Greetings {name},

Monday, December 5 is National Repeal Day, a celebration of the end of prohibition in 1933 and the repeal of the 18th Amendment, which banned the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages in the United States. Cheers to that!

Wednesday, December 7 is Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day, commemorating the attack on Pearl Harbor, in Hawaii, during World War II -- a day to honor the service members who lost their lives and those that worked gallantly to save so many others.

As always, make plans to enjoy the great outdoors in our little city. Walk down Miracle Mile, experience the live theatre and the best movies, browse the book stores, look into the art galleries and meet up with friends at the restaurants. Visit the parks and public spaces to appreciate the bounties of nature. 

Enjoy the best of Coral Gables in the coming days.

Robert and Robin Burr

please enjoy this image that reminds us of the beauty and serenity of our majestic city

Classic Coral Gables style and grace are embodied in this majestic home on Coral Way.

click on the image to see enlargement.

Coral Gables scenic photo illustrations © Robin and Robert Burr.

Playing through December 24

Christmas Carol, the Musical at Miracle Theatre

On Saturdays and Sundays at 2pm, bring the family to the Miracle Theatre for Actors’ Playhouse Musical Theatre for Young Audiences rendition of Christmas Carol, the Musical. Based on the novel by Charles Dickens, Tiny Tim and the entire Cratchit family join three unearthly "Spirits" in trying to convince Ebenezer Scrooge to change his " Bah Humbug!" ways. A fabulous musical adaptation written especially for family audiences, this Miracle Theatre favorite promises to warm hearts as it reveals the true meaning of the holidays. As an added treat, Director of Theatre for Young Audiences Earl Maulding will take the stage to star as Ebenezer Scrooge in this year's production. To encourage the spirit of giving Actors' Playhouse will give every child who donates a new, unwrapped toy, one free Flexible Anytime Ticket. Get details and purchase tickets online.

Now through January 8

Night Garden at Fairchild

Bring the family out to Fairchild Garden for a spectacular music and light presentation that turns the garden absolutely magical. The beautiful 23-acre gardens have been transformed into an illuminated supernatural fairyland with technicolor flowers and unique sculptures. Visit rainbow-colored pathways, interact with the talking wise old tree, join a Fairy Quest, and so much more. Plus, there will be plenty of delicious food and drinks from some of Miami’s most popular food trucks. https://thenightgarden.com/miami/

Weekend of December 2-4

Parish Fair

The annual Parish Fair at Church Of The Little Flower and Saint Teresa School is a three-day event open to the community at large. This annual tradition brings together families for a weekend full of family thrill and fun for everyone at the St. Theresa Catholic School grounds with fun games, exciting rides, and delicious food in a great family friendly atmosphere. Dunk a teacher or a priest. The address is 2701 Indian Mound Trail. Get details online. https://parishfair.org

Friday, December 2 from 6 to 10pm

Holiday Tree Lighting at City Hall

Bring the family to City Hall's Merrick Park for the annual tree lighting event and the opening of Holiday Park. Santa arrives on a firetruck and lights the tree at 7pm. Coral Gables residents have access to VIP family tickets with early access, additional amenities, and seating for a family of four for $30. General admission is free of charge. Get details and purchase tickets online.

Starts Friday

Everything Everywhere All At Once

Evelyn Wang (Michelle Yeoh), a flustered immigrant mother, is contacted from a parallel universe and told that only she can save the world. The unlikely hero must learn to channel her newfound powers and fight through the splintering timelines of the multiverse to save her home, her family, and herself in this big-hearted and irreverent adventure. With Stephanie Hsu, Ke Huy Quan, Jenny Slate, Harry Shum Jr., James Hong, and Jamie Lee Curtis. The film premiered at SXSW Film Festival and it received critical acclaim for handling themes such as nihilism mixed with humor and imagination. The film also highlights Asian-American identity. https://www.gablescinema.com/events/everything-everywhere-all-at-once/

First Friday

Coral Gables Gallery Night

Make plans to meet up with family and friends to enjoy the first Friday Gallery Night in Coral Gables. Among the best presentations, you'll find ArtSpace Virginia Miller Galleries at 169 Madeira Avenue; Cernuda Arte at 3155 Ponce de Leon Blvd; the Consulado de Colombia at 280 Aragon Avenue; Coral Gables Museum at 285 Aragon Avenue; Gally Art Collective at 2522 Ponce de Leon Blvd; H. Benitez Fine Art Gallery at 233 Aragon Avenue; Imago Art in Action at 150 Madeira Avenue; Jorge Cavelier at 130 Miracle Mile, Suite 230; and The Americas Collection at 4213 Ponce de Leon Blvd. Get details online.

