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Palm Beach County Happenings in August 2022 – Presented by Noreen Payne

Want to know what top events are happening in Palm Beach County in the month of August 2022? Listen to Noreen Payne’s video overview. Join us every month for highlights of top events in the area!

 

Delray Beach Events for January 2019!

January brings so many not-to-miss events to downtown Delray Beach! Here are some of our picks:

First Night in Downtown Delray Beach (Dec 31 into Jan 1)

Kick off January in Delray Beach with The Annual First Night event. It’s open to everyone, and taking place primarily at Old School Square.

This festive event centers around (and even in!) Delray’s Famous 100 Foot Holiday Tree. It will feature games, food trucks, music, shows, crafts for the kids – plus the fun attractions of both the merry go round and the ice skating rink. So much fun for the whole family!

We’ll bid farewell to 2018 and welcome 2019 at the close of the evening with fireworks atop the parking garage located in the heart of downtown.

 

Continuing throughout the month are several newsworthy shows and concerts at Old School Square and The Arts Garage. A few that we plan to attend include:

First Friday Bites and Art Walk (Jan 4th)

This happening starts with a stop at The Arts Warehouse, where there will be food trucks and plenty of art to enjoy throughout the warehouse, Artist’s Alley & Pineapple Grove.

 

The Capitol Steps at Old School Square (Jan 5th)

A Washington-based troupe of Congressional staffers-turned songwriters presents this hilarious night of music and political satire.

 

The Spring Arts Open House at The Arts Garage (Jan 12)

Be sure to check out this one out! It’s an opportunity to learn about all the Arts Garage workshops, shows/concerts and events planned for the year.

 

Towards the end of January, we are looking forward to:

The 6th Annual Delray Beach Fashion Week (Jan 23 – Jan 27)

Featuring local fashion designers and retailers – and showcasing private shopping events, trunk shows, and several runway fashion shows along Atlantic Ave & Old School Square – it’s a must in Delray!

 

There is always so much to do in Delray Beach, our Village by the Sea! These are just a few of the many events to enjoy during the month of January. For additional information or to find other events be sure to visit The Delray Beach Community Calendar online OR stop into The Delray Beach Chamber of Commerce for more details on these and several other happenings.

 
 

Delray Beach Holiday Events – 2018!

Welcome to the December Holidays – a month long celebration in Delray Beach! This is just one of countless reasons why we LOVE living, working and playing in Delray – our unique Village by the Sea.  

 

Delray Beach 100-foot Christmas Tree Lighting

Thursday, November 29th

 

Delray Beach is widely known for the 100 Ft Christmas tree, which is the crown jewel of the entire season!  The holidays start with a city-wide celebration of the lighting of the tree – which is impressive, for sure, standing 100 feet tall! And, it actually houses a gorgeous display of vignettes inside.

The tree is positioned on the grounds of Old School Square in the center of downtown, where kids of all ages can enjoy the tree, plus a visit with Santa, ice skating on the skating rink, putt putt golf, or a ride on the antique merry go round! It’s truly enchanting, so we recommend you earmark some serious family time to enjoy it all!

 

Delray Beach Menorah Lighting

Sunday, December 2nd


The fun continues after the Christmas tree lighting, with the lighting of the Menorah to kick off Hanukkah.

 

 

Holiday Market at The Arts Warehouse in Artists Alley, Delray Beach

Weekend of December 7th

 

Did I mention the shopping events??  Another new “not to miss” this season is the Holiday Market at The Arts Warehouse in Artists Alley, happening the weekend of December 7th! Local artisans will be showcasing one of a kind gifts – great for those hard to buy for on your list.

 

The Delray Beach Holiday Parade

Saturday, December 8th

After these lighting events, we then look forward to the Holiday Parade, this year taking place on Saturday, December 8th along Atlantic Avenue. You’ll see carolers, elves, ballerinas, nutcrackers, dancing teddy bears, Santa on the fire truck… You name the holiday icon, and they walk, dance or ride along in the parade.

 

The Boynton & Delray Holiday Boat Parade  

Friday, December 14th

 

Local restaurants and private homes along the intracoastal play host to those of us that really do enjoy celebrating the season with this event. Boat owners go all out and decorate/light up their boats of all shapes and sizes and parade along the water way. What a sight to admire!  

