Oh, Balls

Perhaps you swatted croquet balls in the back yard years ago and then cooled off with a splash in your inflatable wading pool. If that desire for whacking balls through wickets remains, a fresh opportunity to play the oh-so-sophisticated sport beckons. The Tropees, an organization that raises money for the Historical Museum of Southern Florida, will throw its third annual garden party this weekend at Fairchild Tropical Garden, featuring none other than croquet.

Having a swinging time

Details

5:00 p.m. Sunday, May 19, Admission ranges from $30 to $40. For reservations call 305-375-1492.

Fairchild Tropical Garden, 10901 Old Cutler Rd.

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More About

• Historical Museum of Southern Florida
• Denie Freyer
• Gary Costales
• Spanish Food and Cooking
• Food and Cooking

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Not just croquet, though. It's Croquet & Croquetas, an event fusing elements of old South Florida -- croquet -- and new South Florida -- croquetas, an hors d'oeuvre of minced meat lightly breaded and fried that is a popular treat in the Cuban community.

You need not be an experienced croquet player -- or even a croqueta connoisseur -- to attend. "It's not competitive," explains Denie Freyer, a member of the Tropees' executive council. "People are there just to have fun." And fun in the sun, they'll enjoy. Participants are urged to don sundresses, guayaberas, and straw hats. For those with fear of frying, edibles other than croquetas will be served. Tram tours through the garden also will be available for the tired or uncoordinated.

A nickname for Tropical Pioneers, the Tropees boasts 300 members, who sponsor events throughout the year for the museum. Established in 1962, the facility features exhibits and collectibles -- coins and tokens from Native Americans, photos, antique outboard motors, and firearms seized from smugglers -- illuminating 10,000 years of South Florida history.

An imposing legacy, but this bash promises to be relaxed. And, for most, so is the croquet. "It's not stuffy," notes Gary Costales, also an executive council member. "Sophistication without the stuffiness." Although some folks bring their own mallets, most are novices at the game. Equipment will be provided -- all except the wading pools.