The event is sponsored by Citizens Bank & Trust, Lake Wales Medical Center, Visit Central Florida, WEDU-TV, WUSF Radio, and the State of Florida, Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture.

Flaming torches will illuminate the Olmsted-designed pathways leading up to the 205-foot Singing Tower, housing one of the world’s great carillons and featuring the Gardens’ world-class carillonneur, Geert D’hollander. Guests are encouraged to prepare elaborate picnics and experience a magical evening as the sun sets atop Iron Mountain.

“As a special 85th anniversary event, we chose to move this year’s Sunset & Symphony concert to December because a holiday-themed concert with new ticket prices will appeal to greater range of audiences,” said Jennifer Beam, director of visitor services and programs at the Gardens. “We want to offer events that appeal to the whole family – that’s what Bok Tower Gardens and the holidays are all about.”

The Orlando Philharmonic will perform a program of holiday classics, such as “The Nutcracker Suite,” “Sleigh Ride,” “T’was the Night Before Christmas,” “Carol of the Bells,” “It’s the Most Wonderful Time of the Year,” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” among others. The performance features guest conductor Paul Hostetter, and guest vocalists Priscilla Bagley and Kevin Kelly.

“The Orlando Philharmonic is proud and grateful for more than a decade-long association with Bok Tower Gardens,” said Executive Director David Schillhammer. “There is no more beautiful location in all of Florida for an event like this, and we appreciate the Garden’s longstanding commitment to presenting Orlando Philharmonic concerts and other great music performances on their beautiful site.”

Concert tickets include general Gardens’ admission so guests may enter anytime during the day for picnics. The Holiday Home Tour at Pinewood Estate also will be open until 6 p.m., but requires an additional entry fee. The Instrument Petting Zoo, a chance to meet the musicians and learn about their individual instruments, begins at 4:30 p.m. Families can try their hands at a variety of instruments with the help of Orlando Philharmonic musicians on the Olmsted House lawn.

The popular picnic contest will award prizes for Most Original, Best Holiday Themed, and Best Overall. Judging takes place at 5:30 p.m. and winners will be announced during intermission. Pre-ordered boxed picnic selections are available from the Blue Palmetto Café, with food and beverages available for sale at the Hilltop Café concession from 3:30 to 8 p.m. The Gift Shop and Visitor Center will remain open until after the concert. Visitors are encouraged to bring lawn chairs or blankets, insect repellent and flashlights. Handicapped parking and shuttle service will be available.

Tickets are $20 for the general public and $18 for members. Day-of-concert ticket prices are $25 for both the general public and members. Children ages 5 to 12 are $10 in advance; $12 at the gate; under 5 are admitted free. Group discounts are available.

Tickets may be purchased online at www.BokTowerGardens.org, by calling the Gardens at 863-734-1222.

Enter to win three free tickets on our Facebook page Tuesday, December 3- Wednesday, December 4.

Find a complete listing of December and January events taking place in Polk County at VisitCentralFlorida.org.

Guided Bird Hike
Date: Wednesday, December 4
Venue: Circle B Bar Reserve, Lakeland
-Join a volunteer guide on a hike through the Marsh while learning about the birds of Circle B Bar Reserve.

Lakeland Christmas Parade
Date: Thursday, December 5
Venue: Lakeland
- The annual Christmas parade, sponsored by The Junior League of Greater Lakeland, will kick off Thursday evening with a fantastic fireworks display over Lake Mirror.
- Over 120 organizations will participate in this year’s event.

The Miracle Worker
Date: Thursday, December 5 – Sunday, December 22
Venue: Theatre Winter Haven
- This inspiring true story of Helen Keller comes to Theatre Winter Haven, Thursdays-Sundays weekly.

Classic Albums Live Presents Led Zeppelin
Date: Friday, December 6
Venue: The Lakeland Center
- Classic Albums Live returns to Lakeland for Led Zeppelin’s Houses of the Holy presented by Max 98.3FM and will feature the album in its entirety, note-for-note and cut-for-cut.

First Friday
Date: Friday, December 6
Venue: Downtown Lakeland
- Every month, on the first Friday of the month, people from all over converge in Downtown Lakeland for an evening of free family-friendly entertainment, activities, live music, art receptions, a car show, and the opportunity to check out a locally-owned establishment.

