Calendar
A family-friendly street party and toy drive will benefit the 19th Annual Children’s Christmas Party of Jacksonville. Music, food, activities and guest appearances by Santa Claus and cheerleaders from the Jacksonville Roar.
Enjoy dozens of delightful gingerbread creations at the annual show, sponsored by the Jacksonville Historical Society. For more information, call (904) 665-004.
The Gingerbread House Extravaganza runs through December 23, 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily except Sundays, at Jacksonville Historical Society’s Old St. Andrews, 317 A. Philip Randolph Boulevard, across from the Veterans Memorial Arena. It opens at 10 a.m. on Saturdays.
A donation of $5 for adults and $3 for children over three is suggested for this charity event. The Jacksonville Historical Society’s Merrill Museum House, highlighting 1903 Jacksonville life, is open from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. during the Extravaganza and is located on adjoining property. Parking for both events is free.
North Florida Land Trust invites the public to join them for Botany at the Bluffs: A Walk at Black Creek Ravines Conservation Area. The event will take place on Dec. 9 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the conservation area in Middleburg. NFLT Conservation Coordinator Dr. Susan Carr will be leading the group through the woods near Black Creek to showcase the natural habitats including some interesting geological features and to explain the benefits of preservation.
Space is limited for the Botany at the Bluffs. To participate in the guided tour, please RSVP to Courtney Cox at [email protected].
Mini-workshops on creating holiday wreaths, holiday cocktails, how to host a holiday party and more. Photos with Santa Claus ($5) will benefit Friends of Jacksonville Animals.
Shop for a cause, make and take home a Rethreaded holiday ornament, enjoy food and beverages.
26th annual presentation of “The Nutcracker,” a two-act ballet directed and performed by local residents, raises funds for many local charities. Visit jaxnutcracker.org/tickets to purchase tickets.
This FREE diabetes class allows participants to discuss ways to prevent or delay diabetes complications,
discover tools to enhance nutrition and exercise choices, and learn new ways to talk with your doctor and family about your health.
Participants receive a FREE Healthy Living Book and other program-related materials.
Call Northeast Florida AHEC at 904-482-0189 for more information and registration.
The Shoppes of Avondale, St. Johns Avenue between Van Wert and Talbot Avenues
Christmas in Avondale is a treasured tradition going back over 30 years, when the Avondale Merchant Association shuts down the streets and transforms it into a magical holiday experience.
Annual tree lighting in Balis Park, a visit from Santa Claus, carolers, jugglers and stilt walkers will entertain visitors. Activities will include sleigh rides and bounce games for children.
Sponsored by 1st Place Sports, the luminaria-lit event begins with a 1-mile fun run at 5:30 p.m., the 5K at 6 p.m., and a 5K for strollers and walkers at 6:10 p.m. Children’s Miracle Network will benefit from the event. Register at 1stplacesports.com
