Community Corner

Luminary Walk Set For De Soto National Memorial

Park visitors of the year, Shaun Fitch and Elena Venclik, will be the Grand Marshall's for the 4th annual Winter Luminary Walk.

De Soto National Memorial will light up its entire trail with thousands of holiday luminaries on Dec. 15 from 6:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. during its 4th annual Winter Luminary Walk. 

The night will allow visitors to encounter Historical re-enactors as they tell stories of how the Spanish and Native American cultures celebrated the winter season. Park visitors of the year, Shaun Fitch and Elena Venclik, will be the Grand Marshall’s for the 4th annual Winter Luminary Walk. The two daily visitors will cut the ribbon at 6:30pm and will lead the way through the illuminated trail.

The evening will be full of music as well as history. Native American musician Juan R. Leon will share the beautiful melodies of Native American flute on the shores of the Manatee River. Solo violinist Amberly Waterman of Anna Maria will play traditional European melodies.

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The Manatee High School Chamber Orchestra will play a wide array of seasonal favorites. State Road 64, Bluegrass and G man, Steel Drums also will entertain visitors throughout the night. 

Food will be available at the event Food from Jose’s Real Cuban Food.

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Free parking will be located at King Middle School on 75th St. W. Free shuttle service to and from King will be provided with complements from the Anna Maria Island Community Center.

All events and activities at De Soto National Memorial are free. DeSoto National Memorial is located at 8300 De Soto Memorial Hwy. 


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