Good advice is priceless. And here is some real gold dust from Carmel Snyder, the Family Travel Examiner from examiner.com. Find out more about her and read all her articles here.
If anything can create angst on a family trip, it’s checking in baggage at the airport. Most airlines now charge per bag, and have size and weight restrictions on top of the TSA travel restrictions.
Not only will packing wisely save money, it will also cut down on other problems such as all your bags not fitting in the taxi or rental car.
Adopt the Girl Scout motto "Be prepared".
Every family member – with parental supervision for the young ones – should make a list of what they want and need to take on the trip. Make the list, check it twice, and cut it down.
Pick a suitcase – ideally one suitcase per two family members – measure to ensure that it complies with airline regulations.
So much to bring, so little room
One of the biggest contributors to suitcase weight is toiletries. Buy the small travel size of your favorites, or put some of your must-have conditioner into a small plastic bottle that you can pick up at most stores. Condense. Take an item, such as lotion, that you can use for a variety of things.
Shoes are another big weight contributor. A good pair of walking shoes, and a pair of flip-flops should be all you need for a family vacation in Florida. Of course, add the dressy pair of shoes if you know you have an event to attend.
Consider the climate. Evenings, even in summer can get cool. Take into account what you will be doing most of the time.Don’t forget, most hotels offer laundry service or have laundry facilities on the premises. Pack lightly and do laundry in the middle of the week. If you plan right, you can do a load in an hour while you read your book or local paper without interruptions from the kids, who surely won’t want to follow you down to the laundry room.
The carry-on bag
Carry-on bags should be light enough that kids can carry their own.
For kids: A coloring book and colors, or hand-held video games or reading material for older kids. A snack – no liquids, you can buy those after you go through security – most airlines don’t provide snacks anymore. Sunglasses, a hat, and a light jacket also are handy.
And, just in case the airline loses a bag or your family gets bumped on your connecting flight -- in a sealable bag, bring a clean T-shirt or dress and underwear. The change of clothes doesn’t have to be complete, but being able to change into a clean T-shirt and underwear goes a long way to making you feel better.
Adults: Reading material or whatever keeps you entertained, your own snack and minimal change of clothes. Pack your prescription and over-the-counter meds. No need to bring that 100-count bottle of pain reliever. Pack a few in a clearly labeled pill box.
Other items that are great to stick in your carry on: Extra pens and paper, band-aids, small bottle of antibacterial gel.Use common sense when you pack. If you know it’s going to be a close call getting under the weight limit, pack a lighter pair of khakis versus the jean shorts. Think small.
Don’t forget to bring your photo I.D., passports and tickets! Making a travel folder, that includes printed out reservation confirmations for hotels and sticking all the important items in the pockets also makes travel easier.
After all is packed. Weigh your bags. Review your list.
Tuesday 31 March 2009
Friday 27 March 2009
What's going on ... in May
Here's another of those completely useful guides to what's going on in Central Florida this month from the good folks at the Sun-Sentinel. Check out their full list here
Thanks fellas, keep up the good work! (Hope you don't mind us using the links...)
Apr. 29-May 3: Sunscreen Film Festival, St. Petersburg. Over the course of five days, Sunscreen will showcase more than 50 films, including comedies, dramas, music videos, student films and documentaries from around the world. Additionally, the festival will host multiple parties, workshops and panels with celebrities and special guests from the film industry. Venues include BayWalk and other locations throughout St. Petersburg. Admission. 727-259-8417. www.sunscreenfilmfestival.com
Apr. 30-May 3: World of Nations Celebration, Jacksonville. Celebration of rich cultural traditions and unique heritage of people from around the world, where you can experience the cuisine, artistry and customs from lands near and far. At. Metropolitan Park. Admission. International Party on May 1 is free. 904-630-3690. www.coj.net/Departments/Recreation+and+Community+Services/Special+Events/World+of+Nations/Default.htm
May 1-2: Smoke n' Blues, Bikes and BBQ, St. Cloud. Florida BBQ Association sanctioned competition for both pros and backyard teams. Festivities include live blues entertainment, bike show, crafts, children's play area, BBQ vendors and much more. At St. Cloud Lakefront. Free admission. 407-498-0008. www.stcloudmainstreetflorida.org
May 1-2: Planes, Trains and Barbeque, Tavares. Enjoy train rides, a Red Bull racing airplane, seaplanes, and tasty barbeque from competitors vying for top honors in this Florida BBQ Association-sanctioned competition. Event was inaugurated last year. At Wooton Park. Free admission; all rides $5. 352-394-8618. http://www.flbbq.org/contest.htm
May 2: Planes, Trains and Barbeque, Tavares. Enjoy train rides filled with robbers at this event inaugurated last year. On land, barbeque rules as Florida BBQ Association-sanctioned competition heats up. At Wooten Park. Admission. 352-394-8618. http://www.flbbq.org/contest.htm
May 2: Concert Under the Stars at Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales. Moonlight concert on the Great Lawn with a performance by the Imperial Symphony Orchestra and the Singing Tower carillon. Admission. 863-676-1408. www.boktowergardens.org/
May 2: Taste of Inverness, Inverness. A night of food and wine sampling while enjoying artwork and music, held the first Saturday in May. This is the third annual. It began in 2006 with the opening of Inverness Government Center, and last year featured 10 restaurants serving up everything from Cubans and pasta to ice cream and pizza. At Inverness Government Square. 352-726-2611 x1309. http://www.inverness-fl.gov/index.asp?NID=298
May 2-3: Ruskin Tomato and Heritage Festival, Ruskin. Held annually the first weekend in May. Free tomato slices and free tomato plants, while supplies last, and a wide variety of heirloom and other tomatoes to sample. Also includes a blacksmith, wood carvers, spinners, quilt makers and a Frontiersman Camp setup. Among Cracker food offered will be catfish and hush puppies, fried green tomatoes, grits, swamp cabbage and more. At E.G. Simmons Park. Admission. 813-645-6028. http://ruskinfoundation.org/festival.html
May 3: Taste of Mount Dora, Mount Dora. A spectacular evening of culinary delights prepared by Mount Dora's finest restaurants. At Chamber of Commerce. Admission. 352-383-2165. www.mountdora.com/events.php
May 8-10: Cotee River Seafood Festival, Bright House Networks Boat Show, and Blues by the River, New Port Richey. Event combining live Blues music with tasty seafood and beautiful boats, plus an arts and crafts fair and activities for the entire family. Also offered are fishing and boating demonstrations, boat tours, and children's games and activities. At Sims Park and Orange Lake. VIP seating for Blues Concert available. Most, but not all, activities are free. 727-842-8066. www.nprmainstreet.com
May 9: Sand Sculpture Contest, Siesta Key. Annual event where children and adults alike compete for cash prizes for first, second and third place in several categories of competition. Sponsored by Sarasota County Parks and Recreation and the Pelican Press. At Siesta Key Public Beach. Free. 941-349-1911. http://siestakeychamber.com/events.php
May 9-10: Mayfaire-by-the-Lake, Lakeland. Begun in 1974 as a crafts fair on the lawn of the Lakeland Public Library, this event has grown into one of Florida's premier outdoor art festivals. Held on Mother's Day weekend each year, Mayfaire is located on the shores of beautiful Lake Morton in the downtown area, and is one of the largest and oldest outdoor art festivals in Central Florida. Lake Morton Drive. Free. 863-688-7743. www.PolkMuseumofArt.org
May 9-10: Jazz on the Vineyard Green, Clermont. Live jazz music, free tours and wine tasting, and food and beverages available for purchase. At Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards. Admission. 800-768-WINE. www.lakeridgewinery.com
May 14-17: Forks and Corks Food and Wine Festival, Sarasota. World-class weekend of food and wine including vintner dinners, a late-night kick-off soiree, and The Grand Tasting with visiting wineries, food demonstrations, delicious samples, live entertainment and a charity auction. At various venues along the Suncoast. Admission varies per event. 941-955-3663. www.freshoriginals.com/forksandcorks/events.php
May 15-17: Wild Amelia Nature Festival, Amelia Island. Educates residents and visitors about the bioregion, and encourages stewardship of the area's natural resources. Started in 2006 by a group of residents who realized that Amelia Island's unique position of being almost surrounded by State and National Parks made it the perfect place for a nature festival. This year's focus is on the Northern Right Whale, which comes to the waters off Amelia Island each year to give birth. Wide variety of tours and outings offered, ranging in price from free to $80. 904-251-0016. www.wildamelia.com
May 16: Arcadia Watermelon Festival, Arcadia. Held annually in May, which is height of watermelon harvesting season. Features a variety of pageants, contests, vendors and activities. Downtown. Free admission. 863-494-2020. www.arcadiamainstreet.com/events.htm
May 16: Blueberry Bluegrass Festival, Lake Placid. Day filled with blueberry treats of all kinds, from shakes and shortcakes to fritters, pies and more, and the sounds of live Bluegrass/Country music. Also offered is the farm's walking tour feeding the chickens, a presentation in the winery, and complimentary cheese and wine tasting. Lawn chairs and umbrellas recommended. At Henscratch Farms. Admission. 863-699-2060. www.henscratchfarms.com
May 17: Annual Blueberry Bash, Lake Placid. Blueberry pancake breakfast with bluegrass music, and arts and crafts for sale. All things blueberry are offered: blueberry wine, blueberry muffins, blueberry fritters, blueberry jams and blueberry syrup. At Henscratch Farms. Free. 863-699-2060. www.henscratchfarms.com
May 23: Red, White and Brew, Daytona Beach. This third annual event takes place on Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. It takes advantage of the summer Boardwalk fireworks program kick-off, and features live music, food vendors, food courts, giant inflatables, giveaways and radio station live remotes. Each of Main Street's bars and restaurants showcase up to seven American Microbreweries. The micro-brews are on sale in both sample and full sizes. 386-255-9300. www.whog.fm
May 23: Art Walk on Flagler Avenue, New Smyrna Beach. Features, in the five blocks between the Indian River and the ocean, a variety of interesting and unique art works by resident and visiting artists. Also entertainment, demonstrations and free prize drawing. Held fourth Saturday each month January-June. Free. 386-428-1770. www.flaglergallerygroup.com
May 23-24: Tampa Travel Show and Tastes of the World, Tampa. High-energy show consisting of 450+ travel- and culinary-based exhibitors, special appearances by celebrity chefs, travel experts, adventure activities such as rock climbing and on-site scuba lessons, and professional live entertainment. At Tampa Convention Center. Free. 877-STL-TRAVEL or 314-481-8100 x109. http://tampaadventureexpo.com/
May 23-24: Market Fest at Water Tower Place, Celebration. Art, crafts, food. At W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy and Celebration Blvd. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
May 23-25: Blue Crab Festival, Palatka. Florida's largest Memorial Day celebration. Includes Memorial Day Parade, seafood cook-off, live entertainment, helicopter and airboat rides, arts and crafts, antiques, and more. Downtown. Free admission. 386-325-4406. www.bluecrabfestival.com
May 25: Memorial Day Celebration and Remembrance, Cocoa. Old-fashioned Memorial Day celebration featuring a variety of speakers, musicians and more. Food and beverages will be available for sale. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets. At Riverfront Park in downtown Cocoa Village. Free admission. 321-631-9075. www.cocoavillage.com
May 28: Memorial Day Concerts at Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales. Half-hour carillon concerts at 1 and 3 p.m. present a musical salute to the nation's veterans and current members of America's armed forces. To honor the military, free admission will be offered to all branches of the military as well as active, retired and disabled veterans. 863-676-1408. www.boktowergardens.org/
May 29-31: Mount Dora Blues and Wine Festival, Mount Dora. Sample wines from the best vineyards and listen to Blues artists and groups. At Lakeside Inn. Admission. 352-383-2165. www.mountdora.com/events.php
May 30: Picnic in the Vineyard, Lake Placid. Henscratch Farms hosts an end of season picnic for the community. Activities include a tour of the winery and a video of the winemaking process, plus complimentary wine tasting with cheese and nibbles. Entertainment by the "Front Porch Fiddlers" is scheduled 11am -2pm. It is blueberry u-pick season on the farm and the ice cream shack will be open for creamy Blueberry & Strawberry treats to enjoy with lunch . Guests may tour the farm by strolling through the nine flagged educational stations, complete a scavenger hunt and feed the 101 free range hens. Door prizes and giveaways will be awarded every 15 minutes. It's all for free. 863-699-2060. www.henscratchfarms.com
May 31-June 1: Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival, Sarasota. More than 100 talented crafters display their wares, from baskets and homemade soaps to jewelry and much more. On Main Street downtown. Free. 941-957-1877. http://www.escape-to-sarasota.com/sarasota-calendar-of-events.html
Thanks fellas, keep up the good work! (Hope you don't mind us using the links...)
