Give back and get into the holiday spirit this weekend in Coral Springs
.png "There are plenty of festive holiday events happening in and around Coral Springs this weekend.")
Toy drives are in their final days in Coral Springs, but holiday events are just getting started around town and beyond.
Cities are hosting free events with dazzling light displays, food trucks, performances and other activities — and other groups are creating experiences to fit any budget.
And, if you aren’t feeling festive, there’s still plenty to do, from a color run to live music and opportunities to pick up new skills.
No matter how you celebrate, there’s always something to do in Coral Springs.
Here’s what’s happening Friday, Dec. 12, through Sunday, Dec. 14:
Friday
Channel 10 Toys for Tots Big Bus Express at The Walk (noon to 1 p.m.)
The Channel 10 Big Bus Toy Express will stop at The Walk at University in Coral Springs as part of its annual tour around South Florida. Day-of donors will be rewarded with free ice cream from Kilwins in The Walk.
Kristi Krueger, a Channel 10 anchor and medical reporter, will serve as the host for the Broward leg of the journey, joined by U.S. Marines in full-dress uniforms and surprise guests.
Learn more here and on Facebook.
Light Up the Park (5:30 to 8:30 p.m.)
Head to the Pine Trails Park Ampitheater in Parkland to enjoy live music, fresh food, activities for kids and an ugly sweater contest. Learn more on the City of Parkland’s website.
City of Tamarac Winter Wonderland (6 to 8 p.m.)
The Tamarac Park baseball fields on University Drive are set to host an enchanting evening of free bounce houses, games, and photo opportunities with Santa and Rudolph.
Plus, food trucks will be at the event with plentiful options to choose from. Learn more on the event flyer.
Parents Night Out (6 to 9 p.m.)
For $20 per child, Coral Springs parents can take the evening off — or use it to get some holiday shopping done. Plus, kids will enjoy a pizza party, crafts and a movie. Learn more and register on the City of Coral Springs’ website.
Saturday
Paws with Claus (10 a.m. to noon)
Take your pup on a fun, festive outing to Tamarac’s Gary B. Jones Park to enjoy photo opportunities and a holiday hound contest.
Plus, check out dogs available for adoption from Broward Animal Care. Fees are waived through Dec. 15 — meaning you could take your new furry friend home for just $25. Learn more on the event flyer.
Coral Springs Police Fill the Truck toy drive (2 to 5 p.m.)
Join the local law enforcement at Walmart on Coral Ridge Drive to help a local child’s holiday season a little brighter. Learn more on the City of Coral Springs’ website.
Mickey and Minnie holiday party at Larry’s Ice Cream (7 to 9 p.m.)
Get free professional pictures, enjoy a live DJ and meet the iconic Disney duo at Coral Springs’ historic ice cream shops. Learn more on Facebook.
Sunday
Nicklaus Children’s Hospital Color Run (10 a.m. to 2 p.m.)
Make a difference and have some fun with the Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School Dance Marathon team as they support the Children’s Miracle Network.
The fund helps hospitals secure treatments, services, medical equipment and more for pediatric patients and their families who couldn’t otherwise afford them.
The first 100 runners who pay online will receive a T-shirt, and all participants will get to enjoy vibrant color packets, and food to enjoy after the race.
Plus, check out games, photo opportunities and snacks available for purchase. Learn more and sign up on Eventbrite.
Multiple days
The Nutcracker at Coral Springs Center for the Arts
For the 26th year in a row, the Coral Springs Center for the Arts will host the International Ballet Company for its beloved holiday tradition.
Watch the magical story of young Marie and her nutcracker-turned-prince come to life with dazzling costumes, effects and music
One show on Friday is reserved for first responders. Three additional performances are available to the public:
- 2 p.m. on Saturday
- 8 p.m. on Saturday
- 2 p.m. on Sunday
Tickets are available for $42.
Faith-based events
Chabad of Coral Springs’ Chanukah festival will feature a BMX bike show, plus a variety of games, rides, live entertainment and more celebrating the multi-day Jewish holiday Entry is free, but most activities require a ticket or wristband purchase. Learn more here or on Facebook.
Omega Church will host a night of Christmas gospel music, with funds going toward the church’s annual toy drive. Learn more and purchase tickets on its website and on Eventbrite.
First Church of Coral Springs is the site of Bethlehem Revisited: a reenactment of the town where Jesus was born. This is a free event. Learn more on Facebook.
Recurring
Live music and entertainment
- Friday: Soul Travelers at Lefty’s; Sippin’ Fire at Sharkey’s; Dale Powers Band, The Flyers at Coconut Creek Casino
- Saturday: Bread Zeppelin and The Strangers at Sharkey’s; Live Feed at JD’s; Velvet Riot, Khemistry at Coconut Creek Casino
- Sunday: Insult II Injury and Bigfoot at Sharkey’s
Books and literacy
- Friday: Baby lapsit storytime and play date
- Saturday: Read to a therapy dog, robotics workshop for ages 5-10
Hobbies
- Friday: Gentle yoga for beginners
- Saturday: Meditation for beginners, holiday ornament painting, DIY holiday garlands
- Sunday: Cypress Park open play tennis, learn to sew, make a pop-up card
