| Advertisement |
|
|
Check out festivals and events in January across the state.
View events this coming weekend, or view the whole month's offerings by region below:
Coming up this week
Jan. 26, Feb. 2: Just for Kids. SeaWorld Orlando. SeaWorld Orlando kicks off its Just for Kids event, which features youngster-oriented concerts at its Nautilus Theater, on Saturday. First up are the Imagination Movers on Jan. 12 followed by Laurie Berkner (Jan. 19), Choo Choo Soul with Genevieve (Jan. 26) and Kratt Brothers Live (Feb. 2). Tickets are given away near the theater at 9 a.m. on concert days — first-come, first-served. The event also has kiddie fun zones, including the new "Elmo Live!" at Seafire Inn. 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., Saturdays through Feb. 2. Off BeachLine Expressway, southwest of Orlando. Cost included in regular admission; a one-day ticket is $89 general, $81 ages 3-9. 407-351-3600. SeaWorldOrlando.com
Jan. 17-27: DeSoto County Fair, Arcadia. 863-494-5678. www.desotocountyfair.org
Jan. 18-27: Mecum Auction and Collector Car Show. Kissimmee. Osceola Heritage Park, 1875 Silver Spur Lane, Kissimmee; $20; 321-697-3333.
Jan. 21-28: Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Celebrates 50th Anniversary. Merritt Island. A premiere recreation are for Space Coast Visitors and residents, the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge has protected wildlife habitat while providing safety and security for space missions at Kennedy Space Center. Events planned for the 50th Anniversary include a lecture series on history of the refuge and Merritt Island area, historical accounts from residents of pre-refuge settlements, and a festival including exhibitors, wildlife tours, historical demonstrations, hayrides, art show, and more. 321-861-2352. http://www.visitspacecoast.com/Details/?id=19738&today=01/25/2013
Jan. 22-Feb. 4: Polk County Youth Fair, Bartow. 863-519-8677. www.pcyf.net
Jan. 24-26: Yeehaw Junction Bluegrass Festival. Yeehaw Junction. This festival presents pickin' and foot-stompin' music at Yeehaw Junction on Jan. 24-26. The music fest also features arts, crafts and carnival fare. Admission is $25 per day for one day, and $75 for the weekend at the gate ($65 in advance if purchased by Jan. 18). Children ages 12 and younger are free with paid adult ticket. For details, visit www.yeehawbluegrass.com
Jan. 25: Fourth Fridays Art Walk, Sanford. Central Florida's only monthly juried art show. With exhibits and music at participating venues. 6-9 p.m. Downtown Sanford, First Street, Sanford, FL, 32771. Free. 407-323-2774. www.sanfordinfo.com
Jan. 25: 4th Fridays in Artisan Alley & DeLand Art Walk. DeLand. Gather with friends every fourth Friday of the month at Artisan Alley and also enjoy the DeLand Art Walk. DeLand Art Walk is a free, self-guided tour of the Historic Downtown area. Enjoy music, food, drinks, arts, crafts and more. Art galleries, museums, cultural venues, restaurants and boutiques host artists within their businesses on the fourth Friday of every month, rain or shine. Look for an official Art Walk banner in the front of each stop to identify the participating venues. Choose your own route, or begin from Museum of Florida Art. Downtown, 100 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand FL 32720. 6-9 p.m. 386-738-0649. delandartwalk.com/
Jan. 25-27: Winterfest 2013, Daytona Beach. The Daytona Beach Symphony Society celebrates its 61st annual season with music, opera and ballet from around the world. Winterfest 2013 performances include Rossini's Barber of Seville, Igudesman & Joo and the China National Symphony Orchestra. At Peabody Auditorium; 7 p.m. Tickets range from $25 to $70. 386-253-2901. www.dbss.org
Jan. 25-27: Images -- A Festival of the Arts, New Smyrna Beach. A 37-year history of artistic excellence, offering more than $70,000 in prize and patrons' monies. Free admission. 386-423-4733. www.imagesartfestival.org
Jan. 25-30: Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival. Titusville. Winter time is birding season on Florida's Space Coast and event coordinators have planned this year's event to be the biggest ever with cultural/historical and photography field trips, lectures by experts in the fields of birding and wildlife, hands on activities, and more. 2013, will have new field trips and classroom presentations geared toward local subjects. Also on the docket is a barbecue on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013. Cost is $7.50-$12. 1311 North U. S. Highway 1, Titusville, FL 32796. 800-460-2664. www.spacecoastbirdingandwildlifefestival.org
Jan. 26: Art Walk on Flagler, New Smyrna Beach. Held on the fourth Saturday each month, Flagler Avenue livens up with entertainment and wine tastings at participating venues. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (wine walk 1-7 p.m.). Free ($25 for wine walk or $20 with previous month's glass). Flagler Avenue, 100 Flagler Ave., New Smyrna Beach, FL, 32169. 386-428-1770. www.flaglergallerygroup.com
Jan. 26-27: Rolex 24 at Daytona, Daytona Beach. The Rolex 24 At Daytona is a race featuring superstars from the worlds of sports car racing, NASCAR and open-wheel. This race is a perfect battle between machine, driver and time. The 24-hour ace kicks off the three-week racing action of Speedweeks at Daytona, with great racing, carnivals, car show and more. For more information, call 386-253-7223 or visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com
Jan. 26-27: Town Center at Cagan Crossing Art and Craft Festival, Clermont. Fine arts, fine crafts, food. At U.S. 27 and Cagans Crossing Blvd. Free admission and parking. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Jan. 26-27: Blue Spring Manatee Festival. Orange City. Two-day festival featuring manatee viewing from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Valentine Park on W. French Ave. off Hwy 17-92 in Orange City. Central Florida Zoo presentations and animal ambassadors, arts and crafts, dancing, walk-on-water balls, good, face painting, shows and rides, sand sculpting and entertainment. themanateefestival.com
Jan. 26-Feb. 3: 24th Annual Zora Neale Hurston Festival of the Arts and Humanities, Orlando/Eatonville. This festival highlights the life and works of one of America's most celebrated collectors and interpreters of Southern rural African-American culture through theatrical performances, educational programs and a juried art show. The nine-day event takes place in various locations throughout Orlando and Eatonville, the nation's oldest incorporated African-American municipality. Prices vary by activity. 407-647-3307. www.zorafestival.com
Jan. 26-Feb. 24: Budweiser Speedweeks 2013. Daytona Beach. Daytona International Speedway hosts all sorts of racing from late January through the Daytona 500 on Feb. 24. The action kicks off with the Rolex 24 at Daytona on Jan. 26-27. For information, visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com
Jan. 17-26: Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival. Tampa. The 13th Annual Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival will be celebrating 500 years of Florida History. The 10-days of cultural event provide educational philanthropic and community based diversity to the Tampa Bay Community. TBBHF features local and nationally known speakers musicians artists poets and craftspeople. The Festival always encompasses the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. The highlight of the Festival is our free 2-day Heritage Street Festival at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in downtown Tampa. tampablackheritage.org
Jan. 17-27: Manatee County Fair, Palmetto. Showcase for the best of Manatee County. Includes exhibits and vendors, livestock shows and auctions, competitions, a midway, a variety of entertainment and great fair food. At Manatee County Fairgrounds. Admission $8 adults, $7 seniors 55 and older, $5 children 6-12, 5 and under free. 941-722-1639. www.manateecountyfair.com
Jan. 25: Lu the Hippo's 53rd Birthday, Homosassa Springs. Park visitors, staff and schoolchildren are invited to attend Lu the hippo's 53rd birthday party. Join in singing Happy Birthday songs to Lu, enjoy cupcakes, and fruit punch. Lu will be presented with his own special birthday cake. Regular park admission applies. The party will be held at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. Parties are scheduled at 10 a.m. and at noon. 352-628-5343. www.floridastateparks.org/homosassasprings/Events.cfm
Jan. 25-27: 6th Annual Sarasota Indian Festival, Sarasota. This festival will feature an "East meets West" reenactment encampment focused on the way of life of the Native American people from both eastern and western tribes. Chippa Wolf from the Cherokee nation and his Native horse show will be featured along with Mark Barefoot, an award winning flute and drum maker and the guest entertainer for the fest. Their group will also be performing traditional Native American drumming, singing and various styles of dance. There also will be paintings, pottery, jewelry, sculpture, beadwork, leatherwork, along with traditional Seminole and Navajo food. Event is at the Sarasota Fairgrounds. Admission $7 adult, $3 children 6-12, 5 and under are free. 941-957-1877. http://www.visitsarasota.org/event/sarasota-native-american-indian-festival-1/13118-28531/
