FLORIDA STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL
It's Plant City's turn to pull out all the stops for its annual festival with fun on the midway, crazy food and prize livestock. But unlike the Florida State Fair, the Strawberry Festival is best known for two things: its various strawberry concoctions and its excellent live entertainment, which this year boasts country stars like Alan Jackson, Blake Shelton, Martina McBride and Trace Adkins, as well as pop players like Chubby Checker and Foreigner.
Date: February 28th – March 10th
Place: Plant City
Time: 10 am – 10 pm
SLEEPING BEAUTY
The Russian National Ballet Theatre presents Tchaikovsky's version of the beloved fairy tale. Tickets Available
Date: Friday, March 1st
Place: Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater
Time: 7:30 pm
BON JOVI
Bon Jovi, the ageless New Jersey rockers, will bring their "Because We Can" tour to the Tampa Bay Times Forum this spring. Expect to hear all the hits: Livin' on a Prayer, Bed of Roses, Wanted Dead or Alive. Tickets Available
Date: Friday, March 1st
Place: Tampa Bay Times Forum
Time: 7:30 pm
DINOQUEST 2
A special exhibit of life-like and life-size dinosaurs. The outdoor display features towering dinosaurs that move, blink and roar. Additional attraction fee applies: $4 adults during park hours, $9.95 Dino Nights after hours; 2 and younger free.
Date: March 1st – May 8th
Place: Lowry Park Zoo, Tampa
Time: 10 am – 5 pm
GASPARILLA FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS
This annual outdoor festival is back in downtown Tampa's Curtis Hixon Park. The festival, in its 43rd year, features works in a variety of media by top-rated artists in the country. Artists work with a wide selection of media, including paint, ceramic, digital, jewelry and wood. Live music, several food trucks including Taco Bus and Wicked Wiches and a children's activity area are there for the weekend, too. More Information
Date: March 2nd & 3rd
Place: Curtis Hixon Park, Tampa
Time: Sat. 9 am – 6 pm, Sun. 10 am – 5 pm
TAMPA BAY BEER WEEK
Celebrate Tampa Bay beer culture and showcase the area as an emerging and vibrant craft and specialty beer destination. Beer lovers can taste the best that local craft brewers have to offer — from brewers and distributors to taverns and home brewers, with beer pairings, special releases and much more. List of Events and Times
Date: February 28th - March 10th
Place: Multiple
Time: Varies
SUNCOAST CLASSIC "RUN FOR KIDS"
The flat run through the streets of the downtown waterfront district has courses for 5K and 10K runs. This year takes on a special twist with the "Bolt for Beads." Thousands of beads will be distributed to runners along the route with prizes awarded for special beads. All participants get a T-shirt, goody bag, food, admission to a vendor fair and entertainment. Walkers and jogging strollers welcome. Benefits Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tampa Bay. Registration Information
Date: Saturday, March 2nd
Place: Fit2Run, Downtown St. Petersburg
Time: 8 am
DROPKICK MURPHYS
The punk rock band from Massachusetts performs. Tickets Available
Date: Sunday, March 3rd
Place: Jannus Live, St. Petersburg
Time: 6:30 pm
FLORIDA WILDLIFE CORRIDOR EXPEDITION: EVERGLADES TO OKEFENOKEE
Bring blankets or lawn chairs for an outdoor screening of the documentary filmFlorida Wildlife Corridor Expedition: Everglades to Okefenokee. Soon to appear on WUSF TV, the film follows a 100-day, 1,000-mile trek from the Everglades National Park to Okefenokee National Forest in southern Georgia. The expedition traversed the wildlife habitats, watersheds and participating working farms and ranches that comprise the Florida Wildlife Corridor opportunity area. More Information
Date: Sunday, March 3rd
Place: Cotanchobee Park, Tampa
Time: 6:30 pm
More weekend events can be found at http://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do
GREEK FESTIVAL
Opa! It's time again for the annual celebration of Greek culture including Greek folk dancing, live music, a DJ, Greek food, sweets and a full bar. More Information
Date: February 22nd – 24th
Place: St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Tarpon Springs
Time: 12:00 pm
ZAC BROWN BAND CONCERT
The Atlanta-based country/folk group won the Grammy for Best New Artist in 2010 and this year for Best Country Album. Tickets Available
Date: Friday, February 22nd
Place: Live Nation Amphitheatre, FL State Fair Grounds
Time: 7:00 pm
USF ENGINEERING EXPO
This two-day engineering expo exposes some of the best in local and student science, including possibly a 10-foot Tesla Coil that can play the Super Mario Bros. theme song. More Information
Date: February 22nd & 23rd
Place: USF, Tampa
Time: 9:00 am
BILL BELLAMY AND JAY REID
Bellamy rose to prominence in the '90s on Def Jam and as a MTV VJ/host. He performs with Jay Reid to promote the special Ladies Night Out, which they both appear in. Tickets Available
Date: February 22nd – 24th
Place: Improv Comedy Theater
Time: Varies
GASPARILLA DISTANCE CLASSIC
One of Tampa's best known road races regularly attracts elite runners and first-timers alike. The chief attraction is the 15K on Saturday, which takes runners along an out and back course from downtown Tampa, out just across Gandy Boulevard and back again alongside the mansions and water views of Bayshore Boulevard. The 5K and 15K is Saturday, and Sunday features an 8K and a half marathon. And then there's the Michelob Ultra Challenge, which consists of running the 15K, 5K, half marathon and 8K. Half marathon runners have to complete the race in under 2 hours 55 minutes to make it to 8K start at 9 a.m. Whew! Registration & Information
Date: February 23rd & 24th
Place: Downtown Tampa, Intersection of Twiggs & Tampa St.
