If a dog kept a diary, I think a normal week would go something like this.
Monday
Woke up early today to the sound of buzzing. It was one of the days when Dad leaves in his fancy pants and comes back just before dinner. Where does he go all day? Why doesn’t he take me?
Breakfast was served as usual. Tried to keep busy until my next meal. Hard to do as I must wait an eternity between feedings while the humans seem to eat whenever they please. Must find a way to access the vault of kibble. Thumbs would be very nice.
Tuesday
After breakfast, Mom and I went for a walk around the neighborhood. She was very good and stayed on the other end of the rope that keeps us connected. Maybe one day she won’t need me to guide her, and we can go walking without her rope. Will keep training her since she doesn’t seem ready to be unleashed and walk by herself yet. These things take patience.
Wednesday
Slept.
Thursday
The doorbell rang today and woke me from a nap. Looked out the window and saw a person holding a big brown box. Barked until he left. Sure to get extra treats for keeping everyone safe.
Friday
The humans were very happy today. Not sure why. Dad said something about a date. Don’t know what that word means, but when I hear it, the humans disappear for a while. They usually sit down and eat dinner in the evening, but they left before dinner. They must be hungry because they were gone for a very long time. Slept the whole time they were gone then ran to the door to greet them when they got back. Got lots of attention so it was good.
Saturday
No loud buzzing noise to wake us up today. Must be the day Dad puts on his outdoor feet and we get in his big black thing with wheels that takes us places. This is my favorite day. I wonder if we will go to the park or the nature trail or to get a pup cup or to the beach or pet store. Must stop writing now so I can keep my eyes on him and follow him everywhere he goes to make sure he doesn’t forget me. It is going to be a good day. I know it.
Sunday
Still tired from yesterday, but very happy. Spent the entire day with the humans. We did lots of fun stuff. The humans seem to feel the same way I do because they are resting a lot too. I even saw Dad sleep on the couch. Luckily, he didn’t fall off. It’s so much safer to sleep on the floor like I do.
I love Miami. I know what you’re thinking ‘Does anyone really love Miami?’ Yes. It’s me. I’m that person. Miami Vice made it cool but it is a vibrant tropical place to go and get your city fix. There are a ton of museums and all sorts of cultural events. Most recently I attended the Van Gogh experience (I totally recommend you do this!) and the Miami Book Fair (Another ringing endorsement here.) And while those things were grand there is one very specific thing I do not like about Miami. The traffic. And this the reason I am hesitant to drive down there. But I have some good news. Brightline is here. And it’s fantastic.
My daughter and I took Brightline down for the Miami Book Fair. They had discounted seats so I thought, why not. What’s the worst that could happen? (The worst case scenario side of my brain kicks in and I have to tell it to shut up. None of these imagined things have EVER happened)
My husband dropped us off at the station in downtown West Palm. The terminal was clean and all of the representatives were extremely helpful (Did I mention that we had no idea what we were doing? Cue the line Scarlet says from Gone With The Wind “I have always relied on the kindness of strangers.”)
We boarded the train, took our seats and we were off. We watched the world wiz by from the comfort of their plush seats. A stop in Fort Lauderdale and we were there.
There was a discount on the tickets but even if there wasn’t, it’s cheaper than gas. And – once we got to Miami they had electric cars ready to take us to our final destination. The driver even put the music on that we liked (It’s was 80’s- am I that predictable?)
Why am I telling you this? Two reasons. First, I love Miami and you should take your family there to explore everything they have to offer. Second, I think Brightline is the bee’s knees and I want it to stick around. And if you don’t know about it or don’t know anyone that has used their services, how can we support it?
December is the time to get cozy, give presents to your loved ones, and prepare your home with twinkling lights and pine trees for the holidays. But it’s also the time where our plastic footprints go through the roof, whether that is with the use of shiny gift-wrapping paper, trendy gifts, or just single-use home decorations you repurchase each year. As a matter of fact, Americans throw away 25% more trash between Thanksgiving to New Year’s than any other time of the year. That’s about 25 million tons of garbage in just five weeks.
So, while ‘tis the season to celebrate and reconnect with our loved ones, it is also the season to try new ways of being more conscious about our environmental footprint. Here are a few of my personal tips for avoiding excess waste during the holidays.
