An interview with Nathan Mercado AKA Spider Cherry, Musician and Entertainer
By Denise Marsh
There are musicians and then there are MUSICIANS…..Picture this: You are casually enjoying a drink, laughing with a friend. and a medium build, curly-haired, British accented man comes up to the stage and starts playing from two keyboards. The keyboards are not stacked on top of each other but rather one is in the front of the stage and the other to the right of the performer. You don’t really know what to expect but your intuition is screaming, “ This is going to be good” and it definitely was. I met Nathan Mercado aka “Spider Cherry” when Covid was still wearing on people’s minds. He came up to the intimate stage at Village Music Café and Store in Wellington and started playing the keyboards and singing, bringing intrigue and excitement to the audience. Spider Cherry knows how to “read the room” and most of his act is improvisation; feeding off of the audience’s vibe. S.C. will begin one song and fuse it in with another in perfect timing- not missing a hint of rhythm. He quickly became one of my favorites for live music entertainment, and I can guarantee he will do the same for you. Let’s get to know the man behind the “web.” ( I am a sucker for a full-on British accent so this was a pure delight for me).
Inside the “Web”
AW: When did you first start singing and playing the keyboard? Who or what inspired this passion?
SC: I was about five years old. I did the music and the singing together. I kind of always wanted to sing and play music. I guess, because my parents had a Baby Grand Piano and I would go over to it, tap it, and play around a little. My dad and mom saw that I was very interested in it and so it began. It is hard to remember those years. My parents didn’t have any musical background and couldn’t sing well. I am sort of “self-taught”. I had basic lessons when I was a kid, learning the notes: c, d, f, g, etc. I am more of a “play by ear” or “wing it” kind of guy. I just do it as I go along .
I play from my emotions and the vibe I get from the room. I try to “read the room” and appropriate the music. Sometimes I go a bit “berserk,” depending on the crowd, that’s all I will say about that. Sometimes it is fun to give people the impression that I am “mental” and play with the music; it keeps the show going. I tend to “mirror” life.
AW: How did you come up with the stage name “Spider Cherry”?
SC: I write a lot of music, but it’s more in the background and it really shouldn’t be that way. I’ve been pushing my music more now and writing quite a bit between the scenes. When I came up with the name, “Spider Cherry,” it was when I was doing and writing a lot of theatrical stuff . For example, I wrote in the style of Queen’s “Bohemian Rhapsody” and no one’s really heard any of my new stuff. I’ve got a lot of stuff “under my belt” this year and I’m actually about to reveal it. I usually push to the next level and there’s some fear attached to it.
The cliché, “it’s who you know, not what you know” is very accurate with making and selling music. In music, it’s really about who you know and who you surround yourself with that makes it work or not work. “Spider Cherry” came from a film called “Spinal Tap” which was a spoof made in the seventies; it was a spoof of a rock band. It was called a “Rockumentary”-a spoof documentary that was very funny. It was about some funny American guys pretending to be British. I thought to myself “I need to be creative” with marketing. How could I come up with something that would stick?
I’ve always liked the band name Guns and Roses; you can put the logo together of- a gun and a rose, and it is simple to remember. If I wanted to market something I had to be smart; put things that go together that people will remember. I thought of a monkey and then (laughing) I said, “nope.” But then a spider came into my head. I went to the dot.com and searched to see if that name had already been taken or not. No one wants to be second in line. We’re all copying someone; its part of our DNA and from our moms, of course. I am spider-like when I play two pianos at once and I’m kind of using a lot of limbs. I kind of have eight legs, well not really…It is about the yin and the yang and the sweet and the poisonous if you will; the good and the bad.
I sometimes use a drummer and sometimes I don’t. I was a soloist during the “Corona” (covid) era, when there wasn’t a lot of work and the budget was usually low. I had to pretty much do my own thing. But, I don’t really like doing the solo stuff, I like to play off of other musicians. You can call me “spider,” I tell people. Ironically, I had a presumptive understanding of where I was going at a young age. I remember being dressed up as spider man instead of a school uniform and getting in trouble in school.
AW: How easy or hard is it to mask your British accent when singing?
SC: I’m from London Originally. I don’t purposely do it. I mean, I had singing lessons for a few years. There’s two parts of singing. We can either get a better tone or “singing voice” or you can keep your “natural voice.” It’s like tennis or whatever you do as a “serve” in a sport; the one, sound, timing they all relate in a certain position. I can, depending on the song. I can do imitations as well. I prefer to do natural though.
AW: I have noticed during your routine, you do voice impressions rather well, especially singing in “character”. Did you always have this talent?
SC: I try to put my personality in it; on and off the stage. You really have to be yourself and if you’re not confident in yourself than you’re not going to be good on stage. It’s kind of like I “became” who I am while I was on stage.
AW: What are some of your favorite songs to play?
SC: I like a lot of the classics. I should probably listen to some new music but there’s so much stuff out there! I mean, I feel like I play the classics mostly like : Queen, Michael Jackson, The Beatles, etc. When you play selective music it’s what is on the “queue” and that is how they market music. It is “branded” like food and the major food chains: McDonalds, etc. People eat it even if it isn’t very good for you due to the marketing, you are what you eat and you are also what you listen to. If you listen to Top 10, that’s what I tend to play. I can still appreciate Boy bands and bands like the Spice Girls; those are not bad music. But now, people are being marketed by a big producer or popular on Tik Tok because of the viewers and it loses importance and is not impressive to me.
AW: I have observed that you are on the young side and your audience is an older crowd most of the time. Is this demographic difficult to play for or easier?
SC: Actually, I try to deal with generational gap as much as possible. I think Covid just made the gap even bigger. The people that grew up without phones are so different from the people that grew up in a “phone culture.” I feel that there is a difference in personalities; the “phone people” can be “warped” at times. In comparison, people wo grew up without the phones tend to appreciate more, in my opinion. Older people tend to tip more and look for the talent in others. Whereas, younger people tip less and appreciate talent if it is about them. It’s a different level of appreciation and a lot of that can be attributed to the influence of social media. So, playing for a more “mature” audience is easier because the music is more perceptive. I love young people and being part of that generation but feel like the older person sees and appreciates that I am doing three things at once. I think I am an “old soul” for sure.
