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Tag: Holiday of Treasures

Holiday of Treasures Two Scoops

Holiday of Treasures beats the rain

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Entertainment, Holiday.

ANNA MARIA – The rain and windy weather held off just long enough for the Anna Maria Holiday of Treasures Open House to take place as planned on Friday, Dec. 14 from 5:30-8 p.m.

With Pine Avenue closed to vehicular traffic, folks wandered up and down the street visiting the participating businesses that offered free treats including hamburgers, hotdogs, cookies, sangria, craft beer, specialty cocktails, gourmet popcorn, wine and more.

Holiday of Treasures Beach Bums
The longest line of the night was for the free burgers served at Beach Bums. – Joe Hendricks | Sun

“We’re serving up a storm. We just love Christmas and the holidays, and we’re excited to give back to the community and have a little fun,” Two Scoops owner Dave LaBell said.

The line for free burgers was also long at Beach Bums.

“Every year we’re hopping,” Chris Gaines said while manning the grill outside Beach Bums.

The holiday festivities extended around the corner on Gulf Drive, where Harry’s Grill owner Mark Labriola dished up pasta fazool “Labriola-style.”

Free cookies and cider were served at the AMI Historical Society Museum, and the Roser Memorial Community Church’s Joyful Noise Children’s Choir performed inside the museum.

The rain finally arrived around 8 o’clock; some of the businesses had decided earlier not to participate due to the weather concerns. The Anna Maria General Store & Deli postponed its holiday porch party until Friday, Dec. 21 from 6-10 p.m.

Holiday of Treasures

Businesses prepare for Holiday of Treasures

Written by Joe Hendricks on . Posted in Anna Maria Island, Community News, Featured.

ANNA MARIA – Co-sponsored by the Anna Maria Island Historical Society and the Anna Maria Island Sun, The Anna Maria Holiday of Treasures Open House will take place from 5:30-8 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 14.

The Anna Maria merchants invite folks to stroll through the city and enjoy light refreshments at participating businesses along Pine Avenue, Gulf Drive, South Bay Boulevard and elsewhere throughout the city.

Free cookies and cider will be served from 5:30-8 p.m. at the AMI Historical Museum, 402 Pine Ave. The Roser Memorial Community Church’s Joyful Noise Children’s Choir will perform a free outdoor concert in the museum’s Historical Park at 6 p.m.

“It’s an opportunity to invite residents and visitors to come enjoy the ambience of the season. It’s the kick-off for the holidays in the city of Anna Maria, and we participate with the local merchants to celebrate the season,” Historical Society President Lynn Brennan said.

Participating businesses will remain open until 8 p.m., including AMI Outfitters, who this year will host a craft beer tasting event at 401 Pine Ave. as part of the holiday festivities.

Holiday Carols in the Park

Hosted by the city of Anna Maria and preceding the Holiday of Treasures Open House, the second annual Holiday Carols in the Park event will take place under the shade sail at City Pier Park from 4-6 p.m. on Friday, Dec. 14.

Santa will be on hand and the St. Stephens Episcopal Church Choir, accompanied by members of the school’s performance band, will provide the Christmas music and Christmas sing-alongs. The city event will also include free eggnog, juice boxes and cookies, as well as giveaways for the youngsters.