Switch Up Your Christmas Lights
One way to make a major impact on your energy usage this holiday season is to make the switch to LED lights. Holiday lights don’t use a ton of electricity, but this small switch can save you almost $50 on your energy bill. Not to mention that LED lights shine brighter to bring that much more holiday cheer to your home!
Sustainable Wrapping Paper
If you look forward to the excitement of ripping wrapping paper off a present on Christmas morning, there is an abundance of options allowing you to do so guilt free! Wrapping paper is typically only used once before it’s thrown away. Using sustainable wrapping paper is essential for an eco-friendly approach to the holidays. I recommend using pages from old magazines or newspapers to wrap your gifts. You can also avoid using paper altogether by using reusable fabric gift bags. And if you just can’t do without traditional wrapping paper, make sure to check your local store for paper that comes from recycled materials.
Getting creative with festive decorations is a fun way to get the whole family involved. Start decorating sustainably by making your own with items you probably already have in your home! Whether you save up your wine corks for a garland, or use dried fruits, pinecones, and foliage for ornaments, there are endless options to bring nature into your holiday celebrations.
Cook Farm to Table
There isn’t much to celebrate this season without food! When shopping for your holiday menu, stop by local farmers markets to get fresh produce and other ingredients straight from the farm. You’ll be reducing your carbon footprint and enjoying a great meal at the same time!
No matter the occasion this festive season, there are always sustainable options to spice up any holiday! Keep the planet in mind during the holidays and enjoy feeling good while giving back to our environment with sustainable options and avoiding plastic. Happy holidays!
“People come into our lives for a reason” is a popular phrase; but for me, it is more of a mantra. Arlet was a mom of one of my former first graders. We spoke predominantly about her son and she came to volunteer at one of our class celebrations. When her son was no longer in my class, I didn’t think twice about her; I assumed the “relationship” was over. That’s just how it always has been with former students and their parents for the most part with the exception of a few that have remained in contact.
Fast Forward to a year or so later I saw Arlet and her family walking on the same path as me. It turned out that they had bought a property at my development and we are only a few minutes away from each other. We basked in the serendipity and decided to exchange numbers. Later that week while on Instagram I saw some of her art work and became an instant fan. I am thrilled to be able to interview her and share her vision with the public. Arlet is one “hidden gem” that needs to celebrated.
The perfect light
AW: When did you realize that you wanted to be an artist? At what age did you begin to have a passion for art?
AG: When I was a little girl wanted to draw as many cartoons as I could; I guess that is how I discovered my passion for painting. At the age of ten, my parents started taking me to an art club in our town and from that point on I decided to pursue further studies in the arts. Following that path, I enrolled in a 4-year program in my hometown Art Academy where I started transformed into a professional artist.
The next step took me to the Instituto Superior de Arte”-the most prestigious Art university in my country of origin, Cuba. During my years as a student, many opportunities for exhibitions, awards, scholarships, and residencies were presented to me. I also had an opportunity to take my artwork globally to countries such as Denmark, Italy, Portugal, and Mexico.
AW: How would you categorize the art that you do? I have seen many of your paintings that depict nature as an underlying theme of water and nature; for example, paintings with oceans, rivers, lakes, trees, etc.
AG: I think that my art reflects on the wonders of life; on embracing the emotion and teachings of “everydayness”.
AW: Tell us about a few of pieces that you are most proud of.
AG: Well, I’m not completely satisfied up to this point, so I think the work I will be “ proud of” will be the one that is yet to come.
AW: Hispanic Heritage month was in the month of September spanning into the end of October. I know you were involved in some museum endeavors (as displayed on Facebook). Can you please elaborate on this for us?
AG: Yes, on October 28th, the Contemporary Art of Latin American Diaspora exhibition was inaugurated in the Palm Beach Cultural Council. There was a call for artists, having Dr. Juliana Forero as a jury and curator, I had the honor to have my painting, “Next Boarding” chosen as part of this exhibition.
AW: Who or what has inspired your art the most?
AG: My artistic work is inspired by the light that illuminates each human being: light that shines from within, visible in the world and sunbeam of each daily scene.
AW: Do you Commission pieces? If so, tell us about some that have given you great joy.
AG: Yes, I do Commission pieces. I remember the last one with great affection because it symbolized new beginnings as seen through the flight of a group of flamingos over the sea.
AW: What do you love most about being an artist? What are some obstacles that you have dealt with (or still deal with)?