Time: 6:45 am
BAY AREA RENAISSANCE FESTIVAL
Say huzzah to the wizards, warriors and commoners who populate this replica of a 16th century village with entertainment, street theater, live armored contact jousting, human chess matches, art, craft and other vendors, fire-eaters and more. Enjoy fresh brews, wines and medieval music. Full Schedule and Information
Date: February 23rd – April 7th
Place: MOSI, Tampa
FIESTA DAY
The annual street festival celebrates the cuisine, culture and heritage of the Latin immigrants who settled in Ybor City in the turn of the 19th century. Dance in the streets to Latin music, sample ethnic cuisine and shop for unique gifts among the vendors. More Information
Date: Saturday, February 23rd
Place: Italian Club, Ybor
Time: 11:00 am
SUNSHINE CITY FESTIVAL
In celebration of St. Petersburg's "Old Florida" characteristics, this festival features a chili cook-off, arts and crafts vendors, food and live music by American Idol contestant Melissa McGhee, and area artists Steve Arvey's Band of Steves and Scotty Lee and the Treble Hooks. More Information
Date: Saturday, February 23rd
Place: Grand Central District, St. Petersburg
Time: 11:00 am – 4:00 pm
$5 DAY AT THE ZOO
Load all the kids into the car and get ready to visit all your favorite animals. Everyone gets into the zoo for $5 today. But get there early because it gets crowded for this deal. Free extra parking is available next to the Tampa Greyhound Track. Free shuttles will run continuously from that lot to the zoo between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. From I-275, take Exit 49 to Bird Street and go one block east. Park in indicated areas. More Information
Date: Sunday, February 24th
Place: Lowry Park Zoo, Tampa
Time: 9:30 am
FLORIDIANA FESTIVAL AND HIGHWAYMEN ART SHOW
Kitsch rules at this annual show of old Florida souvenirs and memorabilia. From alligator ashtrays to serious vintage tropical furnishings, you'll find an abundance of old Florida roadside attraction kitsch and vintage Florida art. Meet the Florida Highwaymen Artists James Gibson, Issac Knight, Roy McLendon Sr and, R.L. Lewis. More Information
Date: Sunday, February 24th
Place: Palladium Theater
Time: 10:00 am
More events can be found on http://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do/
CAROLINA CHOCOLATE DROPS CONCERT
The acoustic quartet (who debuted in 2010 with Genuine Negro Jig) have an old-time, fiddle- and banjo-based sound that is an appealing grab bag of country, blues, gospel and more. Tickets Available
Date: Friday, February 15th
Place: Straz Center, Tampa
Time: 7:30pm
FLORIDA SUPERSTARS DANCESPORT CHAMPIONSHIPS
Top Ballroom and Latin dancers from around the country gather to compete for $80,000 in prizes at this annual competition. Choose from day or evening performances. More Information
Date: February 15th and 16th
Place: Renaissance Vinoy Resort, St. Petersburg
Time: 9:00am
ROCK SYMPHONY CONCERT WITH ALAN PARSONS LIVE PROJECT
The British rock engineer gained fame for his involvement with the production of the Beatles' Abbey Road and Let It Be, as well as Pink Floyd's The Dark Side of the Moon, and his own work in the Alan Parsons Project. Now, he takes the stage again for a performance backed by a rock symphony and a laser light show. Tickets Available
Date: Friday, February 15th
Place: Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater
Time: 8:00pm
RAYS FAN FEST
Tampa Bay Rays players, coaches and Major League baseball alumni will be on hand to meet and sign autographs. Anyone making a donation to the ALS Association Florida Chapter will receive a wristband for unlimited autographs throughout the day. This year's activities include clinics for kids by Rays coaches, running the bases, high five stations with Rays players, photos with Rays mascot Raymond and DJ Kitty and "Reading with the Rays." Fans can also us the Rays Twitter account, @RaysBaseball, for up to date information on the event. Twitter users can also have messages posted on the RaysVision video board by using the #RaysFanFest hashtag for event related messages. More Information
Date: Saturday, February 16th
Place: Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg
Time: 10:00am
FAMILY FUN DAY AND COMMUNITY YARD SALE
