Central Florida residents looking for a short outing have three family-focused events on the calendar between Nov. 7 and 14, from art in Inverness to holiday activities in Orlando and a car gathering in Tampa.
The 56th annual Inverness Festival of the Arts is set for Saturday, Nov. 7, from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday, Nov. 8, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in historic downtown Inverness. The outdoor event, a local tradition since 1971, will feature fine art, artisan crafts, live entertainment, interactive art activities and artist demonstrations, along with a School Zone focused on young artists.
According to the event information, proceeds will support Inverness' effort to transfer ownership of Whispering Pines Park from the state of Florida to the city, including long-term planning and potential future improvements at the park.
In Orlando, Bass Pro Shops will begin its Santa's Wonderland event on Saturday, Nov. 7. The free event includes games, seasonal treats, activities and giveaways. A mini reindeer plush giveaway is planned for the first day while supplies last. Free 4-by-6 printed photos with Santa will be available from Sunday, Nov. 8, through Thursday, Dec. 24; families can reserve a Santa visit online up to one week ahead.
GTE Financial's Family Motor Fest returns to The Motor Enclave in Tampa on Saturday, Nov. 14, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. The free public event supports scholarships for local students and is expected to include show cars, motorsports experiences, autocross and off-road thrill rides, racing simulator competitions, food and a Kids Zone with a Kids Jeep Rally and Pinewood Derby.
The Motor Enclave is at 6499 N. Falkenburg Road, off Interstate 75 at the Interstate 4 interchange near Tampa Executive Airport. Last year's event drew more than 8,000 attendees and 2,500 show cars, according to the organizers.
