Cinco de Mayo in Miami

Rosa Mexicano, Brickell Village

Miami is a melting pot that loves a celebration.  Cinco de Mayo (aka Mexican Independence Day) offers up endless possibilities for having fun. In Homestead, where the largest number of Mexicans reside, you’ll find the most authentic festivities. Homestead’s Cinco de Mayo Festival is  Saturday, May 7, 2011 from noon to 10 p.m. This free annual event  features Traditional Mariachi music, folkloric dancers and Tejano music bands, as well as Jalapeno Eating contests and tortilla making demonstrations. Vendors will be selling delicious Mexican food, fresh vegetables and fruits, traditional Mexican drinks and pan dulce.

Miami’s urban core will also be celebrating.  On May 7th, Rosa Mexicano,  the popular Mexican eatery, kicks off its day long party at 11:30 a.m. at the restaurant’s locations at Mary Brickell Village in Downtown Miami and South Beach. At Brickell Village, look for food stations featuring the restaurant’s signature guacamole en molcajete served with perfectly crisp chips, and mouth-watering tacos; along with an ice cream cart, serving up an innovative selection of Rosa Mexicano’s house-made ice creams and sorbets.

CocoWalk, the outdoor mall and entertainment hot spot in Coconut Grove, will hold its celebration on the real Cinco de Mayo, Thursday, May 5th. CocoWalk will have live entertainment, roaming mariachi bands and drink specials from 7 to to 11 p.m.  On South Beach, Espanola Way will hold its 11th annual  Cinco de Mayo Street Festival. The Oh Mexico Cantina on Espanola Way is party central, with live music, Mariachis and Mexican dancers. Party goers will be able to enjoy Mexican cuisine from Oh Mexico, as well as Dos Equis cervezas and Sauza Tequila cocktails. The street festival begins at  5 p.m. and it is open to everyone.

Springtime at Hotel Urbano

Springria Cocktail

It’s springtime in Miami, time to stop and smell the gardenias. If you’re looking for a place to chill, try  Hotel Urbano, a cozy little oasis on Brickell Avenue, just minutes away from Downtown Miami. This boutique hotel is filled with bright artwork and comfy furniture; a great place to unwind. The delightful pool area  is landscaped with palms and fragrant vines, and has private cabanas and relaxation lounges. 

Another plus is the on-site restaurant, Bistro Urbano, where, thanks to the creativity of Executive Chef Anthony Velazquez, the small plates really rock. Sit by the pool and dive into gourmet sliders, pork belly tacos, tostones with avocado and crema, or churros with chocolate dipping sauce.  Indoor seating is also available, along with lunch and dinner menus featuring some amazing fusion combinations.  On Saturdays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., Bistro Urbano is a brunch hot spot, with hotel guests and locals in-the-know showing up for unlimited Mimosas and Caribbean French Toast or Eggs Benedict with crispy hash browns.  And don’t miss the bar’s cocktail specials, including the  Pineapple Basil Mojito and Springria – an oh-so-tasty combo of Ketel One orange vodka, frozen grapes, pineapple juice, orange juice, Petite Syrah and Champagne.

O, Miami Poetry Festival

During the entire month of April, words will take many forms — and come from the most unexpected places! The O, Miami Poetry Festival runs April 1-30, 2011.  A slew of special events, including some truly off-the-wall ones, are planned to celebrate the power of poetry to enrich our lives. There will be a Poem Drop with poems dropped from an airplane, a Poetry Wrap-Around of a school, poems read at the beginning of Federal Court (!), and a street event called “How Pedestrian” — which invites regular folks on the street to read a contemporary poem on camera. This large-scale cultural event truly offers something for everyone.

Public events will take place at Books & Books in Coral Gables, at Wynwood Arts District, at Luna Cafe in North Miami, New World School of the Arts, New World Campus on Miami Beach and many other venues. Master of Fine Arts students will read from their works. Musicians at New World Symphony will get into the act.  The poetry fun continues until April 30th, when the Poet Laureate of the United States W.S. Merwin reads at the New World Center on Miami Beach.

