The Scoop | Week of December 12

JILL PENMAN December 14, 2023

The holidays are upon us. Though it can be a hectic time with hosting parties, shopping for presents and other items on our to-do lists, enjoy some holiday cheer with these festive tips for family-friendly activities, date nights and group entertainment. Florida’s warm weather is perfect for touring nightly light displays, listening to carolers, and watching Santa catch a wave. Happy Holidays.
 

St. Augustine Spirit

It just wouldn’t be the holidays without St. Augustine’s “Nights of Lights.” The dazzling display’s three million white lights are draped across rooftops, facades, palm trees and the Bridge of Lions throughout the 20-block historic district. Attendees have plenty of time to experience the complimentary event that runs through January 28, and park and ride shuttles ferry them to the fun.

floridashistoriccoast.com
 
In 1565, Spanish explorers established the oldest continually inhabited European settlement in the U.S. Known as the Ancient City or the Old City, St. Augustine charms residents and visitors to this day with its historic architecture, over 42 miles of barrier coastline and thriving hospitality scene. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following link.

St Augustine
 

Parker Playhouse

Fort Lauderdale’s Parker Playhouse’s holiday reviews hold an old-fashioned charm. Tony Award winner and TV star Sutton Foster’s “Christmas Time Is Here!” covers classics and more (December 19). Irish dancing and glittery costumes are part of the “Celtic Angels Christmas” extravaganza (December 20). Globetrotting tenor Andrea Del Principe’s “An Italian Christmas Night” pays tribute to Pavarotti, Bocelli and other legends (December 21).

parkerplayhouse.com
 
Fort Lauderdale, the Venice of America, is a boater’s and beachgoer’s paradise. But it’s also home to a burgeoning art scene that spills over into art-centric neighborhoods and annual events. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following links.

Las Olas | Victoria Park
 

Coral Gables Cheer

Coral Gables puts on a solid presentation for the holidays. Take the tots to “Hot Chocolate with Santa” (Merrick Park, December 16-17) and “Cars & Santa” (Coral Gables Country Club, December 17). Listen to carolers at “Merrick House Holiday Celebration” (December 17) and around downtown courtesy of student choirs (December 14-17). Tour Fairchild’s “A Very Merry Garden” winter wonderland through January 1.

coralgables.com | fairchildgarden.org
 
From Mediterranean-Revival architecture to the iconic Biltmore Hotel to lush greenery, the historic Coral Gables neighborhood has so much to offer. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following links.

Coral Gables | Gables Estates
 

Surfing Santas

Some Santas travel by sleigh, but Cocoa Beach’s prefer to catch a wave. It’s a sight to behold as hundreds of surfers paddle out for the “Surfing Santas” annual fundraiser for local charities like Grind for Life medical assistance and the Florida Surf Museum. Follow thousands of spectators to watch the action in front of Coconuts on the Beach on Christmas Eve at 8 a.m.

surfingsantas.org
 
Named for the Kennedy Space Center, site of NASA’s SpaceX rocket launches, the Space Coast occupies much of Brevard County. It attracts surfers, cruise passengers (Port Canaveral) and nature lovers looking for pristine white beaches where sea turtles nest. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following links.

Melbourne Beach | Merritt Island
 

Boat Parades

Celebrate the Florida lifestyle by decorating your boat and entering a boat parade or watching the beautiful boats glide by. Both Martin County’s and Indian River County’s separate boat parades on December 16 support Marine Industries Association of the Treasure Coast. On the same night, view Boca Raton’s “Holiday Boat Parade” along the Intracoastal Waterway from Red Reef Park, Wildflower Park and Silver Palm Park.

miatc.com | myboca.us
 
Part of the Treasure Coast that encompasses Indian River, Martin and St. Lucie counties, Stuart is associated with top-notch fishing. Pastel-painted historic buildings and breathtaking waterways make it a favorite destination, too. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following link.

Stuart
 
Perhaps most famous for its destination mall and namesake luxury resort, Boca Raton also delights snowbirds and locals alike for its arts, entertainment venues and proximity to down-home Delray Beach. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following link.
 
