Gasparilla Cars in the Park 2025: A Celebration of Tampa Bay’s Finest
Happy Holidays from Registry Tampa Bay! This past weekend, Gasparilla Cars in the Park brought the Tampa Bay automotive community together in a way that reminds us why we cherish this event each year. From sunrise roll-ins to the final applause at the awards ceremony, Carrollwood Village Park was filled with passion, craftsmanship, and a shared love for the stories that these cars carry. As sponsors and longtime supporters, we were proud to stand alongside the incredible volunteers, exhibitors, and enthusiasts who make this gathering more than just a car show. It was a celebration of community, history, and the people who keep Tampa Bay’s collector culture thriving. This year’s event was one of the strongest yet. The feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive, and the momentum is already building for December 5, 2026, when they will return once again to beautiful Carrollwood Village Park. What makes this event special is not just the cars on display, but the purpose behind it. Gasparilla Cars in the Park is powered entirely by dedicated volunteers, with every dollar of impact going straight to charity. A highlight of the day was our own CEO and Publisher, Tom duPont, leading the on-stage “Torque Talk with Tom.” Joined by an impressive panel of industry minds, including Olivier Cerf, Derek Hennecke, and a representative of Rick Brandt. The conversation brought depth, personality, and perspective to a field that continues to grow and evolve in Tampa Bay. It was a reminder that our region isn’t just participating in automotive culture, we’re shaping it. As we look ahead to 2026, we invite you to save the date. December 5, 2026 | Carrollwood Village Park. Thank you for helping make this year such a success! https://gasparillaconcours.com/cars-in-the-park
Cars, Classics, and Family Fun: Registry Tampa Bay Presents Gasparilla Cars in the Park 2025
For more than three decades, Tom duPont has been immersed in the world of automotive excellence, publishing some of the most legendary luxury and exotic vehicles through the duPont Registry. Now, as Publisher Emeritus and Publisher of Registry Tampa Bay, he’s lending his stamp of approval to one of Tampa Bay’s most exciting automotive events: Gasparilla Cars in the Park 2025. Presented by Gasparilla Concours d’Elegance, Gasparilla Cars in the Park is far from your typical car show. Co-executive directors Joanne and Brando Pistorius have curated a one-day celebration of rare, classic, and exotic automobiles set in the heart of Carrollwood Village Park, located in Tampa, Florida — with something for every member of the family. “Dads and granddads are going to go straight to these gorgeous cars,” says Joanne, “but moms, grandmas, and kids will have plenty to do too.” From live music to a wine & beer garden and food trucks to splash parks, skate parks, dog parks, and even visits from pirates and Santa, it’s an immersive festival atmosphere with more than 300 cars and motorcycles on display, and a car corral to buy and sell your next great classic. One of the biggest draws this year will be a special exhibition from the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum, featuring three ultra-rare sleeve-valve engine vehicles, including a 1928 Willys-Knight and a 1927 Avion Voisin — automobiles you simply won’t find at everyday car shows. Longtime collectors Derek and Marcy Hennecke will also bring several stunning vehicles from their private museum to the showcase. For Brando, who also owns Old Wheel Restorations, cars are in his blood. “We want people to see things they’ve never seen before,” he says. “This is a one-of-a-kind experience for our Tampa Bay community.” Admission is free, and the event supports Champions for Children, a local nonprofit helping families in need. Whether you’re a die-hard enthusiast or just looking for a memorable family day out, Gasparilla Cars in the Park is a can’t-miss Tampa Bay tradition in the making. Saturday, December 6 Carrollwood Village Park located in Tampa, FL 10 AM–3 PM Details & registration → gasparillaconcours.com/cars-in-the-park
Gasparilla Cars in the Park
Gasparilla Concours presents Cars, Community and Charity at Gasparilla Cars in the Park A one day automotive event welcoming all collectible vehicles, 1900-present day… pre-war, post-war, hot rod, resto-mod, exotics, sports and specialty vehicles. We are celebrating all the fantastic collectible cars, trucks and motorcycles. Not your regular car show, this automotive event has all the entertainment, adult beverages and festivities that you would expect with a locally famous name like “Gasparilla” Pirates and Beads included. Silent Auction benefitting Champions for Children. We exist to support Tampa Bay Area charities that serve children who are most in need in our community. We operate through direct donations and monies raised through our annual juried classic car competition featuring rare, original, and historically important vehicles. Automotive.