Apr. 29-May 3: Sunscreen Film Festival, St. Petersburg. Over the course of five days, Sunscreen will showcase more than 50 films, including comedies, dramas, music videos, student films and documentaries from around the world. Additionally, the festival will host multiple parties, workshops and panels with celebrities and special guests from the film industry. Venues include BayWalk and other locations throughout St. Petersburg. Admission. 727-259-8417. www.sunscreenfilmfestival.com
Apr. 30-May 3: World of Nations Celebration, Jacksonville. Celebration of rich cultural traditions and unique heritage of people from around the world, where you can experience the cuisine, artistry and customs from lands near and far. At. Metropolitan Park. Admission. International Party on May 1 is free. 904-630-3690. www.coj.net/Departments/Recreation+and+Community+Services/Special+Events/World+of+Nations/Default.htm
May 1-2: Smoke n' Blues, Bikes and BBQ, St. Cloud. Florida BBQ Association sanctioned competition for both pros and backyard teams. Festivities include live blues entertainment, bike show, crafts, children's play area, BBQ vendors and much more. At St. Cloud Lakefront. Free admission. 407-498-0008. www.stcloudmainstreetflorida.org
May 1-2: Planes, Trains and Barbeque, Tavares. Enjoy train rides, a Red Bull racing airplane, seaplanes, and tasty barbeque from competitors vying for top honors in this Florida BBQ Association-sanctioned competition. Event was inaugurated last year. At Wooton Park. Free admission; all rides $5. 352-394-8618. http://www.flbbq.org/contest.htm
May 2: Planes, Trains and Barbeque, Tavares. Enjoy train rides filled with robbers at this event inaugurated last year. On land, barbeque rules as Florida BBQ Association-sanctioned competition heats up. At Wooten Park. Admission. 352-394-8618. http://www.flbbq.org/contest.htm
May 2: Concert Under the Stars at Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales. Moonlight concert on the Great Lawn with a performance by the Imperial Symphony Orchestra and the Singing Tower carillon. Admission. 863-676-1408. www.boktowergardens.org/
May 2: Taste of Inverness, Inverness. A night of food and wine sampling while enjoying artwork and music, held the first Saturday in May. This is the third annual. It began in 2006 with the opening of Inverness Government Center, and last year featured 10 restaurants serving up everything from Cubans and pasta to ice cream and pizza. At Inverness Government Square. 352-726-2611 x1309. http://www.inverness-fl.gov/index.asp?NID=298
May 2-3: Ruskin Tomato and Heritage Festival, Ruskin. Held annually the first weekend in May. Free tomato slices and free tomato plants, while supplies last, and a wide variety of heirloom and other tomatoes to sample. Also includes a blacksmith, wood carvers, spinners, quilt makers and a Frontiersman Camp setup. Among Cracker food offered will be catfish and hush puppies, fried green tomatoes, grits, swamp cabbage and more. At E.G. Simmons Park. Admission. 813-645-6028. http://ruskinfoundation.org/festival.html
May 3: Taste of Mount Dora, Mount Dora. A spectacular evening of culinary delights prepared by Mount Dora's finest restaurants. At Chamber of Commerce. Admission. 352-383-2165. www.mountdora.com/events.php
May 8-10: Cotee River Seafood Festival, Bright House Networks Boat Show, and Blues by the River, New Port Richey. Event combining live Blues music with tasty seafood and beautiful boats, plus an arts and crafts fair and activities for the entire family. Also offered are fishing and boating demonstrations, boat tours, and children's games and activities. At Sims Park and Orange Lake. VIP seating for Blues Concert available. Most, but not all, activities are free. 727-842-8066. www.nprmainstreet.com
May 9: Sand Sculpture Contest, Siesta Key. Annual event where children and adults alike compete for cash prizes for first, second and third place in several categories of competition. Sponsored by Sarasota County Parks and Recreation and the Pelican Press. At Siesta Key Public Beach. Free. 941-349-1911. http://siestakeychamber.com/events.php
May 9-10: Mayfaire-by-the-Lake, Lakeland. Begun in 1974 as a crafts fair on the lawn of the Lakeland Public Library, this event has grown into one of Florida's premier outdoor art festivals. Held on Mother's Day weekend each year, Mayfaire is located on the shores of beautiful Lake Morton in the downtown area, and is one of the largest and oldest outdoor art festivals in Central Florida. Lake Morton Drive. Free. 863-688-7743. www.PolkMuseumofArt.org
May 9-10: Jazz on the Vineyard Green, Clermont. Live jazz music, free tours and wine tasting, and food and beverages available for purchase. At Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards. Admission. 800-768-WINE. www.lakeridgewinery.com
May 14-17: Forks and Corks Food and Wine Festival, Sarasota. World-class weekend of food and wine including vintner dinners, a late-night kick-off soiree, and The Grand Tasting with visiting wineries, food demonstrations, delicious samples, live entertainment and a charity auction. At various venues along the Suncoast. Admission varies per event. 941-955-3663. www.freshoriginals.com/forksandcorks/events.php
May 15-17: Wild Amelia Nature Festival, Amelia Island. Educates residents and visitors about the bioregion, and encourages stewardship of the area's natural resources. Started in 2006 by a group of residents who realized that Amelia Island's unique position of being almost surrounded by State and National Parks made it the perfect place for a nature festival. This year's focus is on the Northern Right Whale, which comes to the waters off Amelia Island each year to give birth. Wide variety of tours and outings offered, ranging in price from free to $80. 904-251-0016. www.wildamelia.com
May 16: Arcadia Watermelon Festival, Arcadia. Held annually in May, which is height of watermelon harvesting season. Features a variety of pageants, contests, vendors and activities. Downtown. Free admission. 863-494-2020. www.arcadiamainstreet.com/events.htm
May 16: Blueberry Bluegrass Festival, Lake Placid. Day filled with blueberry treats of all kinds, from shakes and shortcakes to fritters, pies and more, and the sounds of live Bluegrass/Country music. Also offered is the farm's walking tour feeding the chickens, a presentation in the winery, and complimentary cheese and wine tasting. Lawn chairs and umbrellas recommended. At Henscratch Farms. Admission. 863-699-2060. www.henscratchfarms.com
May 17: Annual Blueberry Bash, Lake Placid. Blueberry pancake breakfast with bluegrass music, and arts and crafts for sale. All things blueberry are offered: blueberry wine, blueberry muffins, blueberry fritters, blueberry jams and blueberry syrup. At Henscratch Farms. Free. 863-699-2060. www.henscratchfarms.com
May 23: Red, White and Brew, Daytona Beach. This third annual event takes place on Saturday of Memorial Day weekend. It takes advantage of the summer Boardwalk fireworks program kick-off, and features live music, food vendors, food courts, giant inflatables, giveaways and radio station live remotes. Each of Main Street's bars and restaurants showcase up to seven American Microbreweries. The micro-brews are on sale in both sample and full sizes. 386-255-9300. www.whog.fm
May 23: Art Walk on Flagler Avenue, New Smyrna Beach. Features, in the five blocks between the Indian River and the ocean, a variety of interesting and unique art works by resident and visiting artists. Also entertainment, demonstrations and free prize drawing. Held fourth Saturday each month January-June. Free. 386-428-1770. www.flaglergallerygroup.com
May 23-24: Tampa Travel Show and Tastes of the World, Tampa. High-energy show consisting of 450+ travel- and culinary-based exhibitors, special appearances by celebrity chefs, travel experts, adventure activities such as rock climbing and on-site scuba lessons, and professional live entertainment. At Tampa Convention Center. Free. 877-STL-TRAVEL or 314-481-8100 x109. http://tampaadventureexpo.com/
May 23-24: Market Fest at Water Tower Place, Celebration. Art, crafts, food. At W. Irlo Bronson Memorial Hwy and Celebration Blvd. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
May 23-25: Blue Crab Festival, Palatka. Florida's largest Memorial Day celebration. Includes Memorial Day Parade, seafood cook-off, live entertainment, helicopter and airboat rides, arts and crafts, antiques, and more. Downtown. Free admission. 386-325-4406. www.bluecrabfestival.com
May 25: Memorial Day Celebration and Remembrance, Cocoa. Old-fashioned Memorial Day celebration featuring a variety of speakers, musicians and more. Food and beverages will be available for sale. Bring your lawn chairs or blankets. At Riverfront Park in downtown Cocoa Village. Free admission. 321-631-9075. www.cocoavillage.com
May 28: Memorial Day Concerts at Bok Tower Gardens, Lake Wales. Half-hour carillon concerts at 1 and 3 p.m. present a musical salute to the nation's veterans and current members of America's armed forces. To honor the military, free admission will be offered to all branches of the military as well as active, retired and disabled veterans. 863-676-1408. www.boktowergardens.org/
May 29-31: Mount Dora Blues and Wine Festival, Mount Dora. Sample wines from the best vineyards and listen to Blues artists and groups. At Lakeside Inn. Admission. 352-383-2165. www.mountdora.com/events.php
May 30: Picnic in the Vineyard, Lake Placid. Henscratch Farms hosts an end of season picnic for the community. Activities include a tour of the winery and a video of the winemaking process, plus complimentary wine tasting with cheese and nibbles. Entertainment by the "Front Porch Fiddlers" is scheduled 11am -2pm. It is blueberry u-pick season on the farm and the ice cream shack will be open for creamy Blueberry & Strawberry treats to enjoy with lunch . Guests may tour the farm by strolling through the nine flagged educational stations, complete a scavenger hunt and feed the 101 free range hens. Door prizes and giveaways will be awarded every 15 minutes. It's all for free. 863-699-2060. www.henscratchfarms.com
May 31-June 1: Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival, Sarasota. More than 100 talented crafters display their wares, from baskets and homemade soaps to jewelry and much more. On Main Street downtown. Free. 941-957-1877. http://www.escape-to-sarasota.com/sarasota-calendar-of-events.html
Tuesday 17 March 2009
Space news from the ground
Did you all see the Space Shuttle launch Sunday night? WaS it not just the best thing ever and reminded you of how incredible space travel is?