Havendale Christmas Parade
Date: Friday, December 6
Venue: Havendale, Winter Haven/Auburndale
- The Cities of Auburndale and Winter Haven come together to bring one of the area’s largest and best loved Christmas Parades with professional floats, bands, and of course Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Havendale Christmas Parade.

Holiday Tree Lighting Party
Date: Friday, December 6
Venue: Eloise Resource Center
- Polk County Parks & Recreation present this free community Christmas party with arts & crafts, a visit from Santa and other activities for the whole family.

Jingle Bell Rock Party
Date: Friday, December 6
Venue: Wabash Community Center
- Polk County Parks & Recreation present this free community Christmas party with arts & crafts, a visit with Santa and other activities for the whole family.

Journey Stories Exhibit Opening Reception
Date: Friday, December 6
Venue: Polk County History Center, Bartow
- Journey Stories, from the Smithsonian’s traveling exhibit program “Museums on Main Street” explores how our ancestors came to America – a central element of the personal heritage.

Make It Magical
Date: Friday, December 6
Venue: Lake Wales
- Make It Magical will return to downtown Lake Wales with carriage rides, Santa Claus, shopping and fun for the whole family.
- Santa will make a guest appearance, and there will be vendors throughout the marketplace.

Bed & Breakfast Week Celebration
Date: Friday, December 6 – Sunday, December 8
Venue: Chalet Suzanne, Lake Wales
- Chalet Suzanne will be decked out for the holidays for the National Bed and Breakfast Week Celebration.
- Guests will enjoy fun, food and fashion at the Inn with a special breakfast menu, live fashion show and unique selection of merchandise from art, jewelry and various other vendors.

Homes Sweet Home Gingerbread Tour & Events
Date: Friday, December 6 – Sunday, December 8
Venue: Women’s Resource Club, Winter Haven
- The Women’s Resource Center of Central Florida, Inc. presents its signature event, Home Sweet Home Gingerbread House Contest.
- While gingerbread houses created by contest participants will be on display for two weekends in December, there will also be other holiday-themed events taking place including Breakfast with Santa, a Teddy Bear Tea and more.

Junie B Jones. Jingle Bells, Batman Smells
Date: Friday, December 6 – Sunday, December 8
Venue: Lakeland Community Theatre
- A Theatre for Youth Production based on the book series by Barbara Parks at Lakeland Community Theatre.

Lights of Lakeland
Date: Friday, December 6 – Sunday, December 8
Venue: Lakeland
- Experience an evening of excitement and wonder filled with your favorite holiday sights, smells and sounds with over 500,000 lights on display, The Grinch, Santa’s Workshop, a reindeer barn, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a Bethlehem experience.

BeFly Bike Tours Christmas Lights Tour
Date: Friday, December 6 – Saturday, December 28
Venue: Begins at Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland
- Light lovers can enjoy a magical experience too “ooh and ahh” over gorgeous holiday displays on this Christmas bike tour every Friday and Saturday throughout December.
- The tour begins at Polk Museum of Art and will make a stop at Got Candy for a cup of hot chocolate.

Gary Gessford Exhibit
Date: Friday, December 6 – Tuesday, December 31
Venue: The Loft Art Gallery, Lakeland
- Gary Gessford brings a world of architectural, landscape, figurative, floral and non-representational color expressions to The Loft Art Gallery where his art will be featured through December 31.
- The show debuts with a free reception featuring live music, wine and hors d’oeuvres.

Astronomy Night
Date: Saturday, December 7
Venue: Circle B Bar Reserve, Lakeland
-  Bring your new telescopes or gaze through one of the powerful telescopes that will be on site to provide you with a view of the night sky.
- Meet in the Workshop at Circle B Bar Reserve for an indoor presentation or introduction to the night sky and a discussion on what types of telescopes are best for star gazing.

Christmas at the Ramon
Date: Saturday, December 7
Venue: Ramon Theater, Frostproof
- Enjoy the spirit of Christmas with excerpts from the “The Nutcracker”, as well as a variety of classical and contemporary dance works reflecting the joy of the season.
- The performance will feature the professional company of the Florida Dance Theatre and its trainees, along with members of its Youth Ensemble.

