Halls Already Decked

Miami doesn’t need snow for Christmas. Hell, we’ve got palm trees aplenty just waiting for lights to be wrapped around their endlessly long trunks. Add a sprinkle of tinsel and you’re good to go! No? If you’re less than impressed with the trees lining Biscayne Boulevard, we’ve got some bedecked branches worth visiting. Begin at the Village of Merrick Park (358 San Lorenzo Ave., Coral Gables). Its tree-lighting ceremony took place last week, but the 50-foot, 55,000-light tree is worth visiting just for photo opportunities. Every Saturday in December, the mall will host special holiday shopping events from 2 to 6 p.m. Visit www.villageofmerrickpark.com.

For down-south dwellers, the Deering Estate at Cutler will put you in the yuletide spirit faster than you can say “ho, ho, ho.” Throughout December, visitors can check out the elaborate decorations on proud display, including more than 600 yards of ribbon, 900 feet of garland, 20 handmade wreaths, and thousands of handmade ornaments. The tree won’t get lit till December 5, with a special ceremony from 7 to 9 p.m., but you can sneak in early to soak up the ambiance. Upcoming events at the estate will annoy the Scrooges in your family and delight the little ones. Mark your calendar for the “Holiday Under the Stars” concert December 6 and “Story Time with Santa” December 13 and 20. Call 305-235-1668, or visit www.deeringestate.org.

Dec. 1-31, 2008