Gasparilla Cars in the Park
You can hold your car club holiday party with us! We will help decorate your tent, help with optional catering arrangements, and make sure you get a special visit from Santa with a bag full of goodies. Just let us know how we can make it more special for you and your club! REGISTRATION IS OPEN Individuals and Car Clubs can register now and save $10 per car on the registration fees!
Weekend Top 10: Race Cars, Brews, and Family Time Too. Plus Mardi Gras, Gasparilla Arts, and More – All for You!
There’s a definite theme in the air this weekend – cars, cars, cars. But there are also many fun choices for all, as you’ll see in this loaded Top 10 list – new theater, Mardi Gras doings, Gasparilla arts festival, and great concerts for a start. Make your plans today and let Registry Tampa Bay be your guide! Friday Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg Downtown & Multiple Venues, St. Pete Start Your Engines! It’s the national spotlight for St. Pete this weekend as the Indy Cars come to town once again! The Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg is a 1.8-mile, 14-turn temporary circuit that uses the streets circling Pioneer Park, the Duke Energy Center for the Arts (Mahaffey Theater), The Dalí Museum and extending onto the runways at Albert Whitted Airport, which overlooks the waterfront of Tampa Bay and picturesque St. Petersburg Harbor and Marina. There are many associated events with the race (Sunday) all weekend, so check them out and plan your itinerary. Friday, February 28th through Sunday, March 2nd Find tickets, schedules, and more information HERE. Limited Run: Disenchanted Straz Center, Morsani Hall, Tampa Sometimes “Happily Ever After” isn’t all it’s cracked up to be. This musical comedy lifts the curtain on the happy endings of storybook princesses and, I can tell you, you’ll never hear the song, So This is Love, without rolling your eyes again. The musical Disenchanted goes behind the magic to ask the question, “Did I eat a poisoned apple for THIS?” See how the princesses deal with their disappointment when Disenchanted! returns to the Straz. Friday, February 28th through Sunday, March 2nd Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Saturday **Registry Spotlight Event** Few arts festivals in Tampa Bay can boast the size, scope, and attendance of the Gasparilla Festival of the Arts. It’s got everything yet, on the beautiful waterfront, there’s lots of room to move about. The spotlight shines on one of the final Gasparilla events this year. Family Friendly: 55th Annual Raymond James Gasparilla Festival of the Arts Julian B. Lane Riverfront Park, Tampa For more than half a century, artists and art lovers from all over the country find their way to Tampa Bay to enjoy this massive arts festival. It’s where the country’s most accomplished artists and rising stars vie for the $15,000 Raymond James Best of Show Award and an additional $77,000 in prize money. The March 2025 Festival is FREE to the public and will showcase artists and their work to include ceramic, digital, drawing, fiber, glass, jewelry, mixed media, painting, photography, printmaking, sculpture, watercolor and wood. This event will also feature the works of local young artists and a weekend full of live entertainment. Event is FREE. VIP available. Saturday & Sunday, March 1st & 2nd Find event schedules, and more information HERE. Family Friendly: Annual Auto Show Imagine Museum, St. Pete This isn’t just a car show—it’s a celebration of design, innovation, and community fun. Bring the whole family for a day of fun. Honoring the Firestone Grand Prix down the street, come to Imagine and admire an incredible lineup of vehicles—from vintage classics to modern marvels and experimental designs—and help decide which car takes home the coveted Best in Show Award! Enjoy exciting activities including: Kids’ Art Station – Create your own mini car design. Coloring & Craft Booths – Experience fun hands-on activities for young auto enthusiasts. Photo Ops with Classic Cars – Capture the memories with stunning vehicles. Live Face Painting – Get a fun, artistic design to match the excitement of the day. It’s a weekend devoted to the mighty automobile, so enjoy! Saturday, March 1st @10am – 4pm Find tickets and more information HERE. 2025 Florida Craft Brewers River Tower Park, Tampa Every year the Florida Brewers Guild kicks off Tampa Bay Beer Week by organizing the biggest beer festival in Tampa Bay–bringing over 70 of your favorite Florida craft breweries together, over 200 different beer samples and welcomes over 500 attendees. Come and enjoy beers from all over the state, meet Florida brewers, local vendors, food trucks, and a local DJ with music all day! Parking is free on