Since take-off, the shuttle Discovery is well on its way to the International Space Station today.
Here's the latest update on what is happening up there in space from the good guys at Space.com.
NASA engineers are keeping close tabs on a piece of Soviet-era space trash to decide whether to move the International Space Station before the arrival of the shuttle Discovery on Tuesday.
Discovery launched toward the station with seven astronauts aboard on late Sunday, and is due to dock at the orbiting lab tomorrow at 5:13 p.m. EDT (2113 GMT). But the offending piece of space debris, a remnant from the Soviet navigation satellite Cosmos 1275, will zip close by the station before the shuttle arrives.
"We haven't gotten data in our office yet on how big it is," said NASA spokesperson Kylie Clem at the Johnson Space Center in Houston.
Clem told SPACE.com that flight controllers know the debris is expected to make its closest pass by the space station at 3:14 a.m. EDT (0714 GMT) at a distance of about 2,600 feet (793 meters), Clem said.
If NASA engineers decide they need to move the space station to dodge the space junk, they would fire the rocket engines on the outpost's Russian-built Zvezda service module at about 9:54 p.m. EDT (0154 March 17 GMT) for a short maneuver.
"We don't necessarily need to do the burn until we get more data," station commander Michael Fincke radioed down to Mission Control.
Discovery's STS-119 crew, commanded by Lee Archambault, plan to inspect their space shuttle's heat shield for damage in the first of a series of in-flight surveys to ensure their spacecraft is healthy.
Check out more news from Space.com here
Since take-off, the shuttle Discovery is well on its way to the International Space Station today.
Here's the latest update on what is happening up there in space from the good guys at Space.com.
NASA engineers are keeping close tabs on a piece of Soviet-era space trash to decide whether to move the International Space Station before the arrival of the shuttle Discovery on Tuesday.
Discovery launched toward the station with seven astronauts aboard on late Sunday, and is due to dock at the orbiting lab tomorrow at 5:13 p.m. EDT (2113 GMT). But the offending piece of space debris, a remnant from the Soviet navigation satellite Cosmos 1275, will zip close by the station before the shuttle arrives.
"We haven't gotten data in our office yet on how big it is," said NASA spokesperson Kylie Clem at the Johnson Space Center in Houston.
Clem told SPACE.com that flight controllers know the debris is expected to make its closest pass by the space station at 3:14 a.m. EDT (0714 GMT) at a distance of about 2,600 feet (793 meters), Clem said.
If NASA engineers decide they need to move the space station to dodge the space junk, they would fire the rocket engines on the outpost's Russian-built Zvezda service module at about 9:54 p.m. EDT (0154 March 17 GMT) for a short maneuver.
"We don't necessarily need to do the burn until we get more data," station commander Michael Fincke radioed down to Mission Control.
Discovery's STS-119 crew, commanded by Lee Archambault, plan to inspect their space shuttle's heat shield for damage in the first of a series of in-flight surveys to ensure their spacecraft is healthy.
Check out more news from Space.com here
Thursday 12 March 2009
Get out and go
Here's another great guide to everything that's on in our area for the next month courtesy of those wonderful people over at the Sun-Sentinel.
You have no excuse to be at a loose end!
Mar 27-Apr 5: Sarasota Film Festival, Sarasota. Featuring more than 200 films, public events, panels, parties, filmmaker discussions and musical performances. At Regal Cinemas Hollywood 20. 941-364-9514. www.sarasotafilmfestival.com
Apr. 2, 18: Festival of States, St. Petersburg. Grand Prix Illuminated Night Parade on Apr. 2 has been an audience favorite since 1969, winding through downtown St. Petersburg's beautiful waterfront with lighted floats, music, dancing and beads galore. On Apr. 18 are the Harley Davidson Motorcycle Show, the Festival of States Day Parade, and the Festival Familyfest, the city's largest family event, with two areas of entertainment, games, inflatables, rock climbing wall, bungee jump, batting booth, Radio Disney and more. At North Straub Park. 727-821-9888. www.festivalofstates.com/
Apr. 3-4: Central Florida Dragon Boat Festival, Tavares. Dragon boat racing was born out of myth and legend more than 2,000 years ago in southern China, commemorating the life and death of a great patriot who threw himself into the Mi Lo River. When news of his death spread, local fishermen raced out onto the water and splashed their paddles to prevent fish from eating his body. Today, worldwide, some two million people participate in dragon races. This year the government of Taiwan is sending 40 entertainers to Tavares to take part in the 2009 event. Action-packed contests begin with a crew of 20 paddlers led by the loud, steady beat of the drummer. As the long and colorful boats compete, an ancient rite is revisited, all in the spirit of charity and fun. At Wooten Park. 352-343-2531. www.cfdragonboat.org
Apr. 3-5: Spring Fling, St. Cloud. Springtime celebration with arts and crafts, food, kid's activities, carnival rides and games, and classic boat and car shows. At St. Cloud Lakefront Park. Free. 407-892-9141. www.floridakiss.com/do/events
Apr. 3-5: Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg. International field of elite race car drivers compete on a challenging 14-turn race circuit through downtown St. Petersburg. Admission. 727-824-7223, 898-4639. www.gpstpete.com
Apr. 3-5: DeSoto Seafood Fest, Bradenton. One of Florida's largest outdoor festivals, this downtown riverfront event combines outstanding cuisine with multi-stage entertainment, a large variety of vendors, and fun for the entire family. Downtown on the riverfront. Free admission. 941-747-1998. www.desotohq.com
Apr. 3-5, 10, 25: DeSoto Heritage Festival Seafood Fest, Children's Parade and Party in the Park, and Grand Parade and After-Parade Party, Bradenton. The Apr. 3-5 seafood event features fresh area seafood plus other tasty offerings from area food restaurants. Also continuous entertainment on two stages, arts and crafts and other activities. At downtown riverfront. On Apr. 10, The Heritage Festival Children's Parade proceeds from Manatee County Fairgrounds to Sutton and Lamb Parks, where food and fun activities including games and a magic show fill the rest of the day. The DeSoto Grand Parade on Apr. 25 is the grand finale of the Heritage Festival. Acclaimed as the area's most dazzling, it is an illuminated night parade with more than 150 entries and more than 180,000 spectators as it wends its way from Manatee High School to the downtown area. An After-Parade Party follows at Bradenton Auditorium. Admission. 941-747-1998. www.desotohq.com
Apr. 4: Collector's Day and Mosquito County BBQ Cook-Off, Kissimmee. Includes live entertainment, great BBQ, a huge rummage sale, Veteran's Museum display, antique coins and musical instruments. At Osceola County Historical Society. Free. 407-396-8644. http://osceolahistory.org/index.php/events/collectors-day/
Apr. 4: King of the Wing Chicken Wing Competition, Inverness. Chicken wing competition sponsored by Citrus County Builders Assn. At Liberty Park. 352-341-1365. www.visitcitrus.com/eventpop.asp?EventID=760
Apr. 4: Best of Tampa Bay 2009, Tampa. Bay Area's premier food event, hosted by The Producers Volunteer Group as a benefit for Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center. Stroll the Hillsborough River to enjoy live entertainment and sample food and drinks from the Bay Area's best restaurants and caterers. At TBPAC. Admission. 813-229-7827. http://events.tboextra.com/tampa-fl/events/show/84988169-best-of-tampa-bay-2009