Friday, December 2 from 6 to 9pm

Gallery Night at H. Benitez Fine Art Gallery

This Coral Gables Gallery Night, H. Benitez Fine Art Gallery will be exhibiting Humberto's latest expression. "Amor" will be on display for you to experience. This Friday, start your weekend with a view of the stunning artwork of Humberto Benitez.

https://www.humbertobenitez.com

Saturday, December 3 at 3pm

Genealogical Society - International Holiday Theme

Join in-person at the Pinecrest Library or on Zoom for the genealogical society's program on International Archives. Research specialists from FamilySearch.org will join to discuss international archives in their areas of expertise. In the spirit of the holidays, join in the recipe exchange. Members and friends would love to try a recipe from your ancestor's part of the world. Member meeting begins at 2:30pm, followed by the open house, presentation and networking event at 3pm. Please RSVP online.

Saturday December 3 at 9pm

Blade Runner: The Final Cut

40Th Anniversary -- Modern science fiction wouldn’t be what it is today if not for Ridley Scott’s Blade Runner, the seminal sci-fi film that depicted a multicultural, dystopian future filled with massive corporate advertising, thick pollution, and flying cars. Central to this world are replicants, human-like androids with limited life spans built by the Tyrell Corporation. When four of them escape from an off-world colony to Earth, retired cop Rick Deckard (Harrison Ford) is tasked with hunting them down. At its core, the film is a noir that tackles arguably the most pertinent question in our history as a species: what does it mean to be human? Rutger Hauer plays the renegades’ leader, Roy Batty, whose rugged physique and violent acts belie a soul yearning for life and the freedom to live it. His climactic monologue, which Hauer rewrote without Scott’s knowledge, is as memorable as the film itself and perfectly captures the wish for our memories and experiences to never fade away.

https://www.gablescinema.com/events/blade-runner-the-final-cut/

Sunday, December 4 at 4:45pm

Leonor Will Never Die

Leonor Reyes was once a groundbreaking figure in the Filipino film industry during its ragtag action cinema glory days, but now she struggles with old age, mounting bills, and the untimely death of her son. While revisiting an unfinished script about a fearless protagonist trying to avenge his brother’s murder, Leonor is struck on the head by a falling television set and knocked into a coma. As she lays unconscious in the hospital, fantasy and reality begin to blur when Leonor finds herself awake inside her script, becoming the hero of her own story. An innovative blend of pulpy action homages, playful comedy, and touching family drama, Leonor Will Never Die is a wonderfully imaginative tribute to the art of filmmaking. https://www.gablescinema.com/events/leonor-will-never-die/

Sunday, December 4 at 6:30pm

American Soul at The Sanctuary

New Canon Chamber Collective is excited to announce their upcoming season opener, American Soul, conducted by Maestro Marlon Daniel, featuring internationally acclaimed opera vocalists Angela Brown, soprano, and Stephen Salters, baritone. The repertoire for this concert presents three distinct voices in American classical music, which all embody the sound of American music, William Grant Still, Florence Price, and Ira Gershwin. Get details and purchase tickets online.

Sunday, December 4 at 7pm

Holiday Concert - FIU School of Music

The German Consulate General, together with the Societá Dante Alighieri, cordially invite you and a guest for a Holiday Concert in the Loggia of the Coral Gables Museum, with wine and sweet holiday delights to enjoy a wonderful performance by a Holiday Ensemble from the FIU School of Music lead by Professor of Voice and Soprano Dr. Vindhya Khare. You must RSVP via email to: pr-100@miam.diplo.de

Tuesday, December 6 at 8:30am

The State Of The Arts in Coral Gables

Join Coral Gables-based arts organizations at Sanctuary Of The Arts for an inclusive, community-wide conversation and update on what’s happening in the arts in the City Beautiful and the important strategic role the creative sector plays in this community. Organizations and patrons support and expand the creative sector, leveraging the impact of cultural economics. Breakfast will be provided. Get details and RSVP for free online.

