Celebrate an Old-Fashioned Florida Cracker Christmas

There are not many folks who can boast that they have enjoyed an old-fashioned Florida Cracker Christmas.

Not exactly the white Christmas captured in snow globes, a Florida Cracker Christmas involves citrus pomanders, lacy Victorian cards, angel ornaments and beeswax candle dipping.

On Saturday, Dec. 10, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Manatee Village Historical Park will be decked in holiday colors and Victorian-era decor for the holiday event.

Artisans and skilled craftsmen will be on hand to demonstrate chair caning, basket making, carving and scrapbooking.

Here is a list of exhibits and activities:

• GF&F (Geis Family and Friends) rare N gauge Alaska model railroad layout created from unique materials and components from all over the world;
• Vintage Vogue ladies fashion exhibit with live models Tracie L. Arnold and Lisa Hiller of Past and Present Creations, a historical clothing reproduction business;
• Southeast High School Chamber Orchestra and the King Crusader Band Ensembles;
• Peace Lutheran School’s Junior Chimes;
• Roving quartets from the Gulf Coast Sandpiper Barbershop Chorus.

There is a Special Event Admission of $5 for Adults; children twelve and under are free. Proceeds for this event support continued community and educational programs of the Manatee County Historical Commission. Parking is free.

For event information or directions to the Park located at 1404 Manatee Avenue East, (State Road 64) Bradenton, Florida, please call: 941-741-4075.