 

Heads up!
Various events, various dates in Delray


Mixed into the month of December are celebrations are all the opportunities to socialize with our neighbors while supporting some our key local non-profits.  

Carols by Candlelight Concert, Empty Bowls, Mix & Mingle at The Sandoway House, Christmas at Cason Cottage and new this year is the Jingle Mingle Drum with Food Trucks, Caroling… These are all events to look up, attend, and enjoy!  

 

Delray Beach New Year’ Eve Celebration of First Night

Monday, December 31st


The Grand Finale of the Holiday Festivities is The New Year’ Eve Celebration of First Night. This is a true tradition for many of us!  Music out on the Ave… shows, activities for the kiddos… all ending with the spectacular fireworks from the top of the parking deck.


The month of December flies by in Delray Beach, but the memories made during the season last a lifetime!

Live Music in East Delray

Did you know that research has actually shown that enjoying live music events is good for you? Yes! There are significant stress-reduction benefits to attending concerts or enjoying live music.

Here in Delray Beach we have so many opportunities to partake, and because maintaining a healthy lifestyle is important to many residents, you’ll find most of us frequent live music venues.

Of course, we all have different favorites. Here are some of mine!

 

Johnnie Browns on Atlantic Ave is surely among the most popular among locals. Acts play every night of the week. Check out this fun lineup!

Monday: Live Elvis Night! A Popular local Elvis impersonator performs two shows at 7:30 & 9:30.

Tuesday: Hot Rod Show with a Rod Stewart look alike (!) starts at 8:00.

Wednesday: Classic Rock with The Flyers, an energetic trio that plays your favorites starting at 8:00.

Thursday: Thirsty Thursdays features a variety of bands that perform at 8:00 each evening.

Friday & Saturday: Rock n Roll n Ribs. (Yes, really! Enjoy ribs and live music every weekend from 9:00 -1:00AM.

Sunday: Rockin’ Sunday with Shaun Schumann runs from 4:00-7:00.

 

Other awesome local places to enjoy music, plus food and spirits, include:

Bostons on the Beach (known for Reggae night on Mondays!)
Deck 84
Blue Anchor
3rd & 3rd
Tim Finnegan’s Irish Pub

 

But why stick to restaurants and pubs only?

Old School Square offers three diverse venues for music. Check out the outdoor pavilion for Free Friday night concerts during season and special performances in and around the area. Indoors you’ll find the Crest Theater and The Field House. Look for special concerts here too.

The Arts Garage offers fantastic opportunities in many genres ranging from Jazz, latin, hip hop, rock & roll, instrumental, classic, opera, and more. There are always exciting performances at this special “bring your own picnic basket” venue.

Downtown Delray Beach offers something for all ages. Comment to let us know your favorite passtimes here. Bonus points if yours support the value of living healthfully!

Olio in Downtown Delray Beach Delights Palates

Recently as Amy and I were researching venues for an upcoming event, we came across the established and well-liked restaurant called Olio. It’s off The Ave in Delray Beach, so if you do want to get to the hustle and bustle after dinner, it’s only a block or two away.

We sat down with the General Manager of Olio, Jon Biscardi who helped us plan our event. What many local residents may not know is that Jon has been in the restaurant business locally for years. At one time with The Falcon House, 3rd & 3rd when it was 2/3rds and 32 East to name a few. Below are a few questions we posed to him to share with everyone.

Noreen & Amy:
How long have you been manager at Olio?

Jon:
After having been involved in the industry for several years, it’s nice to find a home here at Olio. I’ve now been here 4 years an really love it!

N&A:
What is your favorite thing about your job?

Jon:
Of course, the people! We have many loyal regulars that come see us often, whether for drinks at the outdoor bar, appetizers or full on dinner.

N&A:
What are your personal favorites on the menu?

Jon:
Too many to choose…  but if I had to pick one I’d say the Teriyaki Salmon. Many diners who wouldn’t usually enjoy a nice piece of Salmon come specifically for our version.

N&A:
Many of our readers are buyers who are moving to the East Delray area. What would you like them to know about your restaurant?

Jon:
First and foremost that we are “off” The Ave away from the traffic and crowds. But we’re close enough so that if someone did want to get there, it’s only a short walk away. We are also a sister restaurant to La Boheme on the Barrier Island closer to the beach on Atlantic Avenue.

