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Greetings {name},

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

looking west from the Biscayne Bay entrance of the majestic Coral Gables Waterway, long ago the path of gondolas delivering guests from the Biltmore Hotel to Tahiti Beach

click on the image to see enlargement.

Coral Gables scenic photo illustrations © Robin and Robert Burr.

Sunday, January 26 is Spouse's Day, a time to enjoy and appreciate your better half.

Monday, January 27 is Chocolate Cake Day, a time to indulge in that consummate American classic dessert: Chocolate Cake while celebrating the history and deliciousness of all kinds of chocolate cakes.

Wednesday, January 29 begins the Lunar New Year, also commonly known as Chinese New Year, the most widely celebrated and most important holiday across Asia. It marks the start of a new year (The Year Of The Snake) based on the lunar calendar, a dating system that's based on the monthly cycle of the moon's phases. The snake is the sixth in the twelve-year cycle of animals that appear in the Chinese zodiac related to the Chinese calendar.

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

Thursday, January 23, at 11am
Splendor In The Garden
Attend an afternoon of fashion and philanthropy at the 14th Annual Splendor in the Garden, hosted by Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, along with Co-Chairs Daysi Johansson and Lydia Touzet, Philanthropic Chair Suzy Buckley Woodward and Honorary Chair Swanee DiMare. Proceeds from the event will benefit Fairchild's school science and education programs. 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, January 23 at 6pm
Fuacatapám: La India Agripina
Celebrate the launch of Iván Acosta's latest book, Fuacatapám: La India Agripina. The author will be joined at UM's Roberto C. Goizueta Pavilion by the book's editors, Lic. Luis Leonel León and Dr. Rolando Pérez, for an engaging conversation. A masterful blend of storytelling, magical realism, and biting political satire, the story of Fuacatapám follows La India Agripina and her companion Don Liborio -- symbolizing the Cuban spirit -- on a surreal journey through post-revolutionary Cuba. They encounter iconic historical figures like José Martí, Antonio Maceo, and Félix Varela, yet La India's sharp wit and irreverent humor flip expectations on their heads. This event will be presented in both English and Spanish languages. Get details online.

Thursday, January 23 at 6pm
Ruslana Remmenikova - Activating Our 12-Stranded DNA
Books & Books is proud to present an evening with Ruslana Remmenikova discussing Activating Our 12-Stranded DNA: Secrets of Dodecahedral DNA for Completing Our Human Evolution. In this vibrant guidebook, sound healer and former corporate scientist Ruslana Remennikova reveals how, through vibration and intention, you can shapeshift DNA from the standard double helix to its 12-stranded, dodecahedral form—thereby unlocking your spiritual potential and opening the way for deep healing of the past, the present, and the future of your deeper self. Get details online.

Thursday, January 23 at 7pm
Public Reception for Gerald Winter: A Life In Beads
The Lowe Art Museum celebrates the artist’s luminescent beaded tapestries. Gerald Winter (1936-2023) worked in several different media throughout his career, including painting, sculpture, and serigraphs. However, it was his beadwork that became the cornerstone of Winter’s artistic practice. His process included working from scale drawings that he would translate to the loom bead by bead, resulting in rich whimsical compositions that emerge off their canvases. Get details and RSVP online.

Thursday, January 23 at 9:30pm
Se7en
30th Anniversary - New 4K Remaster. In a decaying city plagued by crime, two detectives face their darkest challenge yet: tracking a meticulous killer whose gruesome murders embody the seven deadly sins. Directed by David Fincher and starring Morgan Freeman and Brad Pitt, Seven is a harrowing thriller now celebrating its 30th anniversary with a stunning 4K remaster. Get details online.

Friday, January 24 from 11:30am to 3pm
A Taste of Italy Lunch Special at Fontana
Take a tour of Italy with your tastebuds as Fontana Restaurant features a new region of culinary delights every week through March. These three-course menus are the creations of Chef Vladimir Blanes. Get details online.