AW:You incorporate Comedy a lot in your routines to bond with the audience. How’d you become such a natural?
SC: My family influenced me a lot; my dad is funny and sarcastic. Plus, of course, we’re from England so we have that “dry” sense of humor based on varying levels (laughing) . I always wonder if the people “over here” are getting my jokes or not. There is definitely a different style of humor in America.
AW: You have quite the talent of playing two keyboards simultaneously; how did this style originate? Do you play other instruments?
SC: I play and write for guitar. I also play guitar and drums. Performing out has always been the piano. I started playing the two pianos together about six or seven years ago because my friend had a keyboard. I would come over and play on it and she offered it to me so I bought it from her and I already had one. I play it in a slightly unconventional way; instead of stacking the keyboards together, I play at a right angle. I tend to play with my eyes closed, so I “see the music” in my head and this particular angle works for me.
AW: What is something that you think people would be surprised to know about you?
SC: I think that people would definitely be surprised to see what videos I’m about to release. There’s a couple of tracks where I used my “comedic side” and they are sort of “self-deprecating.” I dress up like a baby (laughs aloud). Go to YouTube and type in “Spider Cherry, a little bit shy.” Also, this year there’s another one with a dog.
AW: How can people contact you and see where you’ll be playing next?
SC: I made things very simple and easy. All of my social media is “Spider Cherry” and that’s it. It will give you posts, music, happenings and dates of shows as well.
AW: What are your future plans for your music?
SC: I’d like to form a band to get going with the original stuff a little better. I find that people’s schedules are a little bit different these days; they are always busy. I also find that where I am situated at the moment people really get to know me and my “Spider Cherry” trademark. People see that I mostly play covers and they are used to this. I feel that if people suddenly heard me do originals, they’d be very surprised. I’ve been creating my own way of performing to put myself in every position that I know and where I can entertain. I have actually done a lot of shows in the army and the navy. I’ve been everywhere. I must say that I truly enjoy playing at Village Music in Wellington; it is a special kind of place. Steve and Donna Wiley, the owners are very good people.
You know, we live in a world where no one listens to a whole song; they mostly skip to “the good part.” There is a different level of patience these days. That is why I tend to start with one song and break it up with requests from the crowd. I know my music is definitely a product of this mentality.
A “Friendly” Spider
If you have never seen Spider Cherry perform you should definitely check him out on social media. He plays at various locations in West Palm Beach. I promise you that once you see him in action you will be hooked by the “spider.” I have never been disappointed by any of his shows and I end up staying till the end (which is rare for me). You might potentially think differently about spiders.
Grease a 3-quart, 13- x 9-inch baking dish with butter; set aside. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil over medium-high. Add lobster tails; cook, undisturbed, until shells turn red but meat is still slightly translucent, about 2 minutes (lobster should be undercooked). Using tongs, transfer lobster to a large bowl; let cool 5 minutes. Transfer 2 cups of the cooking water to a heatproof measuring cup and set aside; reserve remaining water in pot on stovetop. Using kitchen shears, and working over the bowl to catch any juices, cut down the center of each lobster tail shell, transfer meat to a cutting board, and add shells to bowl. Remove and discard digestive tract from the lobster tails. Chop lobster meat into 1-inch pieces and place in a medium bowl; cover and refrigerate.
Melt 2 tablespoons of the butter in a large saucepan over medium-high. Add reserved lobster shells with any juices from bowl; cook, stirring often, until aromatic, about 2 minutes. Add onion, garlic, and thyme sprig; cook, stirring often, until onion is soft and translucent, about 3 minutes. Add wine; cook, stirring often, until almost dry, about 6 minutes. Stir in reserved 2 cups cooking water in measuring glass, and bring to a simmer over medium. Simmer, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half, about 15 minutes. Stir in milk, cream, and tarragon sprigs; cook over medium-low, stirring occasionally, 10 minutes. Remove from heat. Pour through a fine mesh strainer into a large heatproof bowl; discard solids. There should be about 4 cups lobster stock; set aside. Wipe saucepan clean; set aside. Preheat oven to 400°F.
While lobster stock reduces, return remaining lobster cooking water in large pot to a boil over high. Add pasta and cook for 1 minute less than package instructions for slightly less than al dente. Drain and set aside.
Melt 4 tablespoons of the butter in cleaned saucepan over medium until foamy. Whisk in flour; cook, whisking constantly, until bubbly and light golden brown, about 2 minutes. Gradually whisk in reserved 4 cups strained milk mixture. Cook, whisking often, until thickened, 6 to 8 minutes. Remove from heat; gradually whisk in fontina and Gruyère, whisking until melted. Add mascarpone and whisk until smooth. Stir in soy sauce, pepper, mustard, and nutmeg. Gently stir in cooked pasta and lobster meat. Spoon mixture into prepared baking dish; set aside.
Microwave remaining 2 tablespoons butter in a medium-size microwavable bowl on HIGH until melted, about 30 seconds. Stir in panko, Parmesan, lemon zest, and paprika. Sprinkle evenly over mac and cheese mixture in baking dish. Bake in preheated oven until bubbly and light golden on top, about 20 minutes. Remove from oven; let stand 10 minutes. Garnish with thyme leaves and tarragon leaves. Serve.
For more details and other great recipes, visit Food & Wine.
My heart is like a singing bird Whose nest is in a water’d shoot; My heart is like an apple-tree Whose boughs are bent with thickset fruit; My heart is like a rainbow shell That paddles in a halcyon sea; My heart is gladder than all these Because my love is come to me …
Join us for an evening of extraordinary music with performances by eight of the world’s finest violinists at the Norton Museum of Art on January 22
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Palm Beach, Fla. – (Monday, January 6, 2025) – The Chamber Music Society of Palm Beach (CMSPB) is delighted to announce its 2025 Annual Gala honoring Beverlee Miller Raymond & John J. Raymond, Jr. This exceptional evening features eight of the world’s finest violinists in a powerful performance of Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons” alongside Piazzolla’s “Four Seasons” of Buenos Aires. The gala will be held on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM at the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach, FL.