Apr. 4-5: Anna Maria Island Art and Craft Festival, Holmes Beach. Fine arts and crafts, music, food. To benefit the Butterfly Park. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Apr. 4-5: Antiques on the Avenue Festival, Holly Hill. This annual festival features an array of quality antiques and collectibles from premier vendors. On the avenue downtown. Free. 386-248-9435. www.antiquesontheavenue.net
Apr. 4-5: Eighth Annual Celebration Spring Art Festival, Celebration. The creations of more than 120 fine artists will be displayed, with paintings, sculptures, jewelry and more for sale. Also offered are kid's crafts, entertainment and more for the whole family. At Celebration Town Center. 407-566-4007. www.celebrationtowncenter.com
Apr. 5: National Philharmonic of Russia, Daytona Beach. Performance by the National Philharmonic of Russia, with the most recent Tchaikovsky Competition winner. At Peabody Auditorium. 386-671-3461. www.peabodyauditorium.org
Apr. 7: Moonlight Carillon Concert at Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Hear the famous 60-bell Singing Tower in a moonlight concert that will be the last in a once per month over three months series.. At Historic Bok Sanctuary. Admission. 863-676-1408. www.boksanctuary.org
Apr. 9-12: The Ultimate National Championship, Kissimmee. Cheerleaders compete for the Ultimate National Championship. At Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center. Admission. 800-252-4337. http://www.COAcheer.com
Apr. 11: Easter Beach Run, Daytona Beach. Kids' races start at 3 p.m., the 2-mile and 4-mile at 3:45 and 4:30 respectively. Staging area has been permanently moved to the new Breaker's Oceanfront Park adjacent to the Main Street Pier. 386-671-3409, 671-3402. www.easterbeachrun.org
Apr. 11: Underwater Egg Hunt, Crystal River. Underwater egg hunt at Bicentennial Park Pool. For more advanced swimmers there will be different levels of difficulty based on swimming ability. Also a land-based egg hunt for non-swimmers and little ones, plus kids can even paint an egg bigger than themselves. 352-795-1478. www.visitcitrus.com/eventpop.asp?EventID=777
Apr. 11-12: Market Fest at Water Tower Place, Celebration. Art, crafts, food. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Apr. 12: Easter Sunrise Service at Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Easter morning worshipers are invited to greet the dawn of this special day atop peninsular Florida's highest point, as the sunrise is heralded with music from the sanctuary's 60-bell Singing Tower carillon and the Lake Wales Chorale. Free admission 6 to 8 a.m; regular admission rest of the day. Easter buffet offered in the Blue Palmetto Café for an additional fee. Carillon selections also played at 1 and 3 p.m. 863-676-1408. www.boksanctuary.org
Apr. 16-19: 2009 NSSA East Coast Championships, Melbourne Beach. National Scholastic Surfing Association East Coast Championship. At Sebastian Inlet State Park. 321-984-4852. www.floridastateparks.org/sebastianinlet/default.cfm
Apr. 16-26: Central Florida Fair, Orlando. Enjoy rides, arts and crafts, food, music and much more. At Central Florida Fairgrounds. Admission. 407-295-3247. http://www.CentralFloridaFair.com
Apr. 16-May 2: Daytona Beach International Festival, Daytona Beach. Biennial festival featuring the London Symphony Orchestra, previously known as the Florida International Festival. Its mission is to enhance demand for diverse, artistically brilliant live music performances in the Daytona Beach region. At Peabody Auditorium and other venues. 866-978-3243. http://dbif.com/
Apr. 17-20: Bern's Winefest, Tampa. The steakhouse long known for its 15-pound wine list and gargantuan cellar hosts four days of dinners, parties and a grand tasting at both Bern's and SideBern's and under tents near Bern's wine store. Admission. 813-250-9463. www.bernsfinewines.com
Apr. 18: St. Johns River Paddle Battle, Orange City. Enjoy the 3.5-mile kayak and canoe race on the St. Johns River from Blue Spring State Park to Hontoon Island State Park. Originally planned around National Public Lands Day in September but moved to a date near Earth Day when high water caused a postponement. 386-775-3663. www.floridastateparks.org/bluespring/Events.cfm
Apr. 18-19: Inlet Harbor ShrimpFest, Ponce Inlet. Benefit for Daytona Beach College Culinary Institute. On Saturday students will serve visitors and hone their presentation skills for the competition Sunday evening. Shrimp dishes will be prepared by teams of students and be judged for taste, presentation and creativity. There also will be shrimp stations offering fried, coconut and peel-and-eat shrimp served by students and restaurant employees, plus entertainment and activities for children. At Inlet Harbor Marina and Restaurant, 386-767-5590. www.daytonabeach.com/calendar.cfm/caldate/2009-04-01
Apr. 18-19: Celebration Exotic Car Festival, Celebration. Town Center at Celebration will exhibit some of the world's most exotic and rare automobiles. Free admission and parking. 407-566-2200. www.celebrationexoticcars.com/
Apr. 18-19: Mainsail Arts Festival, St. Petersburg. Thirty-fourth annual. Juried fine art and craft show with live entertainment, Young at Art student show, a children's art activity tent, and a culinary arts food court. At Vinoy Park. 727-892-5885. www.mainsailartsfestival.org
Apr. 18-19 : Sponge Docks-Tarpon Springs Art and Craft Festival, Tarpon Springs. Fine arts and crafts, food, music. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Apr. 19: Earth Day Celebration at Oscar Scherer State Park, Osprey. Annual celebration traditionally held on the third Sunday of April. Includes plant sales, exhibits, music, guided walks, food and children's activities. 941-483-5956. www.floridastateparks.org/OscarScherer/Events.cfm
Apr. 23-26: Florida Winefest and Auction, Sarasota. Wineries from all over will strut their stuff during four days of tastings, winemaker dinners, parties, seminars and an auction of notable wines. Event benefits children's charities and the arts. 800-216-6199. www.floridawinefest.com
Apr. 25: Sea Grapes Fine Wine and Food Festival, Tampa. Sample over 100 wines, dine on cuisine from 20 premier Bay area restaurants, bid on unique and exciting auction items, enjoy live jazz and other entertainment throughout the aquarium, and explore all exhibits. At Florida Aquarium. Admission. 813-273-4030. www.flaquarium.org/cm/templates/planvisit.aspx?articleid=154&zoneid=41
Apr. 25: Sixth Annual Dark Sky Festival, St. Cloud. Outdoor festival offering stargazing through telescopes, along with knowledgeable guides to explain what guests are seeing. Also featured are informative speakers, live entertainment and a kid zone with hands-on interactive exhibits. At Harmony. Free. 407-957-0207. www.darkskyfestival.com
Apr. 25: Art Walk on Flagler Avenue, New Smyrna Beach. Features, in the five blocks between the Indian River and the ocean, a variety of interesting and unique art works by resident and visiting artists. Also offers demonstrations, entertainment and free prize drawing. Held fourth Saturday each month. Free. 386-428-1770. www.flaglergallerygroup.com/
Apr. 25-26: The Great American Pie Festival, Celebration. Includes never-ending pie buffet, National Pie Championships, culinary demonstrations, pie-eating contest, children's pie-making, cooking demonstrations, and children's games and crafts. Also entertainment both days. At Lakeside Park. Admission. 847-371-0170. www.piecouncil.org/pie_events/gapf/index.php
Apr. 25-26: Siesta Fiesta Craft Fair, Siesta Key. Includes handmade jewelry, ceramics, stained glass, paintings, photography and more. At Siesta Key Village. 866-831-7778. www.siestakeychamber.com/events.php
Apr. 25-26: Blues at the Winery, Clermont. Live music, food, wine. At Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards. Admission. 800-768-WINE. http://www.lakeridgewinery.com/aboutus-events.php
Apr. 26: Taste of South Tampa, Tampa. Includes food and beverages from 40 restaurants, plus live music. Third annual. At Hyde Park Village Circle. Admission. 813-637-0156. http://events.tboextra.com/tampa-fl/events/show/85986472-3rd-annual-taste-of-south-tampa
You have no excuse to be at a loose end!