N&A:
Is there anything else you’d like people to know?

Jon:
We have two party rooms and can host gatherings. Whether it be a birthday party, business dinner, or fundraiser, we can put something together for those that need it.

N&A:
In your free time – are there East Delray attractions or locations you personally like to frequent?

Jon:
I love our beach! I also enjoy seafood and when I go out to eat will grab a bite at J&J Seafood.

Next time you’re planning a night out, try Olio! You’ll love the food and the people.
You can find them online at:
Contact info and hours as follows:
Phone: (561) 278-6633

Fax: (561) 278-4873

Email: info@oliobistro.com

Olio Hours:

Monday – Sunday: 4pm – 10:30pm

Happy Hour: 4pm – 6:30pm

Address: 42 SE 2nd Avenue
Delray Beach, Florida 33444

Take Your Workout Outside This Spring in Delray Beach

Why spend an hour at the gym when you can get in a great workout while enjoying the sites and sunshine of Delray Beach? Whether you’re looking for a high-intensity workout, something out of the ordinary, or a more mindful exercise experience, you’ll find it on along the ocean shore.

Turn to Mother Nature and your own body weight to provide you with all the fitness equipment you need for a fresh and fun workout in the park.

Create your own outdoor circuit training program that includes squats, push-ups, side planks and side shuffles. Add in pull-ups and step-ups if you’re at a playground with a jungle gym. Don’t forget to warm up with a brisk 5-minute walk or jog before you start.

Anchor Park  is a great place to try out an outdoor circuit program: It has both a community park and a playground—and it’s close to the beach for a post-workout swim.

Veterans Park on East Atlantic Avenue, is another perfect outdoor workout spot, with lawn bowling and shuffleboard courts for some group fun, too.

 

Why Run When You Can Kangoo Jump?

Jump-start your outdoor workout—literally—with Kangoo jumping instead of than a run through the park.

(First invented in Europe in the mid-1990s, Kangoo jumping is a safe, low-impact rebound exercise you do with the help of Kangoo Jump shoe (boots). The activity is easier on the joints than jogging and a great calorie-burning exercise that also strengthens the legs.)

Though there are Kangoo jump clubs in many cities, all you really need to get started is a pair of Kangoo jump shoes, which are available online and in specialty sports stores. Strap them on and you’re ready to go.

Kangoo jumping shoes are equipped with a spring system that compresses as you run to absorb impact. They provide lateral stability that make them safe to use for people of any age and activity level.

Rather than a jog along the Commodore Trail, why not try Kangoo jumping the trail instead? The shoes are even sturdy enough for a run on Bluegill Trail or on one of the area’s breathtaking beaches. A list of Delray’s Trails is available at www.traillink.com/city/delray-beach-fl-trails.

 

This Beach Was Made for Yoga

What’s not to love about beach yoga? It combines fitness, discipline, and sunshine. It allows you to connect with nature and strengthen your body and mind.

If you’re already an avid yoga enthusiast, you know the many benefits of this ancient Indian form of exercise. Have you taken your practice outdoors to amplify its spiritual benefits yet?

Sunset Beach Yoga hosts an 80-minute guided yoga class every Sunday and Wednesday evening (weather permitting) at Atlantic Dunes Park Beach, led by Jessica Om. The event is open to all levels and to those who self-practice too. Find out more about the group at www.meetup.com/sunsetyogaonthebeach.

If the beach isn’t the place for you, but you still want to be close to nature during your yoga practice, Bamboo Garden Yoga, located at 88 SE 4th Avenue, offers a variety of indoor and outdoor yoga classes, including Bikram, vinyasa, and meditation. Classes are offered daily; registration is available online at bamboogardenyoga.com.

 

One of the biggest challenges to staying active is finding a fitness program that’s effective and fun. Taking your workout outside when the weather is nice gives you variety and a healthy dose of Vitamin D, both of which will make your body healthy and strong.

Visit the St. Vincent Ferrer Fair in Delray

Every year in February, families in Delray Beach and the surrounding areas look forward to the St. Vincent Ferrer Fair!