“The extraordinary group of eight violinists we have assembled for this evening will truly be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our audience,” said CMSPB Artistic Director Arnaud Sussmann. “I’m excited to bring this iconic program, centered around Vivaldi’s timeless Four Seasons, to Palm Beach. This gala promises to be a celebration of chamber music at its finest!”
An Evening of Extraordinary Music
This extraordinary Gala Concert offers a rare and unforgettable musical experience, showcasing the height of artistic collaboration.
Vivaldi’s renowned “Four Seasons” takes center stage at the CMSPB annual Gala.
On January 22, an impressive collection of the world’s leading violinists, including James Ehnes, Yura Lee, Chad Hoopes, and Arnaud Sussmann, will perform a concerto from this iconic work.
In a twist, the evening will also feature a Latin-infused reimagining of the seasons with
Astor Piazzolla’s “Four Seasons” of Buenos Aires, performed by violin soloists Tessa Lark, Karen Gomyo, Amy Schwartz Moretti, and Andrew Wan. This dynamic pairing, along with Andrew Norman’s Gran Turismo, evokes the energy of a car race through vibrant violin textures and promises to showcase the violin as a timeless and ever-evolving instrument.
About the Artists:
James Ehnes has established himself as one of the most sought-after violinists on the international stage. Gifted with a rare combination of stunning virtuosity, serene lyricism, and an unfaltering musicality, Ehnes is a favorite guest of many of the world’s most respected conductors.
Karen Gomyo, “a first-rate artist of real musical command, vitality, brilliance, and intensity.” (The Chicago Tribune), possesses a rare ability to captivate and connect intimately with audiences through her deeply emotional and heartfelt performances. She is one of today’s leading violinists, with a flawless command of the instrument and an elegant expression.
Chad Hoopes is acclaimed by critics worldwide for his exceptional talent and magnificent tone and has remained an impressive, consistent, and versatile performer with many of the world’s leading orchestras since winning First Prize at the Young Artists Division of the Yehudi Menuhin International Violin Competition.
Tessa Lark is one of our time’s most captivating artistic voices, consistently praised by critics and audiences for her astounding range of sounds, technical agility, and musical elegance. In 2020, she was nominated for a Grammy in the Best Classical Instrumental Solo category, and she is also a highly acclaimed fiddler in the tradition of her native Kentucky.
Yura Lee is a multifaceted soloist and chamber musician and one of the very few who is equally virtuosic on both violin and viola. Her career spans various musical mediums, captivating audiences with music from baroque to modern, and enjoying a career that spans three decades and takes her worldwide.
Amy Schwartz Moretti has a musical career of broad versatility that spans nearly two decades. The Cleveland Institute of Music has recognized Schwartz Moretti with an Alumni Achievement Award, and she is the 2014 San Francisco Conservatory of Music Fanfare Honoree, their first Precollege graduate to be recognized.
Arnaud Sussmann is the Artistic Director and the Winner of a 2009 Avery Fisher Career Grant; Arnaud Sussmann has distinguished himself with his unique sound, bravura, and profound musicianship.
Andrew Wan was named concertmaster of the Orchestre Symphonique de Montréal (OSM) in 2008. Wan’s discography includes Grammy-nominated and Juno, Felix, and Opus award-winning releases on the Analekta, Onyx, Bridge, and Naxos labels with the Seattle Chamber Music Society, New York’s Metropolis Ensemble, Charles Richard-Hamelin, and the New Orford String Quartet.
The evening begins with a VIP Cocktail Reception at 6:00 PM, followed by the Gala Concert: The Four Seasons at 7:00 PM, and concludes with a Gala Dinner with the Artists at 8:30 PM. Individual tickets are available for $1,000, with sponsorship opportunities and benefits starting at $5,000. All proceeds will directly support CMSPB’s annual operating fund and its mission to inspire and educate through exceptional chamber music experiences. Tickets for this remarkable celebration can be purchased at chambermusicpalmbeach.org/gala.
Limited individual tickets for the concert only, excluding dinner and cocktails, can be purchased at chambermusicpalmbeach.org for $75.
About CMSPB
The Chamber Music Society of Palm Beach (CMSPB), a nonprofit organization, has brought extraordinary chamber music performances and educational programming to Palm Beach County and the wider South Florida region since 2013. CMSPB has presented over 150 artists, including the Emerson and Harlem string quartets, violinists James Ehnes and Pinchas Zuckerman, pianists Anne-Marie McDermott and Inon Barnatan, and members of the New York Philharmonic, Cleveland Orchestra, and Philadelphia Orchestra, among many others. Each season, CMSPB provides nearly 1,000 students and young musicians hands-on access to some of the world’s finest artists and music educators. Through master classes, in-school performances, and open rehearsals, CMSPB aims to fuel the creativity and curiosity of young people and nurture the artists of tomorrow. The renowned Boscobel Chamber Music Festival was launched in partnership with the Boscobel House and Gardens. The festival programming features school and community outreach, open rehearsals, lectures, and main-stage concerts. Today, they continue to be a leader in musical artistry and educational impact, connecting people across our community with the transformative power of chamber music. For more information, visit cmspb.org.
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CALENDAR LISTING:
Wednesday, January 22, 2025 – 6 p.m. – 10 p.m. – The Chamber Music Society of Palm Beach is delighted to announce its 2025 Annual Gala at the Norton Museum of Art in West Palm Beach, FL. This exceptional evening features eight of the world’s finest violinists in a powerful performance of Vivaldi’s “Four Seasons” alongside Piazzolla’s “Four Seasons” of Buenos Aires. Tickets can be purchased at chambermusicpalmbeach.org/gala.
Dates & Theme: 113th annual South Florida Fair. Ride-A-Thon from 5 to 10 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 16. Full Fair: January 17-February 2. Theme: “Imagine the Future”
Location & Hours • 9067 Southern Boulevard in West Palm Beach. • Open Monday-Friday from noon-10 p.m. and 10 a.m.-10 p.m. on Martin Luther King Day, Jan. 20, and every Saturday and Sunday – 10 a.m.-10 p.m. except for the closing Sunday, Feb. 2, which is 10 a.m.-8 p.m.
Opening Day Ceremony: • On opening day, January 17, all guests attending the opening ceremony will be admitted free. Gates open at 11 a.m. The ceremony starts at 11:30 a.m.
