Share the Great Gables Guide events newsletter with a friend. Pass along this link to subscribe. https://www.gablesguide.com/subscribe/

Greetings {name},

We hope you'll appreciate our curated list of community events and cultural opportunities in the coming days.

Designed by Phineas Paist, the Supervising Architect of Coral Gables, the stately City Hall edifice at the center of Coral Gables was constructed on the eve of the Great Depression

click on the image to see enlargement.

Coral Gables scenic photo illustrations © Robin and Robert Burr.

Thursday, December 5 is National Repeal Day, a celebration of the end of prohibition in 1933 when the 21st amendment repealed the 18th Amendment, which banned the sale and consumption of alcoholic beverages in the United States. Cheers to that!

Saturday, 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.

Tuesday, December 10 is Nobel Prize Day, in honor of Alfred Nobel, who died on this day in 1895. Several prizes are awarded each year to recognize academic, cultural, and scientific advances.

Sunday, 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.”

Wednesday, 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.

Thursday, December 26 is the beginning of Chanukah on the Jewish calendar, a celebration lasting eight days.

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 -- including restaurant row in the 100 block of Giralda. 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

December 3–8
Cernuda Arte Exhibiting at Art Miami 2024
Cernuda Arte is proud to announce its participation at Art Miami 2024, the event will take place at One Herald Plaza, NE 14th Street and Biscayne Bay, Booth AM 313. Artists in exhibition include Wifredo Lam, Mario Carreño, René Portocarrero, Víctor Manuel García, Cundo Bermúdez, Amelia Peláez, Gina Pellón, Tomás Sánchez, Manuel Mendive, Roberto Fabelo, Hermanas Scull, Miguel Florido, Jorge Luis Santos, Lilian Garcia-Roig, Juan Roberto Diago, Joel Besmar, Giosvany Echevarría, Danuel Méndez, Yasiel Elizagaray, Enrique Casas, Irina Elén González, and Vicente Hernández. Cernuda Arte Gallery is located at 3155 Ponce de Leon Blvd. Call 305-461-1050. Get details online.

Thursday, December 5 from 4 to 10pm
Oyster House Thursdays at Vinya Table
Enjoy $2 West Coast oysters (by the Lazy Oyster) and special pours. There's no catch, just fresh oysters and good vibes at Vinya Table. Get details online.

Thursday, December 5 at 6pm
A Good Book Book Club
Join fellow readers in person or online to discuss the month's chosen title -- Wrong Place Wrong Time by Gillian McAllister. Registration is required. Call Pinecrest Library at 305-668-4571 or email: booke@mdpls.org. Ages 19 years and older. Get details online.

Every Thursday
Das Boot at Fritz and Frans Bierhaus
Beer enthusiasts unite for the Thursday Special at Fritz and Franz Bierhaus. Purchase the one liter boot mug of beer and get the second for half price. Along with all your favorite German and Bavarian specialties, Fritz and Franz at 60 Merrick Way is the place to meet with friends and family for authentic good times. Get details online.

Thursday, December 5 at 6pm
Coral Gables Love Reading Party
Attend a reading party at Le Parc Cafe at the Coral Gables Country Club. Bring a physical, digital, or audio book to read to enjoy some time reading and meet some friends. Get details online.

Thursday, December 5 at 6:50pm
Flow
Cat is a solitary animal, but as its home is devastated by a great flood, he finds refuge on a boat populated by various species, and will have to team up with them despite their differences. Get details online.

Friday, December 6 from 5 to 9pm
Winter on the Bay at Deering Estate
Attend Winter on the Bay at Deering Estate presented by Commissioner Danielle Cohen Higgins and Deering Estate. Kick-off the Holiday Season of Events at Deering Estate and enjoy a fun and festive community event for all ages. Enjoy food, games and activities. Bring lawn chairs and blankets to enjoy an outdoor screening of a holiday film. Get details online.

Friday, December 6 from 5:30 to 10pm
Holiday Tree Lighting at City Hall
Join members of the Coral Gables City Commission for the lighting of the Holiday Tree at Merrick Park in front of City Hall. This event is free and open to the public. The grand opening of the Holiday Park begins with a three-hour show, carnival games, holiday craft and food vendors, and a visit from Santa to light up the tree. Get details online.

