Volunteers, firemen preparing lighthouse for next weekend’s ‘Grande’ festivities

Volunteer Nancy Lingeman performing everyone's favorite Christmas task – unraveling the lights.

A yearly tradition, the lighting of the lighthouse brings many to witness the first night that the holiday lights are lit on the historic structure. It’s a time for carols on the beach and to check out the new displays in the museum and gifts in the gift shop.

Entertainment will be provided by Peter Simms, who has spent 30 years as a professional musician. Peter studied classical and jazz music at Cabrillo College and Chabot College in California. He also studied privately with jazz greats: Don Haas (Benny Goodman), Smith Dobson (Gary Burton), Dave Smith (Joe Pass), and Ray Brown (Stan Kenton). Here in Florida, Peter has performed at: Ritz Carlton (Naples+Sarasota), Longboat Key Club, Hilton, Hyatt Regency, Ringling Museum/Cad’Zan, Crosely Mansion, The Colony, The Founders Club, The Oaks, Selby Gardens, The Lido Resort, The Venetian Club, Gasparilla Inn (Boca Grande), Harbourside, Useppa Island, Pine Island, North Captiva Island Resort, Longboat Grille, Café L’ Europe and the Sarasota Arts Center.

Everyone is invited to attend the lighthouse lighting, and admission is free. Donations to the museum are appreciated.

Call 964-0060 for more information.