Features: Exhibits and interactive activities relating to the “Imagine the Future” theme, including a “Science Fiction Science Future” exhibit, The Flying Royals, daily ice skating shows, hundreds of rides and food vendors, daily comedy hypnotist shows, four stages of music and entertainment acts, farm animals and related shows, Yesteryear Village activities, contests, shopping, arts and crafts and more. See full list and descriptions in Features release.
Admission: Advance tickets are available online at www.southfloridafair.com and Palm Beach County locations of Publix through midnight on January 16. Admission is free for children 10 and younger. Advance tickets are $10 for 11 years and older and may be used any day. If used on opening day, advance admission ticket holders get a free ticket to return another day, courtesy of Publix. Guests with an online advance ticket will show their barcode on their phone or present a printed copy of their purchase at the gate. Tickets at the gate will be $15, Monday-Friday, except for $2 Tuesdays, and $20 on Saturday and Sunday. On both Thursdays of the Fair, guests who buy one admission ticket will get one ticket free. Those using an advance discount admission ticket on Thursdays can bring one guest admitted for free.
On Friday and Saturday after 7 p.m., all guests under 18 must be accompanied by an adult guardian 21 or older with I.D. when entering the fair. The maximum is four minors per guardian. The purchase of admission and a ride wristband is required for entry for guests ages 11-17.
Bag policy: Allowable bags upon entering the fairgrounds are clear plastic, vinyl or PVC (maximum size: 12″x6″x12″), small clutch bags (do not need to be clear; maximum size: 6″x9″)
Parking: $10 for general parking and $20 for premium parking at the fairgrounds. Credit card only.
Rides: Midway opens at 1 p.m. Monday-Friday and 11 a.m. on Saturdays, Sundays and MLK Day. Ride wristbands are $35 Monday-Friday and $45 Saturday and Sunday at the midway ticket plazas. Guests can move to the front of the ride lines with a Gold Access pass, which costs $12 Monday-Thursday, except MLK Day; $20 Friday, Saturday, Sunday and MLK Day. Available at any ticket booth on the midway.
Public Info: Call 561-793-0333 or toll-free in Florida 800-640-FAIR or visit www.southfloridafair.com.
BOCA RATON, FL, January 14, 2025– The Junior League of Boca Raton (JLBR) will present the Boca Bazaar, a modern luxury thrift sale, on Saturday, March 8 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. and Sunday, March 9 from 9 a.m. until noon at Plastridge Insurance, 2100 Dixie Highway, Boca Raton.
Luxury will meet thrift in a unique shopping experience. Guests can explore an exceptional collection of curated items, from vintage t-shirts and high-end fashion to chic home décor and elegant housewares.
“This one-of-a-kind event offers the perfect opportunity to shop sustainably while indulging in fabulous finds at unbeatable prices,” Nicole Stelzer, President of the Junior League of Boca Raton said.
The event chair is Alexandra Scheiber. Honorary Chairs are Marina Morbeck and Susan Diener.
Committee members include Darina Bowerman, Hilary Cohen, Jenny Feldman, Karlie Friedman,Tara Henn, Brooke Kaplan, Mai L.G., Gina Lowy, Alexis Montero, Stephanie Newell,
Fabiola Padernacht, Rita Page, Sarah-Antonia Tkalec, Courtney Turner, Stacey Weinger,
Renata Wozniak and Amanda Zook.
For more information, call 561-620-2553 or visit jlbr.org.
About the Junior League of Boca Raton Throughout the year, JLBR members contribute more than 35,000 volunteer hours and donate more than $250,000 to support the organization’s mission of advancing women’s leadership for meaningful community impact through volunteer action, collaboration and training. The Junior League currently focuses on two community issues, Child Welfare and Non-Profit Support.
To learn more about the JLBR, please contact the JLBR office at 561-620-2553 or visit www.JLBR.org.Connect on Facebook or Instagram.
Joan Oliva (Executive Director, LWB CRA), the Noel-Jeune Family, the Guillaume Family, and Carla Blockson (LWB CRA)
LAKE WORTH BEACH, FL (January 13, 2025): Last month, Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County held a special ceremony breaking ground on two future homes in Lake Worth Beach, in partnership with Carrier (home sponsor) and Lake Worth Beach CRA (land donor). These homes will be the focus of the upcoming Women Build 2025 campaign, where hundreds of women—and men—will join forces to help build them, repair neighboring homes, and raise critical funding to advance Habitat’s mission of providing affordable housing.
This heartfelt celebration marked the start of a transformative journey for two local families. Tangie Guillaume and Judy Noel-Jeune are the two future homeowners who are joining forces with Habitat to create brighter, more secure futures for their families. Both mothers are excited to embrace the opportunity to build stability and look forward to creating cherished memories in homes made possible by the power of Women Build and generous sponsors.
On March 6 & 7, Women Build co-chaired by Julie Peyton and Mary Allen Saunders, will help bring these homes to life. This annual event brings women (and men) together to raise funds and work alongside Habitat families to build and repair homes. Women Build is a unique, large-scale, and empowering experience that combines fun and impact, as affordable housing supporters come together to make a difference in the community.
The Women Build 2025 committee comprises of outstanding community leaders dedicated to making a positive impact in our community. The Co-Chairs are Julie Peyton and Mary Allen Saunders, and the Honorary Chairs are Aimee Craig Carlson and Camille Murphy Kubicek. Legacy Committee Members are Beverly Raphael-Altman, Clara Bennett, Kerry Colvett, Robyn Raphael-Dynan, Sophia Eccleston, Danielle Rosse, and Kelly Smallridge. Committee Members include Tiffany Beekhuysen, Renay Chung, Krysta Fuoco Andrea Gassner, Lucy Joseph, Erika London, Cristina Marulanda, Christy Maasbach, Tonya Notaro, Kerry O’Neill, Laureen Pannullo, Noelle Tantillo, Teawanna Teal, JP Varvarigos, Varito Vasquez, Mandy Warren, and Lauren Zinn.
Habitat for Humanity of Greater Palm Beach County:
WELLINGTON, FL – Love is in the air this month at The Mall at Wellington Green! This February, the mall will host a treasure trove of Valentine’s Day festivities, complimentary Kids Club events, workout classes, and more.
