DELRAY BEACH — There are no changing leaves down here in South Florida, just less rain as the seasons change. But returning visitors and residents can look forward to their annual favorite programs at the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum through October and November, and a few new ones! Below are the events coming up on the calendar:
October 2012: Return of the LaFrance
It was billed as a “home away from home” for African-American musicians, as well as chauffeurs and housekeepers, who needed a place to stay during the days of segregation. Delray Beach’s LaFrance Hotel certainly fit the bill. When it opened its doors in 1949, the LaFrance – on NW 4th Avenue – was the only hotel for African-Americans between Fort Lauderdale and West Palm Beach. It also became a central gathering place for the community. Visitors are invited to come learn more about the legacy and contributions of the LaFrance Hotel at this returning exhibit, which can only be seen at the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum.
Saturday, October 13, 2012, 10 a.m.-noon
“Ride and Remember” Historic Trolley Tour. It takes riders through the city’s five historic districts. Riders will tour the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum, Old School Square and a third location (to be announced). Riders will also disembark at select historic sites for a closer look at the fascinating history of Delray Beach.
Pick-Up location: Spady Cultural Heritage Museum, 170 NW Fifth Avenue, Delray Beach. It runs from 10 a.m. to noon on the second Saturday of each month. Cost: $20 per person. For more information, call 561-279-8883 or visit www.spadymuseum.org
Monday, October 22, 2012, 9 p.m.
New event: Presidential Watch Party — The third and final debate between President Barack Obama and presidential candidate Mitt Romney will take place at Lynn University, a historic moment for Palm Beach County. The debate is “must see” TV for anyone interested in the political climate of the country, so the Spady Museum is inviting the community to share the moment together at a Presidential Debate Watch Party. Food will be served; it is free, but donations are appreciated. For more information, call 561-279-8883.
Sunday, November 4, 2012, 1 p.m.
Football Party — The Spady Cultural Heritage Museum welcomes all NFL fans to come enjoy a Football Party and watch the Sunday game as a community in the Williams Cottage, adjacent to the museum. Big-screen TVs will feature the match-up between the Miami Dolphins and the Indianapolis Colts. The get-together will feature free food and $10 raffle tickets to win a chance to attend the Florida Classic with a two-night hotel stay. For more information, call 561-279-8883. Cost: Free, but donations are welcomed.
Saturday, November 10, 2012, 10 a.m.-noon
“Ride and Remember” Historic Trolley Tour. It takes riders through the city’s five historic districts. Riders will tour the Spady Cultural Heritage Museum, Old School Square and a third location (to be announced). Riders will also disembark at select historic sites for a closer look at the fascinating history of Delray Beach.
Pick-Up location: Spady Cultural Heritage Museum, 170 NW Fifth Avenue, Delray Beach. It runs from 10 a.m. to noon on the second Saturday of each month. Cost: $20 per person. For more information, call 561-279-8883 or visit www.spadymuseum.org
The Spady Cultural Heritage Museum is the only museum of its kind in Palm Beach County. It is dedicated to showcasing the African-, Haitian- and Caribbean-American cultural contributions to the artistic landscape of Florida and the U.S. For more information, call 561-279-8883 or visit www.spadymuseum.org.