Pinellas Park area residents join together for a giant yard sale and family day with more than 50 booths of items, a car and truck show, barbecue cook-off, family activities, a bake sale and entertainment. Benefits five Pinellas County neighborhood family centers. More Information
Date: Saturday, February 16th
Place: England Brothers Bandshell Park, Pinellas Park
Time: 8:00am
AN EVENING WITH C.S. LEWIS
The famous British author is in the twilight years of his life. Despite his failing health, Lewis agrees to speak to a group of American writers visiting England. His audience is spellbound as, with a display of oratory and humor that made him one of England's most famous public speakers, he recounts the significant events and the people that shaped his life. Tickets and Information
Date: Saturday, February 16th
Place: Carrollwood Cultural Center
Time: 2:00pm
WHIGFEST
Attic Records hosts 20 bands such as Have Gun, Will Travel and Thomas Wynn & the Believers across 3 venues on the Central Ave strip in downtown St. Pete for 15 hours of music. Tickets Available
Date: Sunday, February 17th
Place: Jannus Live, St. Petersburg
Time: 11:00am
WALK FOR THE POOR AND FAMILY FUN DAY
As the number of people living below the poverty level grows locally, the walk is aimed at helping meet the growing need for food and other financial assistance. A path is set up for the walk and there's a family fun festival with food and games in the park. A kid's package includes access to rides, crafts and more. Registration and Information
Date: Sunday, February 17th
Place: Curtis Hixon Park, Tampa
Time: 12:00pm
JOHNNY WINTER CONCERT
Ranked by Rolling Stone magazine as one of the greatest guitarists of all time, Winter and his band return to Clearwater. Tickets Available
Date: Sunday, February 17th
Place: Capitol Theatre, Clearwater
Time: 7:30pm
More events can be found on TampaBay.com
Florida State Fair
The 2013 Florida State Fair runs through Feb. 18 and includes nearly 80 rides, games, animal exhibits, demonstrations and, of course, lots of fried food stuffs that have no business being fried. This year, the fair will be celebrating Florida’s 500th anniversary of the arrival of Ponce de Leon on the east coast of Florida with a Tampa Bay History Center curated exhibit. Hours may be extended or shortened depending on crowds.
February 8 is Student Day. Hillsborough County students receive a free ticket. It's also Pepsi Armband Day. Bring an empty Diet Mountain Dew can and save $5 off the regular price of a Midway ride armband.
Date: February 8th – 18th
Place: Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa
Time: 9 am
Florida Orchestra Pops Concert: Broadway Now
Victor Vanacore conducts a parade of songs from Broadway shows like Brigadoon, The Phantom of the Opera, West Side Story, Jeckyl & Hyde, The Scarlet Pimpernel, A Little Night Music, Les Miserables, Man of La Mancha, Sweeney Todd and Jersey Boys. Tickets Available
Date: Friday, February 8th
Place: Straz Center, Tampa
Time: 8 pm
Strawberry Shortcake and the Doodlebops
Follow Strawberry Shortcake and her Doodlebop friends on an interactive musical playdate that has families dancing in the aisles. Tickets Available
Date: Friday February 8th
Place: Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater
Time: 6 pm
Reel Big Fish Concert
It's a night of '90s ska as the band behind Sell Out and other hits plays with MU330's Dan Potthast. Tickets Available
Date: Friday February 8th
Place: State Theatre, St. Petersburg
Time: 7 pm
Opera Tampa: A Masked Ball
Illicit love and political intrigue are woven through Verdi’s romantic tragedy, when a king falls for his best friend’s wife. Sung in Italian with English translations. Tickets and Information
Date: Saturday February 9th
Place: Straz Center, Tampa
Time: 2 pm
Sant' Yago Illuminated Knight Parade
Celebrity TV talk show host Steve Wilkos serves as grand marshal for this night-time parade featuring more than 100 illuminated floats, marching bands, krewes and their royalty. And wait for it: Beads! Starts at Seventh Avenue and Nuccio; moves east on Seventh to 23rd Street, the parade's end. More Information
Date: Saturday February 9th
Place: Along 7th Ave, Ybor
Time: 7 pm
Animal Extravaganza
Kids can ride elephants, camels and ponies at this annual sanctuary benefit with food, drink, a petting zoo and animal superstars from around the world.