Valentine’s Photo Booth
February 1- February 13
Free
Grand Court
Snap a picture at this Valentine’s photo booth for a chance to win big! To enter, post your Valentine’s Day photo to your Instagram feed and tag @wellingtongreen, and make sure you are following the mall. The winner will be selected on Monday, February 17 and will win a $250 shopping spree!
Kids Club Action Arena
Saturday, February 8
11am-1pm
Free
The District
The Mall at Wellington Green is thrilled to partner with Hado USA for Kids Club Action Arena! The inaugural event will feature innovative and virtual reality dodgeball games, indoor bounce houses, and more family-friendly activities.
Galentine’s Day Sip & Paint
Thursday, February 13
5-7:30pm
$20 per person
The District
Girls just want to have fun getting crafty! Guests will enjoy a performance from a live guitarist, light bites, champagne, and get to take home swag. Registration is required. For more information, visit shopwellingtongreen.com.
Hearts & Soul Weekend
February 13-16
Free
The District
All weekend, the mall will collaborate with Wellington Art Society to hold a pop-up art exhibit, featuring beautiful artworks made by members of the local community. Plus, on Saturday, February 15 from 5-8pm, there will be a reception with a live art demonstration and artwork for purchase. The reception is free to attend.
Couple’s Sip & Paint
Friday, February 14
5-7:30pm
$20 per person
The District
Grab your favorite plus one and unleash your inner artist at Couple’s Sip & Paint class, co-hosted by themall and Wellington Art Society. The romance-filled evening of painting will feature a live guitarist, light bites, champagne, and swag for guests to take home. Registration is required. For more information, visit shopwellingtongreen.com.
Mommy & Me Valentine’s Day
Wednesday, February 19
10:30am-12pm
Free
Grand Court
Parents and children under five are invited to celebrate Valentine’s Day at the mall. The morning will feature a Zumbini class taught by Regina Rossi, a Valentine’s Day craft party, tasty treats, and more.
“Love Is In the Air…” Zumba Dance Party with Jaime
Saturday, February 15
10:30-11:30am
Free
The District
Love the one you’re with! Enjoy The Mall at Wellington Green’s Zumba dance party program that combines high- and low-intensity Latin dance moves designed to burn calories and boost cardio endurance. All ages and levels are welcome.
The Mall at Wellington Green is located at 10300 W. Forest Hill Blvd., Wellington. For more information, call (561) 227-6900 or visit shopwellingtongreen.com.
About The Mall at Wellington Green
The Mall at Wellington Green in Wellington, FL is a 1.2 million square foot, two-level regional shopping destination, and it features over 160 stores. Retailers include Macy’s, Dillard’s, Apple, Brighton, Chico’s, Forever 21, H&M, Tommy Bahama, City Furniture, The Palm Beach Museum of Natural History, CMX Wellington, and more. For more information, visit shopwellingtongreen.com.
For the past 51 years, Wellington has hosted the Winter Equestrian Festival which is now the largest and longest horse circuit competition in all of the sport, offering a unique experience of magical horses and riders jumping tall elaborate decorated fences while others elegantly dance under the stars.
The 2025 season of WEF at Wellington International promises to be one of the best yet with a new ownership and the past president of the United States Equestrian Foundation Murray Kessler leading as the new CEO along side past and present WI President Micheal Stone and Thomas Baur continuing as Director of Sport for Adequan® Global Dressage.
WI enhanced production sets the pace for a World Class destination. Offering an elevated spectator experience, improved light and surface conditions for riders and horses, WEF will host of a new series of competition known as the US Equestrian Open that will further participants for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games. “The US Equestrian Open is going to be a major championship, the same level as Wimbledon is for tennis,” CEO Murray Kessler said during the WEF press conference last week.
WEF is set to be the backdrop for 10 of the world’s top show jumpers with athletes from over 35 countries competing Wednesday through Sunday from now until end of March. A season filled with 13 weeks of some of the best riders in the world competing for the ultimate grand prize in the 5 Star Finale Series hosted by premier sponsor Rolex. The Rolex purse upped from $500k to $750k will make the stakes even higher. Other big name sponsors include Lugano, Weather Tech, Net Jets, Mars, Bainbridge Companies, IDA and KASK.
Olympic Grand Prix competitions happen each Saturday evening, officially known as Saturday Night Lights. SNL offers a variety of seating options such as the VIP International Club, the upscale Blue Ribbon Club, Net Jets Landing open air dining and the Tiki Hut for a more casual atmosphere. The Gallery and the Wellington Club are often open to the public while some evenings will offer private dining options or may be booked for corporate events and large groups. Reservations are available online. Regular admission for SNL is free with just a $22 parking charge for each vehicle.
Gates open at 6 pm with the Grand Prix beginning at 7pm. Various food vendors are located throughout the show grounds as well as many bar areas serving wine, beer and liquor drinks. Saturday Night Lights offers the entire family a night of free fun with a petting zoo, pony rides, a carousel, magicians, carnival games and face painting all located at the front entrance.
WEF week 4 Saturday Night Lights held February 1st will feature one of the largest charity events in Palm Beach County known as The Great Charity Challenge. For the past 15 years, riders and their horses compete relay style for selected non-profits in themed costumes. To date, GCC has distributed over $19 million dollars to over 300 local Palm Beach County non-profit organizations and Palm Beach County School District PTA/PTO associations. This year’s theme is “Celebrating Global Music” and is sure to thrill every age group. For more information, sponsorship opportunities or to reserve VIP seating you can visit GreatCharityChallenge.com.
Also for families there is Friday Night Under the Stars featuring the top Dressage riders of the world with ten national competitions and two Para-Equestrian competitions. “Eight Para-Equestrian medalists at the Paris Olympics came from Wellington,” stated Director Thomas Baur. Adequan® Global Dressage is located at the Equestrian Village -13500 South Shore Blvd, Wellington, FL. Gates open at 6pm with show starting at 7PM. Parking is also $22 per vehicle and regular admission is free. For more information visit gdf.coth.com.