Browse the list of events and set aside a day – or a night- to come out and enjoy poetry, Miami-style.

Here’s a haiku to get you inspired:

By Yaddyra Peralta

 It’s never too hot

to have another

cafecito.

Greater Miami’s Best Farmers Markets

By Roni Hidalgo

You can’t miss the recent explosion of interest in local and sustainable food practices among Miamians. The proliferation of farmers markets is one result: markets have cropped up in neighborhoods like Coral Gables, Coconut Grove, Lincoln Road, South Miami and Pinecrest. We are proud of the sense of community and the ever-more healthful lifestyles the farmers markets promote in the Magic City. Review the list of market dates and times below when planning your tour: each market has different hours of operation. When visiting our bright and beautiful city’s markets, make sure to wear plenty of sunscreen, comfortable walking shoes, and always be good to the planet by bringing your own tote bag.

You’ll find plenty of produce, flowers, even crafts that are unavailable or rare in other parts of the U.S., but bring cash with you –including small bills– as only a few vendors at each market may accept credit cards, and vendors may run out of change before the day ends.

Coral Gables Farmers’ Market

You can really get a feel for the locals of affluent Coral Gables at this market, which has young and old, parents with children and pets in tow all walking the streets, socializing and buying their week’s fresh groceries.

Standouts:  Not only can you buy locally grown fruits and vegetables, fresh coffee and baked goods, but Coral Gables Farmers’ Market features a wonderful bulk herb stand straight out of an eastern bazaar, where you can select individual spices and skillfully blended fragrant mixes for Indian and Italian dishes. There are activities for adults and kids between 9 a.m. and 11 a.m., so get inspired before you shop the market with cooking demos from local chefs, gardening workshops and children’s entertainment.

Tips:  You can have a picnic under the beautiful shady trees adjacent to the market, but don’t forget your sunglasses and sunscreen, as there isn’t much shade while walking much of the market itself.  

Address:
405 Biltmore Way (in front of City Hall)

Coral Gables, Florida 33134
Phone: (305) 460-5607
Website:   www.coralgables.com/CGWeb/dep_dev_farmersmarket.aspx

When:   Runs mid-January through March 26^th.  Saturdays, 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Parking:   There is plenty of parking surrounding the market, but make sure to bring quarters; Coral Gables still uses coin meters along Andalusia Ave.

Pinecrest Gardens Green Market

Pinecrest Farmers Market has blossomed into one of Miami’s best farmers markets.  It is a must-visit. This market brings together a plethora of local and organic growers and producers. Those who hunger for fresh, local, healthful foods and agricultural goods will have plenty of options to choose from here; everything you would desire in a farmers market and more. The vibe is friendly, diverse and full of energy and beautifully located under the magnificent banyan trees of Pinecrest Gardens parking lot, once the site of Miami’s Parrot Jungle, before the avian theme park was moved to Miami Beach.  

Standouts:  The first thing you will notice is the smell of fresh kettle popcorn. Sample and pick your favorite homemade guacamole (a must try) made by local Mexican families. Other offerings include honey, local and exotic fruit, and even olive oil and artisan breads. Learn how to grow an organic edible garden. There are plenty of food stands to choose from, including delicious homemade raw food, fresh crepes, conch fritters, and ribs — along with other non-alimentary attractions like shea butter stands and a booth with Tibetan teas, medicinal herbs and traditional remedy books.

Tips:   Take your time in this market; there’s plenty to see, sample, and take in, so make sure to arrive early. Though some stands take credit cards, always bring cash or you might miss out on some tasty treats. 