Mar 27-Apr 5: Sarasota Film Festival, Sarasota. Featuring more than 200 films, public events, panels, parties, filmmaker discussions and musical performances. At Regal Cinemas Hollywood 20. 941-364-9514. www.sarasotafilmfestival.com
Apr. 2, 18: Festival of States, St. Petersburg. Grand Prix Illuminated Night Parade on Apr. 2 has been an audience favorite since 1969, winding through downtown St. Petersburg's beautiful waterfront with lighted floats, music, dancing and beads galore. On Apr. 18 are the Harley Davidson Motorcycle Show, the Festival of States Day Parade, and the Festival Familyfest, the city's largest family event, with two areas of entertainment, games, inflatables, rock climbing wall, bungee jump, batting booth, Radio Disney and more. At North Straub Park. 727-821-9888. www.festivalofstates.com/
Apr. 3-4: Central Florida Dragon Boat Festival, Tavares. Dragon boat racing was born out of myth and legend more than 2,000 years ago in southern China, commemorating the life and death of a great patriot who threw himself into the Mi Lo River. When news of his death spread, local fishermen raced out onto the water and splashed their paddles to prevent fish from eating his body. Today, worldwide, some two million people participate in dragon races. This year the government of Taiwan is sending 40 entertainers to Tavares to take part in the 2009 event. Action-packed contests begin with a crew of 20 paddlers led by the loud, steady beat of the drummer. As the long and colorful boats compete, an ancient rite is revisited, all in the spirit of charity and fun. At Wooten Park. 352-343-2531. www.cfdragonboat.org
Apr. 3-5: Spring Fling, St. Cloud. Springtime celebration with arts and crafts, food, kid's activities, carnival rides and games, and classic boat and car shows. At St. Cloud Lakefront Park. Free. 407-892-9141. www.floridakiss.com/do/events
Apr. 3-5: Honda Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, St. Petersburg. International field of elite race car drivers compete on a challenging 14-turn race circuit through downtown St. Petersburg. Admission. 727-824-7223, 898-4639. www.gpstpete.com
Apr. 3-5: DeSoto Seafood Fest, Bradenton. One of Florida's largest outdoor festivals, this downtown riverfront event combines outstanding cuisine with multi-stage entertainment, a large variety of vendors, and fun for the entire family. Downtown on the riverfront. Free admission. 941-747-1998. www.desotohq.com
Apr. 3-5, 10, 25: DeSoto Heritage Festival Seafood Fest, Children's Parade and Party in the Park, and Grand Parade and After-Parade Party, Bradenton. The Apr. 3-5 seafood event features fresh area seafood plus other tasty offerings from area food restaurants. Also continuous entertainment on two stages, arts and crafts and other activities. At downtown riverfront. On Apr. 10, The Heritage Festival Children's Parade proceeds from Manatee County Fairgrounds to Sutton and Lamb Parks, where food and fun activities including games and a magic show fill the rest of the day. The DeSoto Grand Parade on Apr. 25 is the grand finale of the Heritage Festival. Acclaimed as the area's most dazzling, it is an illuminated night parade with more than 150 entries and more than 180,000 spectators as it wends its way from Manatee High School to the downtown area. An After-Parade Party follows at Bradenton Auditorium. Admission. 941-747-1998. www.desotohq.com
Apr. 4: Collector's Day and Mosquito County BBQ Cook-Off, Kissimmee. Includes live entertainment, great BBQ, a huge rummage sale, Veteran's Museum display, antique coins and musical instruments. At Osceola County Historical Society. Free. 407-396-8644. http://osceolahistory.org/index.php/events/collectors-day/
Apr. 4: King of the Wing Chicken Wing Competition, Inverness. Chicken wing competition sponsored by Citrus County Builders Assn. At Liberty Park. 352-341-1365. www.visitcitrus.com/eventpop.asp?EventID=760
Apr. 4: Best of Tampa Bay 2009, Tampa. Bay Area's premier food event, hosted by The Producers Volunteer Group as a benefit for Tampa Bay Performing Arts Center. Stroll the Hillsborough River to enjoy live entertainment and sample food and drinks from the Bay Area's best restaurants and caterers. At TBPAC. Admission. 813-229-7827. http://events.tboextra.com/tampa-fl/events/show/84988169-best-of-tampa-bay-2009
Apr. 4-5: Anna Maria Island Art and Craft Festival, Holmes Beach. Fine arts and crafts, music, food. To benefit the Butterfly Park. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Apr. 4-5: Antiques on the Avenue Festival, Holly Hill. This annual festival features an array of quality antiques and collectibles from premier vendors. On the avenue downtown. Free. 386-248-9435. www.antiquesontheavenue.net
Apr. 4-5: Eighth Annual Celebration Spring Art Festival, Celebration. The creations of more than 120 fine artists will be displayed, with paintings, sculptures, jewelry and more for sale. Also offered are kid's crafts, entertainment and more for the whole family. At Celebration Town Center. 407-566-4007. www.celebrationtowncenter.com
Apr. 5: National Philharmonic of Russia, Daytona Beach. Performance by the National Philharmonic of Russia, with the most recent Tchaikovsky Competition winner. At Peabody Auditorium. 386-671-3461. www.peabodyauditorium.org
Apr. 7: Moonlight Carillon Concert at Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Hear the famous 60-bell Singing Tower in a moonlight concert that will be the last in a once per month over three months series.. At Historic Bok Sanctuary. Admission. 863-676-1408. www.boksanctuary.org
Apr. 9-12: The Ultimate National Championship, Kissimmee. Cheerleaders compete for the Ultimate National Championship. At Gaylord Palms Resort and Convention Center. Admission. 800-252-4337. http://www.COAcheer.com
Apr. 11: Easter Beach Run, Daytona Beach. Kids' races start at 3 p.m., the 2-mile and 4-mile at 3:45 and 4:30 respectively. Staging area has been permanently moved to the new Breaker's Oceanfront Park adjacent to the Main Street Pier. 386-671-3409, 671-3402. www.easterbeachrun.org
Apr. 11: Underwater Egg Hunt, Crystal River. Underwater egg hunt at Bicentennial Park Pool. For more advanced swimmers there will be different levels of difficulty based on swimming ability. Also a land-based egg hunt for non-swimmers and little ones, plus kids can even paint an egg bigger than themselves. 352-795-1478. www.visitcitrus.com/eventpop.asp?EventID=777
Apr. 11-12: Market Fest at Water Tower Place, Celebration. Art, crafts, food. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Apr. 12: Easter Sunrise Service at Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Easter morning worshipers are invited to greet the dawn of this special day atop peninsular Florida's highest point, as the sunrise is heralded with music from the sanctuary's 60-bell Singing Tower carillon and the Lake Wales Chorale. Free admission 6 to 8 a.m; regular admission rest of the day. Easter buffet offered in the Blue Palmetto Café for an additional fee. Carillon selections also played at 1 and 3 p.m. 863-676-1408. www.boksanctuary.org
Apr. 16-19: 2009 NSSA East Coast Championships, Melbourne Beach. National Scholastic Surfing Association East Coast Championship. At Sebastian Inlet State Park. 321-984-4852. www.floridastateparks.org/sebastianinlet/default.cfm
Apr. 16-26: Central Florida Fair, Orlando. Enjoy rides, arts and crafts, food, music and much more. At Central Florida Fairgrounds. Admission. 407-295-3247. http://www.CentralFloridaFair.com
Apr. 16-May 2: Daytona Beach International Festival, Daytona Beach. Biennial festival featuring the London Symphony Orchestra, previously known as the Florida International Festival. Its mission is to enhance demand for diverse, artistically brilliant live music performances in the Daytona Beach region. At Peabody Auditorium and other venues. 866-978-3243. http://dbif.com/
Apr. 17-20: Bern's Winefest, Tampa. The steakhouse long known for its 15-pound wine list and gargantuan cellar hosts four days of dinners, parties and a grand tasting at both Bern's and SideBern's and under tents near Bern's wine store. Admission. 813-250-9463. www.bernsfinewines.com
Apr. 18: St. Johns River Paddle Battle, Orange City. Enjoy the 3.5-mile kayak and canoe race on the St. Johns River from Blue Spring State Park to Hontoon Island State Park. Originally planned around National Public Lands Day in September but moved to a date near Earth Day when high water caused a postponement. 386-775-3663. www.floridastateparks.org/bluespring/Events.cfm
Apr. 18-19: Inlet Harbor ShrimpFest, Ponce Inlet. Benefit for Daytona Beach College Culinary Institute. On Saturday students will serve visitors and hone their presentation skills for the competition Sunday evening. Shrimp dishes will be prepared by teams of students and be judged for taste, presentation and creativity. There also will be shrimp stations offering fried, coconut and peel-and-eat shrimp served by students and restaurant employees, plus entertainment and activities for children. At Inlet Harbor Marina and Restaurant, 386-767-5590. www.daytonabeach.com/calendar.cfm/caldate/2009-04-01
Apr. 18-19: Celebration Exotic Car Festival, Celebration. Town Center at Celebration will exhibit some of the world's most exotic and rare automobiles. Free admission and parking. 407-566-2200. www.celebrationexoticcars.com/
Apr. 18-19: Mainsail Arts Festival, St. Petersburg. Thirty-fourth annual. Juried fine art and craft show with live entertainment, Young at Art student show, a children's art activity tent, and a culinary arts food court. At Vinoy Park. 727-892-5885. www.mainsailartsfestival.org
Apr. 18-19 : Sponge Docks-Tarpon Springs Art and Craft Festival, Tarpon Springs. Fine arts and crafts, food, music. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Apr. 19: Earth Day Celebration at Oscar Scherer State Park, Osprey. Annual celebration traditionally held on the third Sunday of April. Includes plant sales, exhibits, music, guided walks, food and children's activities. 941-483-5956. www.floridastateparks.org/OscarScherer/Events.cfm
Apr. 23-26: Florida Winefest and Auction, Sarasota. Wineries from all over will strut their stuff during four days of tastings, winemaker dinners, parties, seminars and an auction of notable wines. Event benefits children's charities and the arts. 800-216-6199. www.floridawinefest.com
Apr. 25: Sea Grapes Fine Wine and Food Festival, Tampa. Sample over 100 wines, dine on cuisine from 20 premier Bay area restaurants, bid on unique and exciting auction items, enjoy live jazz and other entertainment throughout the aquarium, and explore all exhibits. At Florida Aquarium. Admission. 813-273-4030. www.flaquarium.org/cm/templates/planvisit.aspx?articleid=154&zoneid=41
Apr. 25: Sixth Annual Dark Sky Festival, St. Cloud. Outdoor festival offering stargazing through telescopes, along with knowledgeable guides to explain what guests are seeing. Also featured are informative speakers, live entertainment and a kid zone with hands-on interactive exhibits. At Harmony. Free. 407-957-0207. www.darkskyfestival.com
Apr. 25: Art Walk on Flagler Avenue, New Smyrna Beach. Features, in the five blocks between the Indian River and the ocean, a variety of interesting and unique art works by resident and visiting artists. Also offers demonstrations, entertainment and free prize drawing. Held fourth Saturday each month. Free. 386-428-1770. www.flaglergallerygroup.com/
Apr. 25-26: The Great American Pie Festival, Celebration. Includes never-ending pie buffet, National Pie Championships, culinary demonstrations, pie-eating contest, children's pie-making, cooking demonstrations, and children's games and crafts. Also entertainment both days. At Lakeside Park. Admission. 847-371-0170. www.piecouncil.org/pie_events/gapf/index.php
Apr. 25-26: Siesta Fiesta Craft Fair, Siesta Key. Includes handmade jewelry, ceramics, stained glass, paintings, photography and more. At Siesta Key Village. 866-831-7778. www.siestakeychamber.com/events.php
Apr. 25-26: Blues at the Winery, Clermont. Live music, food, wine. At Lakeridge Winery and Vineyards. Admission. 800-768-WINE. http://www.lakeridgewinery.com/aboutus-events.php
Apr. 26: Taste of South Tampa, Tampa. Includes food and beverages from 40 restaurants, plus live music. Third annual. At Hyde Park Village Circle. Admission. 813-637-0156. http://events.tboextra.com/tampa-fl/events/show/85986472-3rd-annual-taste-of-south-tampa
Tuesday 10 March 2009
Watch the skies...
