Greetings {name},

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.

Please enjoy this image that reminds us of the beauty, bounty and serene nature of our countryside.

Red Caboose at Cauley Square

click on the image to see enlargement.

Redland scenic photo illustrations © Robin and Robert Burr.

Now through December 30 at 6:30pm

Zoo Lights Miami

Bring the family out to Zoo Miami for the spectacular Zoo Lights Miami presentation featuring more than a million bright and dazzling tree lights from 6:30 to 10pm -- until December 30th. Experience the large bright Holiday Tree, animal appearances, arts and crafts, and a visit by Santa Claus. Get details and purchase tickets online.

Friday, December 16 at 7pm 

Smurf's Christmas Carol Bash

This holiday season, put on your coziest pajamas and come to the Seminole Theatre for a night full of holiday cheer. The fun kicks off at one of the craft stations where you will create your very own Smurf ornament. Don't forget to stop at the Seminole Theatre Jr blue bar where you will create your very own cocoa with a twist, its blue. Finally transform into a Smurf yourself by visiting the magical Smurf face painter. Afterwards, kick back and relax for the screening of a Smurfs Christmas Carol. Get details and purchase tickets online. 

Saturday/Sunday, December 17-18

Andersen Farms - South Florida Plant Sale

Calling all plant lovers - don't miss Anderson Farms' 50% off retail weekend sale of indoor and outdoor house plants. The first 100 online RSVP visitors receive a free three gallon Ficus Lyrata/Fiddle Leaf Fig just for showing up to Andersen Farms. Usually, Andersen Farms only sells wholesale, but they decided it’s time to share the love with anyone looking for plants for half retail price for a limited time. Andersen Farms is located at 18455 SW 272nd Street in Homestead. Get details online and RSVP for your free plant.

December 17-18 from 10am to 5pm

Tropical Winter Adventure

Experience a tropical winter adventure at Fruit and Spice Park this weekend with tropical wintertime photo backdrops, scavenger hunts, fruits from this season to see and taste, and tram tours featuring what’s in season. No pets allowed. Get details online.

Saturday,  December 17 at 7pm

Avatar: The Way of Water

Set more than a decade after the events of the first film, Avatar The Way of Water begins to tell the story of the Sully family (Jake, Neytiri and their kids), the trouble that follows them, the lengths they go to keep each other safe, the battles they fight to stay alive and the tragedies they endure. Get details and purchase tickets online.

Wednesday, December 21 at 6pm

Somerset Preparatory Winter Spectacular

The Performing Arts Department at Somerset Prep Academy presents their Winter Spectacular event onstage at the Seminole Theatre. Get details and tickets online.

Friday, December 23 at 4:30pm

Cybrarium Youth Lounge: Winter Party

Have fun in a safe space designated for teens to share different vibes and views during Winter Break! For ages 13-18. https://cybrarium.libcal.com/event/9794339

Save The Date

Saturday, January 28 from 6 to 8pm

Blue Jean Ball Rodeo Dance Dinner

The 2023 Soroptimist Blue Jean Ball Prime Rib Dinner and Dancing event will take place at the Harris Field Pavilion from 6 to 8pm. Participate with Raffle Tickets, 50/50 Raffle, Line Dancing and more. Soroptimist International of Homestead promotes the advancement of women and girls through volunteer service to the community. http://Homesteadrodeodance.com

Dependable Friendly Service

Two Computer Guys

Since 1998, the team at Two Computer Guys has been available for safe, reliable, efficient and friendly service -- for small businesses, families, students and anyone that needs computer help. They solve problems and get computers up and running at top speed quickly. Serving more than a thousand clients in South Florida over the past three decades. Just call when you need a little help. 305-444-1984. https://www.twocomputerguys.com

Authentic Cajun Seafood

Krab Kingz in Florida City

When you're ready for some down-home Cajun seafood, bring the family to Krab Kingz in Florida City for a delicious meal. The spectacular Krab Kingz Sampler feeds a small army with an assortment of Snow Crab, Dungeness Crab, Blue Crab, shrimp, potatoes, corn, sausage, egg and flavored butters. The 16 ounce Gumbo is filled with shrimp, chicken, rice and sausage. The Number 9 basket offers fried lobster, fish and shrimp with fries. Specials include coconut shrimp, grilled Cajun snapper and lobster. Krab Kingz is located at 35202 S. Dixie Highway in Florida City. Call 786-410-8100. https://www.krabkingzfl.com

A big thank you to all of our Redland View sponsors for helping us highlight these special events in the countryside -- and thanks to our Redland View readers for your continued interest in these delightful cultural opportunities.

Robert and Robin Burr