OWNER/PUBLISHER
Rick Todd
EDITOR-IN-CHIEF
Ryan Williams-Jent
CFL BUREAU CHIEF
Bellanee Plaza
CREATIVE DESIGNERS
Caitlin Sause
Dylan Todd
SOCIAL MEDIA CO.
Kay Yingling
FOUNDER
Tom Dyer
SALES DIRECTOR
Danny Garcia
ACCOUNT MANAGER
Daisy Chamberlin
CONTRIBUTING WRITER
Aidan Carmody
music by Kevin Putts & libretto by Mark Campbell
sung in various languages with English and Spanish supertitles
February 6 & 8, 2026
Disney pastry chef Jean Carlos De Araujo brings Brazilian flavor to Food Network’s ‘Holiday Baking Championship’
With almost 10 years of experience in the confectionery industry, Jean Carlos De Araujo, pastry chef at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotel, will shine on Season 12 of “Holiday Baking Championship."
Premiering on Food Network this season, it's one of the largest reality confectionery shows in the nation. Araujo has worked with renowned chefs and in large hotels in Brazil and the United States.
Araujo says it means everything to him to lead the pastry program at Swan and Dolphin Hotel as he is proud to represent his culture and country. Growing up in Brazil, he says life wasn’t easy and he grew up in a circus until he was 10. His number one supporter was his mom as she started selling his cupcakes door to door.
“Being an openly gay chef in leadership is about visibility, showing that you can be yourself and still achieve your dreams,” Araujo says. “At Disney, I get to celebrate diversity every day through flavor, creativity and kindness. That’s the kind of representation I wish I had growing up.”
He came to the U.S. in 2022 with just one suitcase but says he was full of hope. It was a leap of faith to make the move, but he faced every challenge to come out stronger and more grateful.
When Araujo found out he was competing on “Holiday Baking Championship,” he says he focused on his creativity and flavors that represent who he is: bold, warm and full of heart. He wants to bring his culture into everything he makes. Between sugar, chocolate and dreams, his love for confectionery is
not only a profession, but a form of expression, emotion and purpose.
“Honestly, the preparation started long before I even knew I’d be on the show,” he shares. “Every day in the kitchen, every challenge, every mistake taught me resilience and speed — which are key in a competition like this.”
For the first time ever, the competition’s new season will feature 12 bakers split into two teams of Naughty vs. Nice. Host Jesse Palmer welcomes the competitors to an adorable, immersive holiday village with a working coffee shop, general store and town hall.
In this joyful world, the teams will take on tasks like “Snow Day Desserts,” “Chrismukkah Platters” and, of course, “Naughty Elf Desserts." Judges Duff Goldman, Nancy Fuller and Kardea Brown will bring tough love as they determine which baker will earn the title of Holiday Baking Champion and receive a feature in Food Network Magazine and $25,000.
In each bake, there will be a top dessert from each team, and the best overall dessert wins for their team. In elimination challenges, the winning team is safe from elimination while the other team loses a baker.
Araujo always dreamed of being on a show like “Holiday Baking Championship” as his favorite holiday has been Christmas since he was a kid. He loves everything about the holiday and says the holidays are all about warmth and nostalgia.
“Shows like this are the reason I have the career I have now, pastry changed my life. For me, it’s not just about competition, it's about sharing my story and culture with millions of people during the time of the year,” Araujo says. “I wanted to inspire others who come from small places or humble beginnings to believe that their dreams are valid too.”
He describes the day-to-day work at Swan and Dolphin Hotel as “truly magical,” as it is a place where culinary excellence
meets imagination. He joined the team in August and Swan and Dolphin Hotel said they were excited to have his expertise, leadership and passion joining their team. When he is crafting desserts, each must “carry a bit of magic.”
Araujo’s favorite holiday dessert is rabanada, the Brazilian version of French toast that reminds him of his mom and Christmas mornings back home. Rabanadas are a classic Brazilian holiday recipe and are served as dessert or breakfast. This dish is made with sweet condensed milk and topped with a crispy cinnamon-sugar on the outside. Another favorite is his Christmas Brownie, which he details to the right.
