicepark.org
Jan. 11-12: 26th Annual Boca Fest. Boca Raton. Ranked one of the top festivals in the country by Sunshine Artist, the nation’s leading publication for art and craft shows, this show returns for its 26th anniversary. At the Shops at Boca Center. Hours 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; free admission. 954-472-3755. www.artfestival.com

Jan. 12: 2014 Florida Keys Wedding and Event Planning Expo. Islamorada. This is the 1st annual Florida Keys Wedding and Event Planning Expo. This premier event will be held at the Florida Keys Conference Center at The Islander Resort (mile marker 82.1 oceanside) from 12pm to 5pm. The expo will include appetizers, giveaways, musical entertainment, and opportunities to meet with the very best Florida Keys wedding and event professionals in a convenient and casual setting. $5. 321-946-5569 https://keysexpo.eventbrite.com/

Jan. 12-16: 31st Annual Key West Literary Seminar. Key West. The Last Key sets the scene for the 31st Annual Key West Literary Seminar on Jan. 12-16. For information on the eventcall 888-293-9291 or visit www.kwls.org

Jan. 16: Third Thursday Art Walk. Islamorada. The Morada Way Third Thursday Art Walk presents local fine arts, music and culinary specialties. The galleries of Morada Way are between Mile Markers 81 and 82. Event hours are from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. For details, visit www.fla-keys.com

Jan. 17-18: 54rd Annual Historic House Tours. Key West. Presented by the Old Island Restoration Foundation, this house and garden tour offers a rare opportunity to see inside some of Key West’s magnificent, charming and tropical residences. Admission $30 per person. 305-294-9501. www.oirf.org
Jan. 17-19: Art Deco Weekend. Miami Beach. Step back in time and celebrate Art Deco style on the Broadway stage with live music, art and antiques dealers, walking tours, films, lectures, classic cars, street theater and more. Along Ocean Drive, between 5th and 15th Streets. 305-672-2014. http://www.artdecoweekend.com
Jan. 17-20: Miami International Art Fair. Miami Beach. The Miami International Art Fair – MIA is devoted to exhibiting the most innovative and groundbreaking artworks of the 20th and 21st centuries.  Showcasing the icons that broke boundaries and forged new paths in the arts alongside emerging and established living artists continuing to explore and experiment with new ideas and mediums, expanding the platform for collectors to discover new talents in the visual arts.  In its fifth year the fair gathers a selection of the world’s forward-thinking international galleries and local cultural institutions with an exceptional program of arts events and an educational lecture and panel series. Admission is $10. Friday, Saturday 1-10p.m. Sunday, noon-7p.m. Monday noon-6p.m. 561-793-0333.  www.mia-artfair.com
Jan. 17-Feb. 2: South Florida Fair. West Palm Beach. Since 1912 each January, over a half million visitors enjoy 17 fun filled days at the South Florida Fair, one of Florida’s oldest and largest community events.  Fairgoers are entertained by first class stage shows, national concert performances, sensational midway rides, unique shopping and the best of fair food. Admission: adults, $15; children, 6-11 $8; kids 5 and under are free. 561-793-0333. www.southfloridafair.com
Jan. 18: Art Under the Oaks. Islamorada. This art show at the San Pedro Catholic Church features arts and crafts in many mediums, as well as food vendors and live music. 305-360-8556. sanpedroparish.org
Jan. 18-19: Florida Keys Seafood Festival. Key West. Seafood lovers, rejoice! The Last Key sets the scene for the ninth Annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Jan. 19. On the menu for this family-friendly fest, are fried fish, grilled spiny lobster, stone crab claws (yum!), Pick n’ Peel Key West Pink Shrimp, lobster bisque, conch chowder, conch fritters, conch salad and other delights from the bounty of the sea. Beverages and desserts will also be available for purchase. The event is at Bayview Park (corner of Truman Avenue & Jose Marti Drive). Also on the festival’s agenda are children’s activities, marine-related crafts and live music. Admission to the festival is free. Parking is $5 per car at Horace O’Bryant Middle School parking lot, 1105 Leon Street, adjacent to Bayview Park. For information, visit www.keywest.com
Jan. 18-19: Big Pine Key Nautical Market. Big Pine & the Lower Keys. Nautical-themed crafts and merchandise will be displayed and sold during the ninth annual Big Pine Key Nautical Market on Jan. 18-19. Other activities include live music, food and beverages. The event takes place on the grounds of the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce, Mile Marker 31 ocean-side. 305-872-2411. Visit www.fla-keys.com