Tuesday, December 6 from 9am to 5pm

Tuesdays with Tony - City Ombudsman

The City of Coral Gables presents Tuesdays with Tony, a new program from the Economic Development Department to support new and existing businesses with one-on-one guidance regarding permits, plans submission, code issues and more. Tony Silio, the City’s business and residential ombudsman, has more than 30 years of experience working in the Building, Zoning and Planning Divisions of the City. Tony is also a State of Florida Certified Building Contractor and Building Inspector. The meetings will take place the first Tuesday of the month at the new home of the Development Services Department, 427 Biltmore Way, by appointment. Use the online form to set an appointment.

Tuesday, December 6 at 9pm

CGWC Gringo Bingo

Enjoy a night of bingo, music and fun for a cause at Clutch Burger. CGWC will share proceeds with Alzheimer's Association. Price: $30 includes 12 bingo game cards and one coverall for grand prize. Please RSVP to Gloria via email at Gloria@cnews.net. Clutch Burger is located at 146 Giralda Ave. Call 305-400-8242. https://www.gfwccoralgableswomansclub.org/events

Wednesday, December 7 at 9pm

Chunky Shrapnel

Chunky Shrapnel is a rare look behind the scenes of King Gizzard & The Lizard Wizard's 2019 European tour in support of Infest the Rat's Nest. From the blistering performances to the fly-on-the-wall moments in between, you'll get to see what the band is like on and off stage. Spoiler alert: they're a bunch of lovable Aussie weirdos. 

https://www.gablescinema.com/events/chunky-shrapnel/

Thursday, December 8 at 6pm

Granada Diner - Community Meeting

Those interested in the future of the Granada Diner (formerly Burger Bob's) are invited to attend a meeting at the Adult Activity Center, 2 Andalusia Ave at 6pm to provide information regarding the renovation of the Granada Golf Course diner space, located at 2001 Granada Blvd. Contact Coral Gables Community Recreation at 305-460-5620 or send email to: ParksProjects@coralgables.com

Friday, December 9 at 7:30pm

Derring's Mistletoe and Martinis at the Stone House

The Deering Estate Foundation is pleased to announce the fifth annual Mistletoe & Martinis holiday fundraiser at the Deering Estate, celebrating the 100th Anniversary of the Stone House with a 1920s jazz age themed soiree. All proceeds benefit The Deering Estate Foundation, raising awareness and supporting programming for community, conservation and culture. Tickets start at $175. Get details and purchase tickets online.

Friday, December 9 at 7:30pm

A Seraphic Fire Christmas

Within a serene candle-lit setting, the hustle and bustle of the holiday season will quiet and the a capella voices of Seraphic Fire will fill the room with musical peace and joy. Audiences will be captivated by familiar favorites such as the hauntingly simple Jesus Christ the Apple Tree and the enchanting Silent Night. This intimate musical experience features 19 carols and songs that span from 16th-century works to African American spirituals to In Dulci Jubilo, one of the oldest and most famous "macaronic" songs, a mixture of Latin and German. Associate Conductor James K. Bass and the ensemble are pleased to present seasonal carols and heart-warming music in the 20th season of A Seraphic Fire Christmas at Saint Philip's Church, 1121 Andalusia Ave. Get details and purchase advance tickets online. https://seraphicfire.org/tickets/event/2022/12/18/a-seraphic-fire-christmas/395440

Saturday, December 10 from 10am to 4pm

Villagers’ Annual Holiday House Tour

Coral Gables’ Villages and Homes of the Roaring ‘20s will be center-stage during the Villagers’ Annual Holiday House Tour -- offering guests a peek inside a few of George Merrick’s iconic themed Villages as well as homes built in the Mediterranean Revival style. Members of The Villagers will be on-hand explaining each home’s distinctive history and features as well as the unique story of Gables’ thematic Villages. Curated vendors, hand-made Angels, and food trucks will also be available at homes along the route. These historic properties cannot accommodate wheelchairs or strollers, and homeowners request no high heels or photography. Participants drive their own vehicles between the properties and will receive tour directions with their ticket purchase. $50 tickets are available online. https://thevillagersinc.org/house-tour-3/

Saturday, December 10 at 7pm

Mayor's Black Tie Ball at Lowe's Hotel

A fantastical holiday event takes place at the new Loews Coral Gables Hotel at the Plaza -- Mayor Vince Lago's Black Tie Ball benefiting Coral Gables nonprofits and the League Against Cancer. The Loews Coral Gables Hotel is located at 2950 Coconut Grove Drive across from Ponce Circle Park.