For aspiring chefs, Araujo’s advice is to never stop as “you are the only one who knows where you want to get.” He notes that he is living proof that success can follow when you don't give up.
“Never forget why you started,” Araujo shares. “The kitchen is tough, but if you lead with passion and humility, you’ll always find your place. Learn from everyone around you, stay curious and never stop dreaming because dreams can take you further than you imagine.”
“Holiday Baking Championship” is now airing on Food Network and also streams on HBO Max and Discovery+ platforms. To keep up with Jean Carlos De Araujo’s work, follow him on Instagram @JeanCarls.A.
200 g unsalted butter
220 g granulated sugar
• 100 g light brown sugar
• 1 tsp pure vanilla extract
• 3 large eggs (about 150 g)
• 120 g all-purpose flour
• 300 chocolate Chip
• 50 g cocoa powder (unsweetened)
• 3 g fine sea salt
• 150 Crushed Peppermint
1. Cream the butter and sugar
In a stand mixer fitted with the paddle attachment, combine the butter, granulated sugar, brown sugar and vanilla extract. Mix on medium speed for 5 minutes, until light and creamy.
2. Add the eggs
Add the eggs one at a time, mixing well after each addition. Continue mixing for 2 minutes until the mixture is smooth and glossy.
3. Incorporate the dry ingredients
In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, cocoa powder, chocolate chip and salt. Add the dry ingredients to the wet mixture and blend on low speed until just combined. Avoid overmixing to preserve the fudgy texture.
4. Bake
Pour the batter into a parchment-lined baking pan and smooth the surface with an offset spatula. Sprinkle the peppermint on the top. Bake at 320°F (160°C) for 25 minutes, or until the top is set but the center remains slightly soft.
5. Cool and serve.
‘Tis the season, which means the Watermark Out News staff is here to continue one of our favorite Holiday Guide traditions! In these pages we reflect on some of the gifts we’d like to receive this year, beginning with items priced up to $50. We also dream a little bigger, detailing some of what we’d like to receive that goes well beyond that limit.
In the spirit of giving, we also highlight some of the worthy organizations and causes we’d like to support this year. Hopefully our picks will help inspire some of your own. Be sure to check out the advertisers in these pages for even more ideas — including in our Business Directory on p. 29 — and however and whatever you choose to celebrate, have a wonderful holiday!
Rick Todd Publisher/Owner
I love to play softball and my gear backpack is worn down. I need something strong and stylish to carry my glove, cleats and bats to keep them organized. I’m always a fan of Nike, but to keep it under $50 I found the Easton GAME READY Backpack Equipment Bag on Amazon for $49.95.
I’ve done a lot of traveling this year — from conferences to concerts to vacations — and I’ve been all over this country. Most trips are short, but I’ve been lugging around my huge Disney suitcase for all of these trips and I’m trying to travel smarter and just use carry-on luggage. So for my gift over $50, I’d love a cute Disney
carry-on luggage piece. I’m not too picky about what it looks like, but I did find a "Lilo & Stitch" Carry-On at KOHL’S priced at $114.99.
This year I am also recommending donations be made to local media outlets. These organizations aren’t nonprofits most of the time, but they are a vital component to a civilized society and journalism is suffering. When you think of the causes that matter most to you, journalism is how we bring awareness to them, reporting on their successes and needs. Donations are needed to keep free, local journalism thriving. You can donate to Watermark Out News and other outlets by signing up for their e-newsletters or visiting their websites.
Ryan Williams-Jent Editor-in-Chief
Most folks know I’m a big nerd, something I wear like a badge of honor, so my ask for a gift under $50 probably won’t come as much of a surprise. I’d love to secure the marvelous McFarlane Toys’ Cyclops 1:10th Scale
Collectible, available for $29.95 on Amazon.
The statue is a scene from one of the first comic books I ever read, 1991’s “X-Men” #1, and Cyclops is my favorite X-Man. It’s the perfect primer for next year’s “X-Men 97” on Disney+ and “Avengers: Doomsday," both of which will feature the character's return.