Friday, December 6 from 6 to 8pm
Nativity Festivity at the Methodist Church
Enjoy a fun respite at FUMCG's 3rd annual Nativity Festivity. As you walk to and from the Coral Gables Holiday Tree Lighting, the First United Methodist Church of Coral Gables parking area will turn into a joyful place to enjoy food and music and rest, while the kids have fun at the petting zoo and craft table and enjoy cotton candy and festivities. The United Methodist Men will be grilling up cheeseburgers, and the Youth will make beverages available. All are welcome. Free parking is available across the street from the Sanctuary (at the northwest corner of Coral Way at Hernando St.) as their gift to the community of Coral Gables. Get details online.

Friday, December 6 from 6 to 10pm
Gables Gallery Night
Coral Gables galleries and participating art venues open their doors on the first Friday of the month for attendees to enjoy Coral Gables Gallery Night with live music and fine art while enjoying a night out in the City Beautiful. Visitors are encouraged to use the city's trolleys or Freebee on-demand vehicles to travel between galleries. Galleries and venues include Coral Gables Museum; ArtLabbé Gallery; H. Benitez Fine Art Gallery; Artevivo; Cernuda Arte; and The Americas Collection. Get details online.

Friday, December 6 from 6 to 10pm
Night Garden Magical Light Spectacular
Experience the magic as Fairchild transforms into an enchanting fairyland, glowing with vibrant, rainbow-lit pathways. Meet Archie, the beloved, wise old tree who’s always ready for a chat, embark on a thrilling Fairy Quest, and discover countless other wonders. This dazzling light show is a fantastical holiday celebration for families. Get details online.

Friday, December 6 from 6 to 9pm
H. Benitez Fine Art Gallery
Located within the heart of Coral Gables at 233 Aragon Avenue, HBenitez Fine Art Gallery exclusively represents the work of acclaimed Cuban-American artist Humberto Benitez. Get details online. Call 786-877-1045. Get details online.

Friday, December 6 at 7:30pm
Congressman Hakeem Jeffries - The ABCs of Democracy
The Books & Books Literary Foundation is delighted to present an evening with Congressman Hakeem Jeffries discussing The ABCs of Democracy. He will be in conversation with Ana Navarro. Though the conversation will be geared towards adults; children of all ages are also welcome to attend. The event takes place at Coral Gables Congregational Church. Get details online.

Friday, December 6 at 8pm
The Return
After 20 years away, a war-weary Odysseus (Ralph Fiennes) returns to Ithaca to find his kingdom in ruins: his wife (Juliette Binoche) besieged by suitors, his son targeted for death. To reclaim his home, the scarred warrior must rediscover the strength that once defined him. Get details online.

Friday, December 6 at 8pm
Tick, Tick... Boom!
Before there was Rent, there was Tick, Tick... Boom!, Pulitzer Prize and Tony Award-winning composer Jonathan Larson’s explosive musical about life, death, and the necessity of art. This autobiographical piece follows Jon, an aspiring composer hitting 30 in the artistic hustle of New York City. Larson’s creation delves into the challenges of pursuing dreams, offering a poignant journey through self-discovery, creativity, and the ticking clock of time. With catchy tunes and heartfelt moments, Tick, Tick... Boom! celebrates artistic passion while reflecting on the universal theme of chasing dreams amid life’s uncertainties. It encapsulates Larson’s own experiences, delivering a compelling narrative within the vibrant backdrop of the city that never sleeps. Get details online.

Sat/Sun, December 7–8 from 8:30am
Santa Claus on a Fire Truck
Santa Claus and his helpers will ride on a fire truck through the streets of Coral Gables to wave to all the neighborhood kids. Check the schedule online.

Saturday, December 7 from 9am to noon
Business Recycling Drive-Thru
Coral Gables businesses are invited to participate in the city’s business recycling event. Bring their old electronics, large cardboard boxes for recycling, and documents for shredding. Suits and other business attire will also be accepted for donation to Suited for Success. The drive-thru event will take place in the parking lot behind City Hall at 405 Biltmore Way. This event is exclusive to Coral Gables businesses. Call 305-569-1835. Get details online.

Saturday, December 7 from 9am to 1pm
Holiday Bazaar at Belmont Village Senior Living
Join The Junior League of Miami in the holiday spirit while shopping for unique gifts from over 25 local vendors, artisans, jewelry, clothing and small businesses. Enjoy delicious refreshments and browse a variety of handcrafted goods, jewelry, home décor, holiday treats made by Belmont residents. Lite bites, refreshments and BBQ will be served. Get details online.

