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Greetings {name},

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

once an iconic tropical South Sea Isles theme destination in early Coral Gables, Tahiti Beach featured Tahitian Huts and Fijian Bungalows, with an orchestra and native Tahitian dancers in the evenings

click on the image to see enlargement.

Coral Gables scenic photo illustrations © Robin and Robert Burr.

Saturday, February 1 is National Freedom Day, a chance to reflect on and remember the importance of freedom as a basic tenet, a founding principle, a bedrock doctrine of our society.

Saturday, February 1 is the first day of Black History Month, a time for remembering important people and events in the history of the African diaspora.

Sunday, February 2 is Groundhog Day, celebrated with Punxsutawney Phil who, if frightened by his shadow, will return to his burrow, indicating that there will be six more weeks of winter. If Phil does not see his shadow, then spring is on the way.

Monday, February 3 is Feed The Birds Day, recognizing the value of wild birds in the local environment.

Saturday, February 8 is Boy Scouts Day, celebrating the birthday of the American scouting movement on February 8, 1910.

Sunday, February 9 is the day of Super Bowl, the second Sunday in February, traditionally the most-watched sporting event in the United States.

Wednesday, February 12 celebrates Abraham Lincoln's Birthday in 1809.

Friday, February 14 is Valentine's Day, a time to celebrate the love of a spouse or partner, often a time to declare romantic inclinations.

Monday, February 17 is President's Day, traditionally held on the third Monday of February, honoring presidents of the United States.

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

Vinya Table in Coral Gables
Extensive wine-by-the-glass and great food
Drop in to Vinya Table at 266 Miracle Mile for the daily social hour from 3 to 7pm -- because great wine and better company deserve more time. What to expect: thoughtfully curated small plates made with seasonal ingredients, a wine list worth toasting to (minus corkage fees), and a vibe that’s all about savoring the moment. The happiest hours await when you pull up a chair. 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 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.

Friday, January 31 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 31 at 6pm
Narrative Film Program + Opening Reception at Cosford Cinema
Celebrating narrative and documentary short films, the Shorts Miami International Film Festival is a three-day event from January 31st to February 2nd at UM Cosford Cinema. Get film program and festival information details online.

Friday, January 31 at 7pm
Bad Shabbos
When a Shabbat dinner among two couples takes a darkly comedic turn with an unexpected death (or murder?), cultural clashes, and chaotic family arrivals, the evening spirals into a biblical comedy of errors. Bad Shabbos: the Tribeca Audience Award-winning romp that proves even Shabbat can go hilariously off the rails. Get details online.

Friday, January 31 at 7:30pm
Scott Robinson and The Henry Mancini Institute
Known for his mastery of every saxophone and unique instruments, multi-instrumentalist Scott Robinson is among the greatest improvisers of our time with a level of mastery and expressivity are in a category all his own. Robinson performs works composed and arranged by Schneider, Guerra, and select Studio Jazz Writing Program composers. Get details online.

Friday, January 31 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 31 at 8pm
Celia Cruz Centennial Celebration 1925 - 2025
Experience a dazzling evening of glamour and tropical elegance at Pinecrest Gardens transporting you to 1950s Havana. Celebrate the centennial of Celia Cruz with an electrifying performance by Lucrecia and the Celia Cruz All Stars reimagining the golden era of Celia Cruz and La Sonora Matancera. Get details online.

Friday, January 31 from 8:30 to 11:30pm
Live Music in the Biltmore Bar
Enjoy live music with classic and creative cocktails, fine wine and imported beer and ale selections within the inimitable atmosphere of The Biltmore Bar. Get details online.

Saturday, February 1 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, February 1 at 10am
AARP Tax Assistance
Get free federal income tax preparation help from IRS certified AARP Tax-Aide volunteers. Please bring social security cards or ITIN, government-issued photo ID and Identity Protection PIN (if applicable) for all individuals included on tax returns, W-2, 1099 and other income documents. Walk-ins welcome. Call Pinecrest Library. Space is limited. For more information, please contact the branch at 305-668-4571 or email: booke@mdpls.org. Ages 19 years and older. Get details online.

Saturday, February 1 at 11am
Meet Dog Man at Books & Books
Bring the kids to the book store and take a photo with everyone’s favorite canine cop who’s part dog, part man, and all hero. Just in time for the new film: Dog Man. Get details online.

Saturday, February 1 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, February 1 at 3pm
Travel Your Tree: Walking in Ancestor's Footsteps
Traveling in your ancestors’ footsteps holds a unique adventure for everyone. Whether you’ve traced your relatives back hundreds of years or you’re an adoptee who’s taken a DNA test, heritage travel is scalable to all budgets and locations. This presentation provides ideas for consideration, trusted suppliers, and tips to make the planning process smoother. Get details online.

Saturday, February 1 at 5:30pm
Dr. Marvin Dunn - the Rosewood Massacre of 1923
Attend a transformative experience at Books and Books, featuring a free lecture by renowned historian Dr. Marvin Dunn about the Rosewood Exhibit. This powerful event delves into the Rosewood Massacre of 1923, offering insights into its lasting impact on racial history in Florida. Attendees will have the rare opportunity to view authentic artifacts from the historic Rosewood property. Donations will benefit the Miami Center for Racial Justice. Get details online.