If you have never seen one before, you really should make time to travel over to the east coast to watch the space shuttle Discovery lauch after NASA managers on Friday cleared it for launch on a construction mission to the International Space Station.
Liftoff of the 125th shuttle mission, the first of five planned for this year, is scheduled for 9.20pm EDT (0120 GMT on Thursday) from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission had been on hold to resolve safety concerns with the ship's fuel pressure valves.
"We're feeling really, really good," shuttle launch director Mike Leinbach told reporters at a press conference. "It's great to have a launch date."
The shuttle will deliver the final set of U.S.-manufactured solar wing panels to the station, a $100billion project of 16 nations that has been under construction for more than a decade.
NASA is scheduled to complete station assembly next year and retire its three-ship shuttle fleet. The shuttle program has been the cornerstone of U.S. human space exploration for nearly 30 years. The replacement vehicles, designed to travel to the moon as well as the space station, are scheduled to debut in 2015.
During the previous shuttle launch in November, one of the three valves cracked, raising questions about what could happen if the damage was more severe or if it occurred at a more critical time during ascent.
Managers replaced Discovery's valves with spares that have made fewer flights and ordered extensive tests and analysis to understand worst-case scenarios.
After four launch delays, the managers felt confident the ship was safe to fly and unanimously decided to proceed with a launch attempt next week. "The vehicle is in great shape," said shuttle program manager John Shannon.
So why not head over to watch this incredible spectacle for real. We guarantee you won't regret it.
FYI, it looks something like this...
Liftoff of the 125th shuttle mission, the first of five planned for this year, is scheduled for 9.20pm EDT (0120 GMT on Thursday) from the Kennedy Space Center in Florida. The mission had been on hold to resolve safety concerns with the ship's fuel pressure valves.
"We're feeling really, really good," shuttle launch director Mike Leinbach told reporters at a press conference. "It's great to have a launch date."
The shuttle will deliver the final set of U.S.-manufactured solar wing panels to the station, a $100billion project of 16 nations that has been under construction for more than a decade.
NASA is scheduled to complete station assembly next year and retire its three-ship shuttle fleet. The shuttle program has been the cornerstone of U.S. human space exploration for nearly 30 years. The replacement vehicles, designed to travel to the moon as well as the space station, are scheduled to debut in 2015.
During the previous shuttle launch in November, one of the three valves cracked, raising questions about what could happen if the damage was more severe or if it occurred at a more critical time during ascent.
Managers replaced Discovery's valves with spares that have made fewer flights and ordered extensive tests and analysis to understand worst-case scenarios.
After four launch delays, the managers felt confident the ship was safe to fly and unanimously decided to proceed with a launch attempt next week. "The vehicle is in great shape," said shuttle program manager John Shannon.
So why not head over to watch this incredible spectacle for real. We guarantee you won't regret it.
FYI, it looks something like this...
Tuesday 3 March 2009
What's on in the Sunshine State
Florida is a big old place, and as one of the top vacation destinations in the world there is always something going on. We would try to trawl the web to find you all the interesting diary events and bring them to you in one handy list.
But why would we when the good folks at the Orlando Sentinel have done such a thorough job?
Here is their guide to what's on in Central Florida over the next month. For the full listing, check here
Feb. 26-Mar. 8: Florida Strawberry Festival, Plant City. Strawberry celebration dating back to 1930. Features daily entertainment by some of music's biggest stars, and competition ranging from cook offs and strawberry shortcake eating to clogging contests. Also includes agriculture shows, livestock, a baby contest, and the Midway with more than 60 rides. At Plant City Festival Grounds. Admission. 813-752-9194. www.flstrawberryfestival.com
Mar. 7: Wing Break '09, Orlando. Sample tasty wings from 10 to 12 of Orlando's top chicken wing purveyors. Event was created to provide residents and visitors an engaging way to get outside while savoring what makes life wonderful – good wings, drinks and friends. Includes wing-eating contest, vote for people's choice on best overall wing at festival, and a variety of live entertainment and performers. At Waterford Lakes Town Center. Free admission, free parking; purchase tickets for wings. 404-841-8335. www.K92Fmwingbreak.com
Mar. 7: Kidfetti Music and Fun Fest, Ocala. This is an action-packed event of child-focused cultural activities and family-oriented interactive workshops for children of all ages as well as their parents and caregivers. It features performances by nationally recognized, youth-oriented entertainers as part of a large outdoor music and cultural festival focusing on the importance of protecting and nurturing children's mental and physical wellness. 352-291-5462. www.kidfetti.com
Mar. 7: Third Annual Red Ribbon Historic Homes Tour, Crystal River. Learn some history of Crystal River by touring historic buildings and homes in the Crystal Street and Michigan Town areas. Co-sponsored by Crystal River Heritage Council and Citrus County Chronicle. Admission. 352-563-0097 or 423-0048. http://www.visitcitrus.com/calendar_text.asp
Mar. 7: St. Cloud Life Extravaganza, St. Cloud. Many feature activities for the family to enjoy are Taste of St. Cloud, Wing Wars, Dessert Fest, Kid's Fair and more. At St. Cloud Civic Center. Admission. 407-892-3671. www.stcloudflchamber.com
Mar. 7-8: Weeki Wachee Swamp Fest, Weeki Wachee. A good, old-fashioned family fun festival presented by three community organizations. Includes swamp food, swamp costume contest, arts and crafts, entertainment, drawings and more. At Linda Pederson Park at Jenkins Creek. Donation. 352-596-3987. http://www.wwswampfest.com/
Mar. 7-8: Azalea Festival, Palatka. One of Florida's oldest festivals, enduring for 63 years and surviving WWII, floods and financial disaster. Held in the historic downtown area and Memorial Park. 386-328-1503. http://www.flazaleafest.com
Mar. 7-8: Market Fest at Water Tower Place, Celebration. Art, crafts, food. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Mar. 7-8: Second Annual Leesburg Fine Art Festival, Leesburg. Featuring more than 120 fine artists and craftsmen, festive food and live entertainment. Presented by Leesburg Center for the Arts. Downtown. Free. 352-365-0232. www.ffea.com/events
Mar. 7-8: Floral City Strawberry Festival, Floral City. Primary focus of the event is, of course, the celebration of strawberries - by the berry, by the flat, atop shortcake or covered in chocolate. These and more are among the many strawberry delicacies offered to tempt the palette. Each day includes continuous live entertainment, contests, children's games and activities, and more than 200 arts and craft booths. Special features include an antique car show, pony rides, rock climbing wall, pie eating contest, Strawberry Princess pageants, and continuous children's activities. At Floral Park. Admission. 352-726-2801. www.visitcitrus.com/calendar_text.asp
Mar. 10: Moonlight Carillon Concert at Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Hear the famous 60-bell Singing Tower in a moonlight concert that will feature music including selections from The Sound of Music. At Historic Bok Sanctuary. Admission. 863-676-1408. www.boksanctuary.org
Mar. 13: Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra, Daytona Beach. Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra returns to Daytona Beach. Performance at 7 p.m., Keith Lockhart, conductor. 386-671-3461. www.peabodyauditorium.org
Mar. 13-15: Gulf Coast Rhythm and Ribfest, Palmetto. The nation's top Rib Masters from Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Ohio and Florida will serve their award-winning specialties as they compete for this year's coveted 2009 Gulf Coast BBQ Champion award. Entertainment includes a variety of local, regional and national bands performing a mix of Country, Blues, Jazz, Pop, and Rock, and for children, the Interactive Kid Challenge Fun Zone. At Manatee County Fairgrounds. Admission. 941-746-7470. http://www.gulfcoastribfest.com/
Mar. 13-15: All-Florida Championship Rodeo, Arcadia. 81st annual. Includes Calf Scramble, Mutton Bustin', barrel racing, Shootout and more. Admission. 800-749-7633. http://www.arcadiarodeo.com
Mar. 13-22: Firefighters' Indian River County Fair, Vero Beach. Since 1980, proceeds from this event have supported Indian River County Burn Fund, high school scholarships, Fairground Improvements and other charitable activities. At county fairgrounds. Admission. 772-562-2974. http://www.firefightersfair.org
Mar. 13-22: Sarasota County Fair, Sarasota. 73rd annual, featuring exhibits, midway rides and fair food. At Sarasota County Fairgrounds. Admission. 941-365-0818. www.sarasotafair.com
Mar. 14: St. Patrick's Day Open Horseshoe Tournament, Beverly Hills. The Beverly Hills Horseshoe Club is located in central Florida just off state road 491 in the beautiful city of Beverly Hills. There are 24 clay courts on the grounds, mostly in shaded areas and open during daylight hours seven days a week for anyone who wishes to play or practice. The Club holds a full schedule of sanctioned tournaments on the second Saturday of the month,September through the end of the season in February or May. 352-746-4058. http://www.visitcitrus.com/calendar_text.asp
Mar. 14-15: Nature Coast Civil War Reenactment, Crystal River. This living history reenactment, the 12th annual, will once again be held at the Holcim Mine property seven miles north of Crystal River. Authentic costumes, modern concessions, battle reenactments both days at 2 p.m. Admission. 800-587-6667. www.crystalriverreenactment.org
