Another Year Ends in Paradise there are many options to Celebrate by Claudia Polzin

As we bring 2025 to a close there are many options to celebrate all month long – start by exploring all of the holiday concerts that are
available in the community at our many churches. But don’t go alone, bring friends and create new memories. During the month there’s not only concerts you can go to, but there are also plays and holiday events.

Begin the month by exploring the North Pole on Third –downtown Naples – December 4 & 5 from 5 to 8 p.m. There will be seasonal music and lots of seasonal entertainment. You can continue the celebration on December 5 and 6 on 5th Avenue. On December 5 there will be a Christmas Tree lighting in Sugden Plaza at approximately 6 p.m. and continue with celebrations all up and down 5th avenue until 10 p.m. On Saturday December 6, the celebration continues from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Sometimes we all need a break from all of the holiday festivities – and there are many options for that also – at the Norris Center on December 5 at 7 p.m. you can’t get further from holiday than Hell on Wheels a Country Rock show that features the unstoppable women who have ruled the charts – Carrie Underwood to Miranda Lambert. If you prefer comedy – on December 6 at 7 p.m. at the Norris Center, you can enjoy an evening with comedian Kevin McDonald.

A complete change of pace on December 7 at 7 p.m. Gulfshore Opera will present George Bizet’s beloved Carmen in Hayes Hall at Artis—Naples. This story of freedom, fervor and fate is timeless where the thrill of freedom collides with the dangers of possessive love. Set in the 1830’s in the sun-drenched hills and bustling plazas of Seville, this production honors Bizet’s original spirit with traditional Spanish scenery, rich hued costume and dramatic visuals that capture the opera’s fiery soul.

At the heart of this drama is Carmen – a woman who refuses to be possessed, enchanting all who cross her path. But her independence clashes with Don Jose’s obsessive love, passion spirals into jealousy which leads to inevitable tragedy.

With soaring vocals, thrilling choreography and a cast of dynamic artists, Gulfshore Opera’s Carmen immerses audiences in a world where the universal thrill of live opera and dynamic storytelling come alive.

But now it’s time to jump back into the Holiday spirit and enjoy the original musical extravaganza –Home for the Holidays–December 19-21 at TheatreZone. This original show is reimagined each year but always features traditional and popular Christmas songs, sparkling costumes, energetic dance routines and live orchestra.

The Naples Players will feature Little Women: the Musical, a timeless tale of love, family and resilience. The March sisters’ inspiring journey embraces the joy and spirit of togetherness this season. This will play at the Kizzie Theatre through December 21.

Some fun family activities – December 9 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. there is the Naples Christmas Parade. A unique adventure on December 12 at 6:30 p.m. in Sugden Plaza, enjoy the Tuba Christmas – the annual brass concert featuring local and national musicians.

Also, on December 12 at 7 p.m. in the Norris Center CGO Music International will present the Voyces of Christmas.

Wherever you choose to spend your Holidays this year –be sure to spend it with loved ones– make memories and be sure to start some new memories and traditions.

See you in the New Year,

Claudia Polzin

Independent Consultant