Community Days
Date: Saturday, December 7
Venue: Circle B Bar Reserve, Lakeland
- Circle B Bar Reserve hosts monthly free themed events known as Community Days.
- December’s theme is Amazing Alligators & Stupendous Snakes.

Color Vibe 5K
Date: Saturday, December 7
Venue: SUN ‘n FUN, Lakeland
- Get your friends and family stretched out for this amazing color blast event where you’ll get blasted with color while you run the Color Vibe 5K.

Gaither Christmas Homecoming Tour
Date: Saturday, December 7
Venue: The Lakeland Center
- A full evening of entertainment and meaningful music is a rare treat anytime, but when the occasion includes the best-loved voices in gospel music… it’s a must-see celebration.
- This concert will leave you encouraged, grateful and most certainly smiling.

Get Outdoors with Extension
Date: Saturday, December 7
Venue: Babson Park
- Get outdoors with UF/IFAS Extension Polk County’s natural resources program that combines education with recreation for a fun-filled hiking event outside.

Lake Alfred Christmas Parade
Date: Saturday, December 7
Venue: Lake Alfred
- The parade will start at Mackay Blvd. and proceed North on Highway 17/92 to Gardner Park.
- Following the parade,  Santa Claus will greet the children in the park with cookies and hot chocolate.

Mother/Son Camp Out
Date: Saturday, December 7
Venue: Homeland Heritage Park
- This event is an overnight camping activity for mothers and sons and includes all games, crafts, food, s’mores and more.

Snowfest
Date: Saturday, December 7
Venue: Lakeland
- Each year, the City’s “Santa elves” transform 76,000 pounds of block ice into the popular attraction in addition, to arts & crafts booths, children’s activities, entertainment, Santa Claus and much more.

Sunset & Symphony Holiday Concert
Date: Saturday, December 7
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
- Enjoy the sounds of the season with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and the Singing Tower carillon as they perform together during one of Central Florida’s favorite outdoor concerts.
- Families and friends are encouraged to prepare themed picnics and experience a magical evening as the sun sets atop Iron Mountain.

Carols in the Park
Date: Saturday, December 7 – Sunday, December 8
Venue: Winter Haven
- Get a start on your holiday shopping by attending Carols in the Park, which features crafters from around the nation selling items such as stained glass, photographs, jewelry, quilts, soaps, plants and much more.

Christmas Bricktacular
Date: Saturday, December 7 – Sunday, December 8
Venue: LEGOLAND Florida, Winter Haven
- Christmas Bricktacular at LEGOLAND® Florida brings in the holiday season with a 30-foot tall LEGO Christmas tree made of 270,000 LEGO bricks, festive decorations, LEGO build activity stations, a LEGO Santa Scavenger Hunt and holiday entertainment on Saturdays and Sundays in December.

nightFlight
Date: Saturday, December 7 – Sunday, December 8
Venue: Fantasy of Flight, Polk City
-  Join Fantasy of Flight along with the experts of Apollo Paranormal Investigations on this unique journey through the Fantasy of Flight hangars after dark.

50 Shades! The Musical
Date: Sunday, December 8
Venue: The Lakeland Center
- The sexy, hilarious parody of the “Fifty Shades of Grey” phenomenon returns to Lakeland for a special one-night-only performance.
- Join The Lakeland Center as the Baby Wants Candy comedy troupe brings these novels to life on stage, keeping you guessing and laughing the whole way through.

Masterworks Series
Date: Tuesday, December 10
Venue: The Lakeland Center
- The Imperial Symphony Orchestra, a community orchestra is comprised of 80 volunteer musicians, who have made it their mission to entertain, educate and inspire audiences through enlightening performances of symphonic music.
- The Masterworks 2 theme is Winter Wonderland.