Friday, January 24 at 7:30pm
Thomas Pandolfi, Concert Pianist
World-renowned pianist Thomas Pandolfi returns to the Lamar Louise Curry Concert Series, performing with The First Coral Gables Chamber Ensemble to present an arresting program of American music: Gershwin’s Rhapsody in Blue and Piano Concerto in F. Pandolfi began his career early on while at The Juilliard School (BM & MM). Since then he has been an audience favorite, selling out the world’s most prestigious stages, including Lincoln Center’s Alice Tully Hall, Strathmore, The Kennedy Center, Kiev Opera House, Bucharest’s Romanian Athenaeum, London’s Cadogan Hall, and many others. Get details online.

Friday, January 24 at 8pm
Jersey Boys at Miracle Theatre
Jersey Boys chronicles the incredible journey of Frankie Valli and The Four Seasons. This Tony Award-winning musical takes the audience through their rise to fame, personal struggles, and eventual triumph of the iconic 1960s rock 'n' roll group. The story unfolds through each band member's perspective, offering a captivating exploration of their dynamic relationships and the challenges faced on their path to stardom. Filled with classic hits like "Sherry," "Big Girls Don't Cry" and "Can't Take My Eyes Off You," Jersey Boys is a compelling tribute to the power of music and the enduring legacy of one of America's greatest musical acts. Get details online.

Friday, January 24 at 9:30pm
Scooby-Doo On Zombie Island
The world’s wackiest cowardly canine -- Scooby-Doo -- along with Shaggy and the rest of the gang return for another animated, spine-tingling comic misadventure. This time the intrepid investigators explore a haunted house inhabited by grim ghosts and grotesque zombies on spooky Moonscar Island. This screening will be preceded by a Hanna-Barbera tribute and shorts and a secret screening after the main feature. Get details online.

Saturday, January 25 at 7am
Outdoor Photography - Composition and Technique
Join professional photographer Carlos V. Causo for a hands-on photography class designed for both iPhones and mirrorless cameras, focusing on mastering composition and technique, helping you capture compelling images with any device. Learn essential skills in framing, perspective, and visual storytelling. Additionally, the class will cover key technical topics, such as exposure modes, autofocus settings, resolution management, and flash or natural lighting techniques. Get details online.

Saturday, January 25 from 8am to 2pm
Coral Gables Farmers' Market at City Hall
Every Saturday from 8am to 2pm through March 29, bring the family out to Merrick Park across from City Hall for the Coral Gables Farmers Market. Local vendors bring fresh Florida produce, prepared foods, baked goods, flowers and plants, with educational workshops and activities for children. Get details online.

Saturday, January 25 from 9am to 3pm
St Andrew's Car Show
Enjoy a fantastic array of more than 120 classic cars on display at the second Annual St Andrew's Car Show, along with amazing food vendors (Rodbender's, Morelia Paletas, Machete Tacos, Haute Coffe, Exit One Taproom, Chef Norlan. This is a free event. The address is 14260 Old Cutler Road. Get details online.

Saturday, January 25 at 10am
Architectural Walking Tour
The Coral Gables Chamber of Commerce will host a walking tour of the historic City Beautiful starting at the Coral Gables Welcome Center at 201 Alhambra Circle, Suite 100. Get details online.

Sat/Sun, January 25–26 from 10am to 4pm
Hartvest Collectibles Design Market
Welcome the season with a unique art shopping experience at Pinecrest Gardens while enjoying a day surrounded by art and nature. Discover original items created by a group of designers, artisans, and artists. Get details online.

Saturday, January 25 at 12:30pm
The Metropolitan Opera - Aida
Soprano Angel Blue makes her long-awaited Met role debut as the Ethiopian princess torn between love and country, one of opera’s defining roles. Music Director Yannick Nézet-Séguin takes the podium for Michael Mayer’s spectacular new staging, which brings audiences inside the towering pyramids and gilded tombs of ancient Egypt with intricate projections and dazzling animations. Mezzo-soprano Judit Kutasi, following her 2024 debut in Verdi’s La Forza del Destino, is Aida’s Egyptian rival Amneris, and tenor Piotr Beczala is the soldier Radamès -- completing opera’s greatest love triangle. The all-star cast also features baritone Quinn Kelsey as Amonasro and bass Dmitry Belosselskiy as Ramfis. Get details online.