site. Saturday, March 1st @1pm – 5pm Find tickets and more information HERE. FuelFest Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa It certainly is a weekend devoted to cars and racing all over Tampa Bay! FuelFest brings the most exciting elements of music festivals, car shows, auto racing, and auto expos together to bring you one giant comprehensive mega-event that also features movie cars and interactive sponsor exhibits. The result is a world-class experience with something for the whole family! Saturday, March 1st At 1pm -8pm Find tickets and more information HERE. Mardi Gras in Grand Central 2900 Block Central Avenue, St. Pete Get ready to kick off a new tradition! Join in for a multi-business Mardi Gras celebration paired with the beloved Annual Chili Cook-Off benefiting Come Out St. Pete. Line up of festivities include: Live music and entertainment Local vendors and unique finds A fun-filled puppy costume contest Delicious chili tastings and competition Saturday, March 1st @1pm – 6pm Find more information HERE. Think Tank Theatre Presents: Spring Cabaret Deviant Libation, Tampa If you love Broadway tunes and top shelf liquid refreshment, this evening is definitely for you. ThinkTank is teaming up with once again Deviant Libation to present an evening of Broadway favorites coupled with some Beers and Booze. Hang out on Deviant Libation’s spacious patio, under an enchanting tent, so bring a lawn chair or picnic blanket and make yourself comfortable. A food truck will be available for you to purchase dinner or bring your own snacks. Get the family together and make your plans for Saturday, March 1st or Sunday, March 2nd, heck both nights if you want! Seating is limited and our cabarets do sell out, so don’t hesitate. It’s sure to be an evening everyone can enjoy, with some beer and
Driven by Passion: A Conversation with Derek Hennecke,Collector and Board Member of the Gasparilla Concours d’Elegance
For more than three decades, Tom duPont has celebrated the finest in automotive excellence through duPont Registry and now Registry Tampa Bay. As Publisher Emeritus, Tom continues to shine a spotlight on Tampa Bay’s thriving collector car community — including one of the area’s most anticipated events: Gasparilla Cars in the Park 2025, presented by Gasparilla Concours d’Elegance. In this week’s Weekend Wheels Spotlight, Tom sits down with collector and board member Derek Hennecke, who shares what inspired him to join the organization and what continues to drive his passion for cars, community, and craftsmanship. Tom duPont: The Gasparilla Concours is quite an operation. You joined the board and are helping shape this year’s Cars in the Park. Tell me how you got involved. Derek Hennecke: It started several years ago when I met Brando and Joanne Pistorius. I saw their passion — not just for cars, but for the local community — and wanted to help bring the kind of high-caliber event we’d seen in other states right here to Tampa Bay. I felt our community could really use something like this. I was honored to join the board and contribute in any way I could. Tom: You’re right, it’s such a powerful combination — car enthusiasm and charitable giving. Looking back, is there a favorite moment that stands out to you? Derek: There have been many, but one really stands out. A few years ago, one of my cars crossed the podium. A family had been admiring it, sharing stories about their connection to that marque. They asked if they could drive it across the stage — and watching their excitement lit them up, and it lit me up too. That moment reminded me what this hobby is really about: sharing the joy. Tom: What do you think keeps the passion for car collecting so strong? Derek: It’s different for everyone. For me, it’s the history, the mechanics, and the design — how they all come together. Being able to talk about these stories, drive the cars, and literally hold a piece of North American and European history in your hands… that’s something special. Tom: What excites you most about the future of this organization and Gasparilla Cars in the Park? Derek: The growth — and the inclusivity. It’s more than a car show; it’s a full community experience. Families come out, kids get inspired, and collectors connect in new ways. I’m excited to see how we continue to build on that and make each year better than the last. About Gasparilla Cars in the Park 2025Set in Carrollwood Village Park in Tampa, Gasparilla Cars in the Park is far from your typical car show. Featuring more than 300 rare, classic, and exotic automobiles and motorcycles, the event also includes live music, food trucks, a wine and beer garden, and family-friendly attractions from splash parks to pirate appearances. This year’s highlights include an exclusive exhibition from the Tampa Bay Automobile Museum, showcasing three ultra-rare sleeve-valve engine vehicles — including a 1928 Willys-Knight and a 1927 Avion Voisin — along with several stunning pieces from Derek and Marcy Hennecke’s private collection. Saturday, December 6 Carrollwood Village Park located in Tampa, FL 10 AM–3 PM Details & registration → gasparillaconcours.com/cars-in-the-park