AG: I love the game between the pictorial technique and the inner world brought to the canvas. I love giving life to prophetic visions that are light and language between me and the viewer. And the difficult part that I have to deal with is every day is managing my time so that the hours of the day are enough to achieve everything that I have in mind.
AW: What has been your most popular piece? Do you ever do replicas of it?
AG: My most popular piece is,” Return to the Waters”, which portrays a dog drinking water from a lake. It is not currently available because it was sold at the 36th Annual- All Florida Exhibition in Fort Meyers. I really don’t like to make copies of the pieces because I find it boring.
Knowing the pathway to follow in anticipation doesn’t create expectations in me, although I do like to repeat similar scenes or environments.
AW: How is your art unique?
AG: My art is unique because it is influenced by impressionist light; the brushstrokes I use are the printing of my soul on the canvas.
AW: What are your future plans for your art?
AG: I have plans to continue with my “Other Views” project, started in 2010, which links the blind and visually-impaired to the Visual Arts. Because, as I stated at the beginning, the light inspires my artwork and this parallel between a physical and spiritual world of shadows excites me. Above all, because I am a warrior of the brush, the light becomes real and luminous.
AW: How can people see more of your artwork? Are there any future shows or exhibits on the horizon?
AG: My work is continuously shown on social media, @arletgomezstudio on Instagram and arletgomezart on Facebook. I am currently being featured at the Hera Gallery in Rhode Island, a national juried exhibition. I will also be featured in the Cultural Council until January 2023 as part of the Contemporary Art of Latin American Diaspora exhibition. Additionally, February 18th I will be presenting a Solo exhibition in the Arti Gras Fine Arts Festival 2023, located in Palm Beach Gardens.
The finished canvas
I am confident that one day you will also have the privilege of viewing Arlet’s luminous and radiant personality depicted in her art. After all, sometimes we truly cannot see the beauty that has been there all along, right in front of us. I continue to feel grateful for the day Arlet and I crossed “paths” . Check out Arlet’s work and get ready to be amazed and enlightened!
More than ever at the moment we are all looking towards finding foods that are going to boost our immunity.
Whilst there isn’t a silver bullet to ward off chronic diseases or acute illnesses, it is important to keep your body well-nourished so it can support healthy immune functionality to aid your body’s ability to cope with increased stress.
So here is our list of eight top immunity busting foods.
Fermented Foods
Recent years have shown an emergence of fermented foods. Scientists have discovered the important role gut bacteria plays in our overall health and wellbeing. It obviously makes sense, as 70 percent of our immune cells are actually located right in our gut. It is therefore important to prioritize your gut health. The best foods to encourage healthy bacteria, or probiotics, to populate the digestive tract are:-
Yogurt
Kefir
Kombucha
Sauerkraut
Nutrient-Rich Green Leafy Vegetables
Who would have thought that Popeye knew what he was talking about all those years ago? Spinach is literally packed solid with antioxidants. This plethora of antioxidants and nutrients literally work together to fend off disease. In fact adding any leafy green vegetable to your daily diet is an excellent way to promote optimal long term health. Just one cup of uncooked greens contains approximately 25 calories, but deliver Popeye levels of superhuman benefits!
Turmeric
Turmeric is probably, at present, the most celebrated spice due to its incredible health benefits. A member of the ginger family, turmeric contains a naturally occurring phytochemical called curcumin. Curcumin gives the spice its characteristic yellow color and its off the chart health benefits. Boosting immune cell activity is number one. Add a pinch of black pepper to your recipes that contain turmeric to help increase the actual amount of curcumin that gets released into the body.
Vitamin D
The majority of us get some of our vitamin D intake through regular sun exposure, however, its effectiveness can depend on the season, location, time of day and even air quality. There are a few food sources that contain vitamin D. Mushrooms that have been exposed to light are a good source such as shitake, maitake or portabella. Plant-based milk and dairy products are also more often than not fortified with vitamin D and are pretty much the primary source of this immunity-boosting vitamin.
Zinc
Zinc deficiency has been linked to impaired immune function. It is therefore an important micronutrient within the immune system. Animal sources, such as red meat, poultry and seafood are excellent sources of zinc. Vegetarian options include beans and seeds. In fact soaking and sprouting plant sources can significantly increase the body’s ability to absorb zinc from them. It would therefore be prudent to soak rinsed chickpeas or pumpkin seeds for several hours before cooking.
