Preparing for the Holidays
Get Ready for Week One
By Holly Houser
Where else can you see Santa on the beach, receive a Christmas Eve visit from an elf, win big in a Super Bingo game, and so much more all in a week’s span? Only at Ocean Reef, that’s for sure! So we want to be certain you have these events on your schedule:
For the Family
Bring the whole family to The Point to meet the Grinch and Cindy Lou Who for the annual Grinch’s Shore Party Saturday, December 21 from 5 to 7 p.m. While there, you will get a special visit from the Caroling Boat as it takes an oceanside cruise around The Reef.
Then on Monday, December 23, you’re invited to experience a Live Nativity Story Reenactment at 10:30 a.m., followed by a Petting Zoo at 11:30 a.m., both in the Chapel Parking Lot.
After enjoying Christmas with family and friends, take your chance in winning big at Super Bingo with prizes such as a stuffed Yeti cooler, Nintendo Switch, and a paddleboard. Begins at 7 p.m. in Town Hall on Thursday, December 26.
The fun doesn’t end there. Learn to fly like circus performers December 26 – 31, with Flying Trapeze School at 9 and 11 a.m. and Trapeze Fly ‘n Try sessions from 2 to 5 p.m.
For the Kids
The grown-ups need time for themselves too! Thankfully, there are several children’s events on the schedule they’re sure to enjoy.
On Friday December 20th Teens Only! Bonfire, there are no kid sisters, brothers or parents allowed! The fun begins at 8 p.m. on Buccaneer Island.
Then get in the spirit of Christmas and send the kids to see Santa on the Beach Tuesday, December 24. His sleigh will arrive on Buccaneer Island at 6 p.m. And, how about a personal visit from one of his elves on Christmas Eve? Make sure your home is on the list by calling 305-367-6516.
For the Foodies
The food festivities kick off Saturday, December 21, at the new Holly Jolly Breakfast. Seatings begin at 9 a.m. in Carysfort Hall and will feature a full spread of breakfast favorites, live music, familiar festive faces, and a chance to schedule a family portrait with Santa.
The Ocean Room will host Christmas Dinner Buffets on Tuesday, December 24 (6 to 9 p.m.) and Wednesday, December 25 (4 to 9 p.m.). On Christmas Day, Carysfort Hall will have seatings at 4 and 6:30 p.m. Make your reservations by calling 305-367-5931.
Wednesday, December 26 will be the first Starlight Beach Buffet at 5:30 p.m. in Carysfort Hall. Then on December 27, 30 and January 2, the Starlight Buffets will seat at 6 and 8 p.m. on Marlin Beach.
For the Competitive
With all the food and fun going around, Ocean Reef made sure to host some lighthearted competitions for all to participate in or spectate! Zumba Christmas Edition with Ana Beaty is the first on Tuesday, December 24. Jingle all the way with this Christmas-themed class at 10 a.m. in the Member Fitness Center.
Santa’s Sleigh Wreck Golf Tournament is next on Wednesday, December 25. Tee Times are at 8 a.m. on the Dolphin Course.
And on Thursday, December 26, round out the week with the Mother-Daughter Tennis Round Robin at the Tennis & Games Center from 6 to 8 p.m.
Pick up This Week at The Reef for a full schedule of events. Believe it or not, there is so much more!