Brandy is one of my favorite artists of all time and I don’t want to be sittin’ up in my room when she comes to Tampa this December. For my gift over $50 I’d love floor seats to “The Boy Is Mine Tour” at Benchmark International Arena, which also features Monica and Kelly Rowland. It’s a dream concert for me! Tickets are a few hundred dollars but when it comes to securing them, almost doesn’t count.
I chose TransNetwork as my worthy nonprofit last year, and while I’d like to spread the love around to so many of the amazing nonprofits across Tampa Bay and Central Florida, I have to choose them again. That’s because no one needs our support more than our trans siblings, especially now, something TransNetwork understands more than most. Learn about their work at MyTransNetwork.org.
Central Florida Bureau Chief
For this year’s holiday season, I think I’ve been very good and more than deserving enough to get some specials gifts. As a lover of jewelry, I’ve been eyeing the cream shade of Anthropologie’s Blossom Drop Earrings. They have such unique items and for $48 they are a dream. I think these could go great with so many outfits and complement any look. Now this next gift is very fitting as I’m a big fan of the “Twilight” series. For $219.99, LEGO sells a “Twilight” set of the Cullen House. Ever since LEGO announced the release for the set, I’ve been waiting to get my hands on it.
Since we are in the season of giving, we should share some love. A nonprofit I think deserves some holiday cheer is Coral Restoration Foundation. The organization is currently working on active reef restoration programs in the USA, the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico. Coral reefs are amongst the most threatened habitats on Earth and we must do our part to save them, especially here in Florida. Learn more at CoralRestoration.org.
Dylan Todd Creative Designer/Photographer
I'd be so grateful to receive a wireless charging phone holder for my car. I recently relocated to Orlando and being in a new-to-me city, I need
GPS for everything. The JOYMASS Wireless Car Charger, available on Amazon for $19.97, would provide everything I need! With this device I also won’t have to worry about fumbling with chords when I'm getting into my car.
I'm all about gifts that mix function and comfort and Bedsure’s Cooling Sheets are just that. Their queen size sheets are $61.74 on Amazon and come in fun colors to choose from — and are extra cooling, which is needed when it’s you, your partner and your two fur babies in bed. They’re sure to keep me sleeping like a baby year round.
As for giving back, I'm a photographer at heart.
I don’t know why, but photography is in my blood. With that, I think that the art of photography as a fine art and as a part of history are so important to have, cherish and bolster. Consider donating to organizations who help to elevate photography and photographers like the Florida Museum of Photographic Arts in Tampa this year, detailed at FMOPA.org.
Creative Designer
As a teenager I was an avid reader, someone who always had a book and was constantly at the library. While I am no longer reading around 50 books a year, I haven't lost my love for it, so I’d love to get a pair of books this year. Namely, “Spin the Dawn” and “Unravel the Dusk” by Elizabeth Lim, available for $12.99 and $13.99 at Barnes & Noble. There’s nothing better than being able to curl up with a book, a blanket and a warm beverage on a cold Winter day.
I think I'm paying a lot of homage to my childhood this year because I would also like to ask for a new keyboard piano from Loog. I started playing the keyboard when I was around eight years old and had the same one until earlier this year. For the first time in over 15 years, I do not own my favorite instrument and am getting desperate to play the few things I know how.
Their piano is $249 and small enough to work
with my space to let me play again. Without getting too socialist on everyone, I am someone who believes everyone deserves a home; a place to feel safe, secure and relaxed. So this year I want to spotlight Homeless Services Network of Central Florida, detailed at HSNCFL.org. Being able to donate time, money or resources is a great help and what the season is really about. Helping our communities strengthens them and creates a better place for all of us.
Coordinator
This year I would love a $50 gift card for a shopping spree at the New Romantics bookstore in Winter Park. It's an adorable romance-only bookstore that is woman owned and operated. My to-beread list gets longer every hour and I would love to add more physical copies to my shelves!