Saturday, December 7 from 10am to 3pm
Villagers’ Historic Home Tour of Shenandoah
Make plans to attend the Villagers’ 2024 Annual Home Tour, featuring private residences in the culturally significant historic Shenandoah neighborhood. The vibrant community in the heart of Miami was planned in the 1920s and showcases an unusual blend of architectural styles. Tour-goers will see a different side of Miami as they visit six uniquely different homes from the 20s and 30s. Styles in the neighborhood include Craftsman, Art Deco Moderne, Mission, Coral Rock, Mediterranean Revival, and Sears’ kit Colonial houses. The stunning St. Sophia Greek Orthodox Cathedral will host The Villagers’ Holiday Boutique. This seventh historic location will be open until 4pm featuring gift items, plants, Villager Angels, baked goods, handmade items, and vintage jewelry. A pop-up café will be on-site. Get details online.

Saturday, December 7 at noon
Hero
With supernatural skill, a nameless soldier embarks on a mission of revenge against the fearsome army that massacred his people. Now, to achieve the justice he seeks, he must take on the empire’s most ruthless assassins and reach the enemy he has sworn to defeat. Get details online.

Saturday, December 7 at 2pm
A Christmas Carol, The Musical
The Charles Dickens classic takes a musical turn in this festive holiday favorite. Tiny Tim and the entire Cratchit family join three unearthly "Spirits" in trying to convince Ebenezer Scrooge to change his "Bah Humbug" ways. This fabulous musical adaptation written especially for family audiences will warm your heart as it reveals the true meaning of the holidays. Get details online.

Saturday, December 7 at 2pm
Holiday Magic Show
Celebrate the holiday season with the mind-bending magic of Brent Gregory at the Coral Gables Library. Call 305-442-8706 or email: capleybr@mdpls.org. All ages are welcome. Get details online.

Saturday, December 7 at 3pm
The Importance of Belonging - Genealogical Societies
Speaker Diana Crisman Smith will be discussing The Importance of Belonging: The Role of Genealogical Societies In Your Research Plan at the monthly meeting of the Genealogical Society of Greater Miami at Pinecrest Library. There are hundreds of genealogical societies around the world, each with a different focus and purpose. Somewhere there is at least one society which can assist in your research or technique development. Get details online.

Saturday, December 7 from 6 to 9pm
Nights Of Lights at Pinecrest Gardens
Experience an enchanting winter wonderland at Pinecrest Gardens, featuring new light shows and displays -- a magical world of twinkling lights, festive treats, Santa sightings, a Holiday Bazaar, storytime, live performances in the historic Banyan Bowl, and more. Get details online.

Saturday, December 7 at 7:30pm
Christmas at First United Methodist: Tim Zimmerman and The King's Brass
Ring in the Christmas season with beautiful carols and more from The King's Brass with three trumpets, three trombones, a tuba, keyboards, and percussion. Playing a wide variety of music from Gabrieli to hymn classics, from Handel to jazz spirituals, from Christmas carols to patriotic marches, The King’s Brass uses all corners of the concert hall to lift hearts and spirits in praise. They provide innovative worship for young and old alike through the best in sacred brass music. Get details online.

Saturday, December 7 at 8pm
Deadpool & Wolverine (2024) Free Screening
The University of Miami's Cinematic Arts Commission (CAC) invites you to a free screening of Deadpool & Wolverine, the box-office smash starring Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman as the two Marvel Comics mutants. Get details online.

Saturday, December 7 at 8pm
Jukebox Saturday Night at The Banyan Bowl
A music review of the great big bands of the 1930s, ‘40s, and ‘50s, Jukebox Saturday Night is a fun-filled event for all ages that captures the exciting sounds of great melodies and lyrics of yesteryear. Performed by a dynamic group of instrumentalists and vocalists, the music will keep you moving in your seats, tapping your toes, and clapping your hands. Get details online.

Saturday, December 7 at 10pm
The Hateful Eight (35mm)
Nominated for three Academy Awards, Quentin Tarantino’s The Hateful Eight follows a bounty hunter, his fugitive, and six strangers trapped by a blizzard. As tensions rise, hidden motives turn the refuge into a deadly standoff. Get details online.

Sunday, December 8 at 9am
Art Week Bubbles and Brunch featuring Virgil Ortiz
Attend the Lowe Art Museum’s flagship Art Basel event -- Bubbles and Brunch -- featuring Virgil Ortiz: The Future of History! This event will include a brunch-time champagne reception for Art Week participants and Lowe members followed by a lecture featuring the distinguished artist and designer Virgil Ortiz. Get details online.

Sunday, December 8 from 9 to 11am
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 beverage and children's activity. Cost is $30 for a group of four. Get details online.