Jan. 26: Gasparilla pirate parade and street festival. Tampa. Held on the last Saturday of January each year, more than 350,000 decended on the streets of Tampa in 2012. The festival reminiscent of Mardi Gras has been going on in Tampa since 1904. The event pays homage to a Spanish pirate named Jose Gaspar, who sailed off the west coast of Florida in the 18th and 19th centuries. City leaders back in 1904 decided to adopt Gaspar for their own street festival to be on the scale of New Orelans' Fat Tuesday. The crux of the early festival that continues today is pirates, namely high society members in pirate outfits, capturing the city. While they initially invaded on horseback, the yearly invasion soon came by sea, and now each year Ye Mystic Krewe invades aboard the Jose Gasparilla pirate ship, flanked by hundreds of more modern boats, sailing into Hillsborough Bay to downtown Tampa where they cermoniously seize the key to the city from the mayor. The invasion then gives way to the Invasion Brunch at the Tampa Convention Center, a parade with nearly 100 floats down Bayshore Boulevard rife with bead throwing as well as the daylong Pirate Fest Street Festival on Ashley Street in downtown Tampa. The invasion, parade and festival are all free. Festivities begin at 10 a.m. with the sailing invasion running from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.. The parade runs from 2-5:30 p.m. and the street festival into the night. Parking will be difficult to navigate. Expect to pay at least $20 or more to park in the sundry downtown garages. In years past, many people have taken advantage of park and ride services from Raymond James Stadium or parking in Ybor City and taking public transportation to the festivities. gasparillapiratefest.com
Jan. 26: Kumquat Festival, Dade City. Celebrates the harvest of kumquats, a sweet and sour fruit that is a member of the citrus family. Kumquats are eaten skin and all and are a pleasant addition to many dishes and desserts. The festival is a day of outdoor community fun with live music, food booths, shopping and plenty to keep the whole family busy. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the heart of historic Dade City. Free. 352-567-3769. www.kumquatfestival.org
Jan. 26: Pinellas Folk Festival, St. Petersburg. Listen to dozens of the Tampa Bay area's premier folk musicians on traditional folk, gospecl, country and bluegrass music on stages throughout Heritage Village. Also historical demonstrations, food court, old-time games, storytelling, traditional craft demonstrations, traditional fiber arts show, Fleece to Shawl activities, antique cars and more. At Heritage Village from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission; suggested $5 donation. 727-582-2123. www.pinellascounty.org/Heritage/events_folkfest.htm
Jan. 25-27: Goodland Mullet Festival, Goodland. The three-day festival attracts nearly 5,000 people to the tiny town of Goodland. Fried and smoked mullet are featured and a Buzzard Lope Queen and a Buzzard Lope Princess contest. The late Stan Gober, who was the owner of Stan's Idle Hour Seafood Restaurant, had hosted the Mullet Festival and Buzzard Lope Queen Contest for 13 years. The Buzzard Lope is a dance based on "The Buzzard Lope Song" composed and sung by Stan. 239-394-3041.www.goodland.com/buzzard.htm
Jan. 27: Hollywood Hits! Symphony. Fort Myers. The Gulf Coast Symphony performs Hollywood Hits! with classics from the silver screen including hits from yesterday and today at 7 p.m. on Jan. 27. Admission to the event, at 8099 College Parkway, is free. For information, log on to www.gulfcoastsymphony.org
Jan. 27: GumboFest, North Fort Myers. Select area restaurants compete in the tenth annual New Orleans-style gumbo cook-off, each serving a different variety of gumbo including wild meat gumbo, seafood gumbo, chicken gumbo and more. They sell their winning concoctions in generous portions for only $3. Participants and local celebrities place their votes for the best. In addition, festival-goers can feast on jambalaya, dirty rice, and all of the usual kid favorites. There's live zydeco and other entertainment from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. At The Shell Factory. Admission is free. 239-936-8888. www.shellfactory.com
Jan. 20-25: Key West Race Week 2013, Key West. Nearly 300 racing yachts compete for class championships in this international midwinter sailboat regatta presented by Quantum Sail Design Group. 781-639-9545. www.premiere-racing.com
Jan. 24-27: Key West Food and Wine Festival. Key West. The Last Key sets the scene for the Key West Food and Wine Festival on Jan. 24-27. Area chefs and restaurateurs will be showcasing their culinary creativity as well as the Keys' indigenous cuisine in a tasty schedule of happenings for food lovers during this annual event. Attendees also can participate in food-related adventures during the savory celebration. A variety of tickets is available. For information and schedule of events, visit www.keywestfoodandwinefestival.com
Jan. 25-27: International Chocolate Festival, Coral Gables. Join us for the celebration of that divine tropical plant, the obroma cacao, the source of chocolate. For three days guests are immersed in the wonderful and diverse world of chocolate. From chocolate treats to tree sales, cooking demonstrations to chocolate sculpture competitions, chocolate will reign supreme. 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. At Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. 305-667-1651. www.fairchildgarden.org
Jan. 26: 7th Annual Port Salerno Seafood Festival, Port Salerno. Local seafood specialties, live music, family fun area, maritime exhibitors, arts and crafts and more. Along the waterfront. 772-634-9862. Admission is $5 for adults, free for children 12 and younger. www.portsalernoseafoodfestival.org/
Jan. 26: Benefit Flea Market at Flamingo Gardens, Davie. Admission of $2 for ages 12 and up benefits Flamingo Gardens' programs. Flamingo Gardens, Botanical Collections and Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary is a 60-acre spread which houses and cares for permanently injured native birds and animals, and provides educational programs for school and camp children. A not-for-profit organization, it is supported solely by admissions, proceeds from events, donations, visitor purchases and memberships. 954-473-2955. www.flamingogardens.org
Jan. 26-27: Key West Craft Show. Key West. The 28th Annual Key West Craft Show features juried artisans and crafters displaying their work at a show on lower Whitehead Street in historic Old Town Key West. For details on the Key West Craft Show, visit www.keywestartcenter.com/craft.html
Jan. 26-27: Key Largo Stone Crab & Seafood Festival. Key Largo. Two-day festival with live local entertainment, fireworks, cooking demos, fishing workshops, a costume contest and more. Fireworks on Sat. Night at 7:30 and a car show on Sunday. www.keylargoseafoodfestival.com
Through Jan. 31: Nights of Lights Festival and Celebration, St. Augustine. This inspiring display of more than two million tiny white lights adorning the palm trees and buildings throughout the city's historic district is based on a custom by the town's original Spanish colonists, who placed a white candle in their windows to brighten the nights during the Christmas holidays. Among special events and activities awaiting visitors: nighttime tours of ancient buildings and inns led by storytellers in period clothing, rollicking train and trolley tours through the narrow brick streets, art walks featuring more than 30 galleries serving free holiday refreshments on the First Friday in December and January, special Saturday night antique shopping events, a dazzling regatta, Florida ice skating, luminaries in the town plaza, holiday concerts, even a Christmas parade. 902-825-1004. www.NightsofLights.com
Jan. 18-27: Fifth Annual Amelia Island Restaurant Week. Amelia Island. Includes 19 participating restaurants. Residents and visitors enjoy pre-fix meals at great rates (priced at either $20.13 or $30.13) which includes three courses and a nonalcoholic beverage. In conjunction with Restaurant Week, several of Amelia Island accommodators are offering a "Free Night, Any Night" deal, which allows visitors to receive a Free Night with a minimum nights stay. For more details, visit www.ameliaisland.com/free. For more information on Restaurant Week, visit www.ameliaisland.com/yummy.
Jan. 26: Living History Days. St. Augustine. Interpreters in period dress offer visitors a glimpse to the past during Living History Days at Fort Mose on Jan. 26. The demonstrations take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. weather permitting. Fort Mose State Park is at 15 Fort Mose Trail. There's a $2 per person museum admission fee (children ages 5 and younger are free). For details, visit www.floridastateparks.org/fortmose
Jan. 25: Lu the Hippo's 53rd Birthday, Homosassa Springs. Park visitors, staff and schoolchildren are invited to attend Lu the hippo's 53rd birthday party. Join in singing Happy Birthday songs to Lu, enjoy cupcakes, and fruit punch. Lu will be presented with his own special birthday cake. Regular park admission applies. The party will be held at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. Parties are scheduled at 10 a.m. and at noon. 352-628-5343. www.floridastateparks.org/homosassasprings/Events.cfm
Jan. 26-27, Feb. 1-3: Hoggetowne Medieval Faire, Gainesville. Come be swept away by medieval magic as troupes of actors, street performers and musicians journey back to the days of yore. Alachua County Fairground is transformed into a bustling medieval marketplace where there is jousting on horseback, street performers and minstrels, living chess match, medieval games, and eight stages of live entertainment. Admission $14 adult, $7 for children 5-17, under 5 free. 352-334-5064. www.gvlculturalaffairs.org/website/programs_events/HMF/medieval_index.html
This list is organized by region.
Check out festivals and events in January across the state. View events this coming weekend, or view the whole month's offerings by region below:
This list is organized by region.