RECURRING EVENTS:

Paintings of the Space Age – Through December 7 (Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland)

reGeneration2: Tomorrow’s Photographers Today  – Through December 7 (Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland)

Elves Shelves Gift Shop – Through December 8 (Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland)

Festival of Wreaths – Through December 13 (Polk County History Center, Bartow)

A Country Christmas Hayride – Fridays & Saturdays through December 28 (The Smith Family Ranch, Lakeland)

Holiday Home Tour – Through January 5 (Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales)

Poinsettia Display – Through January 5 (Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales)

Haines City Farmers Market – Wednesdays weekly

Winter Haven Farmers Market – Thursdays weekly

Bartow Farmers Market – Saturdays weekly

Downtown Lakeland Farmers Curb Market – Saturdays weekly

Good Health Fresh Goods & Crafts Market – First, second, third Saturdays monthly

Lake Wales Farmers Market – Second and fourth Saturdays monthly

Highland City Community Market – Third Saturday monthly

Mulberry Farmers Market – Third Saturday monthly

Saturday Night Rodeo – Saturdays weekly (Westgate River Ranch Resort, River Ranch)

Children’s Programming: – Monday through Friday weekly (Explorations V Children’s Museum, Lakeland)

For this week’s sporting events, check out “What’s Happening in Central Florida Sports” on CatchCentralFlorida.com.

All Tour sign-ups begin on the first working day of each month, to sign up please stop by the reception desk or call 863-668-4673 x205.

Guided Bird Hike

• Wednesday, December 4 from 8:00 a.m. – 10:00 a.m.
• Wednesday, December 18 from 8:00 a.m. –10:00 a.m.

Please join our volunteer guide on a hike through the Marsh! Learn about the birds of Circle B Bar Reserve! This will be a great time of year to bird watch at Circle B Bar Reserve, so do not miss out on this hike!! Bring binoculars and a camera, because you never know what birds will be stopping in at the Marsh! To sign up for this hike please call 863-668-4673 ex. 205. Limit 10 people.

Community Day – Amazing Alligators and Stupendous Snakes

• Saturday, December 7 from 12:00 p.m. –3:00 p.m.

Come join us for our monthly Community Day. This is a free, family-friendly event for all. Visit with and learn more about the amazing alligators, native and non-native snakes, as well as other reptiles such as turtles. To sign up and get more info please contact Tabitha Biehl.

Astronomy Night

• Saturday, December 7 from 7:00 p.m. –10:00 p.m.

Beginners to seasoned astronomers are welcome. Bring your new telescopes or gaze through one of the powerful telescopes will be on site to provide you with a view of the night sky. Meet in the Workshop for an indoor presentation or introduction to the night sky and a discussion on what types of telescopes are best for star gazing. Then step outside for the big viewing event. Bring a flashlight and bug spray (just in case). Astronomy night will go on rain or shine. We will “focus” on anything anyone may want to see. Please stop by the reception desk or call 863-668-4673 x205 to RSVP.

Granny’s Corner – Nature Reading

• Wednesday, December 11 from 10:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m.

Middle of the morning and you want to get your little ones out of the house? Join Ms. Charlene at the Polk’s Nature Discovery Center for nature readings. The readings will be followed by a hands-on activity. After the reading, spend some time in the Nature Center and walking the trails. To register for this activity please call 863-668-4673 ext. 209

 Super Scientist Saturday

• Saturday, December 14 from 9:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m.

Learn about Native and Invasive plants while giving back to nature. We will be weeding Lost Bridge Trail of an Invasive Species while learning more about the importance of native plants, but that’s not all. We will be taking a short hike of Lost Bridge Trail to Learn about the Frog Listening Network, a citizen scientist project that was recently started at Circle B Bar Reserve by one of our very own volunteers. We will demonstrate how the project works and why we monitor the frogs of Circle B. Super Scientist Saturday is open to anyone who is interested in the outdoors, giving back to nature and becoming a Super Citizen Scientist! For more information please e-mail Keeli Carlton-Carmichael.

Lake Region Audubon Bird Hike

• Saturday, December 14 from 8:00 a.m. –11:00 a.m.

Join the Lake Region Audubon for a bird hike. Meet in the Parking Lot in front of the Polk’s Nature Discovery Center if you would like to attend this guided hike of Circle B Bar Reserve.

Nature Tour (Tram Tour)

• Sunday, December 15 from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Take a personalized tour of the Banana Creek Marsh with a volunteer guide who will point out plants, birds and history of the property. Nature Tour sign ups begin on the first working day of each month, to sign up please stop by the reception desk or call 863-668-4673 x205.