Boca Raton
 

Festive Lights

Garden members can access “Magic of McKee Festival of Lights” before it opens to the public on weekends from December 15-30. It also features treats, Santa and shopping; check the schedule for live music and special additions like a model train display. Help wild animal conservation in attending Palm Beach Zoo’s “Zoo Lights” with an animated Christmas tree and twinkling animal sculptures through January 7.

mckeegarden.org | palmbeachzoo.org
 
Vero Beach has blossomed beyond the beach and golf course. Its vibrant lifestyle beckons with fitness, family-friendly events, hip breweries and more. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following link.
 
Vero Beach
 
West Palm Beach sits on the mainland directly across from the island of Palm Beach. The growing city has become a destination in its own right for convention and performing art centers, hip restaurants and shopping of all kinds from major brands to vintage wares. Fancy living here? Discover more local details and property listings with the following link.
 
West Palm Beach

Recent Blog Posts

The Scoop: South Florida | September 2025

The Scoop: South Florida | October 2025

Just Leased! | 5710 SW 86th Street

Excited to share that this South Miami beauty is off the market. Enjoy this one-of-a-kind home.

Just Sold! | 2360 SW 16th Street

Wherever and whenever our clients need us we are there to assist with their real estate goals!

Just Sold! | 13500 SW 68th Court

Congratulations to the seller and new buyers who are excited to make this their own.

Coming Soon – The Setting

Have a behind the scenes look at the upcoming Lifestyle Marketing video for The Setting.

The Scoop: Weekend of October 12th

Faena Hotel’s Tierra Santa Healing House keeps the perks coming through special packages.

Just Listed! | 3272 Virginia Street #A1

Prime central location to MIA, Key Biscayne, downtown Miami, and Miami Beaches.

JPG Update: Just Listed 3330 SW 17 AVENUE

This masterfully designed property called “Glass House” has been noted as the best of the best.

I love the “New Kid” on our block! ONE Sotheby’s Introduces Fairchild Coconut Grove

The project, expected to break ground in 2017, will be built on 3581 Glencoe Street.

Almeria Row – Old Favorite, New Opportunity

My clients are always asking about these properties, and now is your chance.

The Scoop: Weekend of February 1st

Stuart’s 32nd annual ArtsFest is so much more than picking up a new work to hang over the sofa.

South Florida Events Round-Up

The events selected will highlight the fact that there is something for every age range.

March 2015 Update – JPG Pending Sales

Some significant changes on my exclusive JPG listings page over the past few days.

The Scoop: Weekend of May 4th

After operating a market in the annex of her extremely popular Mandolin Aegean Bistro in Miami.

New Listing: 545 Glenridge Road for Sale and Lease

With its open floor plan, covered terraces and ideal location this listing won’t last very long.

Coral Gables News – The Collection Residences Update

Coral Gables Luxury Holdings closed on a 2.8 acre site to be developed next to the luxury auto dealership.

SUMMER REAL ESTATE MARKET IN MIAMI

Is the residential real estate market cooling down or remaining on fire like 2020 and 2021?

Jill Penman Sells Coconut Grove Listing at 3970 Kumquat Avenue

The 1939 home in South Coconut Grove was restored to perfection by the sellers.

Just Sold! | 480 NE 31st Street Unit #3606

Just sold this gorgeous unit in Gran Paraiso, designed by the world-renowned architecture firm Arquitectonica.

JUST Listed – Great Investment! Huge Coconut Grove Cloisters Villas

Great resale opportunity or customize it to the way that you would like to live in it.

Things to do in Coconut Grove (Coconut Grove Art Festival)

The proceeds from the festival are used to fund year-round programs.

Expert Tips – The Importance of Renovations

Certain changes can drastically boost the listing price of a new to market home.

Prime Coral Gables Listing – 330 Camilo Avenue

The home’s vibrant energy is also enhanced by the close proximity to the University of Miami.

2 Great New Listings & 1 Progressive Open House in South Coconut Grove

Today’s blog post is all about some amazing opportunities now available in the Grove.