Central Florida (including Orlando, Kissimmee, Daytona Beach, Sanford, the Space Coast, Lakeland/Polk and Lake County)
Jan. 4: First Friday Art Walk. Melbourne. The normally bright streets of Melbourne's First Friday Art Walk will be full of silhouettes and suggestion in one corner, at least. The Fifth Avenue Art Gallery challenges its mainstays with its latest members' show, an exhibit dedicated to the use of shadows in painting, sculpture and photography. Patrons also can browse a collection of classics alongside these newer works at the members' vintage art sale.Pictured: "Photography Shadows" by Judy Edwards. Opening with Art Walk reception 5:30-8 p.m. Friday, Jan. 4, on view through Jan. 27. Fifth Avenue Art Gallery, 1470 Highland Ave., Melbourne. Free. 321-259-8261. fifthavenueartgallery.com
Jan. 4: Jazz Friday at Fossaner Museum of Art. Melbourne. Every first Friday of the month the Fossaner Museum of Art hosts Jazz Friday in their galleries. Expect great music from local favorites. Admission is free for members of the Museum and $10 for non-members. 1463 Highland Avenue, Melbourne FL 32901. 321-433-4470. www.visitspacecoast.com
Jan. 5: First Saturday Jam, Barberville. On the first Saturday each month visit the Pioneer Settlement for entertainment and fun for the entire family. 9 a.m to 4 p.m. Includes informal music jams, free workshops, a chili cook-off, yard sale. Admission is free. 386-749-2959. www.pioneersettlement.org
Jan. 5-6: Dade's Battle Re-enactment & Trade Fair. Bushnell. Often called a massacre, the battle that sparked the Second Seminole War definitively gave first blood to the Seminoles. This annual re-enactment takes history buffs back in time to the Indian ambush of U.S. Major Francis Langhorne Dade and his troops in 1835, a battle that only three of his 107 men survived. Florida may be a vacation destination for many now, but for a weekend, the Dade Battlefield Society provides a glimpse into the hard road that led us here with its Civil War-era encampment and demonstrations. From 9 a.m. Saturday-Sunday, Jan. 5-6 (with battles at 2 p.m.). Dade Battlefield Historic State Park, 7200 County Road 603, Bushnell $5 adults, free ages 5 and younger. 352-793-4781. dadebattlefield.com
Jan. 5, 12, 19, 26: Winter Music Series--Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards, Clermont. Each January, Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards is the hot spot for live music, winery tours, and wine tastings. The winery is located west of downtown Orlando, on a 127-acre estate in gently rolling countryside. 1 p.m.-4 p.m. Free admission. 800-768-WINE. www.lakeridgewinery.com
Through Jan. 6: Light Up UCF! Orlando Check out UCF's fifth annual event offering 50 nights of music, lights and ice, where you can skate at an outdoor ice rink outside of the UCF arena, along with carnival rides and special holiday events. Prices vary. lightupucf.com
Jan. 6: Enchanted Forest Trail Run. Titusville. The Enchanted Forest Sanctuary will host their annual Enchanted Forest Trail Run on Sunday, January 6 beginning at 2 p.m. The course (5K, 10K and fun hike) will wind through the sanctuary's beautiful grounds. The race will benefit the County trail projects. 444 Columbia Blvd., Titusville, FL 32780. 321-255-4466. http://www.visitspacecoast.com/Details/?id=19924&today=01/06/2013
Jan. 6. Superhero Run. Viera. The Superhero Run will be held at Space Coast Stadium on Saturday, January 12, 2013. This race, which will benefit the Guardian Ad Litem and Friends of Children of Brevard programs will start at 7:30am. Superhero Costumes are encouraged, but you do not need one to race. Race fee is $20 before January 11 and increases to $25. 2500 Stadium Parkway, Viera, FL 32940. 321-751-8890. http://www.visitspacecoast.com/Details/?id=19923&today=01/06/2013
Jan. 9: Carillon Concert at Singing Tower, Lake Wales. Enjoy one-hour carillon concerts from 1:00 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. in honor of Edward W. Bok, founder of Bok Tower Gardens. He died Jan. 9, 1930, less than a year after his beloved Singing Tower was dedicated. Included in regular admission. 863-676-1408. www.boktowergardens.org/calendar
Jan. 10-12: NASCAR Preseason Thunder Fan Fests, Daytona Beach. The top NASCAR stars will gather at historic Daytona International Speedway for the annual NASCAR Preseason Thunder Fan Fests, which give race fans a sneak preview to get their 'racing fix' for the new NASCAR racing season prior to Speedweeks 2013 and the annual Daytona 500; with numerous activities with their favorite drivers from the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series, Nationwide Series and Camping World Truck Series in the Sprint FANZONE located in the heart of the 'World Center of Racing.' Activities include interactive fan forums, autograph sessions, show car displays, music and more. For ticket information for all Speedweeks events, call 1-800-PITSHOP or go online at www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com
Jan. 10-13: Walt Disney World Marathon and Walt Disney World Half Marathon, Lake Buena Vista. Thousands of participants are expected for the annual event that charts a course through Magic Kingdom, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios and Epcot. The two races are the climax of a whole weekend of fitness fun that also features Disney's Health and Fitness Expo in The Milk House at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex. Admission $190 for half marathon and marathon. 407-938-3398. www.disneyworldsports.com
Jan. 11. Friday Fest. Melbourne Held the second Friday of the month in Historic Downtown, it's a family-oriented event that includes art craft and business vendors, lots of great food, beer and wine, a children's activity. Highland Avenue, Melbourne FL 32922. Free. 321-724-1741. www.downtownmelbourne.com/content/friday-family-fest
Jan. 11-12: Florida Antique Tractor Club Super Pull. Zellwood. Mention tractors and you might picture the pastoral scene of a farmer slowly tooling around his harvest. Or -- because this is the deep South -- you might picture the flying dirt and roaring engines of a proper tractor pull. Providing further proof that Americans will soup up anything with an engine, the Florida Antique Tractor Club holds its 19th annual Super Pull this weekend, featuring the loudest collection of trucks and tractors in Central Florida putting their motors to the test. 6-10 p.m. Friday, 4-9 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 11-12. Zellwood Sweet Corn Festival Grounds, 4253 W. Ponkan Road, Zellwood. $10 adults, free ages 9 or younger. 352-255-3855. flpullers.com
Jan. 11-13: Greater Orlando Antiques Festival. Orlando. 1-6 p.m. Friday, 9 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Sunday; Central Florida Fairgrounds, 4603 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando; $6 adults, free ages 12 and younger; 407-226-2288.
Jan. 12: Chili Brewfest. Kissimmee. With free beer and food samplings: 2-6 p.m. Saturday; Old Town, 5770 W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Highway, Kissimmee; $20 advance, $25 day of event; 407-396-4888.
Jan. 12, 19, 26, Feb. 2: Just for Kids. SeaWorld Orlando. SeaWorld Orlando kicks off its Just for Kids event, which features youngster-oriented concerts at its Nautilus Theater, on Saturday. First up are the Imagination Movers on Jan. 12 followed by Laurie Berkner (Jan. 19), Choo Choo Soul with Genevieve (Jan. 26) and Kratt Brothers Live (Feb. 2). Tickets are given away near the theater at 9 a.m. on concert days — first-come, first-served. The event also has kiddie fun zones, including the new "Elmo Live!" at Seafire Inn. 11 a.m., 2 p.m. and 4 p.m., Saturdays through Feb. 2. Off BeachLine Expressway, southwest of Orlando. Cost included in regular admission; a one-day ticket is $89 general, $81 ages 3-9. 407-351-3600. SeaWorldOrlando.com
Jan. 17-20: Fellsmere Frog Leg Festival, Fellsmere. This festival is celebrating its 22nd year of serving up frog leg dinners to hungry festival goers. In addition to frog legs and gator tail, the festival features a lineup of activities including live entertainment, a midway, crafters, pony rides and helicopter rides. At Mesa Park. 321-268-5224. www.froglegfestival.com
Jan. 17-27: DeSoto County Fair, Arcadia. 863-494-5678. www.desotocountyfair.org
Jan. 18-20: Marked for Life Female Tattoo Artist Expo. Orlando. Doubletree by Hilton Orlando Airport, 5555 Hazeltine National Drive, Orlando; $15 daily; 407-568-9200.
Jan. 18-20: Orlando Home & Garden Show. Orlando. noon-8 p.m. Jan. 18, 10 a.m.-8 p.m. Jan. 19, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Jan. 20; Orange County Convention Center, 9800 International Drive, Orlando; $8 adults, $5 seniors and retired military, free active military and ages 16 or younger; 407-685-9800.
Jan. 18-20: 23rd Annual Indialantic Art Festival. Indialantic. More than 100 of the nation's finest artists are expected for the 23rd Annual Indialantic Art Festival. This two-day, beachside event to be held the third weekend in January is a blend of well-known favorites and the latest names in the contemporary art scene! Art lovers will have the opportunity to meet the creators of the art on display, commission a specific piece, ask questions about techniques, learn the sources of their inspirations, and purchase fine works of art. 201 North Miramar Avenue, Melbourne, FL 32935. http://www.visitspacecoast.com/Details/?id=19443&today=01/18/2013
Jan. 18-21: Otronicon. Orlando. Video gaming expo at the Orlando Science Center: 10 a.m.-9 p.m. Jan. 18-19, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Jan. 20-21; Orlando Science Center, 777 E. Princeton St., Orlando; $27 adults, $20 ages 3-11; 407-514-2000.
Jan. 18-27: Mecum Auction and Collector Car Show. Kissimmee. Osceola Heritage Park, 1875 Silver Spur Lane, Kissimmee; $20; 321-697-3333.