Weekend Top 10: Muse Awards, Firestone Grand Prix, New Play Festival, Gasparilla Festival of the Arts, and Strawberries Galore
It’s a weekend chock-full of some very popular annual events here in Tampa Bay – from Grand Prix racing, to Strawberries, to Art. The weather has been perfect, so mark your calendars, make your plans, gather up your favorite people, or venture out on your own – just have a great weekend! Thursday and Beyond Tampa Bay Adjacent – The Strawberry Festival **Bonus Event Berry Fest Place, Plant City Each spring, the Florida Strawberry Festival® rolls out the red carpet to welcome visitors from throughout the Sunshine State and the world. Guests come from near and far to enjoy exhibits of agriculture, commerce, industry, livestock, fine arts, horticulture, and crafts. The fabric of American life is woven into the Festival through social events, contests, youth developmental programs, top-name entertainment, and parades with glorious floats and high-stepping marching bands. The Florida Strawberry Festival represents a time in American history when fairs and festivals brought communities together through celebrations of their harvests. Speaking of top-name entertainment, the one and only Willie Nelson will be performing this weekend! March 2nd through March 12th Tickets, schedules, and more information here. Friday The Muse Awards – Hosted by The St. Petersburg Arts Alliance Morean Center for Clay, St. Pete MUSE celebrates the diversity of all the arts and culture in St. Petersburg and pays tribute to the remarkable talent and variety that can be discovered around every corner of the ‘Burg. SPAA celebrates the following awards during MUSE every year: Arts Ambassador Award: Katie Diets of Florida CraftArt Literary Arts Award: Maggie Duffy, arts writer for the Tampa Bay Times Patrons of the Arts Award: Belinda Dumont Performing Arts Award: Alexander Jones of Project Alchemy (dance) Art & Technology Award: Mikhail Mansion Visual Arts Award: Catherine Woods Paul Wilborn hosts, there will be special programs, art on display and a few surprises – along with delectable bites and lots of dancing. March 4th @7pm Tickets and more information here. Friday & Saturday Shasta Velvet at “Club Dirty” – A Dirty John’s Special Event The Studio @620, St. Pete The Dirty John’s Crew (The hilarious Jon Huls & Jay Hoff, et.al.), are transforming The Studio@620 into “Club Dirty” for a special live performance! Don’t miss Shasta Velvet (Ryan Hill) in concert at the next Dirty John’s show. You know their reputation from past events, so come prepared for anything! One thing is certain, these shows are fun and fabulous, so get your tickets now before they sell out! March 3rd & 4th @8pm Tickets and more information here. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix in Concert with the Florida Orchestra Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Tampa The Harry Potter™ Film Concert Series returns to The Straz Center with Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix in Concert, the fifth film in the Harry Potter series. On Friday, March 3, 2023, Ron Spigelman will conduct The Florida Orchestra in performing the magical score live from Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix while the entire film plays in high-definition on a 40-foot screen. March 3rd & 4th Tickets, performance times, and more information here. Friday, Saturday & Sunday Lift Every Voice: New Play Festival, Hosted by American Stage The James Museum of Western & Wildlife Art Be the first to experience new plays by the country’s leading playwrights. For the first time American Stage is partnering with the James Museum in Downtown St. Petersburg to bring the theatre’s new play festival to a new home. The Festival will include five readings of new plays currently in development, conversations and forums with working artists, and a keynote address from an established playwright. As a part of American Stage’s and the James Museum’s commitment to diverse voices each year at least one playwright featured in the festival will be an indigenous artist. American Stage has created a program that gives playwrights and their work an opportunity to be seen, and possibly even produced. March 3rd, 10am-9pm 4th, 10am-9pm and 5th 10am-6pm Tickets, play information, and performance schedules here. Firestone Grand Prix of