This holiday season, The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art in downtown St. Petersburg (150 Central Ave) is swapping pine needles for cactus needles in a uniquely festive celebration. The museum will host the unveiling and lighting of its giant Yule Cactus during a special holiday bash on Tuesday, December 3, from 6–8 p.m.
The event will take place in The James Museum’s beautiful atrium and is free to attend, though registration is required as space is limited.
The holiday extravaganza will feature a range of activities for all ages, including:
- Unveiling and lighting of the 12-foot Yule Cactus
- Artmaking stations, including sensory snow activities, painting, and a make-your-own snow globe station
- Seasonal drinks, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic
- Photos with Cowboy Santa
- A visit from a mini horse from Honey’s Mini Therapy Adventures, who will perform the ceremonial lighting of the cactus
The Yule Cactus, inspired by the towering saguaro cacti of the Southwest, will remain on display through January. The museum hopes this unique centerpiece will become a cherished annual tradition.
“We were inspired by the iconic saguaro cacti found in the southwest, which can grow to enormous heights,” said Robin Nicholson, Executive Director of The James Museum. He continued sharing the inspiration behind the event by saying, “Our holiday cactus is a reminder of the grandeur of nature, and we hope guests will have a moment of wonder and awe when they see it for the first time, no matter their age.”
A month of holiday fun at The James
The Yule Cactus unveiling is just the start of a jam-packed December calendar at The James Museum. Events include activities for all ages, from family-friendly artmaking to holiday bar crawls.
Yule Cactus Unveiling and Lighting Ceremony
December 3, 6–8 p.m.
Kick off the holiday season with a NEW annual tradition. Join us in the inaugural lighting of The James Museum’s never-before-seen Yule Cactus. This 12-foot spectacle is the perfect backdrop for your family’s holiday card this year. Enjoy seasonal drinks, artmaking activities for all ages and take your photo with Cowboy Santa before a special guest from Honey’s Mini Therapy Adventures turns on the Yule Cactus lights at 7 p.m.
Winter Bar Crawl (Hosted by the Trailblazers)
December 5, 6–9 p.m.
Gather your friends and join us for a holiday bar crawl in downtown St. Pete! Holiday attire encouraged. Enjoy discounted and specialty drinks at several locations including Good Night John Boy and Glamper. In partnership with Forward Hospitality Group. 21+ only.
James Playdate: Winter Wonders
December 6, 10, 10:30–11:30 a.m.
This event is FREE thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor!
We welcome our youngest learners and their caregivers each month. Grab your stroller and come for a morning filled with art, touchable objects, stories, songs and a chance to connect with other adults. Ages 0-3 with an adult.
Listening Party: Winter Wonderland Market
December 10, 5–8 p.m.
Need that one special gift for the holidays? Explore a cozy market full of unique goods from local businesses, get a picture with Cowboy Santa and enjoy the sounds of holiday classics as you wander the galleries upstairs. A few lucky guests will go home with prizes!
Sensory-Friendly Morning with Honey’s Mini Therapy Adventures
December 14, 9–10 a.m.
This event is FREE thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor!
Activities and artmaking experiences are specifically designed for adults and families with neurodiversity or sensory processing differences, featuring mini horses from Honey’s Mini Therapy Adventures! The mini horses will be available for live sketching, petting and pictures. All ages and developmental levels are welcome.
Family Matinee: Togo: The Untold True Story (2019)
December 14, 1–3 p.m.
This event is FREE thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor!
Togo is the untold true story set in the winter of 1925 that takes you across the treacherous terrain of the Alaskan tundra for an exhilarating and uplifting adventure that will test the strength, courage and determination of one man, Leonhard Seppala, and his lead sled dog, Togo. (Rated PG).
Film nights generously sponsored by Greg & Anne Yadley.
Family Artmaking: Holiday Break Open Studio
December 23, 26, 27, 30, 31 and January 2, 3, 1–4 p.m.
This event is FREE thanks to the generosity of an anonymous donor!
When school is out, fun is IN at The James! Drop by the studio and create art inspired by the winter season—experiment with icicle painting, snowflake gelli prints, puffy snow painting and more. Ages 4-12; children must be accompanied by an adult.
Celebrate with The James
The James Museum is embracing the holidays with creativity, community, and a touch of whimsy. For more information about these events or to register, visit thejamesmuseum.org/events and follow the museum on Instagram and Facebook.
ADVERTISEMENT