Saturday, January 25 at 1pm
eSports Tournament
Join a competitive Nintendo tournament in Super Smash Bros. or Mario Kart 8 with commentary and prizes -- includes pizza and drinks. Cost is $9.35. Meet at the Coral Gables Youth Center Teen Room, 405 University Drive. Get details online.

Saturday, January 25 at 2pm
Junie B. Jones, The Musical
It’s Junie B.’s first day of school, and suddenly a lot of things are changing for her: Junie’s friend, Lucille, doesn’t want to be her best pal anymore, but on the bus, Junie B. makes friends with Herb, the new kid at school. In class, Junie has trouble reading the blackboard and her teacher, Mr. Scary, thinks she may need glasses. Throw in a friendly cafeteria lady, a kickball tournament and a "Top-Secret Personal Beeswax Journal," and first grade has never been more exciting. Featuring a tremendously loveable character and fun-filled songs, Junie B. Jones will capture your hearts just as the books captivated an entire generation of students. Saturday performances continue through February 22. Get details online.

Saturday, January 25 at 2pm
Woop Woop Beer Fest at Bay 13
Bay 13 is hosting a huge party on the patio with unlimited beer tastings, wine and liquor vendors, live bands and local food with plenty of fun for everyone. Enjoy beers from some of Florida’s finest craft breweries, Australian food, unique merchandise, great music, fun games and community. Get details online.

Saturday, January 25 at 5pm
John Dufresne - My Darling Boy
The Books & Books Literary Foundation is proud to present an afternoon with John Dufresne discussing My Darling Boy. This event is free and open to the public. Books will be available for purchase the night of the event. Get details online.

Saturday, January 25 at 7pm
James Grippando - Grave Danger: A Jack Swyteck Novel
Books & Books is proud to present an evening with James Grippando discussing Grave Danger: A Jack Swyteck Novel. Bestselling author James Grippando’s legendary criminal defense attorney Jack Swyteck is back to defend a single mother accused of kidnapping her own child in a perilous case involving politics and international diplomacy that will test his legal expertise and his marriage. This event is free and open to the public. Get details online.

Wednesday, January 25 at 7pm
Starlight Centennial Gala Fundraiser at the Museum
Step into the dazzling spirit of the Roaring Twenties at Coral Gables Museum’s Centennial Gala, an unforgettable evening inspired by the glamour and excitement of the Great Gatsby era -- where art, architecture, and civic engagement intertwine in celebration of the Centennial of The City Beautiful. Get details online.

Saturday, January 25 at 7pm
Conservation Concert featuring Take Sixx
Join the Tropical Audubon Society under the oaks and stars to kick off the milestone 15th annual Conservation Concert series on at 5530 Sunset Drive. The event's founding band, Take Sixx, will again inaugurate the wildly popular Winter concert series. Their volunteerism has set the tempo for other local bands to follow in their footsteps on the storied Doc Thomas House Keystone Stage. Grab some fan-tabulous Mexican dished by Nacho Bizness Food Truck. Belly up to the RNDC Donation Bird Bar, featuring a bevy of bodacious brews and divine wines. Get details online.

Saturday, January 25 at 9:30pm
The Skin I Live In
Directed by Pedro Pedro Almodóvar. Ever since his wife was burned in a car crash, Dr. Robert Ledgard, an eminent plastic surgeon, has been interested in creating a new skin with which he could have saved her. After twelve years, he manages to cultivate a skin that is a real shield against every assault. Get details online.

Sunday, January 26 at 1pm
David Lynch's "The Straight Story" (1999) Free Screening
In honor and celebration of the life and work of the late filmmaker David Lynch, please enjoy a free screening of one of his best and least-seen films, "The Straight Story" (1999). A retired farmer and widower in his 70s, Alvin Straight learns one day that his distant brother Lyle has suffered a stroke and may not recover. Alvin is determined to make things right with Lyle while he still can, but his brother lives in Wisconsin, while Alvin is stuck in Iowa with no car and no driver’s license. Get details online.

Sunday, January 26 at 1pm
Perfume Crafting: Create Your Unique Fragrance Identity
Unlock the art of fragrance creation with this class at Fairchild Gardens. Explore a variety of aromatic ingredients, noting your impressions on scented strips. Build connections between your senses, weaving vivid memories of captivating odors. Blend ingredients to create a unique perfume or cologne that reflects your style. Take home a one-of-a-kind fragrance capturing your essence. Get details online.

