From Santa Claus appearances to gift giveaways, the Winter Strawberry Capital of the World has no shortage of special occasions to celebrate the season. Take a look at a few we profiled to give you a more in-depth look at the fun you can have being home for the holidays.
Bourbon & Boweties Christmas Trunk Show
Durant High School alum Carley Ochs launched her jewelry brand, Bourbon & Boweties, over three years ago. Since then the pieces have been seen on the cover of magazines and on the arms of many around the United States. The signature bracelets are on high demand. One of the best ways to get your stockings stuffed with one is to go to a trunk show. Fringe Boutique will be hosting a show Tuesday, Dec. 8.
When: 4 to 8 p.m. Tuesday, Dec. 8
Where: Fringe Boutique, 601 E. Alexander St.
Contact: (813) 754-4438
Santa and the Red Caboose
Want a chance to meet Saint Nick? He will be making an appearance at the Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum. An unwrapped toy for donation to the Plant City Police Department toy drive gets you a picture with Santa. While you’re there, you’ll also have a chance to tour the big red caboose and museum, which is full of unique train memorabilia. To the south of the museum is a two-story train platform perfect for watching locomotives chug by.
When: 5 to 8 p.m. Friday, Dec. 11
Where: Robert W. Willaford Railroad Museum, 102 N. Palmer St.
Contact: (813) 719-6989
Say it with Music
The Eastern Hillsborough County Community Band is performing holiday favorites in two concerts, called Say it with Music, in eastern Hillsborough. Although none of the concert venues are in Plant City, you don’t have to travel far. Plus, there are many members of the band who are from Plant City. So, you might see a friendly face on stage. A $5 donation is suggested at the door. Reservations are not required.
When: First performance begins at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 10
Where: United Methodist Church of Sun City Center, 1210 Del Web Blvd. W.
When: Second performance begins at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 17
Where: First United Methodist Church of Brandon, 115 Knights Ave.
Contact: (813) 569-1771; info@ehcb.org; ehcb.org for more information
New Year’s Eve Watch Night Service
If you’re looking for a family-friendly, faith-based event to celebrate New Year’s Eve, there’s one right in town. Hopewell Baptist Church is hosting a New Year’s Eve Watch Night Service. The evening will include food, games, prayer, a bonfire and fellowship.
When: Begins at 7 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 31
Where: Hopewell Baptist Church, 6001 S. County Road 39
Contact: (813) 737-3053