Date: February 9th (More Dates Scheduled)
Place: Big Cat Habitat, Sarasota
Time: 1:30 pm
Rock 'n' Roll Half Marathon Series/Fitness Expo
Lace up for a rocking 13.1-mile run through St. Petersburg to the downtown waterfront with live bands at every mile, cheerleaders and a free post-race concert by Jamaican pop-rapper Sean Kingston. Race is from Tropicana Field to North Shore Park. This year adds a new 3.1-mile mini-marathon. Register online. Registration Information
Date: Sunday February 10th
Place: Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg
Time: 7 am
Chinese New Year at Glazer
Children can learn about Chinese culture and welcome the Year of the Snake. More Information
Date: Sunday February 10th
Place: Glazer Children’s Museum, Tampa
Time: 1 pm
More events can be found at: http://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do/
Manatee Mingle
Dine on a pasta buffet in the home of manatees at Lowry Park Zoo, then enjoy one-day admission to the zoo for any day in this benefit dinner.
Date: February 1
Place: Lowry Park Zoo, Tampa
Time: 6 pm
Palm Harbor First Friday Food Trucks
Food trucks gather for an array of tasty choices of cuisine, plus music.
This month features live music by the Defendants. More Information
Date: Friday February 1
Place: Downtown Palm Harbor, 1190 Georgia Ave
Time: 5 pm
Family Campfire Night
An all ages evening around the campfire with stories, a short hike and Smores. Children must be accompanied by an adult. More Information
Date: Friday, February 1
Place: Boyd Hill Nature Preserve, St. Petersburg
Time: 6 pm
Robin Williams
Although the comedian is perhaps best-known as an actor in films like Good Will Hunting and The Fisher King, and shows like Mork & Mindy and recently Louie, he has always been an energized and enthusiastic comic. Now he comes to Ruth Eckerd Hall for a night of stand-up, along with Canadian comedian David Steinberg. Tickets Available
Date: Friday, February 1
Place: Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater
Time: 8 pm
Great Urban Race
Great Urban Race is a wild urban adventure. Teams of two to four members solve twelve clues and complete brain teasers, puzzles, physical challenges and audience interaction while discovering the city. Teams should bring a Smart Phone, pen, cash, digital camera and a goodie bag. Use of public transportation is allowed. Registration and Information
Date: Saturday, February 2
Place: Splitsville, Tampa
Time: 12 pm
Willie Nelson Concert
The 79-year-old legend of outlaw country music is known almost as well for his activism regarding the use of biofuels and legalization of marijuana. He's joined in this concert by his son Lukas Nelson. Tickets Available
Date: Saturday, February 2
Place: Ruth Eckerd Hall
Time: 8 pm
Breakfast with Dali for Families
Monthly docent-led tours introduce Salvador Dali and the Dali Museum to families with children. The interactive tour highlights Dali paintings and other works that appeal to children. A Spanish-themed breakfast buffet and hands-on activities follow the tour. Reservations required. More Information
Date: Saturday, February 2
Place: Dali Museum, St. Petersburg
Time: 9:30 am
Farm Festival and Quilt Show
Farm life and hobbies are the highlights of this festival with a southern draft horse pulling competition, cane grinding, syrup making, show dolls, quilts, clothing, arts and crafts, demonstrations and children's activities. More Information
Date: Saturday & Sunday, February 2 & 3
Place: Pioneer Florida Museum, Dade City
Time: 10 am
Sunday Comedy Series: Hawk and Wayne's News of the Weird
Using some of the stories from Chuck Shepherd’s nationally syndicated News of the Weird column, comedy duo Hawk & Wayne create this improv comedy show. More Information
Date: Sunday, February 3
Place: American Stage Theatre Company, St. Petersburg
Time: 8 pm
More events can be found at http://www.tampabay.com/things-to-do/
Tampa Bay Times Home Show
The largest home show in Florida's west coast brings the area's top home improvement experts, along with more than 600 exhibits with everything related to Florida homes, home improvement, home entertainment and landscaping. Also includes live entertainment, seminars, demonstrations, giveaways and do-it-yourself ideas from experts. More Information
Date: January 25th – 27th
Place: Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg
Time: 10 am
Tall Ship Lynx Visits St. Petersburg
With cannons blasting, the 122-foot square top sail schooner Lynx will sail into Harborage Marina in St. Petersburg at noon as part of her tour of the United States and Canada to celebrate the 200th anniversary of the War of 1812 and the Star-Spangled Banner. During the visit, the ship will participate in the Gasparilla invasion and be open for public tours and sailaways on select days through Jan. 30. More Information
The ship returns to St. Petersburg and is open for dockside public tours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. If you want a more immersive experience, grab the lines and hoist the sail on a two-hour sail away in Tampa Bay from 3 to 5 p.m.