Tiny Trekkers

• Thursday, December 19 from 10:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

Looking for a new way to get your little one out of the house and into nature to explore and learn at the same time? We have the answer. Become a Tiny Trekker, and join us for a short hike and nature based outdoor activity. This is for ages 2- 5 (younger/older siblings are welcome). For more information please email Keeli Carlton-Carmichael.

Mark your calender for the New Year’s Hike!

Here’s To Your Health Hike

• Wednesday, January 1 from 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Come join Commissioner George Lindsey, for a hike around Circle B Bar Reserve. The hike starts at Polk’s Nature Discovery Center and is approximately 2 1/2 miles in length.  Volunteers and staff along the trail will point out some of the beautiful aspects of nature. Start the New Year off right, by unplugging from electronics and reconnecting with nature.

Visit polknature.com for information about the Environmental Lands Program and Polk County’s other natural areas.

The show debuts during downtown Lakeland’s First Friday festivities on Dec. 6.  A free reception with live music, wine and hors d’oeuvres is scheduled for 6 – 9 p.m.

Gessford’s artwork is a mixture of realistic imagery with an occasional surreal twist.

“The interplay between the color, light, form and texture of the subject moves me,” says Gessford. “How I feel when those inspirations flow out through my medium onto the canvas or paper captivates me always.”

Gessford’s inspiration to create art comes from many places.

“Sometimes it is just to be in touch with things that are in my surroundings as well as in my travels,” says Gessford.  “Other times I create because I am compelled to make statements, usually about the contrasts of physical and non-physical concepts.”

As Gessford’s life has unfolded, his art has evolved.  As a child, visiting major art museums and galleries formed his early concepts of art.  After maturing and visiting art venues around the world, he began to realize he could express more than what is perceived as real.

The Loft Art Gallery is located upstairs in Paint Along Studios in downtown Lakeland at 123 S. Kentucky Ave. Hours are: Mondays, 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Tuesdays-Thursdays, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.; Fridays 9 a.m. to 10 p.m.; Saturdays, 5-10 p.m.

For all parade events citizens are encouraged to use the Orange Street parking garage. The Orange Street garage is not on the parade route and visitors can enter or leave during the parade. All other parking garages are on the parade route, and vehicles will not be permitted to leave the garage until the conclusion of the parade.

The theme for the 2013 Christmas parade is “I’m Dreaming of…” and there are over 120 participants in this year’s parade including floats, marching bands and a jolly fellow in a sleigh.

A fireworks display that officially starts the parade will take place on Lake Mirror at 7:00 p.m. The fireworks will last approximately 15 minutes. The parade route begins at The Lakeland Center, travels along Lemon Street, turns left on Tennessee, proceeds right onto Main Street, goes around Lake Mirror and then heads back to The Lakeland Center via Orange Street.

Fantasy of Flight is located just off Interstate 4 (exit 44) between Tampa and Orlando at 1400 Broadway Blvd. SE. Polk City, FL 33868. Regular general adult admission is $29.95. Seasonal hours during this promotion are 10 A.M. to 5 P.M. Thursday through Sunday. This special offer cannot be applied to children’s admission or combined with any other offers, discounts, annual passes, special events or Wing WalkAir Confidence Course.

Ongoing

Festival of Wreaths
When? November 15 – December 13
Where? Polk County History Center, Bartow
What? The Polk County History Center is proud to host the annual Festival of Wreaths. Decorated wreaths will be displayed from November 15 through December 13, and will be auctioned via silent auction. Proceeds from the auction will help support the History Center.

Ice Skating
When? November 22- December 1; December 17- January 6
Where? The Lakeland Center
What? ‘Tis the season to get in the holiday spirit as public ice skating returns to The Lakeland Center. Whether a professional or a first-timer, you are sure to have a blast at Lakeland’s indoor ice rink this season.

Elves Shelves Gift Shop
When? November 23 – December 8
Where? Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland
What? This special secret shop is for children only! Gifts will be reasonably priced for children to purchase holiday items for family and friends. Elves Shelves fun includes a wrapping station.

A Country Christmas Hayride
When? Fridays & Saturdays: November 29 – December 28
Where? The Smith Family Ranch, Lakeland
What? Get in the Christmas Spirit at A Country Christmas Hayride featuring hayrides, movies, cowboy Santa Claus, Fire pit, S’mores and more.

