ST. PETERSBURG \u2014 The Yule Cactus Lighting Ceremony will take place on Tuesday, Dec. 2, 6 to 8 p.m., at the James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art, 150 Central Ave., St. Petersburg.<\/p>\n
The ceremony will feature local artist Chad Mize flipping the switch to illuminate the museum\u2019s 12-foot cactus in the Arroyo entrance. Now in its second year, the Yule Cactus event kicks off a month of creative holiday programs and family activities perfect for locals and visitors spending the holidays on Florida\u2019s Gulf Coast. This year\u2019s holiday offerings also include the museum\u2019s biggest Black Friday\/Cyber Monday sale in the museum\u2019s history.<\/p>\n
\u201cThis time of year is about joy, connection and creativity,\u201d said Robin Nicholson, executive director of the James Museum. \u201cThe Yule Cactus is a fun and unexpected way to celebrate the season. It\u2019s become a symbol of the museum\u2019s unique spirit and the community that surrounds us.\u201d<\/p>\n
Guests can enjoy festive music, art activities, and meet with miniature horses from Honey\u2019s Mini Therapy Adventures as Mize lights the cactus, all free of charge. Cowboy Santa will also make a special appearance for photos and holiday cheer, making the evening a perfect kickoff to the season. The museum\u2019s cafe, The Canyon by Catering By The Family, will have food, cookies and seasonal refreshments available for purchase. Guests who want to view The James Museum\u2019s galleries can take advantage of the museum\u2019s $10 Tuesday special. The Yule Cactus will remain on view through early January, offering a festive photo spot and a warm welcome to families and visitors throughout the holidays.<\/p>\n
Beyond the lighting ceremony, the James Museum will host a full month of holiday-themed programs and events designed to spark creativity and connection for guests of all ages. Museum members receive free or discounted admission to programs throughout the season. Other holiday programs include:<\/p>\n
Trailblazer\u2019s Annual Winter Bar Crawl \u2014 Dec. 4, 6-9 p.m.<\/p>\n
Grab a drink as we team up with Forward Hospitality for our bar crawl. We\u2019ll be hitting up three of their top locations, connecting with fellow art lovers along the way. As a bonus, all participants will get a free shot at each stop\u2014cheers to that! Don\u2019t miss out\u2014grab your friends, bundle up and let\u2019s make some memories. Hosted by The Trailblazers. Must be 21 or older to participate.<\/p>\n
James Playdate: Winter Wildlife \u2014 Dec. 5, 10:30-11:30 a.m.; and Dec. 9, 10:30-11:30 a.m.<\/p>\n
We welcome our 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.<\/p>\n
Winter Wonderland Market \u2014 Dec. 9, 5\u20138 p.m.<\/p>\n
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 our first floor, and it is free to attend. Museum admission needed for gallery access.<\/p>\n
Holiday Art Night with Harley Babst \u2014 Dec. 9, 6-8 p.m.<\/p>\n
Join us for a festive holiday art night with local artist and Trailblazer member Harley Babst, where you\u2019ll paint a western-themed holiday masterpiece and enjoy a drink with fellow artists. No experience needed\u2014just bring your holiday spirit and creativity! Hosted by The Trailblazers. Must be 21 or older to participate. Fee includes an adult beverage, museum admission and materials. Space is limited; advance registration required.<\/p>\n
Family Matinee: \u201cAbominable\u201d (2019) \u2014 Dec. 13, 1-3 p.m.<\/p>\n
\u201cAbominable\u201d 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. Rated PG. Suitable for children 6 years and older with an adult. Museum admission sold separately.<\/p>\n
Family Artmaking: Holiday Break Open Studio \u2014 Dec. 26-Jan. 3.<\/p>\n
When school is out, family fun is in at The James. Drop by the studio to create winter-inspired art \u2014 experiment with icicle painting, snowflake gelli prints, puffy snow painting and more. The studio will be open daily, Dec. 26 through Jan. 3, 1 to 4 p.m. Ages 4\u201312. Children must be accompanied by an adult. Included with admission; free for members. Space is limited.<\/p>\n