Date: January 25th and January 28th – 30th
Place: Harborage Marina at Bayboro, St. Petersburg
Time:
MOSI After Dark
Come to the museum for this after-hours event with discounted admission to the exhibits, The Hobbit In IMAX, a food truck rally outside including Mobile Munchiez, Keep'n it Reel, Cheesesteak Truck and others, DJ music, corn hole toss, ladderball, darts and access to the Sky Trail Ropes Course. More Information
Date: Friday, January 25th
Place: MOSI, Tampa
Time: 6 pm
Sarasota Native American Indian Festival
Experience the traditions and culture of Native American people at this event with hand made arts and crafts, Native American food, drumming, dancing, singing and flute playing. Schedule of Events
Date: January 25th – 27th
Place: Sarasota County Fairgrounds, Sarasota
Time: 9 am
Gasparilla Events
Date: Saturday January 26th
Gasparilla Invasion Brunch
This is one of the prime viewing spots to see the Gasparilla invasion unfold. Enjoy a breakfast buffet and entertainment as you await the arrival of the Jose Gasparilla. When the ship docks, you'll get a close-up view of the pirates as they arrive at the convention center dock. In addition to a breakfast smorgasbord, the brunch includes a cash bar with beer and spirits.
Place: Tampa Convention Center
Time: 10 am
Gasparilla Pirate Fest Street Festival
The captain of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla and his band of marauding buccaneers celebrate their successful invasion with a Pirate Street Festival near Curtis Hixon Park.
Place: Gasparilla Pirate Fest Stage, Ashley Dr. & Kennedy Blvd., Tampa
Time: 10 am
Gasparilla Pirate Fest Invasion
Thousands line the downtown waterfront to watch the spectacle as fully-rigged pirate ship Jose Gasparilla sails into the south end of Hillsborough Bay with hundreds of pirates aboard, cannons booming and a massive flotilla accompanying it. The ship docks at the Tampa Convention Center around 1 p.m., where the mayor will surrender the key to the city into the hands of the captain of Ye Mystic Krewe of Gasparilla.
Place: Tampa Convention Center
Time: 11:30 am
Gasparilla Parade of the Pirates
After their invasion aboard the Jose Gasparilla, hundreds of pirates get down to the serious business of the day: Tossing thousands of beads to hundreds of thousands of people who line the streets along Tampa's waterfront. This parade brings more than 140 units, including 90 floats, marching bands and 50 pirate krewes. It begins at Bay to Bay Boulevard and follows Bayshore Boulevard to Brorein Street, turns east on Brorein, then north on Ashley Drive and ends at Cass Street.
Place: Starting Point: Bay to Bay Blvd. & Bayshore Blvd., Tampa
Time: 2 pm
Super Bowl Week Kick-off Party
Bud Light and the Mahaffey kick-off Super Bowl week with a free concert on the lawn featuring Vintage Trouble and the Black Honkeys. Food and drink available for purchase. More Information
Date: Sunday, January 27th
Place: Mahaffey Theatre, St. Petersburg
Time: 12 pm
Michael Winslow
The man of 10,000 sound effects is perhaps best known for his appearances in the Police Academy series, and was recently parodied in Key & Peele. Tickets Available
Date: January 18th & 19th
Place: Snappers Grille & Comedy Club, Palm Harbor
Time: Varies
Stargazing with an Astrophysicist
Astrophysicist Kevin Manning will be presenting his Look Up to the Stars program. He will give a talk on space and the stars, and then will take everyone outside to look at specific stellar objects through his professional telescopes, weather permitting. Space is limited to 50 people. Free snacks and hot drinks. Call (813) 929-1214 for more information.