Holiday Home Tour at Pinewood Estate
When? November 29 – January 5
Where? Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
What? With this year’s theme, Family Traditions, Central Florida designers and volunteers will decorate Pinewood Estate, Bok Tower Gardens’ 20-room Mediterranean style mansion, transforming it into a winter wonderland. Built in the early 1930s with Olmsted-designed gardens, the former winter retreat is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Poinsettia Display
When? November 29 – January 5
Where? Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
What? Enjoy a spectacular show of unique poinsettias on display during the Christmas at Bok Tower Gardens season. Visitors can learn the story behind this traditional Christmas plant and get ideas for making your own poinsettia displays at home.

BeFly Bike Tours Christmas Lights Tour
When?  December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28
Where? Begins at Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland
What? Light lovers can enjoy a magical experience too ooh and ahh over gorgeous holiday displays on this Christmas bike tour. The tour begins at Polk Museum of Art and will make a stop at Got Candy for a cup of hot chocolate. Reservations are required.

Lights of Lakeland
When?  December 6-8, December 13-15
Where? Lakeland
What? Experience an evening of excitement and wonder filled with your favorite holiday sights, smells and sounds. There will be over 500,000 lights on display, as well as The Grinch, Santa’s Workshop, a reindeer barn, pictures with Santa and Mrs. Claus, and a Bethlehem experience with live camels, sheep, and donkeys.

Home Sweet Home Gingerbread Display and Events
When?  December 6-8, December 14-15
Where? The Woman’s Club, Winter Haven
What? While gingerbread houses created by contest participants will be on display for two weekends in December, there will also be other holiday-themed events taking place. Take a break from viewing the remarkable gingerbread house entries to join in on these special happenings taking place at the Women’s Resource Center of Central Florida that are guaranteed to put you and your family in the holiday spirit.

Christmas Bricktacular
When? December 7-8, December 14-15, December 21-22
Where? LEGOLAND Florida, Winter Haven
What? Christmas Bricktacular at LEGOLAND® Florida brings in the holiday season with a 30-foot tall LEGO Christmas tree made of 270,000 LEGO bricks, festive decorations, LEGO build activity stations, a LEGO Santa Scavenger Hunt and holiday entertainment. LEGO Santa and LEGO Toy Soldier make daily appearances in the park providing a perfect family photo opportunity.

Coming up

Lakeland Christmas Parade
When?  December 5
Where? Lakeland
What? The 33rd Annual Christmas parade, sponsored by The Junior League of Greater Lakeland, will kick off at 7:00 pm with a fantastic fireworks display over Lake Mirror. Over 120 organizations will be participating in this year’s event. The parade will leave the Lakeland center and make its way down lemon Street twisting and turning through Downtown Lakeland.

Havendale Christmas Parade
When?  December 6
Where? Havendale, Winter Haven/Auburndale
What? The Cities of Auburndale and Winter Haven come together to bring one of the area’s largest and best loved Christmas Parades with professional floats, bands, and of course Santa and Mrs. Claus at the Havendale Christmas Parade.

Jingle Bell Rock Party
When?  December 6
Where? Wabash Community Center
What? Polk County Parks & Recreation present this free community Christmas party with arts & crafts, a visit with Santa and other activities for the whole family.

Make It Magical
When?  December 6
Where? Lake Wales
What? Make It Magical will return to downtown Lake Wales with carriage rides, Santa Claus, shopping and fun for the whole family. The shops will be open with treats to share. There will be performers singing and playing holiday music. Santa will make a guest appearance, and there will be vendors throughout the marketplace.

Bed & Breakfast Week Celebration
When?  December 6-8
Where? Chalet Suzanne, Lake Wales
What? Chalet Suzanne will be decked out for the holidays for the National Bed and Breakfast Week Celebration. Guests will enjoy fun, food and fashion at the Inn with a special breakfast menu, live fashion show and unique selection of merchandise from art, jewelry and various other vendors.

Junie B Jones. Jingle Bells, Batman Smells
When?  December 6-8
Where? Lakeland Community Theatre
What? A Theatre for Youth Production based on the book series by Barbara Parks at Lakeland Community Theatre.

