Add local flavor in celebrating the season

Does anyone know what happened to 2024? Wasn’t Easter a month ago and weren’t we celebrating Independence Day just a few weeks back? Why are those big box stores hawking Christmas trees and those giant holiday inflatables making their appearance so soon? The truth is, 2024 is on its homestretch, and with the end of the year arrives a cornucopia of activities, events, and, of course, gifts.

Speaking of gifts, forget the tie or the slow cooker, because this holiday issue of Space Coast Living highlights unique locally made or available gifts highly unlikely to be returned or regifted.

An endearing Space Coast stocking stuffer is one of the historical Brevard ornaments annually offered by the Zonta Club of Melbourne. On Page 22 in this issue, read more about this collection, a what’s what of Brevard landmarks that encompasses an eclectic range from Del’s Freez to the Rocket Garden. Proceeds from ornaments assist Zonta Club in its mission to help raise awareness of human trafficking and advocate for women’s rights. 

If your gift list this year includes a feline, this issue’s story on Viera “catitect” Mario Arbore should provide plenty of gift ideas. Arbore’s company, Square Paws, specializes in singular habitats and accessories for pampered pussycats fortunate enough to live with humans who enjoy a sense of whimsy.

One of the holidays’ most beloved traditions is The Nutcracker ballet. Among the local productions of Tchaikovsky’s beloved classic is the long-running Galmont Ballet version at Historic Cocoa Village Playhouse. On Page 14, discover the affection and esteem that this ballet school has earned during more than two decades on the Space Coast.

During the hustle, bustle — and expense — of the holidays, a little quiet time is in order. The Brevard Museum of History and Natural Science provides a respite and an intriguing look at Florida’s past with a wealth of displays that chronicle history and science in the area from the Ice Age to the Space Age. Located in a quiet residential neighborhood in Cocoa, the museum is surrounded by 22 acres of trails that meander through Florida’s varied eco-systems. Best of all, the cost of admission is absolutely nothing.

It’s also time to start penciling in resolutions for 2025. Resolve to explore more of Brevard, because there is certainly plenty worth exploring. 

If a new home is in your future, definitely head to Aripeka in Viera, for in this green community is Joyal Homes’ Sandhill Key model, a house that not only showcases today’s trends in housing, but also reflects the craftsmanship of a local, family-run construction company celebrating a half-century of making thousands of new home dreams a reality for Brevard families.

May your holidays be wondrous and wonderful, and thank you for sharing this amazing time of year with Space Coast Living.

See the original article in print publication

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