Sunday, January 26 at 2pm
The Many Faces of Dr. King
Honor the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. at the 31st Annual MLK Production presented by Coconut Grove Ecumenical Network, in collaboration with Sanctuary of the Arts, this powerful theatrical event showcases local talent from Coconut Grove’s historic churches, schools, and community groups. Celebrate the Civil Rights Movement through culturally relevant theater, storytelling, and music while learning about the unsung heroes who shaped the fight for justice. This year’s production promises to uplift, educate, and inspire audiences of all ages. This event is free. No RSVP is required. Get details online.

Sunday, January 26 at 7:10pm
Brave The Dark
When Mr. Deen discovers one of his students has been living out of his car and thrown into jail, he decides to bail him out. Determined to curb Nate's self-destructive behavior, Mr. Deen quickly discovers a host of dark secrets that are slowly tearing Nate apart. What started as a good deed becomes a desperate fight to save Nate from his own demons. As Nate spirals deeper into despair, Mr. Deen must decide how far he's willing to go to save a kid on the brink of losing everything-even himself. Get details online.

Monday, January 27 at 5pm
Half Priced Wine on Monday
The entire wine list is half off on Mondays at Beauty And The Butcher. Try the Far Niente 2019 from Napa, or the Don Melchor, 2020 from Puente Alto Vinyard in Chile. Get details online.

Monday, January 27 at 6pm
College Admission Process 101
Learn how to successfully navigate the college admission process in this informative presentation at the Coconut Grove Library. Topics include choosing the right college, application tips, letters of recommendation, essays, community service, scholarships and more. Call 305-442-8695 or email: hernandezje@mdpls.org. Ages 13 to 18 years old. Get details online. https://mdpls.org/event/12566103

Monday, January 27 at 6pm
Holocaust Remembrance Day Discussion
This Holocaust Remembrance Day marks 80 years since American and Allied soldiers liberated prisoners from Nazi-occupied concentration and extermination camps in Europe. Attend a moderated discussion with Holocaust survivor Laszlo Selly and Dr. Dipak Joshi as they discuss Hall's experiences during the Holocaust. Registration is required. Call Coral Gables Library at 305-442-8706 or email: capleybr@mdpls.org. Ages 14 years and older. Get details online.

Monday, January 27 at 7:30pm
Emmet's Place Miami Live Jazz Concert
The live-streamed Live from Emmet's Place performance, led by multifaceted American jazz pianist and composer Emmet Cohen, who created this YouTube live-streamed sensation during the pandemic, unites a worldwide audience via tens of millions of internet views. The star-studded lineup includes legendary drummer Herlin Riley, Grammy-nominated saxophonist Patrick Bartley, internationally acclaimed trumpeter Sean Jones, Grammy Award-winning vocalist Catherine Russell, Steinway piano artist and Dean of the Frost School of Music Shelly Berg, up-and-coming drummer Kyle Poole, and bassist Phil Norris. Get details online.

Tuesday, January 28 at 9am
City Commission Meeting
This meeting of the Coral Gables Commission takes place at the Police and Fire Headquarters Community Meeting Room, 2151 Salzedo Street. See Agenda online. Get details online.

Tuesday, January 28
Schnitzel Time at Fritz And Franz Bierhaus
Meet up with friends at Fritz and Franz Bierhaus for the Tuesday Schnitzel Special all day long; and Wednesday to Friday during lunch from 11am to 3pm. Fritz And Franz Bierhaus offers authentic German and Bavarian cuisine, a fantastic selection of imported beer on tap (order Das Boot size if you dare). There's a fine selection of wine and a full liquor bar with cocktails. Try the oven roasted pork shank weekly specials, the gourmet burgers, the brats, Swabian käsespätzle pasta, the Rib-Eye Steak Au Poivre, and the best German potato salad in South Florida. After the meal, try a shot of schnapps or honey liqueur. The outdoor plaza is an ideal setting for gatherings. Call 305-774-1883. Get details online.

