There is a lot to do in Fort Lauderdale this week, as we say farewell to 2013 and usher in a brand new year! A blank slate full of promise, 2014 is sure to bring many exciting things to this great city. Here are a few of our choices to start things off right...

On December 31, ring in the New Year in Downtown Fort Lauderdale at the official “Orange Bowl Downtown Countdown”. One of the largest New Year’s Eve celebrations in Florida, this free 11-hour street festival features a display of 10,000 lights, and a variety of activities for the whole family including bounce houses, face painting and games, contests and line dancing. Starting at 4:30 pm, the festivities will take place on SW 2nd Street in Himmarshee Village, between SW 2nd and SW 5th Avenues.

This season bring the family together to witness the #1 holiday spectacular, George Balanchine’s “The Nutcracker”, as performed by the acclaimed Miami City Ballet, January 3-5 at the Broward Center for the Arts. Join Marie and her Nutcracker Prince as they travel through a winter wonderland of dancing snowflakes, sugar plum fairies, and an epic battle between heroic toy soldiers and mischievous mice! This lavish performance - one of the ONLY productions of George Balanchine's Nutcracker in the nation - features magnificent scenery, elaborate costumes, and the magical music of Tchaikovsky. This is the perfect holiday treat for the entire family. Don't miss your chance to experience the holiday event of the season - Get your tickets now, starting at just $25!

Enjoy the comic styling of George Lopez, as he makes an appearance at the Hard Rock Live (1 Seminole Way, Hollywood) on January 4. With a deeply rooted Hispanic heritage, the actor, comedian, and talk-show host is known for his frank, yet hilarious commentary on a wide range of topics mostly plucked from his personal life. See his show at 8:00 pm, with tickets starting at $50.

Art lovers will rejoice on January 4-5 from 10:00am – 5:00pm when the Las Olas Art Fair returns to Fort Lauderdale, bringing with it two full days of art, live music, food and drink. Now considered a South Florida tradition in its 26th year on Las Olas Boulevard, the Las Olas Art Fair is nationally recognized as one of the top events in America. Over the years, this renowned festival has become a premiere & must see event in South Florida. See more than 150 artists display their work in what looks like an art gallery lining the iconic boulevard. Meet the creators of the art on display; commission a specific piece; ask questions about techniques; learn the sources of their inspirations; and purchase fine works of art at affordable prices.

We hope you continue to check in with us each week as we share the exciting activities and events available in our community. In addition, you can browse our Fort Lauderdale Real Estate listings anytime by visiting www.Gayleborden.com or call us at 954-525-3355. Wishing you health and happiness in the New Year - from all of us at The Gayle Borden Group!