Vitamin C
Antioxidants are compounds that assist with slow damage caused by unstable molecules in our bodies. Vitamin C is an incredible antioxidant and has always been up there for the role it plays in immune functionality. Fruits and vegetables such as citrus fruits, red bell peppers and berries, when eaten fresh, will leave the high levels of vitamin contained in them intact. However, cooking fruits and veggies for too long will reduce the vitamin C content. So eat them in their natural form for the best results.
Vitamin A
Vitamin A is an incredibly important immune-boosting vitamin. It helps maintain the structure of cell walls which play an essential role in the body’s first line of defense. Great sources of vitamin A are orange fruits and vegetables such as sweet potatoes and carrots. The beta-carotene found in such vegetables synthesizes into vitamin A.
Vitamin E
Another powerful antioxidant that contains inflammation reducing properties is vitamin E. Great sources of vitamin E are almonds, sunflower seeds and peanuts. Incorporating these ingredients into some of your recipes or having a handful as a healthy snack will ensure you get your daily quota.
So there you have it, a definitive list of what you need during the Holiday and flu season!
December is my favorite month for a multitude of reasons. Whether it be the cooled air or the holiday ambiance, it is ultimately the best time of year. It’s the time when everything happens. I overall enjoy the entirety of the month, and I want to share that passion this season of giving.
There are so many different aspects of life. Therefore, in this article I will be covering my favorite parts of winter. For starters, here are some of my favorite winter activities for you to try this year!
Baking cookies. There is absolutely nothing like hanging out on the kitchen counter in your coziest pajamas while waiting for your cookies to become golden. The way the warmth from the oven surrounds you and makes the cold seem distant is absolute magic. Baking cookies during the holiday season is not only fun but also heartwarming.
Binge watching your favorite holiday movies. The combination of fuzzy blankets and Christmas bells in a dark living room is one of my personal favorite atmospheres. Binging your favorite movies–while eating your cookies–is such a relaxing activity, and it’s incredibly convenient.
The beach. For anyone who doesn’t live in Florida, this may seem like an odd pick to put on a winter activity list, but natives know how beautiful the beach during winter can be. The cool breeze and freezing water allow for an absolutely enjoyable time, and it is most definitely my favorite place to be. Florida winter weather is ideal for the beach.
What I constantly worry about when planning is not what I’m doing but what I’ll be wearing. Fashion is incredibly important to me as a person, and I wouldn’t be who I am without it. Here are my winter closet staples.
A sweater. I believe this is a most obvious choice. A sweater is absolutely essential for cold weather. Personally, I adore thrifting my sweaters. Thrifting during the holidays can also be a fun activity for your family and friends.
Cute pajamas. I am in love with comfortable and cute pajama sets. I own quite a few myself. I believe your pajamas define your sleep, and I constantly like to look fashionable, even when dreaming. Pajamas are simply a great investment for winter, especially since the nights get colder.
A fuzzy going-out jacket. It is so important to have a going-out jacket for the wintertime. If you’re attempting to leave the house without one, you’ll freeze. Even though Florida doesn’t exactly get to a freezing temperature, our inhabitants are so used to a tropical climate that the sudden change feels much larger. Therefore, a cute and warm going-out jacket is an essential part of your wardrobe that I guarantee you will use almost every day.
Not only is winter’s ambiance special because of the weather but also because of the holidays. Winter is the most prominent time for the holidays, hence the name ‘the season of giving’. I often struggle to find gifts for others, so here are some last minute and go-to gift ideas.
Candles. Candles are so simple yet so thoughtful. It shows you know the person down to the scents they like. Candles are also universally loved and easy to find in stores.
A snack or food they like. This is often my personal gift to fall back on. You can really never go wrong with food because everyone enjoys it. Food is also able to be shared with others, which completely adds to the giving aspect of the season.
Jewelry. No matter who you are, I believe everybody can appreciate jewelry. From diamond necklaces to simple watches, many people wear accessories that are either useful or represent them as a person. If you are to go the jewelry route, I would recommend following the personal journey of that person and picking something that they resonate with.
Overall, winter brings me and–of course–many others immense joy. My goal for this article was to share that joy with you as my reader and friend, and I truly hope I delivered! Make sure to make memories this winter!
Boca Raton Fla. – Santa and “Elvis” are not the only headliners this year at Florida Intergenerational Orchestra of America’s “A Very Merry Holiday Concert” at 3 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 4 in Our Lady of Lourdes. O’Shea Hall 22094 Lyons Road, Boca Raton. in West Boca.
