5th Annual Holiday Hoopla Slated for Today

Don't get your Tinsel in a Tangle...It's time to get your holiday cheer in gear! Support small business and independent artisans and crafters by shopping local! The Gulfport Merchants Association presents the 5th Annual Holiday Hoopla today, December 14, 2013 from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm.

Make and Take gifts are back by popular demand! For a nominal fee, attendees can visit the Gypsy Cat Creations booth and make their own wire & fabric sculptures or the Industrial Art Center of Gulfport's (IACG) booth for additional make your own craft options. The IACG will also host a Grand Re-opening in the Alley of the Arts, with make your own glass ornaments or other type vessel with special holiday pricing.

Visitors will be enchanted by a variety of festive and fun holiday-themed music, holiday carolers, dance performances, and roving street performers. Many types of entertainment will perform during the Hoopla, from local school bands & Choral groups and local musicians to area performing arts groups. Performers include Dickens characters and Christmas carolers, the Boca Ciega High School Color Guard, Drum Line, and Jazz Band, The Paul Anthony Band, Joel & Dakota, Yesterday, Karina's School of Hula Dance and Santa Claus. Whether you're a Gulfport resident or a visitor from out of town, there's plenty to see and do at Gulfport's Holiday Hoopla event. With over a half mile of shopping, food, fun, and holiday splendor this festive event has become a Tampa Bay holiday tradition!

The Gulfport Merchant's Association gives back to the community all year round. During the Holiday Hoopla event donations will be collected for Operation Santa (new toys/gift cards, etc.) and the Gulfport Senior Center Foundation (nonperishable food, toiletries & pet supplies). Collection Boxes will be located at the Casino Stage at the intersection of Beach and Shore Boulevards during the event. Prior to the event drop off locations include Gulfport Police Department and The Gulfport Area Chamber of Commerce.

There is no admission fee for visitors and complimentary parking is available nearby. Gulfport events are pet and family friendly. The event is located near the surrounding area of 3129 Beach Blvd. S., Gulfport, FL 33707. For More information, follow us on Facebook www.facebook.com/HolidayHooplaGulfport, visit us at www.GulfportMA.com or call 727-322-5217.

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