Jan. 19: 29th Annual MLK Holiday Parade, Orlando. Commemorate the life, legacy and values of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. during the annual MLK Holiday Parade downtown. Free admission. 407-246-2121. www.cityoforlando.net
Jan. 19: Go Dog Go 5k Beach Run, Dog Dash and Dog Walk, New Smyrna Beach. Participants in the 5K will start and end race at Norwood's, following a safe, scenic course through the New Smyrna beachside. This year's race features an advanced chip-timing system for up to 350 runners, so register early. Also featured will be a 1/5-mile Dog Dash down historic Flagler Avenue, and a 1/2-mile Dog Walk following the same route. Events are staggered so participants can enter all three. 954-536-1141. http://www.sevhumanesociety.org/category/events/
Jan. 19: Taste of DeLand, DeLand. Area restaurants participate by preparing and serving a variety of food items. Beer and wine will be served. On E. Indiana Ave. from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 at the door and may be purchased from the MainStreet DeLand Association or reserved online. 386-738-0649. http://mainstreetdeland.org/calendar.cfm
Jan. 19: 2nd Annual Florida Key Lime Pie Festival. Cocoa. The Florida Key Lime Pie Company is presenting the 2nd Annual Florida Key Lime Pie Festival held at the Riverfront Park in Historic Cocoa Village. Top chefs, food vendors and restaurants will showcase dishes to the theme of "Meet the Locals." There will be a Miss Florida Key Lime Pie contest, Florida Key Lime Pie Eating Contest, Key Lime Chili head's Hot Sauce Competition, Best of Florida's Bartenders Key Lime Pie Martini and Key Lime Pie Margarita Challenge plus entertainment and music. 430 Delannoy Avenue, Cocoa, FL 32922. $10 Adults $5 For Children 12 and under. Children 4 and under Free. www.floridakeylimepiefestival.com
Jan. 19: Winter Music Series. Clermont. The Lakeridge Winery & Vineyards presents its Winter Music Series on Jan. 19. The event, from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., presents live music on an outdoor stage and complimentary winery tours and tasting. Food and beverages are available for purchase. Admission is free. The Lakeridge Winery is at 19239 U.S. 27 North. For details, visit www.lakeridgewinery.com
Jan. 19: Cruisin' Downtown DeLand Classic Car Show. DeLand. Every 3rd Saturday of the Month (Except November). East Indiana Avenue in Downtown DeLand. Classic cars & rods line East Indiana Avenue in Downtown DeLand. Live DJ, giveaways, shopping & dining. 4-8 p.m. Free. 386-624-5027. www.MainStreetDeLand.org
Jan. 19-20: Central Florida Scottish Highland Games, Winter Springs. Traditional Scottish sporting events take the field for a day of history, culture and excitement. Also included are drum and bagpipe competitions, highland dancing, sheepdog demonstrations, archery competitions and Scottish singers. At Central Winds Park. Admission adults $20 on Saturday and $15 on Sunday, students $10 with ID, children $5; advance tickets priced less. 407-426-7268. www.flascot.com
Jan. 19-20: 33rd Annual Brooksville Raid Re-enactment. Brooksville. Annual Civil War re-enactment. Camps open: 9 a.m. with presentation of colors. Activities include shopping on Suttler's Row, Battalion Drills, Ladies Tea, 1860 s baseball game, Brooksville Raid Battle, Blue Grey Ball. Sunday - 1:30 is the Grand Review Admission: Adults $6.00 Youth 6 -12 $3.00 Under 5: Free. Boy Scouts in uniform: Free. For accommodations visit www.naturallyhernando.org. Sand Hill Scout Reservation, Brooksville FL 34613. 352-799-0129.
Jan. 20-21: Unity Heritage Festival. Winter Park. With gospel artists and family events: 1-5:30 p.m. Jan. 20, 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Jan. 21; Shady Park, 721 W. New England Ave., Winter Park; free; 407-599-3275.
Jan. 21: Martin Luther King Jr. Birthday Carillon Concerts, Lake Wales. Enjoy half-hour carillon concerts at 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. featuring music of hope, inspiration and peace honoring Dr. King. At Bok Tower Gardens. Included in regular admission. 863-676-1408. www.boktowergardens.org/calendar
Jan. 21-28: Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge Celebrates 50th Anniversary. Merritt Island. A premiere recreation are for Space Coast Visitors and residents, the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge has protected wildlife habitat while providing safety and security for space missions at Kennedy Space Center. Events planned for the 50th Anniversary include a lecture series on history of the refuge and Merritt Island area, historical accounts from residents of pre-refuge settlements, and a festival including exhibitors, wildlife tours, historical demonstrations, hayrides, art show, and more. 321-861-2352. http://www.visitspacecoast.com/Details/?id=19738&today=01/25/2013
Jan. 22-Feb. 4: Polk County Youth Fair, Bartow. 863-519-8677. www.pcyf.net
Jan. 24-26: Yeehaw Junction Bluegrass Festival. Yeehaw Junction. This festival presents pickin' and foot-stompin' music at Yeehaw Junction on Jan. 24-26. The music fest also features arts, crafts and carnival fare. Admission is $25 per day for one day, and $75 for the weekend at the gate ($65 in advance if purchased by Jan. 18). Children ages 12 and younger are free with paid adult ticket. For details, visit www.yeehawbluegrass.com
Jan. 25: Fourth Fridays Art Walk, Sanford. Central Florida's only monthly juried art show. With exhibits and music at participating venues. 6-9 p.m. Downtown Sanford, First Street, Sanford, FL, 32771. Free. 407-323-2774. www.sanfordinfo.com
Jan. 25: 4th Fridays in Artisan Alley & DeLand Art Walk. DeLand. Gather with friends every fourth Friday of the month at Artisan Alley and also enjoy the DeLand Art Walk. DeLand Art Walk is a free, self-guided tour of the Historic Downtown area. Enjoy music, food, drinks, arts, crafts and more. Art galleries, museums, cultural venues, restaurants and boutiques host artists within their businesses on the fourth Friday of every month, rain or shine. Look for an official Art Walk banner in the front of each stop to identify the participating venues. Choose your own route, or begin from Museum of Florida Art. Downtown, 100 N. Woodland Blvd., DeLand FL 32720. 6-9 p.m. 386-738-0649. delandartwalk.com/
Jan. 25-27: Winterfest 2013, Daytona Beach. The Daytona Beach Symphony Society celebrates its 61st annual season with music, opera and ballet from around the world. Winterfest 2013 performances include Rossini's Barber of Seville, Igudesman & Joo and the China National Symphony Orchestra. At Peabody Auditorium; 7 p.m. Tickets range from $25 to $70. 386-253-2901. www.dbss.org
Jan. 25-27: Images -- A Festival of the Arts, New Smyrna Beach. A 37-year history of artistic excellence, offering more than $70,000 in prize and patrons' monies. Free admission. 386-423-4733. www.imagesartfestival.org
Jan. 25-30: Space Coast Birding and Wildlife Festival. Titusville. Winter time is birding season on Florida's Space Coast and event coordinators have planned this year's event to be the biggest ever with cultural/historical and photography field trips, lectures by experts in the fields of birding and wildlife, hands on activities, and more. 2013, will have new field trips and classroom presentations geared toward local subjects. Also on the docket is a barbecue on Saturday, Jan. 26, 2013. Cost is $7.50-$12. 1311 North U. S. Highway 1, Titusville, FL 32796. 800-460-2664. www.spacecoastbirdingandwildlifefestival.org
Jan. 26: Art Walk on Flagler, New Smyrna Beach. Held on the fourth Saturday each month, Flagler Avenue livens up with entertainment and wine tastings at participating venues. 10 a.m.-6 p.m. (wine walk 1-7 p.m.). Free ($25 for wine walk or $20 with previous month's glass). Flagler Avenue, 100 Flagler Ave., New Smyrna Beach, FL, 32169. 386-428-1770. www.flaglergallerygroup.com
Jan. 26-27: Rolex 24 at Daytona, Daytona Beach. The Rolex 24 At Daytona is a race featuring superstars from the worlds of sports car racing, NASCAR and open-wheel. This race is a perfect battle between machine, driver and time. The 24-hour ace kicks off the three-week racing action of Speedweeks at Daytona, with great racing, carnivals, car show and more. For more information, call 386-253-7223 or visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com
Jan. 26-27: Town Center at Cagan Crossing Art and Craft Festival, Clermont. Fine arts, fine crafts, food. At U.S. 27 and Cagans Crossing Blvd. Free admission and parking. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Jan. 26-27: Blue Spring Manatee Festival. Orange City. Two-day festival featuring manatee viewing from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. at Valentine Park on W. French Ave. off Hwy 17-92 in Orange City. Central Florida Zoo presentations and animal ambassadors, arts and crafts, dancing, walk-on-water balls, good, face painting, shows and rides, sand sculpting and entertainment. themanateefestival.com
Jan. 26-Feb. 3: 24th Annual Zora Neale Hurston Festival of the Arts and Humanities, Orlando/Eatonville. This festival highlights the life and works of one of America's most celebrated collectors and interpreters of Southern rural African-American culture through theatrical performances, educational programs and a juried art show. The nine-day event takes place in various locations throughout Orlando and Eatonville, the nation's oldest incorporated African-American municipality. Prices vary by activity. 407-647-3307. www.zorafestival.com
Jan. 26-Feb. 24: Budweiser Speedweeks 2013. Daytona Beach. Daytona International Speedway hosts all sorts of racing from late January through the Daytona 500 on Feb. 24. The action kicks off with the Rolex 24 at Daytona on Jan. 26-27. For information, visit www.daytonainternationalspeedway.com