Jan. 18: Grand Tasting Uncorked. Islamorada. This event is a part of the Islamorada and Key Largo Food and Wine Festival – A culinary extravaganza in a fabulous Grand Tasting event scheduled from 11am to 4pm. The event will be held right by the ocean on the beautiful grounds of the Postcard Inn at Holiday Isle, mile marker 84 (approx. 90 minutes from MIA). The Grand Tasting Finale will feature gourmet and specialty tastings from numerous area restaurants and caterers that will be complemented by visiting wineries from across the US offering wine selections from around the Globe. This gourmet extravaganza staged with the backdrop setting of the gorgeous Atlantic Ocean is designed to reflect the individual flair of the many participating restaurants and the unique and eclectic cuisine of the Florida Keys. There will be multiple entertainment areas featuring live music, as well as gourmet chefs presenting cooking classes and of course wine & spirits experts will be on hand to impart their knowledge in seminars throughout the day. 305-394-3736. http://www.floridakeysuncorked.com/

Jan. 18-19: Downtown Delray Beach Festival of the Arts. Delray Beach. A signature event for the city, this 25th annual show is consistently ranked as one of the best in the nation. Along a one-mile stretch of Atlantic Avenue, starting at U.S. 1 and continuing east over the Intracoastal Waterway all the way to A-1-A on the Atlantic Ocean. Free. 954-472-3755. www.artfestival.com

Jan. 18-19: 2nd Annual BayGrass Bluegrass Festival. Islamorada. At Founder’s Park. https://www.facebook.com/pages/BayGrass

Jan. 19: 16th Annual Key West Half Marathon. Key West. The gun will sound at 7 a.m. for one of “Runners World” magazine’s recognized 10 great winter half marathons. The run is a 13.1-mile course through Old Town Key West, historic landmarks and Key West’s scenic waterfront. 305-296-7182. http://www.keywesthalfmarathon.com/
Jan. 19-24: Key West Race Week 2014. Key West. Nearly 300 racing yachts compete for class championships in this international midwinter sailboat regatta presented by Quantum Sail Design Group. 781-639-9545. www.premiere-racing.com

Jan. 22-26: VIP Key West Food and Wine Festival. Key West. Your 2014 VIP Pass entitles you to enjoy the following events: Kick off your Flip Flops Barefoot Beach Party, Grand Tasting, Duval “UNCORKED,” One KWFWF Seminar of your choice. You will also receive a VIP gift bag including: KWFWF ball cap, KWFWF corkscrew, Signed and numbered original 2014 print, 2014 poster and a chance to win a signed and numbered original 2013 print. The VIP Pass does not include: Hogfish Bar & Grill Shrimp Boil, Key West Kitchen Tour, Let them EAT cake and The 17th Annual Master Chefs Classic, Food and Travel Writing Seminar. www.keywestfoodandwinefestival.com
Jan. 24-26: International Chocolate Festival. Coral Gables. Join us for the celebration of that divine tropical plant, the obroma cacao, the source of chocolate. For three days guests are immersed in the wonderful and diverse world of chocolate. From chocolate treats to tree sales, cooking demonstrations to chocolate sculpture competitions, chocolate will reign supreme. 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. At Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. 305-667-1651. www.fairchildgarden.org
Jan. 25: 8th Annual Port Salerno Seafood Festival. Port Salerno. Local seafood specialties, live music, family fun area, maritime exhibitors, arts and crafts and more. Along the waterfront. 772-634-9862. Admission is $5 for adults, free for children 12 and younger.www.portsalernoseafoodfestival.org/
Jan. 25-26: Key West Craft Show. Key West. The 29th Annual Key West Craft Show features juried artisans and crafters displaying their work at a show on lower Whitehead Street in historic Old Town Key West. For details on the Key West Craft Show, visit www.keywestartcenter.com/craft.html

