Good morning, Bradenton.

Dominique Mickler, a St. Petersburg-licensed clinical social worker, is hosting her fifth annual Hearts and Play Toy Drive to collect gifts for foster children in Manatee County.

She expects the drive to receive more donations this year after last year's 300 gifts and a major contribution from the Boys and Girls Club.

Salvation Army in Bradenton is hosting its Angel Tree toy distribution day today to provide free toys to children in need - the event supports families during the holiday season.

Former NASCAR champion Greg Biffle, his wife Christina, daughter Emma, and son Ryder died when their private jet crashed while attempting to land at Statesville Regional Airport in North Carolina & the flight was headed to Sarasota.

Nik Wallenda’s Wonderland Circus: Believe now is offering discounted tickets at University Town Center until Jan.

4, with most seats at 50% off and prices starting at $20. The show uses circus acts to tell a heartwarming story of hope during the holidays.

After final tests at Lakewood Ranch High School found only common fungi, the school district announced a $1.2 million micro-cleaning set for winter break (following IICRC standards) with new air filters and verification testing; it also planned a $6 million capital project to address humidity problems beginning next spring.

Manatee County Government announced that on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day offices, libraries, and recreation centers will close and transit services will cut short, while garbage, recycling, and yard waste collections will shift to the following day; New Year’s Day will see similar closures with public parks remaining open.

The Nutcracker by International Ballet of Florida

6 PM — Manatee Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the enchanting classic tale of The Nutcracker featuring dancers from renowned ballet companies.

Christmas Day at Pier 22

11 a.m. - 8 p.m. — PIER 22 — Chef-created Holiday Menu — Make merry memories this Christmas with seasonal delights by the waterfront.

Zack Pomerleau Live Performance

6:30-10:30 p.m. — Inner Compass Brewing Company at LWR — Check for cover charge — Enjoy a night of classic blues and originals from a talented local multi-instrumentalist.

New Year’s Eve Gala 2025

7 PM - 2 AM — Gala Banquets and Events — $160 Members, $170 Non-members — Celebrate the New Year with elegant dining, live music, and an open bar in a grand venue.

The Ultimate Elvis Concert

7:30-10:30 p.m. — SCF Neel Performing Arts Center — Ticketed event — Experience an unrivaled multimedia tribute to Elvis Presley featuring champion tribute artist Cote Deonath and The Infinit-E Tribute Band.

Fiorelli Wine Run 5k

9 a.m. & 10:30 a.m. — Fiorelli Winery — Registration fees apply — Combine your love for running and wine in this fun 5k race.