As for a gift that’s over $50, I’d love to plant myself in the Outdoor Double Oversized Egg Chair on my patio. I want a cozy place to unwind, read, drink tea and just rest at the end of the day and these are $389.99 at Wayfair.
My nonprofit of choice is Stand In Pride, which you can learn more about at StandInPride.org. Their base mission is to connect LGBTQ+ individuals who need support and community when their biological
family doesn't rise to the occasion. Community members can reach out for all sorts of milestones from weddings, birthdays, holidays and more — there’s even an app where any member of the community can select a radius around them and find people locally to build a supportive, inclusive family.
Over the years I have amassed a Skeletor collection from “He-Man and the Masters of the Universe.” It includes figures from the original 80's line, the current series and even some special limitededition figures. Mattel recently partnered with Hasbro to create the “Masters of the Universe” X “Transformers” Megatron Armor Skeleton Action Figure, a variant mash-up that’s total 80s nostalgia! It’s $33 at Mattel.com and my first pick!
Daisy Chamberlin Account Manager
For those who know me, it’s no secret that caffeine is my most prominent vice. I start most mornings with a cup of coffee, and when it’s something local and thoughtfully roasted, it feels even more special. That’s why I would love a bag of Colombia, Julio Calderón Coffee Beans from Lineage Coffee Roasting in Orlando this year. You can pick up a bag at for $21 at LineageRoasting.com. When it comes to a bigger gift, I’d be over the moon with a ticket to Opera Orlando’s “Silent Night” at the Dr. Phillips Center. This Pulitzer Prize-winning opera tells the story of
When it comes to something over $50, it’s no lie — Danny needs a vacation and I’d love a Mediterranean cruise. Having sailed with Celebrity Cruises before, I know how LGBTQ+-friendly and inclusive they are. This holiday season, get me on the Celebrity Xcel for a 7-night cruise to Greece, Malta, and
Turkey, departing from Barcelona. They start at $2,102 per person, a gift worth dreaming about!
We all know local nonprofits are struggling at both the state and federal levels, but organizations like The LGBT+ Center Orlando continue to show resilience by offering vital services despite funding cuts. It’s heartbreaking to see people turned away when the Center’s food pantry shelves run bare. If you’re able to give, please consider supporting them. They’ve always been there for the LGBTQ+ community — and for anyone in need. Let’s ensure they can keep serving for years to come by visiting TheCenterOrlando.org.
the 1914 Christmas Truce during World War I, when soldiers on opposite sides laid down their weapons to share a moment of peace. Ticket prices vary at DrPhillipsCenter.org. Since the holidays are about giving back, I’d also like to spotlight The Center Orlando. Since 1978, it has been a cornerstone for Central Florida’s LGBTQ+ community, offering everything from HIV testing and counseling to social groups and advocacy. I’ve seen firsthand how vital their work is in creating a safe, affirming space for so many. Supporting them during the holidays helps ensure that our community continues to thrive. Learn more at TheCenterOrlando.org. Happy Holidays!
Advent calendars have been a holiday tradition for centuries, with the first chocolate advent calendar being made by Cadbury in 1958. Since then, companies have been coming up with new and inventive ideas to make the days leading up to Christmas even more special.
In recent years, they have become viral sensations, with many boxes selling out in the early fall due to high demand. Here are some options for all ages that you may want to check out this season before they’re gone.
Beauty
Sephora Beauty Favorites
$99, $269 Value
This advent calendar contains beauty products for body, hair, skin and nails with 25 miniature to full-size products. They include high-end makeup products from brands such as HUDA BEAUTY, Benefit and Charlette Tilbury. They also feature tester sizes of perfumes like Armani Beauty “My Way,” Sol De Janeiro “Cheirosa 68” and Skylar “Vanilla Sky.” For this price you can’t find anything better.
Toys
LEGO Advent Calendars
$44.99
With a wide range of LEGO advent calendars, each set includes 24 gifts that can be built to resemble popular characters creating a themed set when completed. Options for this year include "Star Wars,” "LEGO Friends" and Disney’s “Frozen." They’re recommended for ages 5-7+.
