By Kathy Collins
Grab family and friends and head over to Center Place in Brandon this November and December as they bring an array of fun holiday events to the area.
First up is the 9th Annual Santa’s Holiday Workshop on Saturday, November 21 beginning at 11 a.m. For just $10 children get to visit Santa’s Workshop. “This is a fun filled time of cookie decorating and creating Make It and Take It Holiday Crafts,” said Lisa Rodriguez, marketing director for Center Place. The event is for children 5-years and older. The event includes lunch from Chick-fi-A at Lake Brandon Village. Adults, who must accompany the children, can get a lunch ticket for $3. Tickets must be purchased in advance.
Next, on Wednesday, December 2 bring the entire family to the 31st Annual Christmas Tree Lighting at 7 p.m. This is a free community event. “Join us for the opening of the Christmas season in Brandon,” said Rodriguez.
The event will include special performances by local dance, theater and musical groups The evening will conclude with a special guest from the North Pole. Santa himself will light the tree.
On Sunday, December 6, Center Place will host its Fifth Annual Holiday Tea at 2:30 p.m. “Ladies, break out your hats and holiday attire and join us for our annual tea,” said Rodriguez. There will be entertainment by The Southern Company Chorus, a silent auction and prizes for the “Most Unique” and “Most Whimsical” hat and table decor.
Tickets are $35 per person, or you can be a table hostess for a table of eight for $250.
Center Place is presenting a Coloring Contest for children ages 3-5 and ages 6-8. Download the picture of Santa at www.centerplacebrandon.org, color it and submit your masterpiece by Monday, December 7. One lucky winner from each age group will win four tickets to the fantastic production of Santa’s Holiday Revue presented by Stages Productions which will be on Friday, December 11 at 7 p.m. Tickets are $7.
Finally, do not forget to visit Pat’s Corner during the week from Monday, December 7 through Friday, December 11 for holiday shopping. You can take advantage of a storewide 25 percent off discount and know that you are supporting children’s programming at Center Place. Center Place is located at 619 Vonderburg Dr. in Brandon.Visit www.centerplacebrandon.org or call 685-8888.
