The holidays are upon us, and so are our favorite traditions. Relive them this year, with a special Sarasota flair and a tropical twist. Take a trip back in time, or through the gardens, but whatever you do--keep it outside!

Historic Spanish Point

Take a step back in time at Historic Spanish Point's "Heritage Holidays." The annual event brings the stories of the holidays during Florida's pioneer era to life. Visit the Webb citrus-packing house and Mary's Chapel; afterward, meet "Mrs. Potter Palmer," founder of the estate, and "her guests" in the formal Sunken Garden. The grounds are beautifully decorated and guides give enlightening tours of the 30-acre archaeological and historic site.

Current admission prices are: $10 for adults, $9 for seniors and $5 for kids ages 5-12. Children under 5 are admitted for free. Discount coupons are often available on the website. Visit www.historicspanishpoint.org for more information.

Sarasota Jungle Gardens

Visitors and locals alike can enjoy panthers, hummingbirds and other creatures peeping through the nighttime foliage at Sarasota Jungle Gardens. The annual Holiday Lights event features lighting displays scattered throughout the botanical and zoological gardens. Music, magic, cookie decorating, s'more roasting, a buffet and more can all be expected. Kids can enjoy a sneak peek at Santa every night until Christmas Day.

Current admission prices are: $10 for adults 13 and up and $5 for children under 13. Children 2 and under get in free. For more information, visit www.sarasotajunglegardens.com.

Powel Crosley Museum

Imagine seeing a Christmas tree decorated in living hibiscus blooms, railroad memorabilia - even red hats! A mélange of colorfully adorned trees grace the rooms and porch of the historic Crosley mansion during the Festival of Trees.

The bayfront, Mediterranean mansion and museum honors Powel Crosley, an industrialist, inventor and visionary who is responsible for many innovations, including the fax machine, 35mm camera and the first compact economy car, to name just a few.

In addition to dozens of trees, the festival features all sorts of holiday decor, live entertainment, afternoon tea, boat rides on the bay and wine tastings over the course of a week. There is also an exhibit of rare, antique Crosley automobiles during the weekend of the festival.

Current admission prices are: $8 for adults and free for children 12 and under. There is a small additional cost for boat rides, wine tastings and other special events during the festival. For more information, visit www.crosleymuseum.com.

Marie Selby Botanical Gardens

This botanical attraction is already a Sarasota gem, with its exotic plants and lush foliage, but each December it truly sparkles with the addition of rainforest-themed lights at Selby Lights in Bloom. Among the sights and activities are a living bromeliad tree and a Secret Garden for the children. Tour the Selby mansion, which is transformed into a true holiday house with all the trimmings. The Rainforest and Banyan Treasures stores will sell holiday gifts. There is live music and refreshments are also available.

Current admission prices are: $12 for nonmembers, $10 for members and free for children 11 and under when accompanied by an adult. For more information, visit www.selby.org.

The Beach

And what better way to add a tropical twist to Christmas than spending Christmas at the beach? Choose from one of Sarasota County's many beaches. The Sarasota sands serve as the perfect unconventional setting for holiday festivities or even a Christmas picnic dinner. You can also start working off that Thanksgiving dinner with a run on the beach. Try the annual Sandy Claws Beach Run on Siesta Beach. Current registration fees are: $18 per adult and $15 per child. For more information, visit www.parksonline.scgov.net.