The well-loved event has been delighted families, friends, residents and snow birds alike for almost 50 years. It’s hosted by The St. Vincent’s Ferrer Parish and usually takes place in the weeks prior to St. Patricks Day.

The fair/festival features carnival rides, games, live entertainment, food, a world class flea market, and more. Admission and parking are free, however tickets or 3 day passes are sold for rides and other activities. All proceeds benefit St. Vincent Ferrer Catholic School.

Location:
St. Vincent Ferrer Church & School
840 George Bush Blvd
Delray Beach, FL 33483

To learn more: http://www.stvincentferrer.com/parish-festival/

Plan a Family Trip to Sandoway Discovery Center

A family trip to Delray Beach isn’t complete without a stop at Sandoway Discovery Center, located at 142 South Ocean Boulevard.

For just $5, guests can learn about the wonders of the ocean through interactive exhibits and education programs providing an informative mix of marine biology and Delray Beach history. The biologists are enthusiastic, knowledgeable, and eager to share their love of the ocean.

A Must-See for Shark Lovers

If you’ve ever wondered what nurse sharks eat for breakfast, you’ll not only find out, but have the chance to feed it to them at Sandoway House Nature Center. The ecological education center lets you watch live shark feedings Tuesday through Saturday at 10:30 a.m. and Sundays at 1:30 p.m., and even names one lucky person (over the age of 3) the Shark Feeder of the Day. A $25 cost applies. Pre-registration is required by calling 561-274-7263.

A special three-month shark exhibit is set up at Sandoway Discovery Center every year between June and August, featuring an expanded exhibition of these great and predatory marine fish. The display is full of exciting shark artifacts, including shark teeth and jaws from more than 100 species of shark. There is also a mini-fossil dig set up for children to dig for (and keep) genuine fossils.

Between October and May, guests can enjoy a Surfing History Exhibit, detailing the complete history in the State of Florida, and Palm Beach County in particular. The display includes locally-made surfboards and thousands of photos.

A Learning Place for All Age Groups

In addition to its popular shark attraction, Sandoway Discovery Center is also home to snakes, turtles, birds, and tortoises, and has stingray and invertebrate touch tanks that provide a hands-on learning experience. The Florida Reptile and Amphibian room is where visitors will learn about some of Florida’s native and invasive reptile species.

Its microscope room and its children’s activity room make it a fun place for adults and children alike to better understand the environment and the delicate ocean ecosystem through hands-on learning and play.

Other popular features of this historic two-story beachfront museum are the extensive private seashell collection featuring 10,000 museum quality shells from around the world, the nocturnal room, and the second-floor observation deck.

Sandoway Discovery Centre is open Tuesday through Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 4 p.m. The center is closed on Mondays and major holidays. For more information, visit www.sandowayhouse.org.

 

Girls Night Out in Delray Beach!

Delray Beach offers plenty to do and sights to see with friends, day or night. And, when you need a break from the kids and the SO, it’s really the perfect place for a fun girls night out… or a whole day for that matter!

Here’s just one itinerary we recommend – but of course there’s an unlimited number of fun options.

Our plan: Grab your BFFs and head over to East Atlantic Avenue for hours of fun, starting with a well-deserved stop for pampering at one of the area’s finest spas. You’ll make your way to a few stops and end with drinks at Delray Beach’s oldest cocktail bar. 

Stop 1: Seagate Spa

The Seagate Spa isn’t exclusively for hotel guests; book yourself and a couple of girlfriends in for an afternoon of luxury and pampering, including a decadent massage and a mani/pedi.

The Seagate’s 8,000-square-foot spa is located inside the Seagate Hotel at 1000 East Atlantic Avenue and offers a complete range of massage, skin care and body treatments. It’s the perfect retreat for young professionals, busy moms, and women in need of relaxing and invigorating spa experience. Going with friends just makes it more fun!

Don’t forget to pack your bathing suit. A perk of booking at the Seagate Spa is all-day access to the hotel pool, jacuzzi, pool bar, tranquillity room and steam room. You could even come early for a workout in the fitness center.

The Seagate Spa is open daily from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. Request an appointment online at www.theseagatehotel.com/spa-fitness.

Stop 2: Blue Gallery

There’s no better way to spend an hour or two with friends than at one of the finest art galleries in Delray Beach. Located at 600 East Atlantic Avenue you’ll find Blue Gallery, where contemporary art comes alive.