St. Petersburg Downtown, St. Pete If you live in the area, you’re familiar with the buzz of Indy cars zipping around the streets of downtown. I honestly love the sound. The Firestone Grand Prix is back, the partitions are up, and race fans are eager to witness one of Tampa Bays premiere events. It’s 100 laps, 180 miles over a winding 1.8 mile course that includes a portion of the runway at Albert Whitted Airport. It’s a heart pounding, adrenaline filled 3 days with many scheduled events in addition to the racing. Get into it. March 3rd – March 5th Tickets, schedules and more information here. Saturday New York Yankees vs. Tampa Bay Rays George Steinbrenner Field, Tampa “Play ball !!” – the words all baseball fans wait to hear when Spring rolls around. Remember when Florida hosted ONLY Spring Training games? Now, for the past quarter century, we are lucky enough to have our own MLB franchise right here in our own back yard. It’s a privilege only 31 other US cities have, so start supporting the Rays for the 2023 season with a fun jaunt to the junior house that Ruth built. March 4th @1:05pm Tickets and more information here. 23rd Annual English Tea Palm Harbor Museum, Palm Harbor Scone and some Earl Grey, anyone? When you have a child who lives in London, you report on “Teas” – because they are lovely. This is one of Palm Harbor Historical Society’s most popular annual events. You’ll be served a wide selection of delectable sweet and savory treats, along with a variety of delicious teas. The Palm Harbor Museum back patio gives an outdoor charm in a landscaped garden setting. Two gifts will be awarded for the “Most Beautiful” and “Most Original” lady’s hats. A variety of silent auction items in the gazebo also will be on display—including beautifully filled gift baskets. The museum will be open for guests during the event. This is a very
Gasparilla Concours d’Elegance
Celebrating 100 Years of Automotive Excellence, we offer 3 days of historic and rare classic cars and motorcycles, live entertainment, great food, youth activities, and a Red Carpet Awards Ceremony. The picture perfect venue is located at TPC Tampa Bay Golf Course, 5300 Lutz Lake Fern Rd., Lutz (NW Tampa) Florida. Friday, Dec. 2 –
Weekend Top 10: Hadestown, The Night Before, Plant Victorian Christmas, ArtJones, and Very Rare Cars
It’s officially holiday season (even though it’s been “out there” since before Halloween). This weekend in Tampa Bay is chock full of seasonal (and other) opportunities for family fun, great art, theater, and shopping, shopping, shopping. Here is our curated Top 10 for the weekend. Enjoy! Thursday Just Opened – Hadestown by Anais Mitchell Carol Morsani Hall Straz Center for the Performing Arts, Tampa The Multi Tony Award (8 including Best Musical), and Grammy winning musical comes to Tampa Bay for just a short time, so get on that. Hadestown is a combining of two mythic tales – That of King Hades & Persephone and young dreamers Orpheus & Eurydice. The stories are set to a more modern time with a jazzy, raucous soundtrack. It’s one of those truly memorable theater experiences. Runs through December 4th Find schedule, times, and ticket information here. Opening Night – The Night Before by Matthew McGee w/ Original Music & Arragements by Michael Rabbe freeFall Theatre, St. Pete The uber talented duo of Matt McGee and Michael Rabbe bring back the holiday romp they wrote and introduced last year. It’s a camp, pop culture, hilariously jolly piece set to the holiday soundtrack of our lives along with original music. Updated material has been added to reference the bizarre times we find ourselves in – much like the premise of being snowed in with friends for Christmas in Florida. Broadway World’s Regional Award nominee, Sara DelBeato, is back to steal the show as Phyllis Schatz! It’s a don’t miss in my book. Opens December 1st through December 24th. Get schedule, times, and ticket information here. Opening – Victorian Christmas Stroll Henry B. Plant Museum, Tampa It’s one of the loveliest holiday traditions around in one of the area’s best recognized venues. If Tampa Bay’s rich history and seasonal Victorian style appeals, then this is the event for you! So many trees and decorations from a by-gone era adorn the Plant Museum for another year, with events like paper crafting, storytelling, puppet shows, and live music, making this a unique holiday experience for the entire family. (Children’s Day on 12/11 with a concert and special programming.)Open Daily until 12/23 @10am-8pm More information here. Friday December Friday Holiday Outdoor Market! Creative Clay Gallery, St. Pete Creative Clay Transition student artists and member artists from the Community Arts Program are hosting the December’s Friday Art Market. It will