“We always showcase an added attraction to keep our holiday concert new for our audience every year,” founder/conductor Lorraine Marks-Field said about the ensemble featuring musicians from ages 9 to 91.
We are Americas’ first “Destination” orchestra whereby musicians come to visit us from all over the world and the USA to find a new or temporary home to play their beloved instruments. No one is turned away. All ages, all backgrounds, all abilities coming together for the Love of music.
This year’s repertoire will debut an original song, “ On a Wing and Prayer” by her husband Bob Field, the orchestra’s manager and pianist. Bob is a retired public defender and champion of the underdog. The song is scored for orchestra by conductor/arranger Peter Fuchs and will become the theme song for the inclusive FLIOA .
“Christmas Comes But Once A Year/Patapan,” a medley from Chris Maners’ will premiere. This was the first music album in Florida Atlantic University’s record label’s catalog to be featured on Apple iTunes, Pandora and Spotify, said Maners, an FAU Bachelor of Music graduate with a focus on Orchestral Film Music Composition.
Maners also co-chairs “Future Stars,” The Rotary Club of Boca Raton’s annual showcase of youth talent, part of Festival of the Arts BOCA for the first time this year.
The holiday concert will also feature “The Christmas Song” and “White Christmas” with “Elvis”: songs from “Fiddler on the Roof”’; a Chanukah medley sung by Cantor Bill Wood and more. Children’s activity tables give young concert goers a chance to keep busy while they listen.
Tickets for children under 12 are FREE. $20 general admission, $40 VIP (first three rows) http://www.flioa.org/ or by calling 561-922-3134
The orchestras is proud to display the Painted Violin Project. More than a dozen artists and performers custom painted a violin, among them Boca Raton’s own renown artist/sculptor Yaacov Heller’s “Fiddler on the Roof” viola. This one-of-a-kind collection of violins is for sale and will be on display throughout the concert and online.
**Concert goers can also take part in the Boca Raton Rotary Clubs’ Toy Drive by bringing an unwrapped toy to the concert.
Florida Intergenerational Orchestra of America under the direction of founder Lorraine Marks Field, a 501(c)(3), is a volunteer orchestra for players to share and develop their artistic talents while enjoying making music in a friendly orchestral setting. The repertoire is carefully chosen to accommodate the ensemble’s need for music with a wide range of styles and difficulty. The non-profit orchestra, featuring musicians ranging in age from 9 to 91, was honored by the State of Florida, Department of Elder Affair with the Legacy Award for its intergenerational concept. For more information about the orchestra, contact conductor Lorraine Marks-Field, e-mail strings4all@aol.com; visit https://www.facebook.com/FLIOA/www.flioa.org or call 561-922-3134.
November 29, 6 pm – 9 pm: Artist Reception and Live Painting from Emerging Artist Mayra Mateus
*Open to the public on MiamiCentral’s Mezzanine Level*
Mayra Mateus: MiamiCentral will be home to a large-scale sculpture from emerging pop artist superstar Mayra Mateus’s Piggy Bank collection. Making her first debut at Art Basel this year, Mateus has gained fame with her piggy banks and colorful designs on canvas, sculptures and cartoons. She combines emblematic pop culture characters with daring scenarios that express the rebellion and freedom in today’s society. This collection represents her vision of “saving dreams” as a reminder that pursuing dreams is more important than pursuing money.
December 1: Victor Gosa’s Artist Takeover
*Experience open only to Brightline PREMIUM ticket holders*
Brightline is partnering with Victor Gosa for an artist takeover across all three stations. Victor, better known by his moniker “GOSA ” is one of Miami’s most sought-after contemporary artists. Drawing inspiration from pop culture, he is best known for his use of vibrant colors, striking imagery, and adaption of recognizable characters. His inspiring artwork will be on display in the MiamiCentral’s premium Lounge from November 27 – December 5. He will also give away 200 pieces of signed art to premium guests.
On December 1, he will live paint an art piece in both Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach stations.
