Greetings {name},

Thursday, December 15 is Bill Of Rights Day. According to the National Archives, “The Constitution might never have been ratified if the framers had not promised to add a Bill of Rights. The first ten amendments to the Constitution gave citizens more confidence in the new government and contain many of American's most valued freedoms.”

Monday, December 19 is the first day of Chanukah, on the 25th day of the month of Kislev in the Jewish calendar.

Wednesday, December 21 is the Winter Solstice, marks the shortest day north of the equator and the longest day in the south, as the sun reaches the southernmost latitude all year.

Sunday, December 25 is Christmas Day, the pinnacle of the holiday season for many Americans and a traditional time for festive gatherings and the exchange of gifts within families.

Saturday, December 31 is New Year's Eve, a popular occasion for celebrations marking the end of the year, with elaborate gatherings, festivities and fireworks.

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

Sunday, December 11 from 10am to 6pm

Healing Arts Holiday Spirit Holistic Expo

Experience the sacred connection of 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 five 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.

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

At Granada Boulevard and Coral Way, the iconic artistic elements of Gables' public architecture are on display.

click on the image to see enlargement.

Coral Gables scenic photo illustrations © Robin and Robert Burr.

Now Playing

Million Dollar Quartet Christmas

Actors' Playhouse at the Miracle Theatre presents the Ultimate Holiday Party with Johnny Cash, Jerry Lee Lewis, Carl Perkins and Elvis Presley. Sun Records, now festively decorated with a Christmas tree, garland, and mistletoe, rings with sounds of the season and the chart toppers that made the "Million Dollar Quartet" famous. Jam-packed with unforgettable performances of classic holiday hits and favorite chart-toppers such as "Jingle Bell Rock," "Rockin' Around the Christmas Tree," "Don't Be Cruel," "Blue Christmas," "Santa Claus is Comin' To Town," "Ring of Fire," "Santa Baby," "I'll Be Home For Christmas," "Run Run Rudolph" and more. Get details and purchase tickets online.

Now On Display

Dorothy Thomson - The Vote that Saved the Biltmore

Vist the Coral Gables Museum for a special exhibit -- The Vote that Saved the Biltmore: The Edifying Legacy of Dorothy Thomson, explores her life as a public servant of the City of Coral Gables, a legacy which includes the preservation and restoration of the Biltmore Hotel with the crucial guidance of Arva Moore Parks. Thomson also supported the redevelopment of Miracle Mile and the passing of a city ordinance for the protection and promotion of Mediterranean-style architectural structures. The exhibition features personal objects, photographs, memorabilia, and other printed materials related to her electrifying transition from the privacy of a tranquil household to the dynamic public arena as a city commissioner, and first female mayor, leaving a lasting imprint on The City Beautiful. The exhibit will be accompanied by a publication and is organized to celebrate Dorothy Thomson’s 90th birthday. https://coralgablesmuseum.org/portfolio-item/the-vote-that-saved-the-biltmore/

Now Across From City Hall

Holiday Park with Santa

Across from City Hall, Holiday Park is open seven days a week featuring pictures with Santa for $8 each, in full color, and framed in a postcard.

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. 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/

Now Playing

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/

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 7pm

Empire of Light

From Academy Award-winning director and writer Sam Mendes, Empire of Light is a moving drama about the power of human connection during turbulent times. Set in and around a faded old cinema in an English coastal town in the early 1980s, it follows Hilary (Olivia Colman) a cinema manager struggling with her mental health, and Stephen (Micheal Ward), a new employee who longs to escape this provincial town in which he faces daily adversity. Both Hilary and Stephen find a sense of belonging through their unlikely and tender relationship and come to experience the healing power of music, cinema, and community. Attend a special opening night red carpet reception featuring wine and light bites followed by the film at 8pm. https://www.gablescinema.com/events/empire-of-light/