“WEF is an opportunity to see some of the very best in the world,” WI President Micheal Stone added. “There are few opportunities like it in the United States. Where else can you watch Olympic Champions and have a fun night out, right in your own backyard?”
For more information on the venue, reservations and competition schedules visit https://wellingtoninternational.com/ or call (561) 793-JUMP / (561) 793-5867 for the latest updates or to host a special event.
Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County to Host 30 Healthy and Horticultural Events Throughout February Including Plant-a-Palooza Winter Plant Sale
+ Orchids are for Everyone Potting Workshop – February 1
+ Special Presentation & Book-Signing by Wild Florida Author Kirsten Hines – February 1
(West Palm Beach, FL – January 10, 2025) Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden will offer 30 healthy and horticultural classes and events throughout February, including the always popular Plant-a-Palooza Winter Plant Sale and our delightfully frog-tastic RIBBIT THE EXHIBIT II,featuring 18 larger-than-life frog sculptures at work and play.
“We are inviting friends and families to maximize the year’s shortest month with an eco-friendly flourish at Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest public garden—Mounts Botanical Garden, a beautiful, tranquil, 20-acre oasis located just minutes from the hustle-and-bustle of downtown West Palm,” says Mounts Executive Director James E. May, touting the Garden’s numerous and informative horticultural presentations and workshops in February 2025.
Mounts Botanical Garden is open to the public Tuesday through Sunday from 9 am to 4 pm (with last entry at 3 pm). Admission is $20 for adults; $18 for seniors, college students and military with IDs; $13 for ages 6 to 17; and free for children under age 6, Mounts members, and RAP (reciprocal program) members.
February 1
Orchids are for Everyone Potting Workshop
Saturday, 10:00 am to 11:15 am
$10 for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Free for Tropical Orchid Society Members with proof of Tropical Orchid Society Membership (shown on the day of class) – please register at www.mounts.org to save your spot.
Registration is required; classes are nonrefundable. Class size is limited 35 Adults
Join us for an interactive workshop conducted by members of the board of the Tropical Orchid Society. Each workshop will begin with a brief introduction followed by specific growing advice for the month followed by repotting demonstrations and Q & A. Attendees may bring one orchid to repot and the media and pot or mount they prefer to use. Orchid Potting Workshops are held in the Mounts Botanical Garden Pavilion inside the main gate next to the new Welcome Center, on the first Saturday of every month.
Kirsten Hines Wild Florida Presentation & Book Signing
Saturday, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm
$5 for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Kirsten Hines
This presentation is designed for audiences aged 9 and older; FREE for youth 9-17.
Registration is required; event is nonrefundable; presentation is limited to 150.
Florida is widely known for its alligators, panthers, pythons, and pesky mosquitoes, but did you know it also has crocodiles, bears, scarlet-striped snakes, and more species of fireflies than any other state? How about a tiny lizard that swims through Central Florida’s ancient sand dunes, a red widow spider that hides in palmettos, or that wild flamingos, common two centuries ago, are reappearing? Join author, wildlife photographer, and conservationist Kirsten Hinesfor a visual and descriptive journey from the temperate Panhandle through the state’s myriad habitats to the tropical islands of Dry Tortugas National Park, deep into Florida’s wilds to explore its impressive array of animals as captured in her multiple gold-medal winning book Wild Florida: An Animal Odyssey.
Books available for signing:
Birds of Florida (2024)
Wild Florida: An Animal Odyssey (2023)
Attracting Birds to South Florida Gardens (2014)
Kirsten Hines is an award-winning author, wildlife photographer, and conservationist with a master’s degree in biology and background as an environmental educator. Her writing and photography have appeared in various publications, including her eight books on Florida’s nature and history, and her images have been featured in photography showcases, public art programs, and exhibitions.
$20 for members; $30 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission).
Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Class 1: Tai Chi Intermediate Class
9:15 am to 10:15 am
This class is for those who have learned the basic Sun Style Tai Chi Forms and wish to pursue advanced Sun Style Forms. Lessons will be multi-faceted, addressing not only the external execution of the Forms, but more importantly, deepening the internal dimensions of the Forms, such as: magnifying the Qi (Life Energy) and incorporating the Internal Principles of Tai Chi: Song (loosening), Jing (mental quietude), Chen (sinking of dan-tien), and Huo (agility) which are vital to one’s well-being and healing.
In addition, we will explore another Tai Chi Form, the Yang Style.
Note: Wear sneakers or closed comfortable shoes and a loose top and pants. Please bring a towel and water.
Class 2: Tai Chi Beginner Class
10:15 am to 11:15 am
This class is designed for those new to Tai Chi or those curious about Tai Chi. You will learn basic Tai Chi principles and moves, called Forms. The primary goal is to improve your overall health and well-being, the use of mindfulness and balance through the Forms are thought to open the doors to Health and Serenity. Tai Chi is excellent for those who want a gentle, but effective exercise.
Note: Wear sneakers or closed comfortable shoes and a loose top and pants. Please bring a towel and water.
$30 for members; $40 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Registration is required; class size is limited to 30 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Upon arrival you will receive a ceremonial smudging and blessing, helping to release any burdens from your day-to-day life. Then you will be given a cup of the highest quality, Ceremonial Cacao to take part in our sacred heart-opening Cacao Ceremony. The Cacao works to relax you, open your heart chakra, and help you to be receptive to the healing you will experience. Finally, you’ll relax into Yoga Nidra mediation and deep sound healing during which you will be immersed in the healing energies of the Gong, Crystal singing bowls, and other high-frequency instruments.
Note: Please bring your yoga mat and blanket. Please no alcohol on the day of the ceremony and caffeine 3 hours before and after the event.
Tuesdays, 10:00 am to 12:00 pm $20 for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). Classes are nonrefundable. Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults.
Join artist Carl Stoveland and share the love of art and nature with fellow art enthusiasts. This class is for adults only. Bring your pencils, pens, paints. Sketchpad, watercolor pad, or journal, and your favorite photographic device (i.e., cell phone camera or tablet). Some experience preferred. True newbies should consider the beginner’s class.Each week or two, the class will start a new painting project. Time will be split between demos by Stoveland and supervised painting time for participants. Subjects will be chosen by instructor with assistance from class.
Tuesdays, 12:30 pm to 2:30 pm $20 for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission). Classes are nonrefundable. Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults.