· 4 pm – Live art by Gosa at the West Palm Beach station
· 5:30 pm – Live art by Gosa at the Fort Lauderdale station
December 1, 2, 3: Art Beat Miami
*Open to the public on MiamiCentral’s Mezzanine Level*
Art Beat Miami, the annual satellite art fair presented by Little Haiti Optimist Club, Welcome to Little Haiti and Chefs of the Caribbean will host a series of events at MiamiCentral. The events will showcase emerging and renowned artists from Haiti and around the world. Art Beat Miami features artists, painters, sculptors, art exhibits, murals, performers, and musicians. The organization brings together multidisciplinary artists working in collaboration to highlight the culturally rich and diverse creativity of local artists and the Caribbean Diaspora here and beyond.
December 1, 5 pm – 7 pm: Opening reception
December 2, 6 pm – 7 pm: Conversation with the artists
December 3, Noon – 3 pm: Artist Brunch
HOLIDAY HAPPENINGS
Polar Express Returns
Kicking off with a South Florida favorite, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride returns on Brightline for its fourth year. Starting December 3, the beloved holiday experience runs until December 29 from MiamiCentral station. This holiday classic comes to life when the festive Brightline train departs on a journey led by a cast of talented actors. Set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack, passengers relive the magic of this story as they are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ for a one-hour trip to meet and interact with Santa.
Magic memories provided by Polar Express will also be available for guests to commemorate the season.
Starting the first week of December, Brightline guests will be welcomed to MiamiCentral station with live performances of the Nutcracker by Miami City Ballet. Ballerinas will perform mini vignettes around the station as guests explore the holiday market and check-in for Polar Express.
Brightline’s Holiday Marketplace
Each weekend in December, MiamiCentral will be home to a fun and festive holiday market. Guests, riders, and families ready to jump on the Polar Express can all enjoy a selection of local vendors offering holiday gifts, treats, chocolates, and even gift wrapping. The market will feature rotating activities, including an edible cookie decorating station, pictures and story time with Mrs. Claus, and a station for letters to Santa.
The Holiday Market will be open December 3, 4, 9, 10, 11, 16, 17, 18, 23, 24 with Friday hours 11 a.m. – 8 p.m., Saturday and Sunday hours 10 a.m. – 8 p.m. and hours on December 24, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.
Holiday Gifting: Give the Gift of Brightline
Brightline Passes: Stalk up, save, and make the season bright starting now. Save big on annual Train Passes, group trips, and everyday SMART fares with Brightline’s Black Friday deals.
Sip some joy with Coffee & Tea perks. Time to do away with the coffeehouse chain gift cards, and give your loved ones the gift of unlimited pick-me-ups with Brightline.The rail service now offers its popular Coffee & Tea Club membership as the perfect gift for those guests on-the-go.
Designed to help guests save more, waste less and start every day with a smile, the Coffee & Tea Club offers complimentary refills of Lavazza coffee with flavor shots, cream and milk to customize each cup of brew and tea beverages that include caffeinated and non-caffeinated options. Members also receive a limited-edition welcome tumbler, designed by local artists whose artwork align with building and highlighting South Florida’s vibrant and diverse communities.
Purchasers have the option to select monthly, quarterly, or annual memberships and can purchase at Mary Mary, located in each Brightline station. Monthly membership starts at $19 per month, quarterly memberships are $49 per quarter and annual memberships cost $99 per year.
Santa – at the end of the Wellington Holiday Parade.
Family-Friendly Holiday Events in Wellington Looking to get into the Holiday spirit this December? Look no further than your Great Hometown! The Village of Wellington offers a host of fun, family activities for you and your loved ones throughout the month.
Thursday, December 1st | Holiday Cultural Celebration Start your December festivities with a Holiday Cultural Celebration on Thursday, December 1st. Recognizing holidays and traditions across cultures, the celebration will take place from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM on the Town Center Promenade (12150 Forest Hill Boulevard). The event features a holiday tree lighting under the gazebo at 6:15 PM, along with book readings, face painting, food trucks, holiday card crafting, a hot cocoa station, live performances, vendors and more. A number of children’s holiday characters will also be on hand for photo opportunities from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM, plus enjoy a very special visit with the big man in red himself—Santa Claus! Visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/HolidayCelebration for more information.
December 1st – 31st | Holiday Light Displays on the Town Center Promenade Throughout the month of December enjoy festive light displays along Wellington’s Town Center promenade (12150 Forest Hill Boulevard). The holiday lights will be on display throughout the month of December, courtesy of the Village of Wellington Florida and its community partners: Bang Energy, Baptist Health, Florida Power & Light, Good Vibes, and Wellington Regional Medical Center.