Address:
5855 S.W. 111th Street
Pinecrest, Florida 33156
Phone: (305) 531-0038
Website:  www.themarketcompany.org

When:   Open December through April.  Sundays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Parking:   There is plenty of parking at the Pinecrest Gardens parking lot, but it gets busy between 10:30 and 11 a.m., so arrive early. If the parking lot is full, you can park along the walls leading up to the entrance of the parking lot. 

Coconut Grove Farmers’ Market

The Coconut Grove Farmers’ Market has been around for over two decades, and is run by Glaser Organic Farms. You can shop for fruits and veggies, spices and herbs, and eat a great meal all under one big tent.

Standouts:  This market is a raw vegan’s dream, but will surprise any non-vegan/vegetarian. The food selections are wonderful and do not lack in flavor. The Thai Coconut Water is to die for. Many local markets carry non-organic local food, but Glaser Farms is completely organic. The Nori wraps are crispy and delicious. They have a delectable selection of raw vegan desserts, including ice “creams” made from cashew and coconut milks. Try their tiramisu or strawberry shortcake if it’s available. Coconut Grove Farmers’ Market  also has a sideshow vendor area where you’ll find local homemade breads and crackers, hummus, guacamole, organic homemade creams and skincare products and Jamaican raw food.

Tips:   You can plan your Miami farmers market tour by starting or ending at the Coconut Grove market. It opens earlier than most markets in the area and closes much later. This market is set up on earth and grass, not concrete, so ladies, make sure you don’t wear heels — if you wear open-toe shoes, your feet may get dirty in the event of rain.

Address:
3300 Grand Avenue and Margaret Street
Coconut Grove, Florida 33133
Phone:  (305) 238-7747
Website:   www.glaserorganicfarms.com

When:   Open year-round.  Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Parking:   The market has a small parking area that fills quickly, but you can find parking along any of the side streets that run around the market.

Lincoln Road Farmers’ Market

Strolling the Lincoln Road Farmers’ Market is a mainstay of weekend recreation for Miami Beach tourists and locals alike.  From 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., you can stroll past rows and rows of locals pushing their fresh goods, while experiencing Miami’s iconic Lincoln Road.

You will find a spectacular display of fruits, veggies, fresh flowers and plants, bread, honey, jams, and other items in this stylish outdoor walking mall. This is a great location to shop, people-watch and sightsee. Though vendors of all sorts line up along the Lincoln Road pedestrian mall between Washington and Meridian Avenues, you will find the organic produce in front of Lincoln Theatre (at Pennsylvania Avenue and Lincoln Road).  There are boutiques, cafes, art galleries and more on both sides of the Road, with the Farmers’ Market located in the middle. There is always something going on on Lincoln Road, with a great selection of stores and restaurants to visit as well.  

Standouts:   You can experience Lincoln Road Farmers’ Market year-round and, you’ll always find something to see and do here regardless of the time of year.
Tips:   This is an outdoor location that runs for several blocks, so wear comfortable shoes and plenty of sunscreen. Vendors accept cash and some accept both cash and credit cards, so bring both to be safe.

Address:
Lincoln Road, between Washington and Meridian Avenues,
400 – 700 Blocks of Lincoln Road
Miami Beach, Florida 33139
Phone: (305) 531-0038
Website:   http://www.themarketcompany.org

When:  Open year-round.  Sundays, 9 a.m. to 6:30 p.m.

Parking:  The parking situation around the mall can be difficult if you want to street park, but there are several large public and private parking lots and garages off of 17^th Street, between Alton Road and Washington Avenue.

 

South Miami Farmers’ Market

South Miami Farmers’ Market opened this year. It promotes a community-focused environment and attracts individuals from all age groups, and with diverse backgrounds and experiences. Additionally, the Market is operated by Earth Learning, the City of South Miami, and South Miami Green Task Force, and is run by a very motivated, fun group of people eager to share their vision.