Disney Table Scraps Advent Calendar
$24.99
Pets deserve some love too. This calendar from Chewy has Disney-themed treats for dogs with 25 days of jerky treats with duck, turkey, chicken and beef holidayinspired flavors. These treats have no wheat, corn, soy, or artificial flavors and colors. Artwork on the box showcases iconic Disney dogs like Pluto in snowy dog houses. It’s perfect for Disney lovers!
Wine In Good Taste Advent Calendar
$131.99
Food
Bonne Maman Advent Calendar
$54.99
Featured on “The Today Show,” the In Good Taste advent calendar includes 24 mini-sized bottles of all blends from different areas across the globe. Accompanied by daily tasting videos, this calendar mixes it up every day to introduce different regions and tastes. There are also options to make your wine box full of specific blends like a red wine box, a white with rosé box and a pricier luxury wine box.
Tea
Adagio Tea Advent Calendar
$34
Bonne Maman jams and spreads curated a 24 limited-edition mini spread advent calendar for the 2025 season after going viral online last year. This collection includes special holiday flavors like caramel with vanilla, strawberry with passion fruit and blueberry with maple syrup. Each spread is packaged in a holiday themed box, meant to be repurposed for gifting to friends and family throughout the holidays.
The Adagio Tea advent calendar contains 24 servings of tea meant to sip your way through every day in December with fresh cup. Options range from decaf, caffeinated, loose or teabag variations. Flavors consist of holiday specials like Christmas, candy cane, reindeer fuel and gingerbread.
Everyone knows the holidays are magical, but that’s particularly true at the Zubrick Magic Theatre. Celebrated illusionists and husbands Chris and Ryan Zubrick make sure of it.
From Nov. 13 through Jan. 4, 2026, the dynamic duo will transform their St. Petersburg theatre into a winter wonderland for their annual Holiday Spectacular. It’s a signature part of their year-round programming, a 70-minute holiday performance ideal for both new and repeat visitors.
It’s billed as “a heartwarming, high-energy celebration filled with festive illusions, dazzling surprises and holiday cheer for all ages” with indoor snow, “a jolly surprise guest” and “jaw-dropping illusions, audience participation and cutting-edge video projection."
They call it “a performance that perfectly captures the spirit of the season — with a touch of magic.” The trick, of course, is to “secure your tickets now before they… disappear!”
Watermark Out News checked in with the Zubricks for the holiday season, who were more than happy to share some tips for making sure your holiday’s full of magic. Check them out here.
1. Experience the “Holiday Spectacular” at the Zubrick Magic Theatre
It’s at the top of our list every year! The show is a tradition for us — and we might be a little biased — but there’s something truly special about watching families laugh, gasp and experience the wonder of the holidays together.
2. Capture a new holiday photo together
Every year, we hire a photographer to snap a festive, holiday-inspired photo for our Christmas cards. It’s one of our favorite traditions — and honestly, nothing beats receiving real mail from the post office!
3. Cozy movie nights are a must
When the lights are low and the cocoa is hot, we love curling up to watch our favorite holiday movies. “Elf” and “Home Alone” are always on repeat in our house — because some classics never lose their magic.
4. Deck the halls (and the theatre!)
We love starting our decorating right after Halloween, filling our home — and especially the theatre — with trees, garland and festive trimmings. It sets the mood for the season and makes everything feel a little
5. Enjoy local holiday festivities and performances
From shows like “A Drag Queen Christmas” to driving through local light displays, we love experiencing the magic of the season beyond our own home. For a Central Florida getaway, we recommend Disney’s Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios with an overnight stay at one of the festively decorated Disney hotels!