If you have always wanted to try watercolor but been overwhelmed by it then this is the class for you. Geared toward novice watercolor enthusiasts, this class will focus on the basics, including a new technique and a simple painting each week. Join artist Carl Stoveland and share your love of art and nature with fellow art enthusiasts. This class is for adults only. Bring pencils, pens, paints, sketchpad, watercolor pad, or journal, and your favorite photographic device (i.e., cell phone camera or tablet). Each week or two, the class will start a new painting project. Time will be split between demos by Stoveland and supervised painting time for participants.
Palm Beach County residents receive FREE admission to the Garden on the first Wednesday of every month. Visitors must show proof of residency for entry. Admission for non-residents: $20 for adults; $18 for seniors, college students, and military with ID; $13 for ages 6-17; free for children under age 6.
February 8-9
Plant-a-Palooza Winter Plant Sale
This popular annual event features the finest plant growers, artisans, and experts from across the State of Florida. Visitors can fully engage in the world of plants and learn new gardening techniques, discover what’s trending in floral design, and enjoy Mounts Botanical’s tranquil tropical oasis all at the same time.
50+ highly sought-after top growers and artisan vendors.
Shop a wide variety of rare, exotic, and hard-to-find orchids, plants, trees, herbs, ornamentals, succulents, cactus, bonsai, butterfly/native plants, shrubs, and fruit trees, as well as garden accessories, baskets, fine crafts, and more.
Learn about South Florida’s plant culture by speaking directly with growers.
Fun and informative presentations by speakers and authors who are experts in their respective fields.
Plus, additional horticultural ‘must-haves’ and unique treasures for your home and garden are also available in the Garden’s Gift Shop, Nursery, and Vintage Garden Thrift Shop.
Food and dessert trucks will also be at the Garden throughout both days.
For Plant-a-Palooza Winter Plant Sale 2025 there will be four Special Presentations:
The Fascinating World of Frogs & Their Habitats
with Dr. Steve Johnson
Saturday & Sunday, 11:00 am
FREE with Plant Sale Admission
No registration required, but space is limited to first-come basis.
A distinguished researcher and expert in amphibian ecology and conservation, Dr. Steve Johnson will share insights into the fascinating world of frogs and their habitats. His presentation will feature live and preserved specimens for an engaging show-and-tell experience. Attendees will also learn about the PVC pipe method for capturing invasive Cuban tree frogs, a practical demonstration that highlights his commitment to managing invasive species. Dr. Johnson will provide educational literature to deepen your understanding of these remarkable creatures and their environments. He is a tenured faculty member in the Department of Wildlife Ecology and Conservation. Before joining the University of Florida, he worked as the State Sea Turtle Program Coordinator in North Carolina, and as a research wildlife biologist with the US Geological Survey (USGS).
Chemical Care for Your Orchids
with Mike Sands
Saturday, 1:00 pm
FREE with Plant Sale Admission
No registration required, but space is limited to first-come basis.
Mike Sands
The owner of Tangled Roots Orchid Nursery and a certified horticulturist and Master Naturalist who works for the City of Wellington, Mike Sands will cover essential chemical care for orchids, addressing common challenges such as pests and fungal issues. He’ll discuss the use of both organic and synthetic chemicals, as well as best practices for fertilization, highlighting important dos and don’ts. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced orchid enthusiast, his expertise will help you nurture healthy, thriving plants.
Beyond Landscaping:
Transforming Landscapes for a Sustainable Future
with CJ McCartney
Sunday, 1:00 pm
FREE with Plant Sale Admission
No registration required, but space is limited to first-come basis.
In this presentation, Environmental Steward and Master Gardener CJ McCartney will focus on how to create sustainable native landscapes with Florida Keystone native plants. There is a special focus on endangered and threatened plants and how they will create wildflower and pollinator welcoming habitats. She currently works with Palm Beach County Environmental Resource Management vouchering plants and leading outreach activities and is the Master Gardner in Residence at Ann Norton Sculpture Garden.
For information about Plant-a-Palooza Winter Plant Sale and to purchase tickets in advance visit:
Saturday, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm. Free with admission to the Garden
Plen Air Palm Beach Painters will be in the Garden all day painting Garden scenes, creating a lovey atmosphere for our guests to view art and artists at work. The Plen Air Painters are happy to answer questions about Plein Air Painting or their techniques, and they may have an original painting or two to sell to anyone in the market for some beautiful art.
February 15
Get GardenFit
with Madeline deVries Hooper Saturday, 9:30 am to 10:30 am
$30 for members; $40 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission) Registration is required; class size is limited to 20 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Join Madeline Hooper, GardenFit creator, executive producer, and host of GardenFit, the hit national public television series, for a lively session at Mounts Botanical Garden. Madeline will demonstrate simple, practical movements that will have you feeling your best as you dig, plant, and prune. GardenFit proves that gardening should be a joyful, pain-free experience.Don’t miss this chance to get inspired, get moving, and get GardenFit. Additional Upcoming GardenFit dates: March 16, April 5
Note: GardenFit, the hit national public television series, offers a new approach to gardening, based on the premise that gardening should be a joy and not painful. It’s a first-of-its-kind fusion of garden tours and self-care, teaching viewers how to take care of their body while taking care of their garden. The show brings together themes of nature, sustainability, and wellness in a delightfully engaging format.
Free for members; $25 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission) Registration is required; class size is limited to 45 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Mounts Horticulturist Palmer Crippen will explore the immense variety of aroids found throughout the world’s tropical regions. This presentation will focus on the distinctive forms and unique roles this family of plants holds in rainforest ecosystems. Photos and information will be shown on most of the major genera.
$10 members; $25 nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Free for Members of The Orchid Society of the Palm Beaches (proof of membership is shown on the day of the class).
Registration is required; class size is limited to 35 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Mounts Botanical Garden and The Orchid Society of the Palm Beaches present Potting Workshops the third Saturday of each month. Orchid Potting Workshops will be held in the Mounts Botanical Garden Pavilion just inside the main gate next to the new Welcome Center. We cordially invite you to participate in our engaging and interactive workshops, led by esteemed members of the Board of The Orchid Society of the Palm Beaches. The workshop will begin with an insightful discussion about the topic, followed by hands-on potting demonstrations, facilitated by our knowledgeable board members. Attendees are encouraged to bring potting and sanitizing materials, and up to two orchids to repot. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to enhance your potting skills and techniques. The potting sessions will wrap up with a friendly Q&A, to deepen your knowledge and ask questions.
