Just as we were basking in the warmth of sun-drenched October days, a pelting of ice last weekend reminded us that we will soon be seeking refuge down south. Luckily, the Florida season officially begins this month and it’s filled with exciting events. So that you can plan ahead, we’ve mapped out a social primer.

November 13-20, Miami International Book Fair: The country’s oldest and largest book fair draws 500 diverse authors including Calvin Trillin, Susan Orlean, George McGovern, Rosanne Cash, Senator Bob Graham, Elizabeth Berg, Dyan Cannon, and Andrew Carmellini, who will read, sign books and answer questions.

November 29th, Worth Avenue Christmas Tree Lighting: It may not be Rockefeller Center, but you won’t need your earmuffs to join thousands in watching this illumination, hosted by the Town of Palm Beach and the Worth Avenue Association. Oddly, it takes place at precisely 6:29 p.m.

December 1-4, Art Basel: Collectors and those who love them converge on South Beach from all over the world to view the work of emerging artists and indulge in the area’s Bacchanalian scene. Creative types in boots and black leather don’t even give a sartorial nod to their tropical surroundings as they sip Champagne and discuss merits of the works with visitors in floral prints.

December 1, Holiday Celebration On the Avenue, Delray Beach: The six-block party features a contemporary art fair, Christmas market, live music—even a carousel. Don’t miss the theatrical arrival of Santa Claus via helicopter.

December 9-13, Palm Beach Food and Wine Festival: Top New York toques including Daniel Boulud, Scott Conant and John DeLucie join Southern culinary lights Michelle Bernstein, Michael Schwartz and Ingrid Hoffmann in a five-day food extravaganza.

January 8, Opening day at International Polo Club: Wear your best-brimmed hat and crispest linen to the Sunday brunch, which overlooks the polo field. Don’t miss the half-time divot stomp, complete with Champagne!

January 12-17. Miami International Art Fair: Even if you are not an art aficionado, you can appreciate the $40 million exhibition yacht on which this event is held.

January 28, Red Cross Ball: It’s difficult to say which is more awe inspiring, Mar-A-Lago, which now hosts the legendary white tie and tiara fête, or the jewels on the guests. There is usually a royal or two in attendance.

February 23-26, South Beach Wine and Food Festival: The mother of all food fests kicks off with a huge barbeque hosted by Emeril Lagasse and Guy Fieri, and culminates with Trucks on the Beach hosted by Andrew Zimmern. In between there’s Rachael Ray’s Burger Bash, a tribute dinner to Charlie Trotter and winemaker Piero Antinori hosted by Anthony Bourdain, “Swine & Wine” hosted by Debi Mazar, and lots of eating and drinking in between.

February 27-March 4, Honda Classic: Golf fans can hob nob with tour stars and watch them tackle the PGA’s legendary Bear Trap.

March 1, Miami City Ballet Gala: No need to be starved for culture in Miami. Check out the world premiere of former Bolshoi director Alexei Ratmansky’s Symphonic Dances, backed by the Cleveland Orchestra.

March 22-25, Palm Beach Boat Show: Ogle more than $350 million worth of water-worthy crafts and their accessories.