Jan. 25: The 25th Mariners Hospital Bougainvillea Ball. Islamorada. To be held at Founders Park in Islamorada. The Ball begins at 6:00pm with a large silent auction, and dinner and dancing from 8:00pm until midnight. Proceeds from the Ball benefit Mariners Hospital Oncology Services. 305-434-1026
Jan. 2014: 49th Annual Broward Shell Show. Pompano Beach. Date TBA. Thousands of beautiful and unusual shells from Florida, the Caribbean and around the world will be on display or for sale. Includes competitive displays by dozens of collectors and craftspeople, an International Shell Market featuring shells, shell craft, jewelry, educational shell books and more and a Shell ID Clinic. This year the show has added five educational programs on seashells and shell craft to be presented during the shell show. At Emma Lou Olson Civic Center. Hours 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission and parking are free. 305-467-4412. www.browardshellclub.org
Northeast Florida (including Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Flagler County and Amelia Island)
Nov. 23-Jan. 31: Nights of Lights Festival and Celebration. St. Augustine. This inspiring display of more than two million tiny white lights adorning the palm trees and buildings throughout the city’s historic district is based on a custom by the town’s original Spanish colonists, who placed a white candle in their windows to brighten the nights during the Christmas holidays. Among special events and activities awaiting visitors: nighttime tours of ancient buildings and inns led by storytellers in period clothing, rollicking train and trolley tours through the narrow brick streets, art walks featuring more than 30 galleries serving free holiday refreshments on the First Friday in December and January, special Saturday night antique shopping events, a dazzling regatta, Florida ice skating, luminaries in the town plaza, holiday concerts, even a Christmas parade. 902-825-1004. www.NightsofLights.com
Jan. 3: First Friday Art Walk. St. Augustine. One of the city’s most popular cultural events, held the first Friday of each month. Enjoy new exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at 15 participating galleries, plus great food courtesy of the St. Augustine Independent Restaurant Assn. Tours begin at Rembrandtz American Craft Gallery. St. Augustine Sightseeing Trains and Old Town Trolleys offer complimentary shuttle service to most galleries. Shuttles run on a continuous loop every 30 minutes. 904-829-0065. www.artgalleriesofstaugustine.com
Jan. 14-17: Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus. Jacksonville. Times Union Center, Terry Theater at 7p.m. A one-man fusion of theatre and stand-up starring Peter Story and based on the New York Times #1 best-selling book of the last decade by John Gray. $31. For information, visit www.artistseriesjax.org
Jan. 17-26: Fifth Annual Amelia Island Restaurant Week. Amelia Island. Includes 19 participating restaurants. Residents and visitors enjoy pre-fix meals at great rates (priced at either $20.13 or $30.13) which includes three courses and a nonalcoholic beverage. In conjunction with Restaurant Week, several of Amelia Island accommodators are offering a “Free Night, Any Night” deal, which allows visitors to receive a Free Night with a minimum nights stay. For more information on Restaurant Week, visit www.ameliaisland.com/yummy
North-Central Florida (including Ocala, Gainesville and Tallahassee)

Jan. 18-19: 27th Annual Florida Manatee Festival. Crystal River. In honor of its namesake, the endangered manatee, the festival gives visitors the opportunity to view the gentle creature in its own environment. Boat tours are offered for a small charge into Kings Bay, which the manatee calls home. Festival also includes a Fine Art show featuring everything from watercolor artwork and photography to sculptures, stained glass and handmade jewelry. Live entertainment will be provided continuously and includes the Annual Jimmy Buffet Sound-Alike contest. Downtown on Citrus Ave. 352-795-3149 or 726-2801. Admission $3 donation. Children 12 and under free. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sautrday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. www.floridamanateefestival.com/
Jan. 25-26, 31, Feb. 1-3: Hoggetowne Medieval Faire. Gainesville. Come be swept away by medieval magic as troupes of actors, street performers and musicians journey back to the days of yore. Alachua County Fairground is transformed into a bustling medieval marketplace where there is jousting on horseback, street performers and minstrels, living chess match, medieval games, and eight stages of live entertainment. Admission $14 adult, $7 for children 5-17, under 5 free. 352-334-5064. www.gvlculturalaffairs.org/website/programs_events/HMF/medieval_index.html

The Panhandle (including Pensacola, Panama City Beach, Apalachicola and Destin) Jan. 11: Pensacola Beach 1/2 Marathon, 5K and 10K Run. Pensacola Beach. All three courses are flat and fast. Pick the distance you want at the turns. If you feel good at the 5K turn, just keep going for the 10K, and the same is true for the 1/2 Marathon. Several exhitors, and drink and food specials. 8 a.m. Casino Beach. Pensacola Beach, FL 32502. 850-261-2200. www.pensacolarunners.com
Jan. 18: Apalachicola Oyster Cook Off. Apalichicola. Fundraiser for the Apalachicola Volunteer Fire Department. Submit recipes. Oysters all sorts of ways. Children’s activities and live band. 86 Water Street/ Riverfront Park, Apalachicola FL 32320. 855-272-5224. http://www.oystercookoff.com/
Jan. 20: Jazz Gumbo. Perdido. Join the Jazz Society of Pensacola every 3rd Monday night for Jazz Gumbo in Phineas Phoggs of Seville Quarter. Admission:$10; $8 for Jazz Society members with membership cards; free for military in uniform; $5 for students with ID. Admission includes a cup of seafood gumbo. 130 E. Government St., Downtown Pensacola, FL. Details: 850-433-8382. www.visitperdido.com/events
Jan. 21-March 14: ADSO 22nd Juried Southeast Regional Art Exhibits. Destin. This annual juried art exhibition in the McIlroy Gallery at the Mattie Kelly Arts Center in Niceville showcases the best of works in all media by professional artists throughout the Southeastern United States as presented by the Arts & Design Society. Heather Mitchell, the 2013 Best-in-Show winner, will be honored with a solo exhibition in the Holzhauer Gallery. (850) 729-6044.  http://www.destinchamber.com
Sentinel staffers Angele Maraj, Emon Reiser and Special Correspondent Georgina Cruz contributed to this report