feature a variety of holiday-themed gifts including hand-painted wine gift bags, ceramics, paintings, greeting cards for the holidays or any occasion – all handmade by Creative Clay member artists. Support the amazing mission of Creative Clay to promote and provide arts education to their special needs member artists. December 2nd @10am-2pm More information here. St. Petersburg Press Authors Event St. Petersburg City Theatre, South St. Pete Three of our favorite local authors unite for an evening of readings, Q&A, and book signing. Paul Wilborn, author of Florida Hustle, his first novel, is joined by Tom Gribbin, author of The Last Florida Boy, and everyone’s favorite music, arts and history aficionado, Bill DeYoung, author of Vintage St. Pete. It will surely be a very lively, informative, and entertaining discussion. And, knowing these gentlemen, peppered with a lot of laughter. December 2nd @7:30pm Free admission RSVP and more information here. Gasparilla Concours d’Elegance Safety Harbor “Celebrating 100 years of automotive excellence,” this event features the most rare, original, and historically important cars and motorcycles of the past century. There are different events on each day of the festival, so check the link for specifics. Sidewalk cafes, car processions, and tours, along with other planned activities will make this a truly unique experience. (Under 16 enjoy free admission.)December 2nd- 4th Hours vary, so get ticket information and more details here. Saturday & Sunday Cinderella Eats Rice & Beans – School Tour American Stage, St. Pete What will happen to Cinderella at the ball…….game??She has traded in her impractical glass slippers for Converse high-tops in this bilingual adaption of the classic princess tale comes to American Stage. This contemporary musical with a Latin-American twist on the classic fairy tale is sure to delight. Especially geared for students, but sure to be a wonderful theater experience for the whole family – all for a $12.00 ticket price! December 3rd @11am December 4th @1pm Tickets and information here. 6th Annual ArtJones Tour & Art SaleLocations Throughout Gulfport Gulfport is home to a multitude of artists, makers, and creators who open their studios once a year for this free, self-guided tour, show, and sale located in all four residential districts. It’s an amazing opportunity to get an inside look at the creative process, get to know Gulfport creators, and do some holiday shopping for all the art lovers on your list – or maybe something just for you. December 3rd @10am-5pm December 4th @11am-4pm. More information and maps locales here. Sunday 14th Annual Miracle on Cleveland StreetBilheimer Capitol Theater, Clearwater Ruth Eckerd Hall on the road brings back this family-friendly holiday festival jam packed with fun and unique experiences. Here’s a small sample of what you can expect: Ice skating, ornament making station, snowboard simulator, gingerbread mini putt-putt, Tel-An-Elf video chats, and the Holly Jolly Trolley ride through downtown – complete with caroling. And if you’re very good, it just may snow!Don’t forget to catch the post event holiday concert inside the theater at 6pm Free admissionDecember 4th @2-6pm More information here. Tampa City Ballet’s The NutcrackerYuengling Center, Tampa TCB is known for elevating dance in Tampa Bay through performance and high quality arts education for all. Collaboration with America’s Ballet School adds to performance quality and opportunities for students. This year’s presentation of The Nutcracker rings in the holiday season and features a number of scholarship students in principal roles. See a holiday favorite while supporting an institution that truly uplifts the community.December 4th @4pm and December 6th @11am and 1pmTickets and more information here. Have fun and stay safe out there!CindySend your events to cstovall5@gmail.com
Weekend Top Ten 2/6-9: Art, Opera, Oscars® & more
This first weekend of February is crazy busy, so I’m making another adjustment in my Weekend Top Ten: I’m listing by genre. Which means that I can pack a lot more under the “Top Ten” rubric, and you get a lot more choices! Going in alphabetical order, we start with A, which can only stand for… ARTWALK, ART OPENINGS, ARTFEST 2/7: Glitch opens at MIZE Gallery. Chad Mize is a whiz at coming up with pithy exhibition themes, and Glitch carries on the tradition. Follow the link to read more about the origins of the word (John Glenn!?) and the list of artists participating, which includes such luminaries as Frank Strunk III, Carrie Jadus, Saumitra Chandratreya, Bask, and Mize himself. Opening reception 6-10 p.m., 689 Dr. MLK Jr. St., St. Petersburg. 