Saturday, February 1 from 6 to 10pm
Live Music at Loews Coral Gables
Enjoy live musical entertainment. Sip and savor seasonal flavors at Miami Joe Coffee Co., offering creatively-inspired sweets and coffee creations. Get details online.

Saturday, February 1 at 6:30pm
Fairchild Gala In The Garden
For over 30 years, Gala in the Garden has been a magical and revered event, named one of South Florida's most beautiful gatherings. Held at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, it’s celebrated as a Top Five Must Attend gala by Miami Magazine. Get details and RSVP online.

Saturday, February 1 at 7pm
I’m Still Here
In 1971 Brazil, under a brutal military dictatorship, a mother of five, Eunice Paiva, must rebuild her life and fight for justice after a devastating act of government violence shakes her family—unveiling a true story of resilience that helped expose a nation’s hidden past. Get details online.

Saturday, February 1 - Opening Night
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.

Saturday, February 1 at 8pm
Lake George
Amid the chaos of New York City, Psych, a former boxer turned fitness trainer, is building a new life for himself alongside his girlfriend, Katherine, and a clientele of elite personalities. Navigating the blurred lines between right and wrong, Psych faces impossible choices, testing the limits of loyalty, sacrifice, and his own moral code--all to save his father and protect the people he loves. Get details online.

Saturday, February 1 at 9pm
RTZR CHKN - Rotisserie Chicken Band
Titanic Brewery presents the Classic Rock-Reggae-Alt Rock-Country-Rock en Español of the RTZR CHKN band. Get details online.

Saturday, February 1 at 10pm
Crooklyn
A fiercely independent mother and her jazz musician husband navigate the joys and struggles of raising five children in 1973 Brooklyn, in a vibrant, tender tale set against the backdrop of a tight-knit neighborhood and a soulful R&B soundtrack. Get details online.

Sunday, February 2 from 10am to 2pm
Biltmore Signature Sunday Brunch
Experience the venerable Sunday Brunch at Fontana Restaurant in the Biltmore Courtyard for an exquisite array of selections, including omelet, caviar, crab, sushi, carving stations, fresh pasta and decadent desserts. Reservations are recommended. Get details online.

Sunday, February 2 at 10:30am
Growing Roses in South Florida
Learn how to grow roses for South Florida gardens. In this combination lecture and practicum, local rose expert Victor Lazzari will take attendees on a two-hour crash course that explores and explains why roses tend to fail in our tropical climate -- and, more importantly, how to avoid the failures and have gorgeous, easy-breezy roses in their gardens. Get details online. 

Sunday, February 2 at noon
McCabe & Mrs. Miller
Academy Award winners Warren Beatty and Julie Christie star in director Robert Altman’s enduring vision of the American Western. A gambler and a prostitute go into business together in a grimy Western mining town as they cater to the vices of the morally bankrupt residents. But their success attracts notice by corporate interests that are too big and too ruthless for the pair to fight in this gritty romantic drama. Based on the novel McCabe by Edmund Naughton. Get details online.

Sunday, February 2 at 4:30pm
Miracle Mile: Evolution of a Street
George Merrick’s business section -- officially named Miracle Mile in 1955 -- has certainly seen its share of changes in 100 years. Enjoy a 100 Voices program on Miracle Mile as long-time proprietors and residents trade tales and tidbits accompanied by vintage visuals. Learn more about the "Father of Miracle Mile" George Zain and "Mr. Miracle Mile" Albert Friedman. Get details online.

Monday, February 3 from 4 to 6:30pm
Sommelier Wine Tasting Class at Armstrong Jazz House
Taste a variety of wines with a selection of different prime cheese selections. Please RSVP by email: info@armstrongjazzhouse.com or call 305-488-9955. Get details online.

Monday, February 3 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, February 3 at 7pm
Matti Friedman - Who by Fire: Leonard Cohen in the Sinai
A Canadian-Israeli journalist, Matti Friedman is an op-ed contributor for The New York Times, columnist for Tablet Magazine, and the award-winning author of four works of non-fiction. Matti’s most recent book Who by Fire: Leonard Cohen in the Sinai is an account of Leonard Cohen’s concert tour to the front lines of the Yom Kippur War. The book has been listed by both Vanity Fair and Mosaic Magazine as among their top books of 2022 and is being made into a limited TV dramatic series by Keshet International. The event takes place at The Hub, 5950 N. Kendall Drive. Get details online.

Monday, February 3 at 7:30pm
South Florida Palm Society
The SFPS meets on the first Monday of every even-numbered month at Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden in Coral Gables. Guest speaker is Dr. Joanna Tucker Lima with a program investigating the rivers and dense foliage of the Amazon region to further knowledge of palms in their natural habitat. Dr. Lima is the Living Collections Manager at Montgomery Botanical Center. Admission is free and open to the general public. The meetings typically include guest speakers, plant auctions and the opportunity to meet with a diverse group of friendly palm enthusiasts in Fairchild's Corbin Bldg. Light refreshments, water, and soft drinks are provided. Bring your favorite potluck dish for the food table and any labeled plant donations for the auction table. Get details online.

