The South Florida Traveler » Stuart

Let the Festivities Begin!

Mon, 01 Dec 2008 15:23:14 +0000

However you celebrate the holidays, one thing is clear – they are quickly coming up and the festivities are on. Whether you are looking to take part in a tree lighting ceremony, a shopping extravaganza or want to watch a holiday parade, you have plenty of options. Here are some taking place this week:

Come down to Worth Avenue on Tuesday, December 2nd for The Worth Avenue Promenade and Town of Palm Beach Tree Lighting ceremony. The stores will extend their hours and will be offering free refreshments. While you are there, enjoy the complimentary music from local bands and choral groups. There will even be live ballerinas dancing in the windows. After the tree lighting ceremony, Santa will be available for some holiday surprises. Starts at 6:00 pm.
On December 3rd, there will be a tree lighting ceremony at Burns Road Community Center in Palm Beach Gardens. Music, jugglers, Santa and snow – They will all be there. Takes place at 6:00 pm, 4400 Burns Road in Palm Beach Gardens.
On December 4th, make your way down to Delray Beach for the 100-foot tree lighting ceremony. Watch in amazement as the 3,000 hand-fluffed branches, 39,500 ornaments and the 15,500 lights come to life. Even more amazing, is that there will be a place for outdoor ice skating – even in Florida! This event starts at 5:00 pm and takes place at Old School Square, 51 North Swinton Avenue.
On the weekend, head up to Stuart. Festivities begin on Friday, December 5th, with the Soroptomist Christmas parade ending in the historic downtown. Saturday during the day, head on over to Hobe Sound and Indiantown as their holiday parades are scheduled. During the evening, head on over to the shores of the Manatee Pocket in Port Salerno as there will be a military flyover by four F-18 jets. At 6:00 pm, there will be a boat parade featuring boats of all sizes to rev up that holiday cheer. The evening will conclude with an 8:00 pm fireworks display.
If you are located further south, you might want to check out the Holiday Fantasy of Lights taking place in Tradewinds Park in Coconut Creek now until January 4th. Daily from 6:00 – 10:oo pm, cars can make their way through this winter wonderland of more than 2 miles of illuminated lights. Cost is $12 for vehicles with 20 passengers or less.

photo credit: mandj98 @ flickr

Post from: The South Florida Traveler

The South Florida Traveler: Take 2

Sat, 01 Nov 2008 13:58:12 +0000

For the past few months, I have been busy blogging away at Southern Byways, but I am happy to let you know that I am back, and will be keeping you updated on the best of South Florida. And for those of you who missed me while I was gone, here’s a little sampling of what I was up to:

America in Bloom named Stuart, Florida, one of America’s most beautiful cities. They were noted for the special attention they pay towards environmental awareness. To find out what other cities made the list, check out my post.
Ready to Chill? Orlando just opened “the coldest place in town.” This frozen palace straight from Antarctica, titled Ice Bar Orlando, will whisk you away from the Florida sun and take you into a 27-degree nightspot.
What Travel Personality are You? This fun quiz will help you plan your perfect getaway by matching your personality to your ideal destination.
Dining Deals in South Florida and Nationwide: If you are looking for a way to cut your spending, without changing your lifestyle, you’ve come to the right place. These restaurant deals offer half-price or discount dining to favorite locations in the South Florida area.
Think Globally, Eat Locally: A look at the trend towards eating locally and a quick guide to area farmer’s markets.
Miami Shop! Are you looking for some new shops to checks out in the area, this is the perfect guide as Riki takes you on a walk of the best places to go.
Clowning Around: …and you thought you were too old to join the circus.

Stay tuned!

Photo Credit: Laurence & Annie @ flickr

Post from: The South Florida Traveler

Summer Treasures

Wed, 04 Jun 2008 02:21:11 +0000

Stuart, Florida – located in Martin County has a history that goes back to the 1700’s. This is when several Spanish galleons were shipwrecked due to a hurricane. These ships were carrying large quantities of gold and silver. Over the years, some of this treasure has been recovered, but more importantly this found treasure gave this area its name – Florida’s Treasure Coast.

This summer the Martin County Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) will go back to Martin County’s roots and launch a new program titled, ‘Summer Treasures’ for visitors to the area. This will give visitors a chance to find the hidden treasures of Martin County including such places as the beaches, places to go snorkeling, nature preserves and County Parks.

When guests book a “Summer Treasures” package at a participating hotel, they will receive a treasure map with a list or clues. The package will also include special discounts for things to do in the area.

Here’s a sneak peek at what they have in store:

X Marks the Spot: This self-guided treasure hunt will take guests from coast to coast discovering historical points, landmarks and area attractions. Participants will be eligible to wine a 6-day, 5-night vacation at the Hutchinson Island Marriott Resort and a $500 gas card.
During the month of July, 4 treasure chests will be hidden each day at various locations throughout the county. Should a visitor find one, all that they need to do is return it a special location, and they will receive special offers and discounts and be entered to win some”Treasure” jewelry.
Geocatching Treasure Hunt: Taking place on July 26th, treasure hunt fanatics will be using their GPS devices to find treasures throughout the city. Participants will have a chance to win a 3-day/2-night stay at Caribbean Shores Resort.

Click here for more information.

Photo [complimentary of Regan Communications]

Post from: The South Florida Traveler