Learn about the Zubrick Magic Theatre’s “Holiday Spectacular” at ZubrickMagic.com and see local events on p. 26.
othing says Happy Holidays like spending time enjoying the season, either solo or surrounded by loved ones. That's why we’ve gathered this list of seasonal outings to enjoy this year.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, select days Nov. 7-Dec. 21, Magic Kingdom, Orlando. 407939-5277; DisneyWorld. Disney.Go.com
SeaWorld’s Christmas Celebration, select days Nov. 7-Jan. 5, 2026, SeaWorld, Orlando. 407545-5550; SeaWorld.com/ Orlando
Disney’s Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios, select days Nov. 8-Dec. 22, Hollywood Studios, Orlando. 407-939-5277; DisneyWorld.Disney. Go.com
Dinos in Lights, Nov. 8-Jan. 6, 2026, Orlando Science Center, Orlando. 407-5142000; OSC.org
Festival of Trees, Nov. 14-23, Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando. 407-896-4231; OMART.org
Holidays at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Nov. 14-Dec. 31, Animal Kingdom, Orlando. 407-939-5277; DisneyWorld.Disney. Go.com
Christmas at Gaylord Palms, Nov. 14-Jan. 7, 2026, Gaylord Palms Resort, Kissimmee. 407-586-0000; GaylordPalms.com
Asian Lantern Festival: Into the Wild, Nov. 14-Jan. 18, 2026, Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, Orlando. 407-323-4450; CentralFloridaZoo.org
“Mannheim Steamroller Christmas,” Nov. 15, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Festival of Trees: A Season of Celebration, Nov. 15-23, Orlando Museum of Art, Orlando. 407-896-4231; OMArt.org
“Handel’s Messiah,” Nov. 16, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
“Christmas Vacation” with Chevy Chase, Nov. 21, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Holidays at Universal Orlando, Nov. 21-Jan. 4, 2026, Universal Resort, Orlando. 407-224-4233; UniversalOrlando.com
"Irving Berlin’s Holiday Inn," Nov. 21-Dec. 14, Athens Theatre, DeLand. 386-7361500; AthensDeLand.com
"A Christmas Carol: The Musical," Nov. 21-Dec. 14, Henegar Center, Melbourne. 321-723-8698;
HenegarCenter.com
Central Florida Ballet presents "A Christmas Nutcracker Tale," Nov. 21-22, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Colorful Christmas, Nov. 22-Jan. 5, 2026, Crayola Experience, Orlando. 407-757-1700; CrayolaExperience.com/ Orlando
Lindsey Stirling “The Snow Waltz Tour,” Nov. 26, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
"A Christmas Carol," Nov. 26-Dec. 24, Orlando Shakes, Orlando. 407-4471700; OrlandoShakes.org
EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays and Candlelight Processional, Nov. 28-Dec. 30, Epcot, Walt Disney World. 407939-5277; DisneyWorld. Disney.go.com
Dazzling Lights, Nov. 28-Jan. 4, Harry P. Leu Gardens, Orlando. 407-246-2620; DazzlingOrlando.com
“Home for the Holidays,” Nov. 29, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-3586603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Now Snowing, Nov. 29Dec. 25, Celebration Town Center, Celebration. 407-566-4007; CelebrationTownCenter. com
"Plaid Tidings," Dec. 4-21, Theater Winter Haven, Winter Haven. 863-294-7469; TheaterWinterHaven.com
Christmas in the Park, Dec. 4, Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, Orlando. 407-645-5311; MorseMuseum.org
Orlando Ballet’s “The Nutcracker,” Dec. 5-24, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Light Up Sanford, Dec. 5, Magnolia Square, Sanford. 407-688-5000; SanfordFL. gov
“Tis The Season,” Dec. 6, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