Standouts:  Smaller than other local markets, it’s only just begun, yet it has everything you need under the big green tent from Florida fruits, veggies, eggs, and grass-fed beef and cheese, and delicious food demonstrations. You can also learn about native and edible plants from an enthusiastic and welcoming group and sample delicious sweet and spicy jams, hummus, guacamole, salsas, and other products.

Tips:  The market will be open year-round and right now, only accepts cash. South Miami also encourages riding bicycles to the market and is working on a bicycle valet system in the near future.

Address:
6130 Sunset Drive, in front of South Miami City Hall
Miami, Florida 33143
Website:  http://southmiamifarmersmarket.com

When:  Open year-round.  Saturdays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Parking:   Parking is free and easy, right by City Hall and South Miami Library.

 

Mary Brickell Village Farmers Market

Set within the beautiful surroundings of Downtown Miami, this is a gorgeous location and so very “Miami”. Vendors emphasize goods more than produce, and offerings may change on a weekly basis, but there’s plenty to do and plenty of delicious restaurants to finish your day off. You can also purchase local artisanal jewelry for yourself and your pet. The amazing Perricone’s Restaurant is just steps away.
Address:   
Mary Brickell Village, 901 South Miami Avenue (In the 900 Block of South Miami Avenue)
Miami, Florida 33130
Phone: (305) 775-2166

When:  Year-round.  Sundays 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Parking:   There is metered parking along South Miami Avenue and the surrounding streets.

 

Aventura Mall Farmers Market

This is a seasonal market surrounding fountain in Aventura Mall’s Center Court. The market is small, but you’ll always find a diverse selection of vendors selling items such as cut flowers, tropical plants, pastries and baked goods, fresh guacamole, cooking oils, potpourri, and honey.  Prepared fresh foods are more plentiful than tropical produce.

Address:
Aventura Mall
19501 Biscayne Boulevard
Aventura, Florida
Phone: (305) 531-0038

When:  Mid-February through October, two weekends a month.

Check The Market Company website for more information:   www.TheMarketCompany.org

 

Overtown Market – Roots in the City Urban Farmers’ Market

Miami’s Inner City Market brings the freshest of produce and returns the outdoor community market to a neighborhood that once featured the southern homes of some of the luminaries of the Harlem Renaissance.  A coalition of local farmers, chefs, and businesses have partnered to bring fresh fruits and vegetables to one of Miami-Dade County’s underserved neighborhoods. Similar monthly events have shown the Overtown rebirth in the visual arts and music.

Address:   Corner of Second Avenue and 10th Street, N.W.
Miami, Florida
Phone: (305) 389-1602
Website: http://www.rootsinthecity.net

When:   Open September through May.  Wednesday and Friday from 1 to 4 p.m., Saturday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Hot Air Ballooning Over Miami

Waking before dawn is usually not my idea of a good time. But last Saturday, I was invited to go hot air ballooning to celebrate my best friend’s 50th birthday. Her husband arranged this as a surprise, and judging by the look on her face as we gathered in the dim light of the Holiday Inn parking lot, it was.

Our group of ten was greeted by the Miami Balloon Rides coordinator, who gave us release papers to sign. Launches take place in Homestead, Florida, which is about a 50 minute drive from downtown Miami. We piled into a white van and were whisked off to a grassy field in preparation for our balloon launch.  This is where I learned that, before launching, balloon pilots send up small helium-filled balloons into the air to check the wind currents. Apparently, wind conditions were not quite right to launch from this particular grassy field.

So we piled back into the van and headed for another grassy field. Everything checked out this time. We watched as the pilot and about five helpers readied our hot air balloon for launch. First, they rolled it out onto a large tarpaulin. Then, a noisy propane burner with shooting flames blew very hot air into the balloon. At this point, everyone in our sleepy pre-dawn group was suddenly very AWAKE. The immense balloon slowly filled with air, and it was a beautiful thing to watch.  Our group snapped pictures of the billowing, brightly colored beast as it roared to life. Two other hot air balloons were also preparing to launch from this field, so we got to watch as they also began preparations. Before the other balloons finished inflating, it was time for our own launch. With no time to waste, the pilot told us to “jump in”. Everyone threw a leg over and piled into the balloon. After a few more instructions between pilot and ground crew, we were off. 