Sunday, December 11 from 10am to 6pm

Healing Arts Holiday Spirit Holistic Expo

Experience the sacred connection of our traditions, to be grateful for our existence, to enjoy our friends and family in a safe place in a space as beautiful and magical as the Coral Gables Woman Club. Holiday Spirit Expo 2022 is a conscious holistic event organized annually by Healing Arts Global and GaiaPop Media focused on the integral spirit of being, its evolution and traditions with more than 5 years bringing love, peace, magic, wellness, fun and union to the community of Coral Gables, The Heart of Miami. Get details and RSVP for free attendance.

Sunday, December 11 from 2 to 5pm

Merrick House Holiday Open House

Bring the family to Coral Gables Merrick House for Merrymaking and Ho-Ho-Ho. Visit with Santa Claus inside this historic storybook home. Enjoy sounds of the season by the Yuletide Carolers and St. Andrews Handbell Choir. You'll find holiday specialty vendors with vintage wares and jewelry. Stroll through the house, decked out by the Coral Gables Garden Club. Join in old-fashioned games and crafts for wee folk. You'll find a delightful selection of holidays goodies and other food for purchase. So many great features and activities; see the web page for details and RSVP for free.

December 11 and 13

GMSB Spectacular Holiday Concerts

The Greater Miami Symphonic Band presents a pair of spectacular Holiday concerts. On Sunday, December 11 at 4pm in Pinecrest Gardens, Robert Longfield conducts the Pinecrest Gardens Family Concert "The Most Wonderful Time of The Year." On Tuesday, December 13 at 8pm at UM Gusman Concert Hall, Robert Longfield and Guest Conductor Gary Green present Music of the Holidays and the Season "Tis the Season" featuring The Bells of St. Andrews. Get details and order tickets online. https://www.gmsb.org

Sunday, December 11 at 5pm

The Junior Orange Bowl Parade On Miracle Mile

The Junior Orange Bowl Parade returns to the streets of Coral Gables with the theme: "Miracle on the Mile: A Holiday Parade and Celebration” featuring floats, bands, performers, and more than 2,000 youth community group participants. People of all ages are invited to this wonderful celebration; to enjoy the sights and sounds of this magical event. All types of units participate, including: marching bands/drum corps, community organization floats and/or marching/walking units, motorized vehicles and mounted (equestrian) units. Beginning at 3:30pm, celebrate in the newly re-imagined VIP Hospitality and Grandstand Area; all-inclusive tickets feature unlimited complimentary food and beverage, premiere seating and pre-parade live concert with Jay Valor and his band. The VIP Hospitality area welcomes both youth and adults. Get details online and order VIP tickets.

Thursday, December 15 at 5pm

Graziano's Food & Wine Festival

Enjoy wine, beer, live music, and live grilling as Graziano's Market celebrates 60 years of great taste in Coral Gables with a celebration. Taste wines from around the world, beer from local brewers, live music and live grilling done with the Graziano's flair at 2301 Galiano Street. Proceeds from this fundraiser will go to breast cancer awareness. Get details and $65 tickets online.

Behold Light Transformed

The Hunter Douglas Gallery at Biscayne Décor

Offering a complete shopping experience, The Hunter Douglas Gallery at Biscayne Décor presents premium displays and a full line of window treatment products and services to enhance and elevate your home, delivering the utmost in both sophistication and quality. These shades are designed and custom-assembled in the USA, built to your specifications and guaranteed to last. Explore different materials, styles, operating systems, fabrics and colors and choose your perfect window-treatment solution. Behold light transformed. Biscayne Décor is located at 1404 Ponce. Call 305-569-0505. https://www.biscaynedecor.com/

New Age Agriculture

South Tip Hemp Tours

Described as a hemp-based CBD company, the team at South Tip Hemp consists of farmers, entrepreneurs and canabis specialists, using the latest technology with tried and true methods to produce the finest quality hemp plants. A myriad of products are derived from the crop, from medicinal tinctures and balms, to pain relievers, gummies, relaxants and consumables. Visitors are welcome to stop by the shop to learn more about South Tip Hemp’s unique products, take a tour of the facility and discover state-of-the-art farming and processing techniques. https://southtip.com/shop