Tuesday, February 4
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, February 4 at 5pm
Edith Bleich Lecture Series featuring Sara McDougall
Please join the UM Center for the Humanities at the upcoming Edith Bleich Lecture Series featuring Professor Sara McDougall in the Richter Library third floor conference room. Her current book is a microhistory that is part true crime, part medieval iteration of the timeless tale of a migrant woman from the countryside who struggles to survive in the big city, in this case Dijon towards the end of the Middle Ages. Get details online.

Tuesday, February 4 at 7:30pm
The Great Migration - Frost Studio Jazz Band
Attend a performance by Frost Studio Jazz Band directed by Etienne Charles, and The Frost Sextet directed by Dr. Chuck Bergeron at Gusman Concert Hall. Celebrate Black History Month with the composers and music born from the Great Migration, and the rich cultural legacy it created. Get details online.

Tuesday, February 4 at 8pm
Jazz Tuesday - Gary Campbell Quartet
A prominent figure on South Florida’s jazz scene, Gary Campbell is known for his energetic live performances and his original compositions have been recorded by local Jazz legends. The quartet includes Campbell on saxophone; Michael Eckroth, piano; Vince DuPont, bass; and Brandon Lee Lewis, drums. Jazz Tuesday take place at Crossbridge Pinecrest, 6691 North Kendall Drive. Get details online.

Wednesday, February 5 at 2pm
Revolutionary Reads - DAR
The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) will hold their monthly meeting, featuring a historical book club program. This engaging event explores literature that highlights themes of patriotism, sacrifice, and the ideals that shaped American history. Call Pinecrest Library at 305-668-4571 or email: booke@mdpls.org. Ages 19 years and older. Get details online.

Wednesday, February 5 at 6pm
Wine Tasting at Beauty & the Butcher
Meet up with friends to experience the First Wednesday Wine Tasting at Beauty And The Butcher, with 10 pours, live music, 10% discount on dining and great appetizer specials. Get details online.

Wednesday, February 5 at 6pm
Women Empowerment Wednesday at Clementine's Wine Gourmet
Attend this interactive speaker series and wine tasting featuring a successful female business person who shares her experiences and wisdom -- $30 includes wine tasting and Spanish tapas. Get details online.

Wednesday, February 5 at 7pm
Stuart J. McGregor - The Wee Wah Beach Club in Tuxedo Park
Books & Books is proud to present an evening with Stuart J. McGregor discussing The Wee Wah Beach Club in Tuxedo Park: An American Story of Social Change. This event is free and open to the public and books will be available for purchase. Learn about this exclusive private Gilded Age recreational community on We-Wah Lake historically occupied by those who built their mansions on 5th Avenue in New York City and Newport. It still exists today and is called Tuxedo Park. To this day, you cannot drive through the fortress-like entrance gates to Tuxedo Park unless invited. Get details online.

Thursday, February 6 from 5:30 to 7:30pm
Music at McBride Plaza - FiddleHead
The eclectic Newgrass / Pop Trio from University of Miami School of Music, FiddleHead presents a cross-genre folk repertoire assembled from the classical and contemporary subsets of the Frost School of Music -- an enlightening new twist on guitar, cello, and violin arrangements. 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.

Thursday, February 6 at 6:30pm
Galentines Botanical Candle Making
Galentines theme. Adults are invited to participate in a hands-on Curious Gardener Workshop to learn the making of botanical candles. Curious Gardener topics change monthly, and always include a complimentary beverage. Get details online.

Thursday, February 6 at 7pm
Joseph Finder - The Oligarch’s Daughter
The Books & Books Literary Foundation is proud to present an evening with Joseph Finder discussing The Oligarch’s Daughter. He will be in conversation with Les Standiford. From the New York Times bestselling author of House on Fire, a breakneck thriller that marries the dynastic opulence of Succession with the tense and disorienting spycraft of The Americans. Get details online.

Thursday, February 6 at 7:15pm
Love Hurts
Marvin is a Milwaukee realtor who receives a crimson envelope from Rose, a former partner-in-crime whom he left for dead. He now finds himself thrust back into a world of ruthless hit men and double-crosses that turn his open houses into deadly war zones. Hunted by his brother, a volatile crime lord, Marvin must confront the choices that haunt him and the history he never truly buried. Get details online.

Friday, February 7 at 10am
Plein Air Painting at Deering Estate
Join Artist-in-Residence Andres Cabrera-Garcia for a weekly meetup at the Estate to paint en plein air. Cabrera-Garcia will provide multiple demonstrations as well as personal coaching to help you use observational skills to portray the variety of cultural and natural resources on the Estate, such as historic structures, landscapes, geologic features, and plant and animal life. He shares tips about equipment, how to approach working in the field, and how to select a spot. 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.