Friday, December 9th | Winterfest 2022 Winterfest, presented by the Wellington Chamber of Commerce and The Village of Wellington, takes place at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road) on Friday, December 9th, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM Featuring headline performer, music icon, philanthropist, actor, and TV star “Vanilla Ice,” the event will include live musical performances, silent disco, exhibitors, retail and holiday shopping, food vendors, lounge(s) for adult attendees, kids and teen activities, and more. Complimentary on-site and shuttle parking will be available. Visit www.wellingtonchamber.com for more information.
Fridays throughout December | Holiday Shopping at the Lakeside Market Get in your last-minute gift shopping, support local small businesses, and enjoy one of Florida’s beautiful winter evenings outdoors at the Lakeside Market at Wellington Town Center. Browse unique gifts and handcrafted goods while shopping with a variety of artists, crafters, bakers, makers, and more. A number of food and beverage vendors will also be on-site offering a selection of items for purchase. The market will be open on Fridays, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM, on Wellington’s Town Center promenade (12150 Forest Hill Boulevard). The December 16th market will feature a free screening of “The Polar Express (G)” starting at 7:00 PM. Guests should bring their own blankets or chairs for seating. Learn more about the market and view the vendor list at www.wellingtonlakesidemarket.com.
Saturday, December 10th | 32nd Annual Children’s Holiday Fishing Classic Get ready to reel in “the big one” at the 32nd Annual Children’s Holiday Fishing Classic, presented by the Village of Wellington in conjunction with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission and Building Up Sports Academy. The tournament will take place on Saturday, December 10th, from 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road), and is open to all local children ages 15 and younger. Prizes will be awarded for first, second, and third place (based on a point system of fish caught and released) in each age group: 6 and under; ages 7 to 9; ages 10 to 12; and ages 13 to 15. Registration is free and may be completed in advance at Village Park (11700 Pierson Road) or the Wellington Community Center (12150 Forest Hill Boulevard), or email athletics@wellingtonfl.gov to request a registration form. Learn more at www.wellingtonfl.gov/HolidayFishing
Saturday, December 10th | Holiday Boat Parade Come watch as local residents and boating enthusiasts “light up the lake” with an Annual Holiday Boat Parade on Lake Wellington. Approximately 30 festive, decorated boats are expected to cruise in the parade. Visible from the Town Center Promenade, the boats will pass behind the Wellington Community Center (12150 Forest Hill Boulevard) around 6:30 PM. Those interested in participating should contact Jack Brownson at jbrownson@comcast.net for more information.
Sunday, December 11th | 38th Annual Wellington Holiday Parade “Favorite Holiday Destination” The Annual Wellington Holiday Parade, hosted by the Village of Wellington and The Central Palm Beach Chamber of Commerce, returns on Sunday, December 11th. Enjoy a free day of fun and festivities with a judged parade filled with imaginative floats, marching bands, characters, dance troupes, and more. The parade begins at 1:30 PM and winds its way down Forest Hill Boulevard, from Wellington Trace to Ken Adams Way. Grab your family and your sneakers and come on out for this fantastic holiday event! Visit www.cpbcchamber.com for more information.
Tuesday, December 13th | Senior Holiday Party (for ages 50+) Wellington seniors ages 50 and up are invited to attend a free Senior Holiday Party on Tuesday, December 13th, from 11:30 AM to 1:30 PM, at the Wellington Community Center (12150 Forest Hill Boulevard). Lunch will be provided along with holiday-themed decorations, entertainment, and activities. Registration is required. Please call 561-753-2484 to RSVP. Existing CivicRec users may sign up at www.wellingtonfl.gov/CivicRec.
Sunday, December 18th | Annual Wellington Holiday Jingle Bell Run 5K The Annual Wellington Holiday Jingle Bell Run 5K returns to Village Park (11700 Pierson Road) on Sunday, December 18th. The race begins at 7:00 AM and participants are encouraged to bring out an unwrapped toy to be donated to families in the Village of Wellington community as part of the annual Hometown Holiday Toy Drive. All participants will be provided with jingle bells to wear prior to the start of the race. For more details, and registration information, visit www.active.com.
To sign up for the monthly Play Wellington Newsletter from Wellington’s Parks & Recreation Department visit www.wellingtonfl.gov/PlayWellington.
As another way to stay informed on the latest news and updates from the Village, residents are invited to sign up for Wellington information and updates at www.wellingtonfl.gov/Newsletter