Sunday, December 8 from 10am to 5pm
A Very Merry Garden at Fairchild
Enjoy the celebration of Fairchild’s Very Merry Garden this holiday season. Spend the holiday season rounding up reindeer, writing official letters to Santa, and listening to thrilling tales told by Mrs. Claus. Get details online.

Sunday, December 8 at 1pm
Florida-Friendly Landscaping at Deering Estate
Learn all about Florida-Friendly Landscaping common practices -- specifically, how to create a sustainable landscape using Florida-Friendly Landscaping, and about the FFL Program, reviewing nine principles that together will help you create a beautiful and sustainable landscape. Save time, energy, and money while protecting our water, resources, and the environment. Get details online.

Sunday, December 8 at 5:30pm
Winter Wonderful Holiday Dinner And Musical Experience
Join the Frost School of Music for a magical holiday dinner and musical experience by candlelight at the JW Marriott Marquis Miami. Share a special evening with family and friends in a spectacular seasonal setting, with carols and holiday favorites performed by some of the Frost School’s finest musicians. Proceeds from the intimate gala benefit the Frost School's music scholarship fund and the Donna E. Shalala MusicReach mentoring program. Get details online.

Sunday, December 8 at 6pm
Miami Dance Futures - Christmas in the Gardens
Christmas in the Gardens is a celebration of the holiday season presented by Miami Dance Futures through dance and music by the young artists from Conchita Espinosa Conservatory of the Arts. The show features The Snowman, an original story ballet inspired by the beloved English story choreographed by Danella Bedford, Navidades Flamencas, choreographed by Marisol Moreno and Cristina Masdueño, as well as ballet variations, contemporary dance choreographies, and musical and choral pieces. Get details online.

Sunday, December 8 at 6pm
Sierra Club Miami Group December Meeting
Dean Richardson will present a program entitled: What To Do With Our Trash? Dean will discuss creating single source recycling systems that can be scaled and located where they are needed; explain how this concept works, and answer questions regarding what it takes to implement this type of system. The meeting will be held at Coral Gables Congregational Church, 3011 Columbus Blvd in the Havighorst Room (west entrance). Get details online.

Sunday, December 8 at 9pm
The Sugarland Express
In Steven Spielberg’s first theatrical film, a mother (Goldie Hawn) attempts to reunite her family by helping her husband escape prison and kidnapping their son before he’s adopted. 4K Restoration. Get details online.

Monday, December 9 at 7pm
Community Arts Program Free Holiday Concert
Enjoy a delightful seasonal celebration at the Congregational Church with CAP Jazz Ensemble Plus, CAP Creative Strings III, CAP Teaching Artists Original Compositions, Jazz Standards, Classical Discoveries, Sweet Band Plus, and a Grand Ol' Carol Sing-Along Get details online.

Tuesday, December 10 at 9am
Coral Gables City Commission Meeting
The meeting takes place at 2151 Salzedo Street. Get details online.

Tuesday, December 10 at 10am
Daughters of the American Revolution
The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) will hold their monthly meeting, featuring a historical program. All are welcome to attend. Call the Pinecrest Library at 305-668-4571 or email: booke@mdpls.org. Ages 19 years and older. Get details online.

Tuesday, December 10 at 5pm
Sip & Stroll: Holiday Jazz at Fairchild
Attend a festive night filled with music, lights, and family fun at Fairchild Gardens with jazzy holiday tunes from Beltro and a mesmerizing LED violin show with Dave Damage. Stroll through sparkling holiday displays, warm up at the Hot Chocolate Bar, or get creative with gingerbread making kits. Get details online.

Wednesday, December 11 at 1:30pm
Paris, Texas - Wim Wenders
In the expansive American Southwest, visionary filmmaker Wim Wenders, a key figure in New German Cinema, directs a profound character study written by Pulitzer Prize–winning playwright Sam Shepard. Newly restored in 4K for its 40th anniversary. Get details online.

Wednesday, December 11 at 5:30pm
Coral Gables - The First Hundred Years by Patrick Alexander
Patrick Alexander presents a history of our city from his new book, Coral Gables: The First Hundred Years. Celebrating the Centennial of the City Beautiful, at the Adult Activity Center. Get details online.

Wednesday, December 11 at 6pm
South Florida National Parks Camera Club
Empowering photographers of all skill levels to grow, learn, and inspire others, you're invited to share your passion for photography with the The South Florida National Parks Camera Club in a supportive environment. Open to anyone with an interest in the art, the club also gives back by using photography to support national parks. Call the Pinecrest Library at 305-668-4571 or email: booke@mdpls.org. Ages 19 years and older. Get details online.