The Scoop: Weekend of January 11th

With nonstop events, the Royal Poinciana Plaza has transformed into Palm Beach’s town square.

Coral Gables Is “In” For Young Professionals

Coral Gables is in the top 3, making it an extremely viable location for the under 35 to live and thrive.

JPG Is Super Stoked to Announce SIX Pending Sales in January ‘14

We love reporting on Jill Penman Group momentum and this month is particularly exciting.

The Scoop: Art Basel Edition Vol 2

Collectors look forward to seeing how Louis Vuitton will evolve the Objets Nomades collection.

Just Leased! | 3172 Virginia Street

Just leased this perfectly located gated three-bedroom townhome in the boutique community of Orange Grove.

The Scoop: Weekend of April 26th

Hungering for a family-friendly restaurant with global cuisine and a hip atmosphere in Tequesta.

Newer Townhomes for Sale in Coral Gables

There is one such community available for move in before the holiday and 2 communities.

The Scoop: Weekend of August 16th

To celebrate August downtime, The Scoop continues its summer travels. Next stop: the Hamptons.

Just Leased! | 3272 Virginia Street #A1

Space for a 3rd bedroom or den area on the 2nd floor by the full bathroom.

Coconut Grove Real Estate Top Locations to Buy or Rent

A trendy village which is the crown jewel of the beautiful city of Miami, Florida.

Broker’s Open House: 3631 Frantz Road

This stunning property comes with a massive master suite with a sophisticated bathroom.

What You Can Buy Right Now on the Key Biscayne Waterfront

My team and I have compiled a list highlighting four of our favorites and two recently sold homes.

The Scoop: Weekend of September 7th

Café Boulud in Palm Beach is tempting them with a four-course Spanish wine dinner.

The Scoop: Weekend of September 14th

Even locals will want to visit Egan Miami Beach boutique at the new Cadillac Hotel & Beach Club.

JPG Update: Just Listed 3166 Center Street

Check out the new Jill Penman Group listing! We’re introducing 3166 Center Street.

The Scoop: Weekend of October 26th

The Palm Beach Photographic Centre has taught the art of photography to all ages.

2 New South Grove Opportunities – Large Lots & AMAZING Streets!

We want to present two different South Grove opportunities to secure homes on great streets.

JPG Weekend Round Up: Coconut Grove Fun

What better way to get into the spirit of the season than with the Sprung!

Casa de El Roble: A Work of Art in Pinecrest

The Village of Pinecrest is perhaps the most desirable suburb of Miami.

Nothing Beats Halloween in Coconut Grove, Coral Gables & Key Biscayne!

Coconut Grove has everything you are looking for whether it’s parties or trick or treat hotspots.

The Scoop: Weekend of November 29th

Here’s a dance production worth skipping Art Basel festivities for on December 7 and 8.

Women’s Council of Realtors

As the industry heads into new territories of real estate, it’s important to constantly refine skill sets.

The Setting Reveal – Development Update

All five homes have a similar energy while offering their own distinct signatures as well.

3695 Stewart Avenue – Just Listed

This architecturally significant work of art is located in the gated community of Entrada Estates.

Cocoplum – Contemporary, Secure, Lush

Known for high-end properties, the lush gated community of Cocoplum offers the finest Coral Gables lifestyle.

August is the new May

It is like 2005 again in this real estate market! Buyers are making offers with interest rates so low.

The Scoop: Weekend of October 25th

Fort Lauderdale’s ManKind Barber Spa comes to Coral Gables with amenities like brews.

The Scoop: Weekend of May 24th MR. C SAILS

Ignazio and Maggio Cipriani, heirs of the famous hospitality family, have opened 3 Mr. C boutique hotels.

Master Brokers Forum

Jill Penman actively supports the industry networking organization by attending quarterly meetings.

3970 Kumquat Avenue – Just Listed

3970 Kumquat Avenue in South Coconut Grove has just been listed by the Jill Penman Group!

South Florida Events Round-Up

The events selected will highlight the fact that there is something for every age range and interest.

Regatta Park Nears Completion

Of all the changes happening in Coconut Grove, none is more significant than Regatta Park.

