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For most people, the holiday season is a festive time filled with family, friends, food, fun, and of course gifts! Sadly, some children have never felt the warmth and joy this special season brings. Children’s Home Society of Florida serves children who have suffered from abuse and neglect, and we want to ensure these children experience a happy holiday season that they will hold in their hearts forever. Together we can make this a reality.
Donations can be delivered to the CHS Buckner office at 3027 San Diego Road, Jacksonville, FL 32207 between 8AM-4:30PM from November 24th through December 12th. If you would like to schedule a donation drop-off outside of normal business hours, contact Sarah N. Smith at 904-493-7797. Please donate all gifts unwrapped or in gift bags.
Dec. 3 – 23, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. weekdays, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturdays, Old St. Andrews, 317 A. Phillip Randolph Blvd. across the street from Veterans Memorial Arena
The Jacksonville Historical Society’s annual Gingerbread Extravaganza showcases gingerbread and confection creations from traditional houses to animals and fairy tale themes. Adults $5, children 3-16 $3 suggested donations. Special Gingerbread Extravaganza activities and fieldtrips are also available to schools, seniors and other groups. For more information, (904) 665-0064 or [email protected]
A show themed “Boxwoods and Bow-ties” will feature vintage and postmodern art and antiques, along with lectures and workshops, all to benefit the Women’s board of Wolfson Children’s Hospital. An opening night party will be held Dec. 5. (904) 202-2886
Sat., Dec. 6, 13, and 20, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., Sun., Dec. 21, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m., 1996 San Marco Blvd. in front of San Marco Theatre.
Donations for wrapping will provide veterinary care through St. Francis Animal Hospital for pets in need. For information, visit www.SaintFrancisAnimalHospital.org
Fun for all ages: photobooth, gingerbread houses, facepainting, silent disco, Christmas movies, live music and more. Sponsored by the Avondale Merchants
Christmas Performance
Sat., Dec. 6, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m., at the Shoppes of Avondale
St. John’s Presbyterian Church choir and praise band will perform on the street during the annual Christmas in Avondale
Luminaria 30th Anniversary Reception
Join us in celebrating the 30th year of Riverside Avondale’s Luminaria. To commemorate this special season, Riverside Avondale Preservation will host a reception during Christmas in Avondale on Saturday, December 6th.
During the reception, local artist Karen Kurycki will reveal her design of the 30th annual Luminaria poster.
Only 75 commemorative copies, signed by the artist, are available for purchase. To reserve yours, contact [email protected]. Proceeds benefit Riverside Avondale Preservation Society.
4:00PM-9:00PM — Official Luminaria kits available for purchase
6:00PM — Reception begins. Meet local artist Karen Kurycki, as she reveals her design and signs commemorative posters. Members of RAP receive a complimentary glass of wine. Light hors d’oeuvres will be served.
For more information call Riverside Avondale Preservation at (904) 389-2449.
Experience the timeless tale of Chris Van Allsburg’s The Polar Express as the Jacksonville Symphony brings the book to life with an orchestra, chorus and vocalist. www.Jaxsympony.org
Dr. Timothy Snyder conducts the choirs of Jacksonville University in a glorious tapestry of favorite holiday motets, solos and Christmas Carols from around the world sung by the choir with a special audience sing-along as well. Reception follows in the Parish Hall. Free and open to public. Visit www.allsaintsjax.org for more information or call (904) 737-8488.
Zany holiday event to benefit Unity Plaza park as well as several children’s charities. Includes Celebrity Ugly Holiday Sweater Fashion Show, casino, bands and more. Register at www.jaxholidaybash.com
Meet Chef Jamie Geller, author of Joy of Kosher, at a cooking demo, tasting and book signing event. For details, www.winndixie.com/chanukah
CenterState Bank will host a movie night, showing The Polar Express, serving popcorn, hot chocolate and cookies. Santa Claus will be available for photos ($15 for a 5×7)