Wednesday, December 11 at 7pm
Susan Minot - Don’t Be A Stranger
The Books & Books Literary Foundation is thrilled to present an evening with Susan Minot for Don’t Be A Stranger. She will be in conversation with Asha Elias. A mesmerizing new novel from the author of Evening: the story of a woman swept into a love affair at mid-life. Get details online.

Thursday, December 12 at 10am
Email Marketing 101 - Presented by Florida SBDC at FIU
This interactive workshop is designed for entrepreneurs looking to expand their customer base through effective marketing. It covers the importance of marketing in business development, target market research, components of a strong marketing plan, high-impact marketing strategies, and key performance metrics, including social media campaign success. Call the Coral Gables Library at 305-442-8706 or email: capleybr@mdpls.org. Ages 19 years and older. Get details online.

Thursday, December 12 at 6pm
Modern Cuban Painters: From Havana to New York
Attend a panel discussion celebrating the launch of Modern Cuban Painters: From Havana to New York, a new book that delves into themes of resistance and the integration of 1940s Cuban modern art into the United States' cultural landscape. This work highlights the legacy of artists who led the shift toward modernity in Cuba. Published by the Fundación Mariano Rodríguez, the book commemorates the 80th anniversary of both the historic exhibition Modern Cuban Painters at The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) as well as the seminal book Pintura Cubana de Hoy. The event takes place at the Otto G. Richter Library, 1300 Memorial Drive. Get details online.

Fri/Sat/Sun December 13–14–15
R. F. Orchids Holiday Open House Weekend
It's Holiday Open House Season at R.F. Orchids -- the whole weekend -- with 20% discounts on orchids, key chains, necklaces, bargain table items and much more. A great choice for holiday shopping. Located at 28100 SW 182 Ave. Call 305-245-4570. Get details online. https://rforchids.com

Friday December 13 at 8pm
Winter Dreams - Miami Chamber Music Society
Attend a captivating winter concert featuring a delightful melange of holiday favorites from classical to corals, Hanukkah and popular music performed by a stellar string quartet. The Miami Chamber Music Society presents a magical seasonal program at Sanctuary Of The Arts, immersed in the magic of the season with a musical journey spanning classical and traditional favorites. Get details online.

Saturday, December 14 at 9pm
Fargo
In this seven-time Oscar-nominated film, things go terribly awry when small-time Minnesota car salesman Jerry Lundegaard (William H. Macy) hires two thugs (Steve Buscemi and Peter Stormare) to kidnap his wife so he can collect the ransom from his wealthy father-in-law. Once people start dying, the very chipper and very pregnant Police Chief Marge Gunderson (Frances McDormand, who won an Oscar for her performance) takes the case. Is she up for this challenge? You betcha. Get details online.

Sunday, December 15 from 2 to 5pm
Holiday Celebration at Merrick House
The public is invited to Coral Gables Merrick House for a holiday celebration. Stroll through the historic Merrick House decked out for the season by the Coral Gables Garden Club. Embrace the nostalgia of traditional carols, hand-crafted gifts, vintage wares and holiday confections. Games, crafts, and a visit with Santa for the wee folk will make it a day to remember. Cider and Cookies compliments of the Merrick House Governing Board. Get details online.

Sunday, December 15 at 6pm
Joy to the World: A Holiday Celebration
The Greater Miami Symphonic Band will be ending 2024 with a fine holiday program at Gusman Hall - a joyous holiday celebration and enjoy the merry sounds of the season. Get details online.

Sunday, December 15 at 6:30pm
Holiday Pops - The Alhambra Orchestra
Celebrate the diversity of the holiday season with a spectacular showcase of multicultural winter holiday favorites by The Alhambra Orchestra at Pinecrest Gardens. Experience an inclusive selection of seasonal classics for visitors of all ages to enjoy. From spirited jazz renditions to heartwarming orchestral arrangements, let the music of the holidays fill your soul with warmth and cheer. Get details online.

Thursday, December 19 from 5 to 11pm
Christmas Wonderland at Tropical Park
South Florida’s holiday theme park is back and ready to spread the magic at Tropical Park. Christmas Wonderland is officially open, bringing festive fun, sparkling lights, and holiday joy to all. Get details online.

Sunday, December 22 at 6pm
Merry Sounds of the Season
Sponsored by The Symphonettes, The Greater Miami Symphonic Ban performs a the merry sounds of Christmas at Pinecrest Gardens Banyan Bowl, with Robert Longfield conducting a joyous holiday celebration. Get details online.