Tampa Bay-Sarasota (including Tampa, St. Petersburg, Clearwater, Sarasota, Anna Maria Island, Bradenton, Palmetto, Tarpon Springs and Homosassa)
Jan. 6: Epiphany. Tarpon Springs. Each year, the Greek community of Tarpon Springs celebrates its traditions surrounding the Epiphany with special ceremonies and festivities on Jan. 6. The event includes services at St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, a house of worship decorated with icons and marble; a procession; a dove bearer; and the highlight of the event: the immersion of the cross (Epiphany Day is also called Cross Day) in the spring bayou. Young men from the community then dive in to retrieve the cross. It is believed that those who are successful in retrieving the cross receive special blessings during the coming year. The event also includes a festival with Greek music, dances and food. St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral is at 36 North Pinellas Avenue. For information, visit www.epiphanycity.org
Jan. 11-13: Sunshine City Antiques and Collectibles Show, St Petersburg. This nationally recognized show features nearly 100 exhibitors of antique furniture, art, pottery, jewelry, silver, toys, and glass. The event also features a two-day Antiques Appraisal Fair, held Saturday and Sunday 11 a.m.-2 p.m., $5 per item. At Coliseum, 5-8 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Saturday and Sunday. Admission $6. 727-892-5202. www.sunshinecityantiqueshow.com
Jan. 12-13: Coquina Beach Winterfest, Bradenton Beach. On Anna Maria Island, this 7th annual arts and crafts show features artists and crafts people from all over. Hours are 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. both days. Takes place right on Gulf Of Mexico Drive, just north of Longboat Key Pass Bridge. Free admission and parking. 941-379-0951. http://sunsetboulevardpromotions.com/
Jan. 13: 26th Annual Circus Ring of Fame Induction Ceremony, Sarasota. The St Armands Circle Ring of Fame was first started in 1987 as a way to honor world famous circus performers and the rich circus heritage of the Sarasota area. Among the circus greats who have been inducted are the five Ringling Brothers, P.T. Barnum, John Ringling North, and Emmett Kelley, the famed clown. 2011's honorees were Andrews, Alberto and Alfredo Atayde, owners of the Circo Atayde Hermanos; John "Tarzan" Zerbini, a renowned animal trainer and owner of his own American Circus; Charles Schlarbaum, a long time circus bandmaster and Ward Hall, a veteran showman and sideshow performer At Harding Circle Park, St. Armands Circle. 941-957-1877. http://www.escape-to-sarasota.com/st-armands-circle-ring-of-fame.html
Jan. 13: Elvis Ultimate Birthday Bash. Clearwater. Fans of the King of Rock may wish to check out the Elvis Ultimate Birthday Bash at the Ruth Eckerd Hall at 1 p.m. on Jan. 13. Scot Bruce portrays the young Elvis, Mike Albert is the Las Vegas Elvis, and the Big "E" Band offers a rockin' birthday party in celebration of America's first Rock and Roll icon. Tickets range from $18 to $35 (limited number of VIP seats are $35 each). The Ruth Eckerd Hall is at 1111 McMullen Booth Road. For details, visit www.rutheckerdhall.com
Jan. 15: 'How We Became An Art Colony'. Sarasota. A program that is part of the Historical Society of Sarasota County's Conversations at the Crocker Series is presented on Jan. 15. Kay Kipling of Sarasota Magazine is the moderator of the interactive panel discussion program that starts at 7 p.m. Admission is $10 for non-members of the Historical Society. Refreshments will be served. Crocker Memorial Church is at 1260 12th Street. Visit www.hsosc.com
Jan. 17-26: Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival. Tampa. The 13th Annual Tampa Bay Black Heritage Festival will be celebrating 500 years of Florida History. The 10-days of cultural event provide educational philanthropic and community based diversity to the Tampa Bay Community. TBBHF features local and nationally known speakers musicians artists poets and craftspeople. The Festival always encompasses the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. holiday. The highlight of the Festival is our free 2-day Heritage Street Festival at Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park in downtown Tampa. tampablackheritage.org
Jan. 17-27: Manatee County Fair, Palmetto. Showcase for the best of Manatee County. Includes exhibits and vendors, livestock shows and auctions, competitions, a midway, a variety of entertainment and great fair food. At Manatee County Fairgrounds. Admission $8 adults, $7 seniors 55 and older, $5 children 6-12, 5 and under free. 941-722-1639. www.manateecountyfair.com
Jan. 18-20: Gem, Jewelry and Bead Show, St. Petersburg. Dealers from across America will offer an outstanding variety of gems, jewelry, crystals, minerals, and beads for show and sale. At Coliseum; $4 admission. 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 727-892-5202. www.stpete.org/coliseum
Jan. 19: 87th Annual East-West Shrine Game, St. Petersburg. The East-West Shrine Game is the oldest college all-star game in the country and features the finest athletes in the U.S. and Canada. The game will be played at Tropicana Field at 4 p.m. Tickets range from $6 to $60. 813-281-8686.www.shrinegame.com
Jan. 19: Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza. Tampa. The Saturday before the adult-oriented Gasparilla fest is the the G-rated Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza, featuring the Bicycle Safety Rodeo, Preschooler's Stroll, Gasparilla Air Invastion with precision parachute jump from the U.S. Special Operations Command Jump Team, the Children's Gasparilla Parade with beads galore and "Piratechnic" fireworks. The day of events runs from 11 a.m.-7:30 p.m. concluding with the fireworks show. gasparillapiratefest.com
Jan. 19-20: Anna Maria Island Fest, Sarasota . This popular annual arts and crafts show runs from 10 a.m. until 4:30 p.m. both days and features the works of artists and crafters from 18 states around the country. On Marina Drive at Holmes Beach City Hall Field. Free admission and parking. 941-957-1877. sunsetboulevardpromotions.com/
Jan. 19-21: Tarpon Springs Sponge Docks Art and Craft Festival, Tarpon Springs . Fine art, fine craft, food, music. Free admission. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Jan. 19-21: Festival of Chocolate. Tampa. MOSI will host Tampa's third annual Festival of Chocolate, Florida s largest all-chocolate themed event. The event features the area's best chocolate and confection companies selling tastes and treats of everything chocolate from truffles cakes and cupcakes to cookies brownies and ice creams. MOSI - Museum of Science & Industry. 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa FL 33617. 813-987-6000. www.mosi.org
Jan. 25: Lu the Hippo's 53rd Birthday, Homosassa Springs. Park visitors, staff and schoolchildren are invited to attend Lu the hippo's 53rd birthday party. Join in singing Happy Birthday songs to Lu, enjoy cupcakes, and fruit punch. Lu will be presented with his own special birthday cake. Regular park admission applies. The party will be held at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. Parties are scheduled at 10 a.m. and at noon. 352-628-5343. www.floridastateparks.org/homosassasprings/Events.cfm
Jan. 25-27: 6th Annual Sarasota Indian Festival, Sarasota. This festival will feature an "East meets West" reenactment encampment focused on the way of life of the Native American people from both eastern and western tribes. Chippa Wolf from the Cherokee nation and his Native horse show will be featured along with Mark Barefoot, an award winning flute and drum maker and the guest entertainer for the fest. Their group will also be performing traditional Native American drumming, singing and various styles of dance. There also will be paintings, pottery, jewelry, sculpture, beadwork, leatherwork, along with traditional Seminole and Navajo food. Event is at the Sarasota Fairgrounds. Admission $7 adult, $3 children 6-12, 5 and under are free. 941-957-1877. http://www.visitsarasota.org/event/sarasota-native-american-indian-festival-1/13118-28531/
Jan. 26: Gasparilla pirate parade and street festival. Tampa. Held on the last Saturday of January each year, more than 350,000 decended on the streets of Tampa in 2012. The festival reminiscent of Mardi Gras has been going on in Tampa since 1904. The event pays homage to a Spanish pirate named Jose Gaspar, who sailed off the west coast of Florida in the 18th and 19th centuries. City leaders back in 1904 decided to adopt Gaspar for their own street festival to be on the scale of New Orelans' Fat Tuesday. The crux of the early festival that continues today is pirates, namely high society members in pirate outfits, capturing the city. While they initially invaded on horseback, the yearly invasion soon came by sea, and now each year Ye Mystic Krewe invades aboard the Jose Gasparilla pirate ship, flanked by hundreds of more modern boats, sailing into Hillsborough Bay to downtown Tampa where they cermoniously seize the key to the city from the mayor. The invasion then gives way to the Invasion Brunch at the Tampa Convention Center, a parade with nearly 100 floats down Bayshore Boulevard rife with bead throwing as well as the daylong Pirate Fest Street Festival on Ashley Street in downtown Tampa. The invasion, parade and festival are all free. Festivities begin at 10 a.m. with the sailing invasion running from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.. The parade runs from 2-5:30 p.m. and the street festival into the night. Parking will be difficult to navigate. Expect to pay at least $20 or more to park in the sundry downtown garages. In years past, many people have taken advantage of park and ride services from Raymond James Stadium or parking in Ybor City and taking public transportation to the festivities. gasparillapiratefest.com