Date: Friday January 18th
Place: Land O’Lakes Library
Time: 7 pm
Florida Orchestra Rock Series: Music of Michael Jackson
James Delisco -- who has stage credits from Las Vegas, Broadway and television -- is the featured vocalist with the Florida Orchestra for this concert, which also features a full rock/pop band and conductor Brent Havens revisiting 40 years of Jackson’s career. Tickets Available.
Date: Friday January 18th
Place: Mahaffey Theater
Time: 8 pm
Festival of Chocolate
Sheer heaven for chocolate lovers, the festival includes chef and guest competitions, pastry chef demonstrations, wine and chocolate pairings, test your knowledge at the Wheel of Chocolate, cookie stacking contest, chocolate scavenger hunt, classes on working with chocolate, Cocoa Couture fashion show (Jan. 19 at 3:30 p.m.), kids activities and of course, tons of chocolate treats from vendors for sale and to taste, with truffles, cakes, confections and more. Included with museum admission. Classes and select events additional cost. More Information
Date: January 19th – 21st
Place: MOSI, Tampa
Time: 9 am
Children's Gasparilla Extravaganza and Parade
The alcohol-free event welcoming the Gasparilla season includes a pre-schoolers stroll, bicycle safety rodeo, air invasion, a family-friendly Gasparilla parade and a fireworks display. Oh, did we forget something? That's right ... BEADS! More Information
Date: Saturday, January 19th
Place: Bay to Bay Blvd. and Bayshore Blvd., Tampa
Time: 11 am
Monster Jam
Giant custom-designed trucks crush lesser cars and even school buses in competition. Go early for tailgating from 2 to 5 p.m. to get a close-up view of the trucks and meet the drivers during the "Party in the Pits." Tickets Available
Date: Saturday, January 19th
Place: Raymond James Stadium, Tampa
Time: 7 pm
Sci-Fi and Sky Night: Retro Sci-Fi Night
A fun science based event for students and families that includes telescope viewings, planetarium shows and a movie.
The force is with the Science Center for this portion featuring a showing of the original Star Wars: A New Hope: Episode IV, a costume contest and Eckerd College's Brian Southworth discussing the Higgs Boson, also known at "the God Particle." More Information
Date: Saturday January 19th
Place: Science Center of Pinellas County
Time: 5:30 pm
Sunshine Blues Festival
With a stronge lineup, this blues festival brings Tedeschi Trucks Band (featuring wife-and-husband guitar whizzes Susan Tedeschi and Derek Trucks), Dr. John, Walter Trout, Sonny Landreth, Big Sam's Funky Nation, Joe Louis Walker and the Wood Brothers, featuring Chris Wood of Medeski Martin & Wood for the inaugural fest. Joining them are Jaimoe's Jasssz Band, Matt Schofield and Bobby Lee Rodgers. Tickets Available
Date: Sunday, January 20th
Place: Vinoy Park, St. Petersburg
Time: 10 am
Tampa Bay Lightning Rolling Thunder Tour
The hockey season finally back on, Thunderbug and his troops pull up outside Dino World on the Rolling Thunder Truck to bring street hockey games, Lightning gear and visits with the Lightning girls. Park admission not included. More Information
Date: Sunday, January 20th
Place: Dinosaur World
Time: 11 am
Wicked
The multiple Tony award-winning musical tells the untold story of the witches of Oz. The popular Broadway show returns to Tampa for the fourth time, shortly after breaking a box office record in New York City over the holiday season. Runs through Jan. 27. Tickets Available
The Straz Center is holding a daily lottery before each show where they'll give away a limited number of $25 tickets for that day's performance.
Date: January 11th - 27th
Place: Straz Center, Tampa
Time: Varies
Shakespeare Festival: 'Much Ado About Shakespeare' Exhibit Opening
Local arts organizations have teamed up for this series of events honoring the words and ideas of William Shakespeare, including the Florida Orchestra, American Stage Theatre Company, the Dali Museum, the Mahaffey Theater, Studio@620, St. Petersburg College School of Music, Sunscreen Film Festival and the University of South Florida School of Music.
