This holiday season, The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art in downtown St. Petersburg (150 Central Ave) is swapping pine needles for cactus needles in a uniquely festive celebration. The museum will host the 2nd annual lighting of its giant Yule Cactus during a special holiday bash on Tuesday, December 2, from 6–8 p.m.
The event will take place in The James Museum’s beautiful Arroyo atrium and is free to attend, though space is limited so registration is recommended. The annual cactus lighting is the official kickoff to a full month of holiday events at The James. Famed St. Pete artist Chad Mize will be on hand to perform the ceremonial lighting of the Yule Cactus.
The holiday extravaganza will feature a range of activities for all ages, including:
Lighting of the 12-foot Yule Cactus
Art-making stations and activities
Seasonal bites and drinks (both alcoholic and non-alcoholic) from The Canyon by Catering By The Family
Photos with Cowboy Santa
Meet mini horses from Honey’s Mini Therapy Adventures
The Yule Cactus, inspired by the towering saguaro cacti of the Southwest, will remain on display through early January. Its return is a marker of the start of the season at The James, which will host family-friendly events and activities throughout December.
“This time of year is about joy, connection and creativity,” said Robin Nicholson, Executive Director of The James Museum. “The Yule Cactus is a fun and unexpected way to celebrate the season. It’s become a symbol of the museum’s unique spirit and the community that surrounds us.”
While you wait for the lighting of the Yule Cactus, be sure to take advantage of the incredible Black Friday deals at the museum. The James Museum’s largest sale of the year runs November 28–December 1, offering 50% off all new museum memberships (valid all weekend long with code MEMBER50) and 20% off general admission tickets for visits November 28–December 1 (use code HOWDY20). Learn more and get tickets here.
A month of holiday fun at The James
The Yule Cactus lighting is just the start of a jam-packed December calendar at The James Museum. Events include activities for all ages, from family-friendly artmaking to holiday parties. Check out these must-attend experiences at The James.
Yule Cactus Lighting Ceremony
December 2, 6–8 p.m.
Kick off the holiday season with their newest tradition – the annual lighting of The James Museum’s 12-foot Yule Cactus! Free events throughout the evening include family-friendly art making and photos, with Cowboy Santa with a special guest turning on the lights at 7 p.m.
The event takes place on the first floor, and it is free to attend. Museum admission needed for gallery access.
Trailblazer’s Annual Winter Bar Crawl
December 4, 7:30 p.m.
Grab a drink as The James teams up with Forward Hospitality Group for a bar crawl. Guests will be hitting up Glamper/XMAS Bar, Hi-5, and Welcome to the Farm, connecting with fellow art lovers along the way. As a bonus, all participants will get a free shot at each stop—cheers to that! Don’t miss out—grab your friends, bundle up and let’s make some memories. Must be 21+ to participate.
James Playdate: Winter Wildlife
December 5, 10:30–11:30 a.m.
December 9, 10:30–11:30 a.m.
The James welcomes their youngest learners and their caregivers each month. Grab your stroller and come for a morning filled with art, touchable objects, stories, songs and a chance to connect with other adults. Ages 0-3 with an adult. Includes museum admission.
Winter Wonderland Market
December 9, 5–8 p.m.
Need that one special gift for the holidays? Shop a market full of unique goods from local businesses and artists and enjoy a playlist of holiday classics as you wander the galleries. A few lucky guests will go home with a gift.
The event will take place on the first floor, and it is free to attend. Museum admission needed for gallery access.
Holiday Art Night with Harley Babst
December 9, 6–8 p.m.
Join The James for a festive holiday art night with local artist and Trailblazer member Harley Babst, where you’ll paint a western-themed holiday masterpiece and enjoy a drink with fellow artists. No experience needed—just bring your holiday spirit and creativity! Hosted by The Trailblazers. Must be 21+ to participate. Fee includes an adult beverage, museum admission and materials. Space is limited; advance registration required.
Family Matinee: Abominable (2019)
December 13, 1–3 p.m.
Abominable is the story of an adventurous teen named Yi who encounters a young yeti on the roof of her apartment building in Shanghai. She embarks on an epic journey to reunite the magical creature with his family. But to do so, they must stay one step ahead of a wealthy financier and determined zoologist who want to capture the beast for their own gain.1h 32m; Rated PG. Suitable for children 6 years and older with an adult. Museum admission sold separately.
Family Artmaking: Holiday Break Open Studio
December 26– January 3
When school is out, family fun is IN at The James! Drop by the studio to create winter-inspired art —experiment with icicle painting, snowflake gelli prints, puffy snow painting and more.
The studio will be open daily, December 26–January 3 @ 1–4 p.m. Ages 4–12; children must be accompanied by an adult. Included with admission; free for members. Space is limited.
The James Museum is embracing the holidays with creativity, community, and a touch of whimsy. For more information about these events or to register, visit thejamesmuseum.org/events and follow the museum on Instagram and Facebook.