Surfing Santas Bring Holiday Cheer To Cocoa Beach

On Cocoa Beach, Florida's sun-kissed shores, a peculiar pair of velvet-clad elves paddled out to catch the morning waves on December 24. Their faces, set against the ocean's chill, seemed to embody a mix of determination and holiday cheer. As part of the renowned "Surfing Santas" event, these costumed surfers braved the low 70s ocean temperatures, their green elf-tunics flapping in the breeze.

The annual Christmas-Eve-morning gathering, staged by the eponymous group, drew an estimated 10,000 spectators to the Minuteman Causeway break. The event's free admission and charitable spirit made it a beloved tradition, with sales from event merchandise supporting two local causes: transportation for disabled citizens and the local surf museum.

According to Forbes, this festive surf-meet has become an integral part of Cocoa Beach's holiday celebrations. As the event commenced at 9:00 sharp, the beach transformed into a vibrant costume party. Dozens of Surfing Santas, including one sporting a gorilla mask, showcased their surfing skills, with some executing impressive cutbacks and others milking every last joule of energy from their modest waves.

This particular pair of velvet-tunic-clad elves entering the Cocoa Beach, Florida, surf on December 24 don't look overly filled with the holiday ...

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South Florida Kicks Off The New Year With A Diverse Array Of Festivals And Fairs

First seen in Orlando Sentinel:

As the new year unfolds, South Florida's subtropical climate sets the stage for a vibrant array of festivals and fairs. In the spirit of celebration, a monthly guide to events in Palm Beach and Broward counties is introduced, promising an exciting lineup of activities. In Fort Lauderdale, the highly anticipated Art Festival is set to take place along East Las Olas Boulevard on January 3-4. This pet-friendly event showcases an impressive collection of over 200 artists, featuring a diverse range of sculptures, paintings, mixed media, glasswork, and pottery.

With a fully vetted and juried selection of fine art, visitors can browse and purchase works from 10 a. m. to 5 p. m. free of charge. Meanwhile, in downtown West Palm Beach, Palm Beach Dramaworks presents a unique festival experience. On January 10, new, never-before-produced plays will be read at City Hall Plaza, followed by post-performance discussions. This event offers free general admission and parking, with optional Tasting Experience wristbands available for $40 and VIP admission for $60. In Jupiter, the inaugural Mach 1 — Salute to Service Air Show is poised to thrill, featuring aerial performances by two L-39 Albatros jet fighters and other aircraft.

One of the best things about South Florida is that our subtropical climate means we can have festival fun just about all year long.

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Proposed Bill Aims To Prevent Healthcare Discrimination Based On Vaccination Status

Preventing healthcare discrimination. Vaccination status, a factor in equal care. Holcomb's bill amends Florida Patient's Bill of Rights. Protecting access, no exceptions. Healthcare for all.

Holcomb's bill, in part, would prevent health care facilities and providers from discriminating based on vaccination status, a scenario, for ...

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Southwest Florida Sports Scene: A Year Of Historic Achievements And New Beginnings

In 2025, Southwest Florida's sports scene witnessed remarkable events that left a lasting impact on the community. The year was marked by historic achievements, remarkable debuts, and tributes to legendary athletes. One of the most notable stories was the retirement of a sports legend, whose name and contributions to the area remain etched in the memories of fans.

The passing of an all-time Lee County athlete also left a void, reminding everyone of the fleeting nature of --- and the importance of celebrating the accomplishments of those who have made a difference. On a more uplifting note, the area welcomed its first professional soccer team, which made a successful debut, injecting new excitement into the local sports landscape.

The team's arrival not only provided entertainment but also inspired a new generation of athletes to pursue their dreams. In the high school sports arena, the Barron Collier Cougars made history by capturing their first boys soccer state championship. Led by their determined head coach, John Damasco, the team defeated Mater Lakes Academy 4-2 in the Class 4A title game in February. This triumph was not only a testament to the team's hard work but also a validation of their coach's leadership.

A legend's retirement. The passing of an all-time Lee County athlete. The successful debut of the area's first professional soccer team.

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Space Coast Fruit Festival Pageants To Return In 2026

As the sun-kissed beaches of Florida's Space Coast beckon, a new kind of excitement is brewing in Brevard County. The highly anticipated Space Coast Fruit Festival Pageants are set to return in February 2026, offering a chance for girls and women of all ages to shine on stage. According to Space Coast Daily, these weekend-long festivals will be a celebration of fun, affordable, and wholesome entertainment for the whole family.

The festivities will take place at the Space Coast Daily Park, located at 5775 Stadium Parkway in Melbourne, a venue that promises to provide an electric atmosphere for the pageants and other events. Each festival will host a pageant, complete with various categories, and the opportunity for participants to take home a crown.

But it's not just about the competition - the festivals will also feature a range of contests, events, and activities that are sure to delight. One of the highlights of the pageants will be the chance for participants to receive coaching sessions, which will cover everything from stage walk and speeches to outfits, hair and makeup, posing, posture, confidence building, and cause preparation.

For just $50 per student, per session, girls and women can hone their skills and feel confident and prepared on stage.

BREVARD COUNTY, FLORIDA – The Space Coast Fruit Festival Pageants are returning , starting in February 2026.

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South Florida Celebrates The Holiday Season With Style And Entertainment

Featured in Sun Sentinel:

South Florida was abuzz with excitement as it prepared to take center stage on CNN's "New Year's Eve ___ with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen." A three-minute broadcast would air ___ from a yacht docked at Pier Sixty-Six in Fort Lauderdale, showcasing the city's revitalized waterfront after a $1 billion makeover. As the holiday season unfolded, residents and visitors alike were treated to a diverse array of events.

In downtown West Palm Beach, the EDM festival "We Belong Here" brought together music enthusiasts from far and wide. Meanwhile, on Worth Avenue, the luxe crowd gathered to socialize and enjoy the festive atmosphere. The Kravis Center in West Palm Beach played host to the world-touring musical "The Choir of Man," a pub-themed extravaganza featuring classic rock and pop anthems, dancing, and a working bar onstage.

Audiences could order a pre-show drink from Funky Buddha Brewery and Civil Society Brewing while enjoying performances at 2 and 8 p. m. on Friday and Saturday, and 2 and 6 p. m. on Sunday. In Fort Lauderdale, the Broward Center was abuzz with the Broadway tour of "Les Misérables," a sumptuous musical romance that left audiences singing along to "Do You ← →

As you may have heard, South Florida will be getting a special shout-out on CNN's “New Year's Eve Live with Anderson Cooper and Andy Cohen,” ...

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