Blue Gallery features original collections from internationally-acclaimed artists, including Lenner Gogli, Iris Eshet Cohen and Marcus Botbol. You’ll discover awe-inspiring pieces of landscapes, abstracts, semi-realistic, realistic, and figurative styles all under one roof. And if you decided to add one of Blue Gallery’s beautiful pieces to your personal collection, the friendly and knowledgeable staff will even help you install it perfectly in your space.

Visit Blue Gallery online at www.bluefineart.com for information on the artists whose work is featured and for upcoming exhibitions.

Stop 3: The Old Arcade

What girls night would be complete without a stop for cocktails? For something a little offbeat, we like The Old Arcade, Delray Beach’s first and only Speakeasy bar, built in 1925 and kept secret until the end of Prohibition.

Tucked in behind Caffe Martier, The Old Arcade is a vintage-style bar serving classic cocktails with an updated twist ranging from price for $12 to $15. The bar boasts great ambience and talented mixologists who specialize in craft cocktails. The Resolution #9 is a fan favorite.

Visit The Old Arcade’s Facebook page (www.facebook.com/theoldarcade) for a complete menu of restoratives, and make sure you enter through the back alley, especially if it’s your first visit. This secret bar can be tricky to find otherwise, but worth the effort.

 

We hope you enjoy this suggested itinerary! We are always up for a good GNO, so let us know your favorite ladies night destinations in Delray Beach!

February Happenings in Delray Beach

After the holidays, our high season is in full swing and continues during the month of February in Delray Beach.

We all continue to explore the weekly Green Market every Saturday 9:00-2:00 at Old School Square, and here are a few other events residents, snowbirds and visitors can enjoy this month:

Laugh with The Library

Friday, February 2nd, 7:30-10:30PM

Now in it’s 12th year, this event takes place at The Delray Beach Marriott Hotel. Gather your friends together and purchase a table for 10 or grab individual tickets.  Enjoy this year’s headliner, Comedian Don Gavin, who will be hosting a “laugh-out-loud night of comedy.” Proceeds from this cocktail party and evening of lively entertainment will benefit the Delray Beach Public Library’s outreach programs.

For more information: https://www.delraylibrary.org/laugh/

 

Artists in the Park

Weekend of February 3rd-4th, 10-4:30 PM.

This fantastic arts event is hosted by The Delray Art League in Veterans Park along the Intracoastal water way off Atlantic Ave.  Enjoy art in a lovely outdoor setting where you can visit with master artists and their pieces – paintings, prints, sculptures, and other mixed media.

For more information: https://delrayartleague.com/artists-in-the-park/

 

The Delray Beach Open

February 16th-25th

The highlight of the month is certainly The Delray Beach Tennis Open at The Delray Beach Tennis Center. This exciting tennis event attracts 55,000 spectators annually and is touted as the world’s only 10-day ATP Champions Tour and ATP World Tour event.  The Open consists of tough tennis competitions/matches between the top athletes on the circuit today. It also brings back the legends. There are also multiple dining and networking events that take place in the on-site Hospitality Pavilion (ie VIP Reception, Box Series Holders’ Reception, Chamber Bash, Ladies Luncheons). Tennis enthusiasts can also take advantage of unique and competitive amateur tennis opportunities held on the grounds of the event (ie Legends Clinic, ATP Doubles Pro-Am, Tennis on Campus Collegiate Challenge, Mega-Mixer, College Matches, USPTA Fast 4 Event & Woman’s Round-Robin).

For more details: https://yellowtennisball.com/

 

Paint and Sip to support The Milagro Center

Monday February 19th 7:00-9:00 PM

This lovely affair is hosted by Painting with a Twist located at 2288 N Congress Ave.  A mere $45 donation helps support after school arts and education for local at-risk kids in the Delray Beach community via The Milagro Center.

For more details: https://www.facebook.com/events/198576877364953/

 

In addition to this sampling of February fun, you can enjoy ongoing events aplenty.  Look for music, shows, art at Old School Square, the Arts Garage, The Arts Warehouse, The Delray Beach Playhouse or Morikami Park.  There is always plenty to do for everyone in Delray Beach, our Village by the Sea.