The Scoop: Weekend of April 20th

South Beach boutique and lifestyle brand Alchemist has headed for the big league.

The Scoop: Weekend of March 8th

Boca Raton-based IPIC Entertainment unveiled its 16th cinema with a cool seating option.

Broker's Open | 3616 SW 26th Street

Don't miss out on making this your own private oasis in the heart of South Florida.

ONE SIR – The Luxury Condo Leader

The partnership between ONE | Sotheby’s International Realty and the Jill Penman Group is a match in excellence.

JPG Weekend Round-up of Family Fun in Coconut Grove

On Thursday, Nov. 20, grab a table at Vinos in the Grove for a special wine tasting event.

The Scoop: South Florida | August 2025

The Scoop South Florida | June - July 2025

Beyond the Sale: What My RealTrends Verification Means for You.

The Scoop South Florida | May 2025

The Scoop South Florida | April 2025

The Scoop: South Florida | March 2025

The Scoop

The Scoop: South Florida | February 2025

2024 Annual Year in Review Market Report

Today's Real Estate Trends Along Florida's East Coast

NEW LISTING IN CENTER GROVE!

For purchase or lease

MARKET MAKER IN CENTER COCONUT GROVE!

HIghest sold in history of GROVEDECO!

The Scoop: South Florida | January 2025

The Scoop: South Florida | December 2024

Center Coconut Grove Cottage

South Coconut Grove Oasis

Just Listed In Grove Deco

A record sale in the highly sought-after Ipanema Villas

Just Listed-Pretty in Pinecrest

NEWLY REPRICED RONEY MATEU MASTERPIECE

The Scoop: South Florida | October 2024

Just Listed | Unlock the Charm of Shenandoah: A Historic Miami Treasure Awaits 🏡✨

Just Listed | Luxurious Living Awaits: Discover Your Dream Townhouse in Coconut Grove🌴

The Scoop: South Florida | August 2024

🌆 Live the Miami Lifestyle at Gale Miami/ Natiivo! | 601 NE 1st Avenue

THE SCOOP | WEEK OF JANUARY 20

Whether you’re looking for a total makeover or a new knickknack, here are some ideas to feather your nest.

THE SCOOP | WEEK OF FEBRUARY 10

Here’s a little list of home and design news to spruce up your surroundings.

THE SCOOP | WEEK OF MARCH 3

Stores have begun receiving the season’s collections to freshen up your wardrobe.

THE SCOOP | WEEK OF FEBRUARY 3

Rather than wait until the last minute, here are some gift ideas to share the love sans stress.

THE SCOOP | WEEK OF APRIL 7

Gather design tips for a good cause at the 4th annual Kips Bay Decorator Show House Palm Beach 2021.

THE SCOOP | WEEK OF MARCH 24

Signs of spring are everywhere from the flowering tropical trees to some of South Florida’s premier events.

THE SCOOP | WEEK OF JANUARY 13

South Florida is receiving a slew of new restaurants, especially established imports from hot dining cities

THE SCOOP | WEEK OF MARCH 17

Here are some fantastic fashion and art exhibits that are worth spending a few hours indoors.

THE SCOOP | WEEK OF DECEMBER 17

Though holiday gatherings are much smaller this year, it doesn’t mean you can’t celebrate in style.

THE SCOOP | WEEK OF MARCH 31

With spring break at full tilt in South Florida, we have beach days on our mind.

Selling Twice is Oh so Nice!

Just Sold

Top Outdoor Dining Venues In Miami Fall | September 2020

Not yet ready to dine indoors, here are my September pics for some great outdoor dining settings

THE SCOOP | WEEK OF APRIL 14

Introduced this year, a mini, 8-goal polo series with Sunday brunch runs through Mother’s Day.

THE SCOOP | WEEK OF DECEMBER 29

The holidays can certainly be hectic, but there’s a lot to enjoy this week.

Just Sold Another Grove Townhouse! | 2926 Bird Avenue #2

We are confident that they will create many cherished memories within its walls.

Work With Us

We provide our clients with unparalleled customer service, openness and honesty, smooth and transparent transactions, and maximum commercial