Holidays

Before you run out the door Thursday — whether it’s to buy last-minute gifts or simply get out of the house — it’s wise to double-check operating hours, which can range by location.

Played by Keys' dive shop operator Spencer Slate, Santa brought along his trusted underwater elves and a festively dressed mermaid to mingle with some very curious marine life at Pleasure Reef off Key Largo.

From Wednesday through Jan.2, the auto club will provide the overnight service as a last-resort when other options, like a designated driver or rideshare, fall through.

On "Florida Matters: Live & Local," we cover families facing food insecurity, endangered manatees, navigating tricky holiday conversations and exploring festive local events.

Beyond Orlando, Florida dominates the top 10 national travel destinations, with Fort Lauderdale ranking fifth and Miami eighth, boosting demand for flights and cruises departing from the Sunshine State.

Anxiety during the holidays is normal, says USF psychiatrist Dr. Ryan Wagoner. But if it starts affecting your relationships or daily life, it may be time to seek help.

Tampa resident Melissa Malone shares how she first recognized signs of dementia in her mother during the holidays and how she made adjustments to celebrate with her in the years after her diagnosis.

Sobriety is having a moment, says Jessica Jeboult, founder of the website A Sober Girl’s Guide. Want to join the trend? Let's hear from sober coaches, sober bar managers and happily sober people.

A record 7.1 million Floridians are expected to travel more than 50 miles during the end-of-year holiday period, and most of them will drive.

Several fire rescue departments discussed many of the safety issues that arise during the holidays, including incidents involving ladders and candles.

These are just some of the ways you can celebrate and get into the holiday spirit.

Outbreaks of food poisoning tend to rise in November and December. Tainted turkey, undercooked stuffing and germ-laced gravy from holiday buffets have led to past illnesses and even deaths.