Quickly, but ever so gently, the balloon lifted into the air. It is a feeling of floating, not flying.  There is a subtle difference, I realized.  We sailed up and over a row of  royal palms. Patches of wet, grassy field passed below as we ascended steadily to about 1,200 feet. On the way up, we could see Biscayne Bay, downtown Miami, Key Biscayne, and the beginning of the Florida Keys. Looking west, you clearly saw where civilization stopped and the wild Everglades began. In between the bay and the Everglades, we floated over numerous farms and commercial nurseries. Dotted here and there were old farmhouses, agricultural plots, small ponds and canals. We were surprised to see an huge mansion which resembled a French chateau. It sat on its own island, surrounded by an actual moat! We heard peacocks screeching and dogs barking in the distance. The most startling noise during our trip was the loud rush of the balloon’s propane burners, which the pilot must turn on every five minutes or so to keep the balloon aloft.

Our pilot was a friendly Canadian gentleman who used to fly balloons over Napa Valley’s wine country. He explained that balloon pilots use nature to guide them, such as watching the direction of  smoke from a nearby farm to determine which way the wind was blowing. Our flight lasted about an hour – plenty of time to take dozens of panoramic photos and to relax and enjoy the flight. The pilot  gave us clear instructions about preparing for landing. We were directed to all face the same way and grab ahold of the little rope handles inside the balloon. As we got close to Homestead Regional Airport, he radioed his crew to bring the van, and also communicated with the airport staff to inform them of our arrival. Landing a balloon can be tricky. One of the balloons that took off shortly after ours had some trouble and had to go aloft again. Luckily, we nailed our landing and experienced only a few small bumps along the ground before we came to a standstill.

Everyone hopped out, and several in our group were recruited to help the balloon crew deflate and roll the balloon back into a long log. It was fun to jump in and help out with this job. Afterwards, the Miami Balloon Rides staff drove us to a small campground where we enjoyed a champagne toast and a cheese and fruit platter. The tradition of enjoying champagne after a balloon flight was explained. Apparently, French ballooners in the 1780s had brought a bottle of champagne with them to enjoy during the flight. But they ended up offering their champagne to the farmer in whose field they landed as an apology for scaring the grazing animals and to reassure the farmer that they were not, in fact, demons coming out of the sky! Even with its inauspicious beginnnings, drinking champagne after a balloon flight is a great way to mark the end of a very special experience.

IF YOU GO:
Miami Balloon Rides
Advance reservations required. Children 6 and up are permitted to fly. Length of flight is between 45 minutes to one hour.
tel:  305-860-5830
www.RideaBalloon.com

Art at Miami International Airport

Miami International Airport (MIA) boasts a dynamic collection of unique artwork from world-renowned artists. The airport’s corridors are filled with stunning murals, paintings, mobiles, photographs, mosaics and intricately designed interior spaces. MIA has both permanent and rotating exhibitions programs.

Passing through the gates and corridors of MIA is an art-filled experience. Be sure to take time out from the hustle and bustle of traveling to see and enjoy the art that surrounds you.  

Find out more about art exhibits at Miami International Airport.

Find out more about Miami galleries and museums.

Miami Championship Sporting Events

Miami is a year-round hot spot for professional and amateur sporting events. Tennis, golf and football championships, marathons/triathlons, polo matches, car races, tournament fishing, speedboat racing – Miami plays host to all these and more.

Here’s a quick look at some upcoming championship events:

March 7-13, 2011
World Golf Championships – Cadillac Championship at Doral
This annual tournament features top golfers on the PGA Tour as they tackle the famed Blue Monster course.