Jan. 26: Kumquat Festival, Dade City. Celebrates the harvest of kumquats, a sweet and sour fruit that is a member of the citrus family. Kumquats are eaten skin and all and are a pleasant addition to many dishes and desserts. The festival is a day of outdoor community fun with live music, food booths, shopping and plenty to keep the whole family busy. From 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the heart of historic Dade City. Free. 352-567-3769. www.kumquatfestival.org
Jan. 26: Pinellas Folk Festival, St. Petersburg. Listen to dozens of the Tampa Bay area's premier folk musicians on traditional folk, gospecl, country and bluegrass music on stages throughout Heritage Village. Also historical demonstrations, food court, old-time games, storytelling, traditional craft demonstrations, traditional fiber arts show, Fleece to Shawl activities, antique cars and more. At Heritage Village from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Free admission; suggested $5 donation. 727-582-2123. www.pinellascounty.org/Heritage/events_folkfest.htm
Southwest Florida (including Naples, Fort Myers, Venice, Port Charlotte and Punta Gorda)
Jan. 5-6: 10th Bi-Annual Estero Fine Arts Show. Estero. Estero –The 10th Bi-Annual Estero Fine Arts Show features the work of artists from 30 states and Canada on Jan. 5-6. Glass, clay, wood, fiber, jewelry, sculpture, painting, photography, and metal will be on display. A youth art competition also takes place throughout the weekend. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free. The festival is at the Miromar Outlets, 10801 Corkscrew Road. For details, visit www.hotworks.org
Jan. 6: River, Roots and Ruts Trail Run, Alva. The 10th annual event includes a 13.1-mile half marathon, relay races and a 5K run. At Caloosahatchee Regional Park, approximately 15 miles east of Fort Myers. 8 a.m. start time. 239-694-0398. www.rrrtrail.com
Jan. 11-13: Florida's Creative Coast Weekend, Pine Island. On the second weekend each month November-April, Pine Island businesses offer themed artistic events. Galleries and shops are open extended hours on Friday, many offering special openings. Take a cooking class, or listen to live music. Other special events and workshops are planned at individual shops on Saturday and Sunday. 239-283-4842. www.floridascreativecoast.com
Jan. 12-13: Downtown Venice Craft Festival, Venice. Free event on Miami Avenue in historic downtown Venice. Runs 10 a.m.-5 p.m. each day. 561-746-6615. www.artfestival.com/
Jan. 12-13: Cape Coral Festival of the Arts, Cape Coral. This 28th annual street festival attracts some 85,000 people each year with 300 juried artisan booths and entertainment. Artists and craftspeople will be located on both sides of the median down the center of Cape Coral Parkway from Cape Coral Street to Vincennes. There will be plenty of food, activities for the kids, and fun for people of all ages. Live music is continuous from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days, but the party continues up and down the street at local businesses on Saturday night. Admission is free. 239-443-7666. www.capecoralfestival.com
Jan. 12-13, Feb. 9-10, March 9-10: Bonita Springs National Art Festival, Bonita Springs. This annual outdoor exhibition features more than 200 nationally and internationally acclaimed artists working in a variety of media.Over 200 national and international artists applied to exhibit and sell their works in paintings, glass, jewelry, clay works, photography, sculpture and more. Food and beverages will be available. At Promenade Center. Although there is no admission fee, Art League volunteers ask for an optional $5 donation for the Center for the Arts. Hours are 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. 239-992-1213 . www.artinusa.com/bonita
Jan. 12-13, 19-20: Medieval Faire, Fort Myers. This annual event includes jousting, a human chess match, entertainment, live sword fighting, children's games and rides, medieval clothing, period food and beverages, artisans, jugglers, magicians, and other live entertainment on seven stages. At Lakes Regional Park, 9:30 a.m.-6:30 p.m. daily on dates shown. Admission $15 adults, $5 children, toddlers free. 239-839-8036. www.medieval-faire.com
Jan. 17: Downtown Gallery Walk, Punta Gorda. Held monthly on the third Thursday, 5-8 p.m. Visit any of the downtown merchants, restaurants and galleries for your game card. As always, there will be live entertainment, food and drink samplings, art, beauty and health demonstrations, a free trolley, and an evening of fun. Free; free parking. 941-505-1915. www.puntagordashopping.com
Jan. 18: Sunshine Blues Festival. Fort Myers. The Sunshine Blues Festival starts at noon on Jan. 18 and presents such bands as the Tedeshi Trucks Band, Walter Trout, Sonny Landreth, Joe Louis Walker, and the Jaimoe's Jassz Band on two stages. World of Beer will be serving a selection of local and imported brews and barbecue. Tickets are $49.50. The event is at Centennial Park, 2000 West First Street. For details, visit www.sunshinebluesfestival.com
Jan. 18-20: Southwest Florida Nature Festival. Naples. Award-winning Filmmaker Elam Stoltzfus talks about the Florida Wildlife Corridor Expedition -- a 1,000-mile expedition over a 100-day period from January through April 2012 that increased public awareness of and generated support for the Florida Wildlife Corridor project. Bear biologist Joe Guthrie, conservationist Mallory Dimmitt, photojournalist Carlton Ward Jr. and Stoltzfus made the trek from Everglades National Park to the Okefenokee National Wildlife Refuge in southern Georgia. The group traversed the wildlife habitats, watersheds, public and private lands and working farms and ranches that comprise the Florida Wildlife Corridor opportunity area. Stoltzfus, who is producing a documentary about the expedition, will share behind-the-scenes video clips and detailed stories about the journey through Florida. The presentation is offered on two nights to accommodate interest in the topic. Cost is $25 and includes wine and light refreshments. Pre-registration is strongly encouraged at rookerybay.org or by calling 239-417-6310 x401. Rookery Bay Environmental Learning Center. 300 Tower Rd., Naples, FL 34113. 239-471-6310. www.rookerybay.org
Jan. 19-20: Venice-Nokomis Rotary Art Festival, Venice. In addition to regular arts and crafts displays, this event also features an activities tent for children, free entertainment, and a car show. At Venice Airport Festival Grounds. Admission is $2, parking is free. 941-468-1254. www.venicenokomisrotary.org/art.html
Jan. 19-20: 15th Annual Sullivan Street Craft Fair, Punta Gorda. Outdoor show featuring some 150 crafters, who offer affordable original works. Downtown. Free. 941-639-3720. http://www.artfestival.com/Festivals/Punta_Gorda_Sullivan_Street_Craft_Festival_Punta_Gorda_Florida.ASPX
Jan. 25-27: Goodland Mullet Festival, Goodland. The three-day festival attracts nearly 5,000 people to the tiny town of Goodland. Fried and smoked mullet are featured and a Buzzard Lope Queen and a Buzzard Lope Princess contest. The late Stan Gober, who was the owner of Stan's Idle Hour Seafood Restaurant, had hosted the Mullet Festival and Buzzard Lope Queen Contest for 13 years. The Buzzard Lope is a dance based on "The Buzzard Lope Song" composed and sung by Stan. 239-394-3041.www.goodland.com/buzzard.htm
Jan. 27: Hollywood Hits! Symphony. Fort Myers. The Gulf Coast Symphony performs Hollywood Hits! with classics from the silver screen including hits from yesterday and today at 7 p.m. on Jan. 27. Admission to the event, at 8099 College Parkway, is free. For information, log on to www.gulfcoastsymphony.org
Jan. 27: GumboFest, North Fort Myers. Select area restaurants compete in the tenth annual New Orleans-style gumbo cook-off, each serving a different variety of gumbo including wild meat gumbo, seafood gumbo, chicken gumbo and more. They sell their winning concoctions in generous portions for only $3. Participants and local celebrities place their votes for the best. In addition, festival-goers can feast on jambalaya, dirty rice, and all of the usual kid favorites. There's live zydeco and other entertainment from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. At The Shell Factory. Admission is free. 239-936-8888. www.shellfactory.com
South Florida and the Keys (including Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach, Key Largo, Key West and the Treasure Coast)
Dec. 30: 64th Annual Junior Orange Bowl Parade, Coral Gables. A parade through the streets of Coral Gables featuring floats and marching bands, at 4 p.m. The parade begins in front of Coral Gables City Hall and travels down Miracle Mile with a vivid arrangement of marching bands, colorful floats, community groups and creative parade units. Admission is free 305-662-1210. www.jrorangebowl.com
Jan. 1: 79th FedEx Orange Bowl Football Game, Miami. Two of the top-ranked football teams in the country will compete for the Orange Bowl title. Game time is 8 p.m. At Sun Life Stadium. 305-341-4700. www.orangebowl.org
Jan. 3: Orange Bowl Swimming Classic. Key Largo. The Orange Bowl Swimming Classic attracts some of the best college swimmers in the country –perhaps future Olympians? – to Key Largo on Jan. 3. The competition, each year at Jacobs Aquatic Center, Mile Marker 99.6 oceanside, is a free-to-attend event that is part of the celebration surrounding the annual Orange Bowl college football game in Miami. For information, visit www.jacobsaquaticcenter.org
Jan. 4-5: Ragnar Relay Florida Keys Race. Florida Keys. The Florida Keys set the scene for the Ragnar Relay Florida Keys Race on Jan. 4-5. This 199-mile race takes relay teams of runners throughout the Florida Keys to the southernmost island in the continental U.S. The route begins in Miami and ends in Key West. For information, visit www.ragnarrelay.com/race/floridakeys.