Mar. 15-16: Fort Cooper Days, Inverness. Includes living history demonstrations, period arts and crafts, entertainment, food and refreshments. Second Seminole War battle reenactments that depict events taking place during the construction of the Fort will be held daily at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. At Fort Cooper State Park. Admission. 352-726-0315. http://www.floridastateparks.org/fortcooper/default.cfm
Mar. 17: St. Patrick's Day at Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Enjoy special carillon music featuring lively Irish melodies during two afternoon concerts. Free with admission to Gardens. That evening there is a special authentic Irish Dinner followed by a lively evening of high-spirited music and dancing (be prepared to get pinched by a leprechaun if you forget to wear green). At Historic Bok Sanctuary. Fee charged. 863-676-1408. www.boktowergardens.org
Mar. 18-21: 57th Annual Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring. Sebring. Each year on the third Saturday of March, Sebring International Raceway hosts thousands of race fans from around the world to witness the historic 12-hour classic. All the legends have raced at Sebring, including Mario Andretti, A.J. Foyt, Dan Gurney, Stirling Moss, Juan Manuel Fangio, Phil Hill and dozens of others, driving race cars built by the world's great manufacturers such as Ferrari, Porsche, Jaguar, Audi, Ford, Maserati, Aston Martin and Nissan. Gates open on Wednesday and remain open 24 hours a day through Saturday's title race. Admission. 800-626-RACE. www.sebringraceway.com
Mar. 18-May 31: International Flower and Garden Festival, Lake Buena Vista. Spring special event filled with flowers, gardens, topiaries, live music and educational events. See millions of blooming flowers and a vibrant collection of specially themed topiaries. Meet with top horticulturists at one of the many Garden Town Programs and learn helpful gardening tips. Attend public demonstrations of advanced gardening techniques from around the world or get up-close with hundreds of colorful butterflies inside Minnie's Magnificent Butterfly Garden. Enjoy music under the stars at the Flower Power Concert Series. At Walt Disney World's EPCOT. Admission. 407-W-DISNEY. http://www.disneyworld.com/flower
Mar. 20-22: Tampa Bay Blues Festival, St. Petersburg. Each year since 1995 Tampa Bay Blues Festival has been staged at Vinoy Waterfront Park on the shores of Tampa Bay, with popular St. Petersburg Pier serving as a brilliant backdrop. The festival established itself as one of the world's preeminent blues music events, having presented more than 195 of the world's greatest blues performers. In addition to world class music, you can enjoy arts and crafts, taste treats from seafood and barbecue to Cuban cuisine, plus premium beer and wine. Admission. 727-502-5000. www.tampabaybluesfest.com
Mar. 21: Kowtown Festival, Kissimmee. Celebrate Kissimmee's birthday with a family-friendly festival that honors the city's cattle ranching heritage. Enjoy live entertainment, unique games, food and festivities. At Toho Square. Free. 407-846-4643. www.kissimmeemainstreet.com
Mar. 21-22: Palm Harbor Art and Craft Festival, Palm Harbor. Fine art and crafts, music, food. Florida Avenue downtown. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Mar. 26-28: International Rum Festival, Ybor City. Largest rum festival in the nation. Features dozens of world class spirits, industry experts and master distillers, authors, aficionados, master mixologists, judges and celebrities. Seminars cover a mix of history, culture, distillation, mixology, tasting techniques, culinary demonstrations and consuming news. Also includes an outdoor BBQ and a formal rum tasting dinner. 727-947-3522. http://www.polishedpalate.com/events/irf/2009/
Mar. 26-29: Sunnyland Antique and Classic Boat Society Show, Tavares. 22nd annual gathering at Lake Dora. View antique boats on land and in the water, plus amphibious cars, Jersey Speed Skiffs, antique woody cars, and antique canoes. Also live entertainment, nautical flea market, Sunnyland Ships Store, food court, beer garden, tour boats and train rides. At Wooten Park. Admission. 352-742-6338. www.acbs-sunnyland.com/show/index_show.php
Mar. 27-29: SPIFFS 2009 Folk Fair, St. Petersburg. A world celebration of food, culture and entertainment, presented for the 34th year by St. Petersburg International Folk Fair Society, Inc. (SPIFFS). Ethnic villages capture the flavor of each country, and costumed villagers demonstrate crafts and prepare ethnic food specialties. Visitors eat their way around the world, moving from village to village. Folk dancing and music similarly offers outstanding performances and demonstrations. At Vinoy Park. Admission. 727-552-1896. www.spiffs.org
Mar. 27-29: Spring Car Show and Swap Meet, Daytona Beach. This popular car show and swap meet, set inside Daytona International Speedway's infield, showcases more than 3,000 collector cars and trucks. 386-255-7355. www.daytonabeachcarshows.com
Mar. 28: Family Tree Climbing at Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Tackle the challenge of trying to scale one of the tall live oak trees, climbing 60-80 feet high above the ground, or just sit in the harness to study the environment, Singing Tower carillon and rolling hills of citrus. An international sport, Family Tree Climbing is led by qualified trainers and the tree is prepared by an arborist. Participants use ropes, harnesses and helmets for safety. Reservations and release forms required. At Historic Bok Sanctuary. Fee charged. 863-676-1408. www.boksanctuary.org
Mar. 28-29: Battle at Narcoossee Mill, St. Cloud. Authentic reenactment of a Civil War battle. Roam through civil war camps, watch the mounted cavalry ride back from the past, and enjoy music from the era of the Rebelaires. Educational and entertaining for all ages. Held at Ralph V. Chisholm Park in Narcoossee. Admission. 407-931-7003. http://www.jacobsummerlin.org
Mar. 28-29: Images in Art Festival, Cape Canaveral. Fine art and craft, food, music. Second annual. At Manatee Sanctuary Park. Free. 352-344-0657. . www.tnteventsinc.com
Mar. 28-29: Fourth Annual Garden Expo and "A Fair to Remember," Stuart. Annual Garden Expo with educational seminars and vendors plus Biennial Flower Show featuring exotic horticulture and award-winning design arrangements presented by The Garden Club of Stuart. At Martin County Fairgrounds. Free. 772-283-1529. http://www.gardenclubofstuart.org
Mar. 28-29: Chocolate Festival, Melbourne. Brevard's best chocolatiers, pastry chefs and restauranteurs come together with community volunteers to raise funds to support programs that improve the lives of women. Guests may sample chocolate confections, cakes and desserts, then vote to select "Brevard's Best Chocolate Fix." In addition, there are beverages, appetizers, entertainment by local musicians, and an Emerging Artist Showcase. At Front Street Park Community Center. Admission. 321-729-0755. www.zontaspacecoast.org
Mar. 28-29: Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival, Sarasota. Begun in 2002, this popular craft show takes place annually on the last Saturday and Sunday of March, with approximately 200 crafters exhibiting their wares. Downtown. Free. 941-957-1877. www.escape-to-sarasota.com/sarasota-calendar-of-events.html
But why would we when the good folks at the Orlando Sentinel have done such a thorough job?
Here is their guide to what's on in Central Florida over the next month. For the full listing, check here
Feb. 26-Mar. 8: Florida Strawberry Festival, Plant City. Strawberry celebration dating back to 1930. Features daily entertainment by some of music's biggest stars, and competition ranging from cook offs and strawberry shortcake eating to clogging contests. Also includes agriculture shows, livestock, a baby contest, and the Midway with more than 60 rides. At Plant City Festival Grounds. Admission. 813-752-9194. www.flstrawberryfestival.com
Mar. 7: Wing Break '09, Orlando. Sample tasty wings from 10 to 12 of Orlando's top chicken wing purveyors. Event was created to provide residents and visitors an engaging way to get outside while savoring what makes life wonderful – good wings, drinks and friends. Includes wing-eating contest, vote for people's choice on best overall wing at festival, and a variety of live entertainment and performers. At Waterford Lakes Town Center. Free admission, free parking; purchase tickets for wings. 404-841-8335. www.K92Fmwingbreak.com
Mar. 7: Kidfetti Music and Fun Fest, Ocala. This is an action-packed event of child-focused cultural activities and family-oriented interactive workshops for children of all ages as well as their parents and caregivers. It features performances by nationally recognized, youth-oriented entertainers as part of a large outdoor music and cultural festival focusing on the importance of protecting and nurturing children's mental and physical wellness. 352-291-5462. www.kidfetti.com
Mar. 7: Third Annual Red Ribbon Historic Homes Tour, Crystal River. Learn some history of Crystal River by touring historic buildings and homes in the Crystal Street and Michigan Town areas. Co-sponsored by Crystal River Heritage Council and Citrus County Chronicle. Admission. 352-563-0097 or 423-0048. http://www.visitcitrus.com/calendar_text.asp
Mar. 7: St. Cloud Life Extravaganza, St. Cloud. Many feature activities for the family to enjoy are Taste of St. Cloud, Wing Wars, Dessert Fest, Kid's Fair and more. At St. Cloud Civic Center. Admission. 407-892-3671. www.stcloudflchamber.com
Mar. 7-8: Weeki Wachee Swamp Fest, Weeki Wachee. A good, old-fashioned family fun festival presented by three community organizations. Includes swamp food, swamp costume contest, arts and crafts, entertainment, drawings and more. At Linda Pederson Park at Jenkins Creek. Donation. 352-596-3987. http://www.wwswampfest.com/
Mar. 7-8: Azalea Festival, Palatka. One of Florida's oldest festivals, enduring for 63 years and surviving WWII, floods and financial disaster. Held in the historic downtown area and Memorial Park. 386-328-1503. http://www.flazaleafest.com
Mar. 7-8: Market Fest at Water Tower Place, Celebration. Art, crafts, food. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Mar. 7-8: Second Annual Leesburg Fine Art Festival, Leesburg. Featuring more than 120 fine artists and craftsmen, festive food and live entertainment. Presented by Leesburg Center for the Arts. Downtown. Free. 352-365-0232. www.ffea.com/events