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 from 10am to Noon

Hot Chocolate With Santa

Warm up for the holidays while sipping hot chocolate with Santa and get exclusive access to the Holiday Park playground. Event includes a photo opportunity with Santa, hot beverages and children's activities. Cost is $20 for a group of four. https://www.coralgables.com/events/hot-chocolate-santa

Saturday and Sunday at 11am

Akeelah and the Bee

Here is the inspirational story of Akeelah Anderson (Keke Palmer), an eleven-year-old girl from south Los Angeles with a gift for words. Despite the objections of her mother Tanya (Angela Bassett), Akeelah enters various spelling contests, for which she is tutored by the forthright Dr. Larabee (Laurence Fishburne); her principal Mr. Welch (Curtis Armstrong) and the proud residents of her neighborhood. Akeelah's aptitude earns her an opportunity to compete for a spot in the Scripps National Spelling Bee and, in turn, unites her neighborhood who witness the courage and inspiration of one amazing little girl. https://www.gablescinema.com/events/akeelah-and-the-bee/

Saturday, December 10 from 1 to 5pm

Museum Family Day On Aragon

The Coral Gables Museum presents Family Day On Aragon -- their monthly opportunity for engaging fun family activities, with arts and crafts, live performances, and more. Fre admission for the whole family. Get details online.

Saturday, December 10 from at 6pm

Barnacle Under Moonlight Concert

Enjoy a night of live music under the Miami sky on Biscayne Bay as the Barnacle and Blue Scholars present a moonlight concert with Keith Johns, Members Only and Monchy Business. Doors open at 6pm, concert begins at 7pm. Your $20 donation supports a beautiful and unique public space and an important part of Miami's history. https://thebarnaclesociety.square.site

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.

Saturday, December 10 at 9pm

Brazil

Director's Cut -- Jonathan Pryce, Robert De Niro and Michael Palin star in this landmark cult classic that dazzles and thrills with its Academy Award nominated, groundbreaking art direction and sharply satirical original screenplay. In a future world, a government clerk finds his life destroyed when he tries to correct an administrative error that caused a massive chain reaction of mistaken identity. Despite his efforts, he finds himself an enemy of the state. Hailed as a modern masterpiece, visionary director Terry Gilliam's (12 Monkeys) pitch-black comedy takes a highly imaginative and chilling look at a "perfect" future where technology reigns supreme and bureaucracy overrules love for the sake of efficiency. https://www.gablescinema.com/events/brazil/

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.

Saturday/Sunday, December 17-18

Santa On The Fire Truck

Be on the lookout for Santa on the Firetruck, riding through the streets of Coral Gables to wish all the good children a Merry Christmas Season and pass out candy canes. 

December 17 from 10am to Noon

Hot Chocolate With Santa

Warm up for the holidays while sipping hot chocolate with Santa and get exclusive access to the Holiday Park playground. Event includes a photo opportunity with Santa, hot beverages and children's activities. Cost is $20 for a group of four. https://www.coralgables.com/events/hot-chocolate-santa

Sunday, December 18 at 4pm

Festival Of Lights

Coral Gables celebrates Chanukah and the Festival Of Lights with the lighting of the Menora in Ponce Circle Park. 

Wednesday, December 22 at 8:30pm

Fiesta de La Zambomba at Bellmónt

Enjoy a traditional Fiesta de la Zambomba experience from Jerez, Spain at Bellmónt Spanish Restaurant with more than 10 artists on stage in the cozy terrace -- a night of good food, good friends, traditional music, Christmas carols, and beautiful dances. Arrive for dinner at 7pm to enjoy the 8:30pm performance. The cost is $50 per guest, where $20 goes entirely to the artists and $30 towards food and beverage from the dinner menu. Call 786-502-4684 or reserve online.

Saturday, December 31 at 8:30pm

Celebrate The New Year In Style

Ring in 2023 with the Biltmore Hotel's extravagant celebration. Enjoy an array of savory food stations, assorted desserts and bubbly at midnight accompanied with a premium open bar. Party favors included. Fireworks will illuminate the sky above the golf course as you count down at midnight. Get details and RSVP 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