Invoke the Christmas Spirit

Never have 15-minute intervals been more important than the day after Thanksgiving. At 5:30 p.m., Santa arrives (yes, he’s available for pictures). At 5:45, Red Bull Air Force performs a skydiving exhibition. At 6, Fort Lauderdale’s mayor, Jack Seiler, will flip the switch and officially turn on Christmas in way...

By Mickie Centrone

November 25, 2010

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Never have 15-minute intervals been more important than the day after Thanksgiving. At 5:30 p.m., Santa arrives (yes, he’s available for pictures). At 5:45, Red Bull Air Force performs a skydiving exhibition. At 6, Fort Lauderdale’s mayor, Jack Seiler, will flip the switch and officially turn on Christmas in way of twinkle lights: Thousands of them will glow along Riverwalk Park, Esplanade Park, Huizenga Plaza, the Stranahan House, and the Broward Center for the Performing Arts, among other crucial downtown Fort Lauderdale spots. There will be strolling carolers. Oh, also at Get Lit, a bounce house, face painting, a trackless train, cotton candy, live music, and food will be available. Thank the mayor when you adopt a tree for $150 or pole for $125 along the Riverwalk. And hold off on the potential eggnog overdose, because there will also be a beverage service. The Riverwalk Urban Market will be open and showing holiday spirit too. Stock up on your specialty fruit drinks, oils and spices, doughnuts, Peruvian food, guacamole, and teas and organic healing herbs. The event’s free and runs from 5 to 8 p.m. at Esplanade Park (20 N. New River Drive, Fort Lauderdale). The lights stay on till January 14. Visit goriverwalk.com.
Fri., Nov. 26, 5 p.m., 2010

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