Tuesday, January 28 at 7:30pm
The Mystery of Plant Names - Roger L. Hammer
The Dade Chapter of the Florida Native Plant Society meets at Pinecrest Gardens with a program by naturalist and author Roger Hammer on The Mystery of Plant Names. Come early or stay late to enjoy refreshments, socialize and browse the merchandise and raffle tables. The raffle follows the program. Get details online.

Tuesday, January 28 at 8pm
MJC Tuesdays at Crossbridge
Every Tuesday, the Miami Jazz Coop presents great musicians representing a wide range of jazz with cabaret style seating to ensure an intimate jazz experience at the Crossbridge Church, 6691 North Kendall Drive. Ashley Pezzotti plays at 8pm. Get details and purchase tickets online.

Wednesday, January 29
Lunar New Year - Year Of The Snake
The 2025 Lunar New Year arrives on Wednesday, January 29, ushering in the Year of the Snake, a symbol of transformation, wisdom, and growth. The first day of Chinese New Year begins on the new moon that appears between 21 January and 20 February. Celebrate this special time with family and friends, enjoying dishes that bring joy and harmony. Get details online.

Wednesday, January 29 from 1 to 3pm
Traditional Afternoon Tea – Wednesdays
Enjoy a delightful Traditional Afternoon Tea service at the Biltmore Hotel's upper level Alhambra Lobby, featuring sweet and savory treats as well as an assortment of tea. Get details online.

Thursday, January 30 at 9:30am
Unveiling Art's Secrets - Seeing Through Paintings
Art conservator Rustin Levenson will present her lecture titled Seeing Through Paintings, focusing on how appraisers can utilize the materials and techniques of paintings for art historical assessments. The lecture introduces scientific methods of investigation and delves into the history of artists' materials. Call the Pinecrest Library at 305-668-4571 or email: booke@mdpls.org. Ages 19 years and older. Get details online.

Thursday, January 30 at 7pm
Dog Man
An animated superhero comedy film based on Dav Pilkey's children's graphic novel. When a police officer and his faithful police dog get injured in the line of duty, a harebrained but life-saving surgery fuses the two of them together -- and Dog Man is born. As Dog Man learns to embrace his new identity, he must stop feline supervillain Petey the Cat from cloning himself and going on a crime spree. Get details online.

Starts January 31
Appropriate
Straight from Broadway, this darkly comic American drama by Pulitzer Finalist and Obie Award winner, Jacobs-Jenkins, invites audiences to one helluva family reunion! It’s summer in Arkansas and the cicadas are singing. When the Lafayette family returns to their late patriarch’s home to manage the remains of his estate, things take a turn. When an estranged brother appears late one night and mysterious objects are discovered among the clutter, long-hidden secrets and buried resentments can no longer be contained and the family is forced to face the ghosts of their past. Starring Rachel Burttram (A Doll’s House, Pt. 2) and Mark H. Dold (The Lehman Trilogy). Get details online.

Thursday, February 6 at 6:30pm
Music Club Annual Scholarship Recital
The Coral Gables Music Club awards scholarships to 20 very talented music students from elementary thru high school. Every year, they perform for the public free of charge at the Coral Gables Congregational Church, 3010 DeSoto Boulevard. Get details online.

Saturday, February 8 at 9am
Tour of Kitchens 2025
Now in its 16th year, the Tour of Kitchens & Tropical Living is a self-guided tour of beautiful homes and kitchens in Coral Gables that draws 1,000 local affluent foodies and home-design enthusiasts from surrounding neighborhoods Experience beautiful private residences while indulging in bites and sips from local restaurants and spirits brands. Get details online.

Saturday, February 15 from 10am to 4pm
Upper Keys Garden Walk
The Garden Club of the Upper Keys invites you to Garden Walk 2025. Stroll through spectacular private gardens. Complimentary clubhouse activities include food trucks, vendors, artisans, and plant sales. Art show sponsored by the Art Guild of the Purple Isles. Get details online.

Sunday, February 23 at 4pm
Marches & Movies & Musicals... Oh My!
Robert Longfield conducts The Greater Miami Symphonic Band in a Pinecrest Gardens Family Concert featuring marches, movie themes and popular musicals at the Pinecrest Gardens Banyan Bowl. This concert is sponsored by The Symphonettes. Get details online.