CELEBRATE!
Illuminate your holidays in December with a variety of activities throughout the area. Join in a new holiday tradition, Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Lights in Bloom each weekend in December, featuring thousands of twinkling lights lining one mile of botanical garden pathways and live music by some of Sarasota’s finest ensembles.

Capture the holiday spirit with Smooth Jazz on St. Armands every fourth Friday of the month, and witness dazzling light displays along the circle with over 40,000 lights and 800 ornaments on the magnificent 51-foot Rocky Mountain Pine Christmas tree. Over 3-miles of electrical wiring and over 750 volunteer man hours went into the assembly and installation of the decorations and tree.

For more spectacular light displays in the area take the Christmas Walk in downtown Venice December 4. In addition, on December 17 hop on board a historic trolley at Siesta Key and take the Holiday Tour of Lights, sponsored by the Historical Society of Sarasota.

Two chances to see a classic home town parade include the Downtown Venice Holiday Parade on November 29 and the Downtown Sarasota Holiday Parade on December 6.

See a holiday boat parade the best way – from the water. Rent a boat and enjoy the floating Christmas light show at the Venice Boat Parade on December 6 or the Sarasota Christmas Boat Parade of Lights on December 13.

For more holiday events, visit the Sarasota Convention and Visitors Bureau Calendar of Events.

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RECIPE OF THE MONTH
Sure to be a holiday dining centerpiece.
Click here for Chef Fred’s Favorite Florida Shrimp Dish recipe.

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HOLIDAY GIFT SHOPPING
When it comes to fine shopping, the Sarasota area offers some of the best in Florida. Explore the upscale shops of the world-famous St. Armands Circle or the chic stores at Westfield Shoppingtown Southgate. Find original pieces at the American Crafts Council or the elegant art galleries on Sarasota’s Palm Avenue. Bargain hunt at the Sarasota Outlet Mall. Or treasure hunt along Miami Avenue in the historic city of Venice. Take a break from shopping to savor the culinary indulgences of the area’s unique restaurants.

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GREAT VACATION PACKAGES
Whether you’re looking for golf, deep-sea fishing, a romantic getaway, or a night at the theater or symphony, you’ll find extraordinary vacation packages from area hotels and resorts. Experience adventure with an Orvis-endorsed outfitter guide on a memorable five-hour fishing trip in glorious Sarasota Bay, see the sights on a sunset boat cruise, commune with nature during one of many eco-activities, or plan your escape around a special event. See THINGS TO DO.

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FOR MORE EVENTS, VISIT THE Calendar of Events.