Florida's Gulf Islands Visitors Guide® 2009 - (Page 15) november–december November 7 SNOOTY’S GALA South Florida Museum 201 10th St. W., Bradenton 941-746-4131, www.southfloridamuseum.org Always held the first Sat. in November, Snooty’s Gala is Bradenton’s premier blacktie social event that benefits the South Florida Museum. Gala guests dine on gourmet cuisine and dance under the stars in t h e M u s e u m ’s beautiful Spanish Plaza. December 12 & 13 WINTERFEST FESTIVAL OF FINE ARTS Holmes Beach City Hall Park 5801 Marina Dr., Anna Maria 941-778-2099, www.islandartleague.org Enjoy, browse and purchase original artwork from the talented artists and craftsmen who produce it. Pottery, paintings, photography, glass, jewelry, sculpture, wood and more will be offered by artists from all over the US. Festival features children’s exhibit, toe-tapping Cajun and Bluegrass music, as well as tasty local food specialties. November 14 –16 ARTSHOP ON THE ISLAND Various sites throughout Anna Maria Island 941-778-2099, www.islandartleague.org Experience a weekend of Anna Maria Island’s exciting cultural side including: Music, Open Houses, Bridge Street Market, Island Players live performances, and concert. Come party with all our Island Muses! November 22 & 23 TOMATO/FOUNDER’S DAY FESTIVAL Sutton and Lamb Park, City of Palmetto 941-721-2138, www.palmettofl.org Traditionally held the weekend before Thanksgiving, this two-day festival celebrates the City of Palmetto’s rich history of agriculture. Entertainment, farmer’s market, plant show and sale, carnival rides, antique tractor show, food and craft vendors. December GAMBLE PLANTATION HOLIDAY OPEN HOUSE 3708 Patten Ave., Ellenton 941-723-4536 www.floridastateparks.org/gambleplantation Come experience an authentic Civil War encampment. Free tours of the Gamble Mansion and Patten House. Live cannon and Civil War-era weapons, period costumes, uniforms and Civil War field equipment. Early craft demonstrations. Fun, food, music, excitement, and learning for the whole family. November 7 TASTE OF MANATEE Barcarrota Blvd, Bradenton 941-747-4655 Over 20 restaurants, arts and crafts vendors, kids games, music and a sports bar with TVs to watch the Bucs game. Plan to attend this one-day event, located on the beautiful Manatee River, and show support for your favorite restaurants. December 3 –10 HOLIDAYS AT THE CROSLEY Powel Crosley Estate 8374 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941.722.3244, www.powelcrosleyestate.com Dozens of beautifully decorated trees will be displayed. Other exhibits include Crosley radios, antique Crosley automobiles, and an elaborate vintage model railroad. Entertainment, gift boutique, historic photo display, and a bayside café. November 7 & 8 MAIN STREET AT LAKEWOOD RANCH ART FESTIVAL 8131 Lakewood Main Street Lakewood Ranch, 941.907.3750 www.shoplakewoodranchmainstreet.net This 2nd annual art festival features 100 artisans from around the country. A variety of art will be available for sale including paintings, photography, pottery, jewelry, Raku, glass, and wood. Located along the shopping area of Main Street at Lakewood Ranch and beautiful Lake Uhlein. 10am - 5pm. December 16–21 A DICKENS CHRISTMAS AT THE CROSLEY Powel Crosley Estate, 8374 N. Tamiami Tr. Sarasota, 941-722-3244 x221 www.powelcrosleytheatre.com What better way to spend the holidays than at the Powel Crosley Estate with the charming and eccentric characters from some of Charles Dickens’ most memorable literary offerings? Move from room to room at the Crosley and experience songs and stories of the holiday season. December 4–6 WINTER WONDERLAND Old Main Street, Bradenton 941-932-9400 x449 Always held the first weekend in December; Winter Wonderland is three evenings of family fun! The Jingle Bell Run along the Riverwalk (Thurs. pm), the Holiday Boat Parade (Fri. at sunset) and the Street Festival. With snow mountains, Santa, crafts and live entertainment (Sat. 5pm – 10pm). Year-round Events MUSIC ON MAIN 8131 Lakewood Main St. Lakewood Ranch, 941-907-3750 www.shoplakewoodranchmainstreet.net Held on the first Friday of each month. Come and join our monthly open-air concerts. The music is free; beer, wine and food purchases benefit local organizations. Feel free to bring a chair, but leave your coolers at home. Pets on a short leash are welcome. CHAMPIONS JUNIOR GOLF TOUR Various area golf courses, Bradenton 941-224-7344, www.championsgt.com Champion’s hosts local and statewide tournaments for junior and senior golfers. Instruction camps, seminars and individual instruction available. CIRCUS SARASOTA 8251 – 15th St. E., Sarasota, 941-355-9335, www.circussarasota.org Visit web site or call for show dates, times and locations. Thrilling family entertainment, much more than just your average circus! Summer theater show, winter performances under the big top and other exciting programs throughout the year. Ticket prices are $8 - $35. ARTWALK - VILLAGE OF THE ARTS Bradenton, 941-747-8056 www.villageofthearts.com Bradenton’s downtown district where artists live and work. Enter at 11th Ave. W. and 12th St. W. Interactive map online. First Fri. of the month 6pm – 9:30pm; first Saturday 11am – 4pm. This popular First Friday monthly Artwalk is alive with hundreds of shoppers and art lovers strolling from exhibit to exhibit. Most venues are open every Fri & Sat 11am – 4pm for the enjoyment of locals and visitors alike. SARASOTA ORCHESTRA 709 N. Tamiami Trail, Sarasota 941-953-4252, www.sarasotaorchestra.org Named the top performing arts organization in the state for 6 years, the Sarasota Orchestra presents over 100 concerts annually from September through June. Conductor Leif Bjaland has infused the orchestra with a brilliant sound making many concerts standing room only. Call for a season brochure. Box Office hours: Mon – Fri 10am – 4pm; Sat 10am – 12pm. Rates vary per concert, (free to $58). 15 http://www.islandartleague.org http://www.islandartleague.org http://www.southfloridamuseum.org http://www.palmettofl.org http://www.floridastateparks.org/gambleplantation http://www.powelcrosleyestate.com http://www.powelcrosleytheatre.com http://www.shoplakewoodranchmainstreet.net http://www.championsgt.com http://www.circussarasota.org http://www.shoplakewoodranchmainstreet.net http://www.villageofthearts.com http://www.sarasotaorchestra.org
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