Jan. 6: Suntrust Sunday Jazz Brunch, Fort Lauderdale. Live outdoor concert series bringing the area's best local jazz artists to the city's scenic Riverwalk the first Sunday of each month. Listen to the soulful sounds on four different stages. Everyone is welcome to attend, including well-behaved, leashed pets, and there is ample room to set up chairs, blankets and picnic baskets. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. Free admission. 954-828-5363. www.fortlauderdale.gov/events/jazzbrunch/jazzbrunch.htm
Jan. 10-13: 31st Annual Key West Literary Seminar. Key West. The Last Key sets the scene for the 31st Annual Key West Literary Seminar on Jan. 10-13 and 17-20. This year's seminar includes two independent sessions exploring the theme "Writers on Writers." Sessions spotlight the life and work of literary icons like Ralph Waldo Emerson, Henry David Thoreau, Emily Dickinson, John Cheever and Ernest Hemingway under the guidance of the contemporary writers and scholars who know them well. Writing workshops are scheduled Jan. 13-17. For information on the event, visit www.kwls.org or call 888-293-9291. For details on travel to Key West and the Florida Keys including lodging, dining, attractions, and happenings, visit www.fla-keys.com
Jan. 11-19: Key Largo and Islamorada Food & Wine Festival. Upper Florida Keys. The festival offers a multi-sensory experience as Key Largo and Islamorada's culinary experts step up to the "plate" on Jan. 11-19. The event features nearly 30 food, wine and spirits events including cooking demonstrations, themed wine dinners, food and wine pairing classes, progressive wine dinners, art and wine shows and the festival finale, "A Grand Tasting." For details, call 305-394-3736.
Jan. 12-13: Redland Heritage Festival, Homestead. A tradition at Fruit and Spice Park since 1976, this 38th annual festival features local arts and crafts, a large selection of tropical plants and great food. Children's activities include a petting zoo, pony rides, an interactive puppet and magic show, and a wild and wonderful Everglades reptile show. 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is $8, children 11 and under are free. 305-247-5727. www.fruitandspicepark.org
Jan. 12-13: 26th Annual Boca Fest, Boca Raton. Ranked one of the top festivals in the country by Sunshine Artist, the nation's leading publication for art and craft shows, this show returns for its 26th anniversary. At the Shops at Boca Center. Hours 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; free admission. 954-472-3755. www.artfestival.com
Jan. 17: 9th Annual Taste of Compassion, West Palm Beach. Quantum House joins forces with the American Culinary Federation Palm Beach County Chapter to present this culinary event with some of the area's finest chefs who will prepare a four courses (appetizer, soup or salad, main course and dessert) with a complimentary wine for each. At Harriet Himmel Theater, CityPlace. 561-494-0515. Admission $75 or $125 VIP. www.quantumhouse.org/
Jan. 18: Third Thursday Art Walk. Islamorada The Morada Way Third Thursday Art Walk presents local fine arts, music and culinary specialties on Dec. 20. The galleries of Morada Way are between Mile Markers 81 and 82. Event hours are from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m. For details, visit www.fla-keys.com
Jan. 18-19: 53rd Annual Historic House Tours, Key West. Presented by the Old Island Restoration Foundation, this house and garden tour offers a rare opportunity to see inside some of Key West's magnificent, charming and tropical residences. The tours also are scheduled Feb. 15-16 and Mar. 15-16. Admission $30 per person. 305-294-9501. www.oirf.org/
Jan. 18-20: Art Deco Weekend, Miami Beach. Step back in time and celebrate Art Deco style on the Broadway stage with live music, art and antiques dealers, walking tours, films, lectures, classic cars, street theater and more. Along Ocean Drive, between 5th and 15th Streets. 305-672-2014. www.mdpl.org
Jan. 18-21: Miami International Art Fair, Miami Beach. This dynamic five-day event hosts galleries from around the world offering modern and contemporary art, photography and design. Preview is Jan. 17. Relocated to Miami's premiere downtown Art & Entertainment District. 239-498-1683. www.mia-artfair.com
Jan. 18-Feb. 3: South Florida Fair, West Palm Beach . In addition to traditional concessions and exhibits, includes Miss South Florida Fair Pageant and the Bike Nite Parade. At South Florida Fairground. Admission at gate $15 adults, $9 seniors, children 6-11 $8; advance tickets priced less. 561-793-0333. www.southfloridafair.com
Jan. 19: Art Under the Oaks, Islamorada. This art show at the San Pedro Catholic Church features arts and crafts in many mediums, as well as food vendors and live music. 305-360-8556. www.artundertheoaks.com
Jan. 19: Florida Keys Seafood Festival. Key West. Seafood lovers, rejoice! The Last Key sets the scene for the eighth Annual Florida Keys Seafood Festival from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Jan. 19. On the menu for this family-friendly fest, are fried fish, grilled spiny lobster, stone crab claws (yum!), Pick n' Peel Key West Pink Shrimp, lobster bisque, conch chowder, conch fritters, conch salad and other delights from the bounty of the sea. Beverages and desserts will also be available for purchase. The event is at Bayview Park (corner of Truman Avenue & Jose Marti Drive). Also on the festival's agenda are children's activities, marine-related crafts and live music. Admission to the festival is free. Parking is $5 per car at Horace O'Bryant Middle School parking lot, 1105 Leon Street, adjacent to Bayview Park. For information, visit www.keywest.com
Jan. 19-20: Big Pine Key Nautical Market. Big Pine & the Lower Keys. Nautical-themed crafts and merchandise will be displayed and sold during the ninth annual Big Pine Key Nautical Market on Jan. 19-20. Other activities include live music, food and beverages. The event takes place on the grounds of the Lower Keys Chamber of Commerce, Mile Marker 31 ocean-side. Visit www.fla-keys.com
Jan. 19-20: 48th Annual Broward Shell Show, Pompano Beach. Thousands of beautiful and unusual shells from Florida, the Caribbean and around the world will be on display or for sale. Includes competitive displays by dozens of collectors and craftspeople, an International Shell Market featuring shells, shell craft, jewelry, educational shell books and more and a Shell ID Clinic. This year the show has added five educational programs on seashells and shell craft to be presented during the shell show. At Emma Lou Olson Civic Center. Hours 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. Admission and parking are free. 305-467-4412. www.browardshellclub.org/show/Show.html
Jan. 19-20: Downtown Delray Beach Festival of the Arts, Delray Beach. A signature event for the city, this 24th annual show is consistently ranked as one of the best in the nation. Along a one-mile stretch of Atlantic Avenue, starting at U.S. 1 and continuing east over the Intracoastal Waterway all the way to A-1-A on the Atlantic Ocean. Free. 954-472-3755. www.artfestival.com
Jan. 20: 15th Annual Key West Half Marathon, Key West. The gun will sound at 7 a.m. for one of "Runners World" magazine's recognized 10 great winter half marathons. The run is a 13.1-mile course through Old Town Key West, historic landmarks and Key West's scenic waterfront. 305-296-7182. http://www.keywesthalfmarathon.com/
Jan. 20-25: Key West Race Week 2013, Key West. Nearly 300 racing yachts compete for class championships in this international midwinter sailboat regatta presented by Quantum Sail Design Group. 781-639-9545. www.premiere-racing.com
Jan. 24-27: Key West Food and Wine Festival. Key West. The Last Key sets the scene for the Key West Food and Wine Festival on Jan. 24-27. Area chefs and restaurateurs will be showcasing their culinary creativity as well as the Keys' indigenous cuisine in a tasty schedule of happenings for food lovers during this annual event. Attendees also can participate in food-related adventures during the savory celebration. A variety of tickets is available. For information and schedule of events, visit www.keywestfoodandwinefestival.com
Jan. 25-27: International Chocolate Festival, Coral Gables. Join us for the celebration of that divine tropical plant, the obroma cacao, the source of chocolate. For three days guests are immersed in the wonderful and diverse world of chocolate. From chocolate treats to tree sales, cooking demonstrations to chocolate sculpture competitions, chocolate will reign supreme. 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. At Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden. 305-667-1651. www.fairchildgarden.org
Jan. 26: 7th Annual Port Salerno Seafood Festival, Port Salerno. Local seafood specialties, live music, family fun area, maritime exhibitors, arts and crafts and more. Along the waterfront. 772-634-9862. Admission is $5 for adults, free for children 12 and younger. www.portsalernoseafoodfestival.org/