$25 for members; $35 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Registration is required; class size is limited to 15 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Forest Bathing, also known as “Nature Therapy,” is an immersive experience in nature that gives you an opportunity to reset your outlook on life and have an encounter with the nature in a way that you have never experienced before. It is a sensory practice that takes you away from your phone, computer, and social media and back to what your body yearns for…..a connection with nature. A sense of peace. A sense of relaxation. A sense of being in the present moment. It provides the perfect time to become a human “be”-ing instead of a human “do”-ing! During a Forest Bathing experience, you will be invited to slow down and reconnect with nature’s perfect balance using your senses to see the sunlight playing through the leaves, smell the flowers, and feel and hear the gentle wind whispering to you to return to your native roots and discover your deeper self. Your nature encounter concludes with a tea ceremony to connect with other like-minded nature lovers. Forest Bathing has been scientifically proven to boost immune strength, lift depression, reduce stress, and improve sleep. But beyond these physiological changes, this contemplative experience will show you how important it is for your well-being to take time in nature daily.
Note: Plan to arrive 15 minutes before the start time. Bring a chair or yoga mat.
Free for members; $25 for nonmembers(includesfullGarden admission).
Registration isrequired; class size is limited to 25 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
In this engaging presentation on planting edible perennials in South Florida, discover how these resilient plants can enhance your garden while providing fresh, nutritious food year-round, year after year. Learn tips for selecting, caring for, and incorporating these delicious additions into your landscape. Kara Krueger is a University of Florida Institute of Food and Agricultural Sciences (UF/IFAS) Environmental Horticulture Extension Agent for Palm Beach County, who works with residents, homeowner associations, and landscape professionals to provide education and programs on Florida-Friendly Landscaping™, landscape best management practices, and general horticultural issues. The goal is to connect landscape professionals, homeowners, and other residents to the importance of environmental stewardship through our landscapes.
This program is free with Garden admission, but registration is required at least 5 days before each session, so be sure to secure your spot early!
Join us for a magical morning at Mounts Botanical Garden with Story Time in the Garden, presented in partnership with the Junior League of the Palm Beaches. Held every fourth Saturday of the month through April 2025, this enchanting program is perfect for children under 7 years old. Enjoy a delightful book reading surrounded by blooming flowers and lush greenery, followed by a fun craft activity to spark creativity. It’s the perfect way to introduce young minds to the wonders of nature and stories.
Heart Opening Cacao Ceremony with Flower Mandala & Sound Immersion
with Casa Rituals
Sunday, 10 am to 12:00 pm
$35 for members; $45 for nonmembers (includes full Garden admission)
Registration is required; class size is limited to 30 adults; classes are nonrefundable.
Experience the magic of cacao, sound, and connection beneath the Garden’s cacao tree. Step into a sanctuary of peace and inspiration as we gather in the lush Herb Garden to explore the ancient, healing powers of ceremonial cacao. This two-hour journey invites you to release, reconnect, and rejuvenate through a blend of heart-centered rituals and sensory immersion. Begin with a ceremonial smudging and blessing to cleanse your energy and set the tone for our sacred gathering. Sip on the finest ceremonial cacao, a sacred elixir designed to open your heart, soothe your mind, and awaken your spirit. Engage in a guided flower mandala creation – a meditative art of beauty and intention. Relax into a deeply restorative Yoga Nidra meditation, followed by an immersive sound healing session with gongs, crystal singing bowls, and high-frequency instruments. Share your reflections and connect in our closing circle before sealing the sacred space. This ceremony is your invitation to embrace the post-eclipse energies and open yourself to receiving. Through cacao, meditation, and sound healing, you’ll experience profound relaxation, heart opening, and energetic alignment.
Note: Bring a yoga mat and blanket for your comfort. Avoid alcohol on the day of the ceremony and caffeine 3 hours before and after the event.
Back by popular demand is this collection of 18 larger-than-life, whimsical frog sculptures on exhibit throughout the Garden, offering a playful and imaginative exploration of amphibians. These fun and quirky sculptures also create opportunities for engaging programming about real frogs and their essential role in our environment. Each piece is handcrafted and colored with natural patina by artist Andy Cobb, and almost all the super-sized sculptures are new to Mounts and were not part of the original exhibition in early 2020.”
Mounts Botanical Garden & Bloomberg Connects
Explore Anytime, Anywhere with New Mobile Garden Guide
Visitors can now explore Mounts Botanical Garden anytime from anywhere across the globe with the new Mobile Garden Guide. Launched in partnership with Bloomberg Connects, the free arts and cultural app created by Bloomberg Philanthropies, the guide is designed to elevate and enrich the visitor experience by making it easy to discover more of what people love before, during, and after their visit to the Garden. Multi-media content includes maps and information on Mounts Botanical’s 25 display gardens, art in the garden, and current and upcoming exhibitions, as well as an ever-growing spectrum of new photo, audio, and video content available exclusively via the app. To learn more and download the app, visit www.mounts.org/mobile-garden-guide/ [mounts.org].
About Mounts Botanical Garden of Palm Beach County:
With a mission to inspire and educate through nature, Mounts Botanical Garden is Palm Beach County’s oldest and largest botanical garden. Visitors to this 20-acre tropical oasis will see an acclaimed collection of 25 unique garden areas containing more than 7,000 species of tropical and sub-tropical plants, including Florida natives, exotic and tropical fruit trees, herbs, palms, roses, cactus, bromeliads and much more. Mounts Botanical Garden is part of the Palm Beach County Cooperative Extension Department, in partnership with the University of Florida and the non-profit Friends of the Mounts Botanical Garden. This project is sponsored in part by The Board of County Commissioners, the Tourist Development Council, and the Cultural Council for Palm Beach County. Mounts Botanical is located at 531 North Military Trail in West Palm Beach. For more information, please visit www.mounts.org.