The opening of this display featuring two suites of Shakespearean comedies and tragedies as 31 dry point engravings. Two editions of his illustrated books Macbeth and As You Like It will accompany the sets. More Information
Date: Friday January 11th
Place: Dali Museum, St. Petersburg
Time: 10 am & 5 pm
'Cake Boss' Buddy Valastro
In this live interactive event, Valastro, the baker and star of TLC's Cake Boss, will share stories behind his show, answer audience questions and give a live demonstration of his cake art techniques. Audience members will be invited to join the fun on stage. Tickets Available
Date: Saturday January 12th
Place: Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater
Time: 7:30 pm
I Love St. Pete Art Show
This is the vintage shop's annual celebration of everything that makes St. Pete great. In addition to art, there will be music from Geri X and Hot Tub Club, a book signing by author E. Ashley Rooney and a runaway show featuring outlets like Vintage Boutique. Tickets and Information
Date: Saturday January 12th
Place: ARTpool Gallery, St. Petersburg
Time: 8 pm
USF St. Pete Food Truck Rally
Food trucks roll in for an array of tasty cuisine, along with live music and entertainment. More Information
Date: Saturday January 12th
Place: USF, St, Petersburg
Time: 11 am
The Glow Run 5k - St. Petersburg
The Glow Run 5k St. Petersburg will take place on Saturday, January 12th at 6:30PM. The race will start and finish at the beautiful Albert Whitted Park across from the world famous Salvadore Dali Museum! The race and post-race after party will light up St. Petersburg as thousands of GLOW runners run along Bayshore Dr. past the picturesque pier and back to Alber Whitted Park where they will party late into the night! Registration Information
Date: Saturday January 12th
Place: Albert Whitted Airport
Time: 6:30 pm
Sesame Street Safari of Fun
Sesame Street, safaris and snacking are combined in this event where children can meet Abby Cadabby and Zoe, as well as eat sandwiches, fruit, veggies and more. Free photo included. Tickets Available (does not include park admission).
Date: Sunday January 13th
Place: Busch Gardens, Tampa
Time: 12:30 pm
Alligator Walk
Search through the wetlands for our state reptile and learn about the habitat, eating habits and other mysteries of "Alligator Mississippiensis" on guided hike. More Information
Date: Sunday January 13th
Place: Boyd Hill Nature Preserve
Time: 11:30 am
Ringling Bros. and Barnum and Bailey Circus
The "Greatest Show on Earth" roars into town bringing dare-devilry, stunts, the world-famous clown alley and lots of animals. This year's show, Built to Amazeshows how a circus is built with elephants, tigers, acrobats and aerialists joining together from across the globe, each a spectacular piece of the puzzle. Tickets Available
Date: January 4th – 6th
Place: Tampa Bay Times Forum, Tampa
Time: Varies
Florida Orchestra Pops: Jump, Jive and Wail
Conductor Victor Vanacore leads the orchestra in a night of dance tunes covering the Charleston, big band, boogie-woogie, blues and more, with hits by Duke Ellington, Lerner and Loewe, Cole Porter, Glenn Miller and other American masters. Featuring award-winning swing dancers. Tickets Available
Date: January 4th – 6th
Place: Straz Center, Tampa
Time: Varies
Shakespeare Festival: Film Screening: 'Scotland, PA'
Local arts organizations have teamed up for this series of events honoring the words and ideas of William Shakespeare, including the Florida Orchestra, American Stage Theatre Company, the Dali Museum, the Mahaffey Theater, Studio@620, St. Petersburg College School of Music, Sunscreen Film Festival and the University of South Florida School of Music.
The Dali Museum and Sunscreen Film Festival present a modernized retelling of Macbeth set in 1970s suburban Pennsylvania. More Information
Date: Beginning Saturday January 5th
Place: Dali Museum, St. Petersburg
Time: 1 pm
Stargazing Event
The Astronomers in Pasco County will be having a free stargazing event. More Information
Date: Saturday January 5th
Place: J.B. Starkey Wilderness Park, New Port Richey
Time: 7 pm
B.B. King
Less than a year after dropping by with fellow living legend Buddy Guy, the legendary bluesman (The Thrill is Gone, 3 O'Clock Blues) returns to Ruth Eckerd. Shaun Hopper opens. Tickets Available
Date: Saturday January 5th
Place: Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater
Time: 8 pm
The New Christy Minstrels
The Grammy-winning folk group has had hundred of members over decades, performed on The Andy Williams Show and was parodied in A Mighty Wind. Tickets and Information
Date: Sunday, January 6th
Place: Carrollwood Cultural Center
Time: 7:30 pm
Epiphany Celebration