“Holiday Harmonies,” Dec. 6, The Plaza Live, Orlando. 407-358-6344; PlazaLiveOrlando.org
Winter Park Christmas Parade, Dec. 6, Park Ave., Winter Park. 407-6448281; WinterPark.org
Holidays at LEGOLAND, Dec. 6-31, LEGOLAND, Winter Haven. 888-6905346; LEGOLand.com
"A Deloris Scrud Christmas," Dec. 7; 13-14, SAVOY, Orlando. 407-496-4253; SAVOYOrlando.com
Trans-Siberian Orchestra, Dec. 13, Kia Center, Orlando. 407-440-7900; KiaCenter.com
“The Light of Christmas,” Dec. 14, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-3586603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
Pentatonix, Dec. 16, Kia Center, Orlando. 407-4407900; KiaCenter.com
“Holidays in the Sunshine City,” Through Jan. 2025, Locations vary, St. Petersburg. 727-893-7441; StPeteParksRec. org/HolidayEvents
“A Charlie Brown Christmas” Live, Nov. 12, Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg. 727-892-5767; TheMahaffey.com
Mannheim Steamroller, Nov. 13, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727-791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com
Zubrick Magic Theatre Holiday Spectacular, Nov. 13-Jan. 4, 2026, Zubrick Magic Theatre, St. Petersburg. 866-9827425; ZubrickMagic.com
Christmas Town, Nov. 15-Jan. 5, Busch Gardens, Tampa. 813884-4386; Busch Gardens.com/ Tampa
“A Magical Cirque Christmas,” Nov. 16, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com
Centro Ybor Winter Spectacular, Nov. 20, Ybor City. 813-248-3712; Ybor.org
Winter Village, Nov. 21-Jan. 6, 2026, Curtis Hixon Park, Tampa. WinterVillageTampa.com
Tampa Bay Holiday Market, Nov. 22-23, The Coliseum, St. Petersburg. 727-893-8523; TampaBayHolidayMarket.com
“Holiday Spectacular: Warm Wishes,” Dec. 18-21, Henegar Center, Melbourne. 321-723-8698; HenegarCenter.com
Holiday Matsuri 2025, Dec. 19-21, Orange County Convention Center, Orlando. 407-685-9800; HolidayMatsuri.com
Lindsey Sterling: “Snow Waltz Holiday Tour,” Nov. 25, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727-791-7400; RuthEckerdHall. com
Tampa Bay's Festival of Lights & Santa's Village, Nov. 27-Dec. 28, Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, Brandon. 813-7373247; HillsboroughCountyFair. com
Holiday Lights & Carnival Rides, Nov. 27-Jan. 4, 2026, Central Park, Largo. 727-5876720; PlayLargo.com
“A Christmas Story, The Musical,” Nov. 28-30, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org
Holiday Lights in the Gardens 2025, Nov. 28-Jan. 3, 2026, Florida Botanical Gardens, Largo. 727-5822117; FLBGFoundation.org/ HolidayLights
“Dave Koz & Friends Christmas,” Nov. 29, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com
Christmas in the Wild, select nights Nov. 29-Dec. 31, ZooTampa at Lowry Park, Tampa. 813-395-8552; ZooTampa.org
CeCe Teneal: “Holiday Heartstrings,” Dec. 2021, Dr. Phillips Center, Orlando. 407-358-6603; DrPhillipsCenter.org
“A Drag Queen Christmas,” Dec. 21, Hard Rock Live, Orlando. 407-351-7625; Cafe.HardRock.com/ Orlando
Red and Green Gala: A Winter Wonderland
Celebration, Dec. 4, The Floridian Social, St. Petersburg. 727-342-0084; StPetePride.org
“A Christmas Carol: A Live Radio Play,” Dec. 4-23, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org
Handel’s Messiah, Dec. 5, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-2297827; StrazCenter.org
Holiday Village, Dec. 6, Carrollwood Village Park, Tampa. 813-922-8167; CarrollwoodCenter.org
The Florida Orchestra: “Holiday Brass,” Dec. 6-7, Multiple venues, Tampa Bay. 727892-3331; FloridaOrchestra.org