Christmas at the Ramon
When?  December 7
Where? Ramon Theater, Frostproof
What? Enjoy the spirit of Christmas with excerpts from the “The Nutcracker”, as well as a variety of classical and contemporary dance works reflecting the joy of the season. The performance will feature the professional company of the Florida Dance Theatre and its trainees, along with members of its Youth Ensemble.

Gaither Christmas Homecoming Tour
When?  December 7
Where? The Lakeland Center
What? A full evening of entertainment and meaningful music is a rare treat anytime, but when the occasion includes the best-loved voices in gospel music… it’s a must-see celebration. This concert will leave you encouraged, grateful and most certainly smiling.

Lake Alfred Christmas Parade
When?  December 7
Where? Lake Alfred
What? The parade will start at Mackay Blvd. and proceed North on Highway 17/92 to Gardner Park. Following the parade,  Santa Claus will greet the children in the park with cookies and hot chocolate.

Snowfest
When?  December 7
Where? Lakeland
What? Each year, the City’s “Santa elves” transform 76,000 pounds of block ice into the popular attraction in addition, to arts & crafts booths, children’s activities, entertainment, Santa Claus and much more.

Sunset & Symphony Holiday Concert
When? December 7
Where? Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
What? Enjoy the sounds of the season with the Orlando Philharmonic Orchestra and the Singing Tower carillon as they perform together during one of Central Florida’s favorite outdoor concerts. Families and friends are encouraged to prepare themed picnics and experience a magical evening as the sun sets atop Iron Mountain.

Carols in the Park
When?  December 7-8
Where? Winter Haven
What? Get a start on your holiday shopping by attending Carols in the Park, which features crafters from around the nation selling items such as stained glass, photographs, jewelry, quilts, soaps, plants and much more.

ISO Masterworks Series- Winter Wonderland
When?  December 10
Where? The Lakeland Center
What? The Imperial Symphony Orchestra, a community orchestra is comprised of 80 volunteer musicians, who have made it their mission to entertain, educate and inspire audiences through enlightening performances of symphonic music.

Mistletoe Marketplace
When?  December 12-14
Where? Eagle Lake
What? Mistletoe Marketplace is an annual holiday festival with food, Santa, hayrides, entertainment, crafts, model train displays, kids’ activities, performances, decorations and holiday lights.

Glitter, Glisten & Snow
When?  December 13
Where? Lake Eva Park, Haines City
What? This holiday event held at Lake Eva Park in Haines City will feature a visit with Santa and Mrs. Claus, a snow area, and holiday entertainment from local schools and groups. Guests will also find free roasted chestnuts and hot cider as well as food and merchandise vendors.

Christmas Notes
When?  December 14
Where? Homeland Heritage Park
What? Polk County Parks & Recreation presents this free family Christmas event featuring live music, a caroling hayride, arts & crafts, photos with Santa, and more.

The Nutcracker
When?  December 14
Where? Polk Theatre, Lakeland
What? This annual production of “The Nutcracker” is at the heart of the holiday season. Over 90 young dancers join forces with Florida Dance Theatre’s professionals to make each performance as magical as possible.

Moonlight Concert & Holiday Home Tour
When? December 15
Where? Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
What? Enjoy a nighttime carillon concert and tour Pinewood Estate complete with hot chocolate and cookies until 10:00 p.m.

Celtic Yuletide
When?  December 17
Where? The Lakeland Center
What? Celtic Yuletide starring internationally renowned Irish tenor Michael Londra, star of PBS’s Beyond Celtic and the lead singer of Riverdance on Broadway with special guest artists Sephira, world-class Irish dancers and musicians, and a full orchestra is planning to sweep audiences away.

Snow Central
When?  December 19
Where? Winter Haven
What? Bring the family downtown to frolic in Winter Haven’s very own winter wonderland with 70 tons of snow making up the snow slide and snow pile for children and adults to enjoy as well as Santa and Mrs. Claus, a kiddie train, bounce house and more.

Downtown Movie Night Auburndale Park
When?  December 20
Where? Auburndale
What? Bring your blankets and chairs to enjoy a movie under the stars as the City of Auburndale Parks and Recreation Department present a special screening of A Christmas Story.