Jan. 26: Benefit Flea Market at Flamingo Gardens, Davie. Admission of $2 for ages 12 and up benefits Flamingo Gardens' programs. Flamingo Gardens, Botanical Collections and Everglades Wildlife Sanctuary is a 60-acre spread which houses and cares for permanently injured native birds and animals, and provides educational programs for school and camp children. A not-for-profit organization, it is supported solely by admissions, proceeds from events, donations, visitor purchases and memberships. 954-473-2955. www.flamingogardens.org
Jan. 26-27: Key West Craft Show. Key West. The 28th Annual Key West Craft Show features juried artisans and crafters displaying their work at a show on lower Whitehead Street in historic Old Town Key West. For details on the Key West Craft Show, visit www.keywestartcenter.com/craft.html
Jan. 26-27: Key Largo Stone Crab & Seafood Festival. Key Largo. Two-day festival with live local entertainment, fireworks, cooking demos, fishing workshops, a costume contest and more. Fireworks on Sat. Night at 7:30 and a car show on Sunday. www.keylargoseafoodfestival.com
Northeast Florida (including Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Flagler County and Amelia Island)
Through Jan. 31: Nights of Lights Festival and Celebration, St. Augustine. This inspiring display of more than two million tiny white lights adorning the palm trees and buildings throughout the city's historic district is based on a custom by the town's original Spanish colonists, who placed a white candle in their windows to brighten the nights during the Christmas holidays. Among special events and activities awaiting visitors: nighttime tours of ancient buildings and inns led by storytellers in period clothing, rollicking train and trolley tours through the narrow brick streets, art walks featuring more than 30 galleries serving free holiday refreshments on the First Friday in December and January, special Saturday night antique shopping events, a dazzling regatta, Florida ice skating, luminaries in the town plaza, holiday concerts, even a Christmas parade. 902-825-1004. www.NightsofLights.com
Jan. 4: First Friday Art Walk, St. Augustine. One of the city's most popular cultural events, held the first Friday of each month. Enjoy new exhibits, music, entertainment and refreshments at 15 participating galleries, plus great food courtesy of the St. Augustine Independent Restaurant Assn. Tours begin at Rembrandtz American Craft Gallery. St. Augustine Sightseeing Trains and Old Town Trolleys offer complimentary shuttle service to most galleries. Shuttles run on a continuous loop every 30 minutes. 904-829-0065.www.artgalleriesofstaugustine.com
Jan. 12: 125th Anniversary of Hotel Ponce de Leon. St. Augustine. The 125th Anniversary of Hotel Ponce de Leon affords visitors the opportunity to walk the same halls as Henry Flagler, Andrew Carnegie and Thomas Edison on Jan. 12. Trumpeters will herald the arrival of guests and an orchestra will play in the Logia to celebrate the 125th anniversary of Henry Flagler's hotel. The Ponce de Leon Hall is at 74 King Street. Admission is free. Tour hours are from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. For information, visit www.floridashistoriccoast.comM
Jan. 12: Cinderella. Jacksonville The State Ballet Theatre of Russia performs Cinderella at the Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts Moran Theater at 8 p.m. on Jan. 12. The production boasts 65 dancers. The Times-Union Center for the Performing Arts is at 300 Water Street in downtown Jacksonville. Tickets are $52 and $62 downstairs. For information, visit www.artistseriesjax.org
Jan. 12: Artrageous Artwalk, Fernandina Beach . Held monthly on second Saturday each month, to open the doors of some of Amelia Island's incredible galleries, featuring photography, pottery, copper, stained glass, watercolor, acrylics and more. Participants can peruse more than a dozen galleries in downtown Fernandina Beach and at the Plantation Artists' Guild and Gallery located at Amelia Island Plantation. 5:30-8:30 p.m. 800-226-3542. http://www.ameliaisland.com/calendar.aspx
Jan. 18-27: Fifth Annual Amelia Island Restaurant Week. Amelia Island. Includes 19 participating restaurants. Residents and visitors enjoy pre-fix meals at great rates (priced at either $20.13 or $30.13) which includes three courses and a nonalcoholic beverage. In conjunction with Restaurant Week, several of Amelia Island accommodators are offering a "Free Night, Any Night" deal, which allows visitors to receive a Free Night with a minimum nights stay. For more details, visit www.ameliaisland.com/free. For more information on Restaurant Week, visit www.ameliaisland.com/yummy.
Jan. 26: Living History Days. St. Augustine. Interpreters in period dress offer visitors a glimpse to the past during Living History Days at Fort Mose on Jan. 26. The demonstrations take place from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. weather permitting. Fort Mose State Park is at 15 Fort Mose Trail. There's a $2 per person museum admission fee (children ages 5 and younger are free). For details, visit www.floridastateparks.org/fortmose
North-Central Florida (including Ocala, Gainesville and Tallahassee)
Jan. 19: Inglis Music Festival, Inglis. Features renowned bluegrass musicians Mark Newton and Steve Thomas along with an open mic showcase for local talent. Festival includes local food vendors arts crafts educational workshops for kids and raffles. 135 Hwy 40 W, Inglis FL 34449. 352-486-3396. www.visitnaturecoast.com
Jan. 19-20: 26th Annual Florida Manatee Festival, Crystal River. In honor of its namesake, the endangered manatee, the festival gives visitors the opportunity to view the gentle creature in its own environment. Boat tours are offered for a small charge into Kings Bay, which the manatee calls home. Festival also includes a Fine Art show featuring everything from watercolor artwork and photography to sculptures, stained glass and handmade jewelry. Live entertainment will be provided continuously and includes the Annual Jimmy Buffet Sound-Alike contest. Downtown on Citrus Ave. 352-795-3149 or 726-2801. Admission $3 donation. Children 12 and under free. 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Sautrday, 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday. www.floridamanateefestival.com/
Jan. 25: Lu the Hippo's 53rd Birthday, Homosassa Springs. Park visitors, staff and schoolchildren are invited to attend Lu the hippo's 53rd birthday party. Join in singing Happy Birthday songs to Lu, enjoy cupcakes, and fruit punch. Lu will be presented with his own special birthday cake. Regular park admission applies. The party will be held at Homosassa Springs Wildlife State Park. Parties are scheduled at 10 a.m. and at noon. 352-628-5343. www.floridastateparks.org/homosassasprings/Events.cfm
Jan. 26-27, Feb. 1-3: Hoggetowne Medieval Faire, Gainesville. Come be swept away by medieval magic as troupes of actors, street performers and musicians journey back to the days of yore. Alachua County Fairground is transformed into a bustling medieval marketplace where there is jousting on horseback, street performers and minstrels, living chess match, medieval games, and eight stages of live entertainment. Admission $14 adult, $7 for children 5-17, under 5 free. 352-334-5064. www.gvlculturalaffairs.org/website/programs_events/HMF/medieval_index.html
The Panhandle (including Pensacola, Panama City Beach, Apalachicola and Destin)
Jan. 12: Pensacola Beach 1/2 Marathon, 5K and 10K Run. Pensacola Beach. All three courses are flat and fast. Pick the distance you want at the turns. If you feel good at the 5K turn, just keep going for the 10K, and the same is true for the 1/2 Marathon. Several exhitors, and drink and food specials. 8 a.m. Casino Beach. Pensacola Beach, FL 32502. 850-261-2200. www.pensacolarunners.com
Jan. 18: Mytic Krewe of Nereids' Moonpie Party. Pensacola Beach. Fun, dancing, music by Boogie Inc. The Nereids will be dancing all night long along with lots of other krewes that come out to party. Moonpies will fly through the air. Free. At the Sandshaker. 731 Pensacola Beach Blvd. Pensacola Beach, FL 32661. 850-438-1660. www.sandshaker.com/Calendar.aspx
Jan. 18: Apalachicola Oyster Cook Off. Apalichicola. Fundraiser for the Apalachicola Volunteer Fire Department. Submit recipes. Oysters all sorts of ways. Children's activities and live band. 86 Water Street/ Riverfront Park, Apalachicola FL 32320. 855-272-5224. www.historicapalachicola.com
Jan. 19: Mardi Gras Boat Parade Flotilla. Perdido Key The Pirates of Lost Treasures 19th Annual Pirate Flotilla Parade invades the Intracoastal Waterway. Journey with the armada as it sets sail from Holiday Harbor Marina, to Sunset Grill, to the Oyster Bar, to Perdido Bay Seafood, to Galvez Landing, through Old River, and to the Flora-Bama Lounge. Feast on Red Beans & Rice and listen to live music beginning at 1:30 p.m. followed by awards at 2:30 p.m. 14620 Perdido Key Drive. Begins at Holiday Harbor Marina. Perdido Key, FL 32507. 850-492-4660. www.visitperdido.com/events
Sentinel staffer Angele Maraj and Special Correspondent Georgina Cruz contributed to this report