March 21 – April 3, 2011
Sony Ericsson Open
Features the world’s top-ranked men and women professional tennis players. The event is an elite Tennis Masters Series event on the ATP circuit and top-tier event on the WTA Tour.

March 31 – April 3, 2011
Yamaha Contender Miami Billfish Tournament
Fishing tournament with daily dockside activities including live entertainment, auctions and more. Event is free and open to the public. Entry fee for competing anglers.

April 7 – 9, 2011
2011 Board Up! Miami – NIKE Swim Miami
Two big water events in one location: swimmers will compete in their choice of three open water swims in the NIKE Swim Miami; Board Up! Miami is Miami’s premiere wakeboard music festival. For registration and complete information, visit the web site.

Miami Beach Polo World Cup
4/20/11 – 4/24/11
This three-day international polo tournament brings eight teams from around the world to compete for La Martina Trophy as part of the Miami Beach Polo World Cup. Events include a player presentation/press conference, polo games Friday through Sunday, and social gatherings.

Browse a complete list of  sporting events in Miami.

Exploring Miami by Water

Seeing Miami from the water is an unforgettable experience. Ditch your landlubber’s perspective and make time to enjoy what seagulls do every day:  sultry sea breezes, the sounds of Biscayne Bay lapping at the shore and sunsets that paint the sky a thousand shades of tangerine and lavender.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or someone who calls Miami home, seeing Miami by water is a must-do. Here are a few cool ways to do it:

Kayak - Experience Miami’s natural waterways, mangroves and small islands by your own “paddle-power”.  Kayak and canoe rentals are available at several Miami parks. One of the most popular is Oleta River State Park in North Miami Beach. Blue Moon Outdoor Center is the park’s water sports concession, and will be happy to outfit you with kayaks, life vests and paddles. On Key Biscayne, just 20 minutes by car from Downtown Miami, Crandon Park’s Bayside Canoe Adventure is a guided tour through mangroves and a unique bird rookery island. Find more canoe and kayak rentals at www.MiamiDade.gov/parks.

Ocean Force Adventures – This adventure boat tours carries only 6 passengers per boat as you race across the pristine waters of Biscayne Bay while tucked securely into custom jockey seats aboard a powerful 30’ Zodiac Rigid Inflatable (RIB).  On this two-hour tour, you zoom past Stiltsville, Biscayne National Park, Ocean Drive’s Art Deco skyline, celebrity mansions, Port of Miami, Cape Florida Lighthouse and the historic Miami River. You may even get lucky and see a family of manatees or dolphins swimming close to your boat.

Thriller Miami – These exciting speedboat tours cruise the Port of Miami, Star Island, Biscayne Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. Private charters and group tours are available.  Daily Tours: 11:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m., 2 p.m., 3:30 p.m., 5 p.m. (6:30 p.m. in Spring & Fall, 8 p.m. in Summer).

Island Queen Cruises Inc. – This narrated sightseeing cruise leaves from Bayside Marketplace in Downtown Miami.  The modern yachts feature an air-conditioned lower salon, enclosed in picture windows, as well as an upper-deck where guests may take in the fresh ocean breeze under a protective awning. Departs every hour on the hour from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m., every day.

Outdoor Dining in Miami

Miami may be having a little cold snap right now, but wait a few days and we’ll be right back to our gorgeous, warm winter weather. You’ll want to take advantage of one of Miami’s true winter pleasures: patio dining. A cocktail, a light lunch, dinner by candlelight — life under the umbrella is what’s it’s all about here. Palm trees and great water views are usually part of the backdrop. Here are a few of our favorite places for soaking up outdoor living, Miami-style:

The Standard – This hip spa resort off mainland Miami Beach enjoys a panoramic view of Biscayne Bay. Locals come here to have lunch on the patio deck of the Bayside Grill, where bright yellow umbrellas shade patrons while they tuck into Greek salad, skirt steak, turkey wraps or shrimp ceviche. The bar serves cocktails and organic, bio-dynamic wines.