In celebration of the baptism of Christ, follow a procession of children in traditional costumes, choir members and Greek folk dance to witness the tossing of the Holy Cross in Tarpon Springs Bayou by Archbishop Demetrios, the primate of the Greek Orthodox Church in the United States. The church services start at 8 and 10 a.m., then at noon the procession heads to the waterfront where teenage boys dive into the water in an attempt to be the first to find the sunken cross. The annual Glendi (festival) with food, drink, live music and traditional Greek dancing begins after the cross dive. More Information
Date: Sunday January 6th
Place: St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Cathedral, Tarpon Springs
Time: 8 am
Mary Poppins
The award-winning musical returns for a limited holiday engagement. Tickets Available
Date: December 28 - 30
Place: Straz Center, Tampa
Time: Varies
Holiday FantaSea
Even after Christmas, Florida Aquarium still brings the winter season to its waters. Besides extended hours, the aquarium also offers a snow play area, holiday model train, holiday light show and more. More Information
Date: December 28 - 30
Place: Florida Aquarium, Tampa
Time: 9:30 am
Bobcat Goldthwait
The scratchy-voiced comedian and director is still doing stand-up (albeit without the signature voice), and has become almost as well-known for directing films likeWorld's Greatest Dad, Sleeping Dogs Lie and God Bless America. Shows are 21 and up only. Tickets Available
Date: December 29 - 31
Place: Improv Comedy Theater, Tampa
Time: Varies
Geri X
The St. Petersburg singer-songwriter helps say goodbye to 2012 with Goodnight Neverland and Paint the Town Red. More Information
Date: Saturday December 29
Place: New World Brewery, Tampa
Time: 9 pm
Outback Bowl Beach Day
Join the teams, their marching bands and cheerleaders as they take to the beach adjacent to Pier 60 for a day of live music, skydivers, a tug-of-war and other contests. More Information
Date: Sunday December 30
Place: Pier 60, Clearwater
Time: 11 am
Jack Hanna: Into the Wild LIVE!
Hanna gives audiences the chance to meet members of the animal kingdom, as he shares stories from his world adventures. Tickets Available
Date: Sunday December 30
Place: Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg
Time: 3 pm
Outback Bowl Parade
College marching bands and cheerleaders from South Carolina and Michigan combine for this New Year's Eve parade and pep rally with floats, walking units and more. The parade steps off at 5:30 p.m. and runs along Seventh Avenue in Ybor City. More Information
Date: Monday December 30
Place: 7th Avenue, Ybor City
Time: 5:30 pm
New Year’s Events
Channelside Lights Up the Bay
Channelside cranks up their 10th annual New Year's Eve event at 4 p.m. The night includes live music and DJ's in the courtyard, dancing, balloon artists, face painters and fireworks set off simultaneously to the ball drop in New York. The wharf will be open for fireworks viewing, but only 2,700 free wristbands will be distributed for admission. The courtyard stays open until 3 a.m. No personal fireworks allowed. More Information
Date: Monday December 31
Place: Channelside Bay Plaza
Time: 4 pm
New Blue Year 2012
The Blue Martini's annual formal New Year's Eve party takes on a "Roaring 20's" theme and includes flappers, dancing, live entertainment and some secret surprises. More Information
Date: Monday December 31
Place: Blue Martini, Tampa
Time: 8 pm
First Night St. Petersburg
St. Petersburg rings in the New Year with this annual alcohol-free event. There will be music, lights, dance, fire, bubbles, stories, creative fun and two fireworks displays. The first will be at 9 p.m. and the second at midnight. It’s free to wander around, but you need a button to participate in activities and enter venues. Organizers also point out that the buttons help fund the annual event, which relies heavily on volunteers. Some of the highlights this year:
- Woo Aquarium: Several artists in the 600 block of Central Avenue have joined to light the way through Williams Park with tropical fish-themed lanterns to celebrate the life of St. Petersburg native and beloved artist Bill "Woo" Correira, who died recently.
- 20th Birthday Party: Local artist Jennifer Kucharik, is creating a huge "birthday cake," which will be set ablaze. There will also be huge versions of two party favorites, musical chairs and a giant game of Twister.
- Banyan Tree Climbing. Join Pathfinder, an outdoor adventure and education program, to safely experience the thrill of scaling the towering St. Petersburg landmark tree.
Date: Monday December 31
Place: Straub Park, St. Petersburg
Time: 5 pm
Jannus Live New Year's Eve Bash
The main event here is a silent disco, a phenomenon where partiers receive headphones that play music from a DJ onstage. Everyone’s dancing to the music, but without the headphones, there’s no sound — it’s a surreal scene. A lineup of DJs keeps the party going until the fireworks go off. More Information
Date: Monday December 31
Place: Jannus Live, St. Petersbug
Time: 8 pm
Find more New Year’s events on Tampabay.com
Monday - Friday : 9 AM - 5 PM
Saturday & Sunday :
By Appointment