Mar. 7-8: Floral City Strawberry Festival, Floral City. Primary focus of the event is, of course, the celebration of strawberries - by the berry, by the flat, atop shortcake or covered in chocolate. These and more are among the many strawberry delicacies offered to tempt the palette. Each day includes continuous live entertainment, contests, children's games and activities, and more than 200 arts and craft booths. Special features include an antique car show, pony rides, rock climbing wall, pie eating contest, Strawberry Princess pageants, and continuous children's activities. At Floral Park. Admission. 352-726-2801. www.visitcitrus.com/calendar_text.asp
Mar. 10: Moonlight Carillon Concert at Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Hear the famous 60-bell Singing Tower in a moonlight concert that will feature music including selections from The Sound of Music. At Historic Bok Sanctuary. Admission. 863-676-1408. www.boksanctuary.org
Mar. 13: Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra, Daytona Beach. Boston Pops Esplanade Orchestra returns to Daytona Beach. Performance at 7 p.m., Keith Lockhart, conductor. 386-671-3461. www.peabodyauditorium.org
Mar. 13-15: Gulf Coast Rhythm and Ribfest, Palmetto. The nation's top Rib Masters from Virginia, North Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, Ohio and Florida will serve their award-winning specialties as they compete for this year's coveted 2009 Gulf Coast BBQ Champion award. Entertainment includes a variety of local, regional and national bands performing a mix of Country, Blues, Jazz, Pop, and Rock, and for children, the Interactive Kid Challenge Fun Zone. At Manatee County Fairgrounds. Admission. 941-746-7470. http://www.gulfcoastribfest.com/
Mar. 13-15: All-Florida Championship Rodeo, Arcadia. 81st annual. Includes Calf Scramble, Mutton Bustin', barrel racing, Shootout and more. Admission. 800-749-7633. http://www.arcadiarodeo.com
Mar. 13-22: Firefighters' Indian River County Fair, Vero Beach. Since 1980, proceeds from this event have supported Indian River County Burn Fund, high school scholarships, Fairground Improvements and other charitable activities. At county fairgrounds. Admission. 772-562-2974. http://www.firefightersfair.org
Mar. 13-22: Sarasota County Fair, Sarasota. 73rd annual, featuring exhibits, midway rides and fair food. At Sarasota County Fairgrounds. Admission. 941-365-0818. www.sarasotafair.com
Mar. 14: St. Patrick's Day Open Horseshoe Tournament, Beverly Hills. The Beverly Hills Horseshoe Club is located in central Florida just off state road 491 in the beautiful city of Beverly Hills. There are 24 clay courts on the grounds, mostly in shaded areas and open during daylight hours seven days a week for anyone who wishes to play or practice. The Club holds a full schedule of sanctioned tournaments on the second Saturday of the month,September through the end of the season in February or May. 352-746-4058. http://www.visitcitrus.com/calendar_text.asp
Mar. 14-15: Nature Coast Civil War Reenactment, Crystal River. This living history reenactment, the 12th annual, will once again be held at the Holcim Mine property seven miles north of Crystal River. Authentic costumes, modern concessions, battle reenactments both days at 2 p.m. Admission. 800-587-6667. www.crystalriverreenactment.org
Mar. 15-16: Fort Cooper Days, Inverness. Includes living history demonstrations, period arts and crafts, entertainment, food and refreshments. Second Seminole War battle reenactments that depict events taking place during the construction of the Fort will be held daily at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. At Fort Cooper State Park. Admission. 352-726-0315. http://www.floridastateparks.org/fortcooper/default.cfm
Mar. 17: St. Patrick's Day at Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Enjoy special carillon music featuring lively Irish melodies during two afternoon concerts. Free with admission to Gardens. That evening there is a special authentic Irish Dinner followed by a lively evening of high-spirited music and dancing (be prepared to get pinched by a leprechaun if you forget to wear green). At Historic Bok Sanctuary. Fee charged. 863-676-1408. www.boktowergardens.org
Mar. 18-21: 57th Annual Mobil 1 Twelve Hours of Sebring. Sebring. Each year on the third Saturday of March, Sebring International Raceway hosts thousands of race fans from around the world to witness the historic 12-hour classic. All the legends have raced at Sebring, including Mario Andretti, A.J. Foyt, Dan Gurney, Stirling Moss, Juan Manuel Fangio, Phil Hill and dozens of others, driving race cars built by the world's great manufacturers such as Ferrari, Porsche, Jaguar, Audi, Ford, Maserati, Aston Martin and Nissan. Gates open on Wednesday and remain open 24 hours a day through Saturday's title race. Admission. 800-626-RACE. www.sebringraceway.com
Mar. 18-May 31: International Flower and Garden Festival, Lake Buena Vista. Spring special event filled with flowers, gardens, topiaries, live music and educational events. See millions of blooming flowers and a vibrant collection of specially themed topiaries. Meet with top horticulturists at one of the many Garden Town Programs and learn helpful gardening tips. Attend public demonstrations of advanced gardening techniques from around the world or get up-close with hundreds of colorful butterflies inside Minnie's Magnificent Butterfly Garden. Enjoy music under the stars at the Flower Power Concert Series. At Walt Disney World's EPCOT. Admission. 407-W-DISNEY. http://www.disneyworld.com/flower
Mar. 20-22: Tampa Bay Blues Festival, St. Petersburg. Each year since 1995 Tampa Bay Blues Festival has been staged at Vinoy Waterfront Park on the shores of Tampa Bay, with popular St. Petersburg Pier serving as a brilliant backdrop. The festival established itself as one of the world's preeminent blues music events, having presented more than 195 of the world's greatest blues performers. In addition to world class music, you can enjoy arts and crafts, taste treats from seafood and barbecue to Cuban cuisine, plus premium beer and wine. Admission. 727-502-5000. www.tampabaybluesfest.com
Mar. 21: Kowtown Festival, Kissimmee. Celebrate Kissimmee's birthday with a family-friendly festival that honors the city's cattle ranching heritage. Enjoy live entertainment, unique games, food and festivities. At Toho Square. Free. 407-846-4643. www.kissimmeemainstreet.com
Mar. 21-22: Palm Harbor Art and Craft Festival, Palm Harbor. Fine art and crafts, music, food. Florida Avenue downtown. Free. 352-344-0657. www.tnteventsinc.com
Mar. 26-28: International Rum Festival, Ybor City. Largest rum festival in the nation. Features dozens of world class spirits, industry experts and master distillers, authors, aficionados, master mixologists, judges and celebrities. Seminars cover a mix of history, culture, distillation, mixology, tasting techniques, culinary demonstrations and consuming news. Also includes an outdoor BBQ and a formal rum tasting dinner. 727-947-3522. http://www.polishedpalate.com/events/irf/2009/
Mar. 26-29: Sunnyland Antique and Classic Boat Society Show, Tavares. 22nd annual gathering at Lake Dora. View antique boats on land and in the water, plus amphibious cars, Jersey Speed Skiffs, antique woody cars, and antique canoes. Also live entertainment, nautical flea market, Sunnyland Ships Store, food court, beer garden, tour boats and train rides. At Wooten Park. Admission. 352-742-6338. www.acbs-sunnyland.com/show/index_show.php
Mar. 27-29: SPIFFS 2009 Folk Fair, St. Petersburg. A world celebration of food, culture and entertainment, presented for the 34th year by St. Petersburg International Folk Fair Society, Inc. (SPIFFS). Ethnic villages capture the flavor of each country, and costumed villagers demonstrate crafts and prepare ethnic food specialties. Visitors eat their way around the world, moving from village to village. Folk dancing and music similarly offers outstanding performances and demonstrations. At Vinoy Park. Admission. 727-552-1896. www.spiffs.org
Mar. 27-29: Spring Car Show and Swap Meet, Daytona Beach. This popular car show and swap meet, set inside Daytona International Speedway's infield, showcases more than 3,000 collector cars and trucks. 386-255-7355. www.daytonabeachcarshows.com
Mar. 28: Family Tree Climbing at Bok Sanctuary, Lake Wales. Tackle the challenge of trying to scale one of the tall live oak trees, climbing 60-80 feet high above the ground, or just sit in the harness to study the environment, Singing Tower carillon and rolling hills of citrus. An international sport, Family Tree Climbing is led by qualified trainers and the tree is prepared by an arborist. Participants use ropes, harnesses and helmets for safety. Reservations and release forms required. At Historic Bok Sanctuary. Fee charged. 863-676-1408. www.boksanctuary.org
Mar. 28-29: Battle at Narcoossee Mill, St. Cloud. Authentic reenactment of a Civil War battle. Roam through civil war camps, watch the mounted cavalry ride back from the past, and enjoy music from the era of the Rebelaires. Educational and entertaining for all ages. Held at Ralph V. Chisholm Park in Narcoossee. Admission. 407-931-7003. http://www.jacobsummerlin.org
Mar. 28-29: Images in Art Festival, Cape Canaveral. Fine art and craft, food, music. Second annual. At Manatee Sanctuary Park. Free. 352-344-0657. . www.tnteventsinc.com
Mar. 28-29: Fourth Annual Garden Expo and "A Fair to Remember," Stuart. Annual Garden Expo with educational seminars and vendors plus Biennial Flower Show featuring exotic horticulture and award-winning design arrangements presented by The Garden Club of Stuart. At Martin County Fairgrounds. Free. 772-283-1529. http://www.gardenclubofstuart.org
Mar. 28-29: Chocolate Festival, Melbourne. Brevard's best chocolatiers, pastry chefs and restauranteurs come together with community volunteers to raise funds to support programs that improve the lives of women. Guests may sample chocolate confections, cakes and desserts, then vote to select "Brevard's Best Chocolate Fix." In addition, there are beverages, appetizers, entertainment by local musicians, and an Emerging Artist Showcase. At Front Street Park Community Center. Admission. 321-729-0755. www.zontaspacecoast.org
Mar. 28-29: Downtown Sarasota Craft Festival, Sarasota. Begun in 2002, this popular craft show takes place annually on the last Saturday and Sunday of March, with approximately 200 crafters exhibiting their wares. Downtown. Free. 941-957-1877. www.escape-to-sarasota.com/sarasota-calendar-of-events.html
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)