Kori Stevens’ Toys For Tots, Dec. 7 & 14, Bradley’s on 7th & Enigma, Tampa Bay. BradleysOn7th.com & EnigmaStPete.com
Vienna Light Orchestra, Dec. 10, Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg. 727-892-5767; TheMahaffey.com
Sarah Brightman “A Winter Symphony,” Dec. 12, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com
freeFalltheatre.com
“Cirque Musica: Holiday Wonderland,” Dec. 19, Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater. 727791-7400; RuthEckerdHall.com
The Florida Orchestra:
“Holiday Pops,” Dec. 19-21, Multiple venues, Tampa Bay. 727892-3331; FloridaOrchestra.org
Next Generation Ballet’s “Nutcracker,” Dec. 19-23, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-2297827; StrazCenter.org
Holiday Lighted Boat Parade, Dec. 20, Pirate Water Taxi Stop, Tampa. 813-2237999; PirateWaterTaxi.com
“A Very Broadway Christmas,” Dec. 21, Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg. 727-8925767; TheMahaffey.com
St. Pete Holiday Festival, Dec. 21, Albert Whitted Park, St. Petersburg. TheIndieFlea.com
“A Drag Queen Christmas,” Dec. 22, Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg. 727-892-5767; TheMahaffey.com
“Nutcracker! Magical Christmas Ballet,” Dec. 28, Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg. 727-892-5767; TheMahaffey.com
“Carolmania,” Dec. 4, Straz Center, Tampa. 813-229-7827; StrazCenter.org
“A Christmas Carol in Concert,” Dec. 12-14; 17-21; 23-24, freeFall Theatre, St. Petersburg. 727-498-5205;
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
CENTRAL FLORIDA COMMUNITY ARTS 407-937-1800 CFCArts.com
DUKE ENERGY CENTER FOR THE ARTS – MAHAFFEY THEATER 727-892-5767 TheMahaffey.com
FLORIDA STUDIO THEATRE 941-366-9000 FloridaStudioTheatre.org
LAKELAND COMMUNITY THEATRE 863-603-7529
LakelandCommunityTheatre.com
MURRAY & PETER PRESENTS –A DRAG QUEEN CHRISTMAS DragFans.com
OPERA ORLANDO 407-512-1900 OperaOrlando.org
ORLANDO FAMILY STAGE 407-896-7365 OrlandoFamilyStage.com
ORLANDO PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA 407-770-0071 OrlandoPhil.org
ORLANDO SHAKES 407-447-1700 OrlandoShakes.org
SARASOTA BALLET 941-359-0099 SarasotaBallet.org
ST PETE OPERA COMPANY 727-823-2040 StPeteOpera.org
THEATRE WINTER HAVEN 863-294-7469
TheatreWinterHaven.com
VENICE THEATRE 941-488-1115 VeniceTheatre.org
WANZIE PRESENTS
Facebook.com/WanziePresents
WINTER PARK PLAYHOUSE 407-645-0145
WinterParkPlayHouse.org
ZUBRICK MAGIC THEATRE 866-982-7425 ZubrickMagic.com
KEY CULINARY TOURS 941-893-4664
KeyCulinaryTours.com
THE JAMES MUSEUM OF WESTERN & WILDLIFE ART 727-892-4200
TheJamesMuseum.org
NEWS AND MEDIA
WATERMARK OUT NEWS
407-481-2243 | 813-655-9890
WatermarkOutNews.com
DYLAN TODD PHOTOGRAPHY 727-310-1212
DylanToddPhotography.com
WINE, WINE NOT: A QUEER PODCAST TheCultureRadio.com/WineWineNot
MILK MART
MilkMartOrlando.com
THE CIRCUS ARTS CONSERVATORY 941-355-9805 CircusArts.org
FIRST PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH ST PETE 727-822-2031 FPCStPete.com
ST LUKES UNITED METHODIST CHURCH 407-876-4991 St.Lukes.org
MIKE WOODS (MAGIC KEY GROUP) GALLERY PROPERTIES INTERNATIONAL 301-452-9328
MagicKeyOrlando.com
TED CISKE REALTOR – GALLERY PROPERTIES INTERNATIONAL 727-385-9192
TedCiske.com
MOVING & STORAGE
1776 MOVING AND STORANGE, INC. 407-251-4770 1776Moving.com
ORLANDO SCIENCE CENTER 407-514-2000 OSC.org
SHOPPING & RETAIL
GOLD AND DIAMOND SOURCE 727-573-9351
GoldAndDiamond.com
TRAVEL & TOURISM
DOWNTOWN DEVELOPMENT BOARD
DowntownOrlando.com/Holidays
I-DRIVE DISTRICT IDriveDistrict.com