Moscow Ballet Presents the Nutcracker
When?  December 27
Where? The Lakeland Center
What?  40 star-studded dancers perform Olympic-worthy leaps in Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. It is the holiday performance for families with magical toys, falling snow, growing Christmas trees and astounding ballet moves.

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The exhibit is on display through Saturday, January 4 and is made possible through a grant from the Florida Humanities Council. 

“Journey Stories” explores how our ancestors came to America – a central element of the personal heritage.

History is filled with stories of people leaving everything behind – families and possessions – to reach a new life in another state, across the continent or even across an ocean.

Transportation history is more than trains, boats, buses, cars, wagons and trucks. The development of transportation technology was largely inspired by the human drive for freedom.

In conjunction with the Smithsonian exhibit, the History Center also opens “Polk County Journeys,” a complementary exhibit focused on influential residents and visitors to Polk County who helped shape the community’s history and heritage.

“Polk County Journeys” includes historic postcards from the History Center archives and entries from the “Journey Stories” postcard competition, created by local children.

The opening reception on Friday, December 6 features an appearance by Henry Plant, the railroad tycoon mainly responsible for opening up Polk County and connecting the area to the rest of Florida and the nation. Portrayed by actor Michael Norton, the performance focuses on Plant’s early investments and influence in western Florida.

The event and exhibit are open to the public.

“Journey Stories” is made possible at the Polk County History Center by the Florida Humanities Council. The exhibit is part of Museum on Main Street, a collaboration between the Smithsonian Institution and State Humanities Councils nationwide. Support for Museum on Main Street has been provided by the United States Congress.

The Polk County History Center is located at 100 E. Main St., Bartow. For more information, call 863-534-4386.  

Find a complete listing of November and December events taking place in Polk County at VisitCentralFlorida.org.

Guided Bird Hike at Circle B Bar Reserve
Date: Wednesday, November 27
Venue: Circle B Bar Reserve, Lakeland
- Join a volunteer guide on a hike through the Marsh to learn about the birds of Circle B Bar Reserve.

A Country Christmas Hayride
Date: Fridays, November 29 – Saturday, November 30
Venue: The Smith Family Ranch, Lakeland
- Get in the Christmas Spirit at A Country Christmas Hayride featuring hayrides, movies, cowboy Santa Claus, Fire pit, S’mores and more.
- Fridays and Saturdays through December 28 weather permitting.

Holiday Home Tour
Date: Friday, November 29 – Sunday, January 5
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
- Central Florida designers and volunteers will decorate Pinewood Estate, Bok Tower Gardens’ 20-room Mediterranean style mansion, transforming it into a winter wonderland.
- Built in the early 1930s with Olmsted-designed gardens, the former winter retreat is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Poinsettia Display
Date: Friday, November 29 – Sunday, January 5
Venue: Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales
- Enjoy a spectacular show of unique poinsettias on display during the Christmas at Bok Tower Gardens season. Visitors can learn the story behind this traditional Christmas plant and get ideas for making your own poinsettia displays at home.

RECURRING EVENTS:

Public Ice Skating – Through December 1 (The Lakeland Center)

Paintings of the Space Age – Through December 7 (Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland)

reGeneration2: Tomorrow’s Photographers Today  – Through December 7 (Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland)

Elves Shelves Gift Shop – Through December 8 (Polk Museum of Art, Lakeland)

Festival of Wreaths – Through December 13 (Polk County History Center, Bartow)

Haines City Farmers Market – Wednesdays weekly

Winter Haven Farmers Market – Thursdays weekly

Bartow Farmers Market – Saturdays weekly

Downtown Lakeland Farmers Curb Market – Saturdays weekly

Good Health Fresh Goods & Crafts Market – First, second, third Saturdays monthly

Lake Wales Farmers Market – Second and fourth Saturdays monthly

Highland City Community Market – Third Saturday monthly

Mulberry Farmers Market – Third Saturday monthly

Saturday Night Rodeo – Saturdays weekly (Westgate River Ranch Resort, River Ranch)

Children’s Programming: – Monday through Friday weekly (Explorations V Children’s Museum, Lakeland)

For this week’s sporting events, check out “What’s Happening in Central Florida Sports” on CatchCentralFlorida.com.