Smith & Wollensky – Watch the cruise ships sail out to sea around 4 p.m. several times a week from this steakhouse located adjacent to one of Miami Beach’s prettiest parks. South Pointe Park attracts dog walkers, families out for a day at the beach, and anyone who wants to feel the ocean breeze in their face. Best dining views are upstairs on the patio deck, which overlooks the Government Cut entrance to Miami Harbor and the cruise ships. The outside patio bar is another hot spot.

Blue Marlin Fish House – Laid back is the best description of this tiny open-air restaurant located in Oleta State Park in North Miami Beach. There’s a view of mangroves and the Oleta River, and the place has been featured on the TV show, Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives. Regulars rave about the smoked fish dip and the lobster burger.

Scotty’s Landing – For budget dining with a view, it’s hard to beat Scotty’s. Located on the bay in Coconut Grove between the Chart House restaurant and Miami City Hall, this dog friendly fish shack offers live music and a local vibe. Conch fritters, cold beer and fish sandwiches are the highlights here. Lighthouse Café – Located at Bill Baggs Cape Florida State Park, the Lighthouse Café is just yards from the beach and offers a great view of Key Biscayne’s historic 1846 lighthouse. The menu offers burgers, chicken sandwiches, fried calamari, ceviches and seafood dishes served with Latin flair. The snapper sandwich I sampled here was the freshest I’ve ever had.

Grove Isle Hotel & Spa – We agree with the resort’s web site: “Welcome to a private island resort that will distance you from the land and your ordinary mindset.” Yes, that’s it exactly. Here you can enjoy stunning views of Biscayne Bay from Gibraltar, Grove Isle’s signature fine dining restaurant. The atmosphere is romantic, secluded and private. Sit back, watch the sun setting over the bay with Key Biscayne in the distance, and savor pan-fried snapper served with ginger butternut squash and lotus chips. Yes, lotus chips…

Miami Holiday Fun

If you’re lucky enough to be in Miami for the holidays, there are some very cool ways to enjoy a little holiday magic.  Snow in Miami? Absolutely!  Head to Dolphin Mall and take part in the magic of this holiday tradition where shoppers will experience nightly snow shows at 7 p.m. in Ramblas Plaza with additional 9 p.m. shows on weekends. Note: Shows will not take place on12/24, 12/25, 12/31, 1/1.

Each year in West Miami, Santa’s Enchanted Forest creates a family friendly winter wonderland with food, and carnival rides for children of all ages.  You pay one fee to enter and then all the rides are free. Kids love the holiday dioramas with Rudolph, Santa and his elves, and the bright lights throughout the park. Santa’s Enchanted Forest is open nightly from 5 p.m. to midnight through January 2, 2011.

Deering Estate at Cutler, one of Miami’s historic homes, welcomes visitors with beautiful decorations and a host of activities. On Dec. 18^th, there are two fun events: the Artist Village Open Studio Tour at 11:30 a.m. and Storytime with Santa from 10 am to noon.

At Zoo Miami on Dec. 18-19, Holiday Gifts for the Animals lets visitors watch the animals joyfully open holiday gifts prepared by zookeepers and volunteers. The animals enjoy opening up their enriching gifts and you’ll be entertained watching them.

If music is what really gets you into the holiday spirit, you’ll find tons of terrific performances all over Miami. Mannhein Steamroller performs at downtown Miami’s Arsht Center on Dec. 26.  New Year’s Eve in Miami features top  talent from around the world:  Cuban singer Albita at Oy Como Ayer in Little Havana; Usher at AmericanAirlines Arena; and local jazz diva Nicole Henry at The Betsy Hotel on South Beach.  For those who would like to ring in the new year with a little ”old school” European glamour,  Salute to Vienna showcases a brilliant cast of European singers and dancers performing famous Strauss waltzes, polkas and operetta excerpts at Arsht Center on Jan. 2, 2011.