2/7-8: Gulfport Fine Arts Festival. Gulfport is well-known for its twice-monthly artwalks on Beach Boulevard, but this event is different: A once-a-year juried show of fine arts and crafts down by the water in Veteran’s Park. Read more in my dRTB Live interview with gallery owner Brenda McMahon, a leader in the town’s visual arts scene. 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Veteran’s Park, 5350 31st Ave. S. 2/8: Hessam Abrishami show opens at Syd Entel. An Iranian artist now based in the U.S. whose work has been shown in museums and galleries throughout the world, Abrishami creates vibrantly colorful figurative paintings and evocative bronzes. Reception with the artist 5-8 p.m.; exhibition continues through 3/7. Syd Entel Galleries and Susan Benjamin Glass Etc., 247 Main St., Safety Harbor, 727- 725-1808, sydentelgalleries.com. 2/8: St. Petersburg Second Saturday ArtWalk. Whether you’re strolling, motoring or taking the free trolley, you’ll find art gallery action in all of St. Pete’s downtown districts, from Waterfront to Warehouse. To name just a few of the exhibitions to choose from: Luminaries of Glass at Duncan McClellan Gallery; Valentwe’en 2020: Jeepers, Creepers, Where’d You Get Those Peepers?, hosted and judged by Dr. Paul Bearer II (!), at ArtLofts; Adrift, featuring works by LeeAnna Repass, Benjamin Dimmitt and Jan Richardson at ARTicles; Elegant Expressions, featuring work by Shasta Gordon at Creative Clay. Find a map of participating galleries, studios, trolley stops and parking at stpeteartsalliance.org/artwalk. Studios and galleries stay open late and welcome visitors from 5-9 pm. GASPARILLA 2/8: Krewe of the Knights of Sant’ Yago Illuminated Knight Parade. What, you didn’t get enough beads and pirates at the daytime parade a few weekends ago? Then the night, er, Knight parade is for you. Watch for a famous pro wrestler and Jerry Springer, plus floats. 7 p.m., E. Seventh Ave. and N. 14th St., Ybor City, Tampa. krewesantyago.org. OPERA 2/7-9: Opera Tampa presents George Bizet’s Carmen. Prepare for a heated Habeñera, a torrid Toreador Song and a stage full of Spanish spitfire as the Straz comes alive with the saga of one of opera’s most inflammatory tragic heroines. 2/7-8, 8 p.m.; 2/9, 2 p.m. strazcenter.org. ORCHESTRA 2/8-9: Florida Orchestra: Music of Bond… James Bond. Dum dada dum, da-da-da dum dada dum! The next James Bond flick isn’t due out till April, but you can get your Bond fix (if not your Bond-girl fix, or your Daniel Craig fix, or even your dry-martini fix, shaken not stirred or is it the other way around) with this program of classic themes from the movie series conducted by our own dashing Brit, Florida Orchestra Music Director Michael Francis. 2/8: 2 & 8 p.m., Mahaffey Theater, St. Petersburg; 2/9: 7:30 p.m., Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater, floridaorchestra.org. OSCARS® 2/9: Hollywood Awards Night at Tampa Theatre. You know which “Hollywood Awards” they’re talking about. And if you don’t have your own Oscar watch party planned, Tampa Theatre’s venerable celebration, now in its 21st year, will provide the red carpet, catty commentary and big-screen fun you crave. 6:30 p.m., 711 N. Franklin St., Tampa, tampatheatre.org. PARTIES 2/8: pARTy of the STrAnGE at the MFA. Taking a cue from its current (and fabulous) exhibition The Art of the Stage, the Margaret Acheson Stuart Society is throwing a fundraiser for the museum called pARTy of the STrAnGE (see what they did there?), billed as “a celebration of the dramatic” with “edgy entertainment, flamboyant food, dramatic drinks, and entertainment surprises” and emceed by that master of fun Matthew McGee. 6:46-9:16 p.m., Marly Room and Gardens, Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg, stuartsociety.donorshops.com. POP/FOLK 2/7: Billy Joel at Amalie Arena. He didn’t start the fire, he’s the piano man, and even though he’s in a New York state of mind, the tireless troubador is back in Tampa. 8 p.m., Amalie Arena, Tampa, amaliearena.com. 2/7-8: Lucinda Williams at the Cap. The great, gravelly-voiced singer/songwriter comes to town for a two-night stand with her band Buick 6. 8 p.m., Bilheimer Capitol Theatre, 405 Cleveland St., Clearwater, rutheckerdhall.com. 2/9: Arlo Guthrie at the Cap. He won’t be eating at Alice’s Restaurant (because it’s in Stockbridge, MA, not Clearwater — you can visit it). But expect a big ol’ good-time massacree nevertheless. 7 p.m., Bilheimer Capitol Theatre, rutheckerdhall.com. SPORTS 2/8: Rays Fan Fest. Though the Tampa Bay Rays may have traded away your favorite players (Travis! Avi! Tommy Pham!), and there’s that pesky Montreal thing hanging over our heads, the annual Rays Fan Fest at Tropicana Field is still a surefire fun time for baseball fans of all ages, and it’s free. 11 a.m.-3 p.m., Tropicana Field, St. Petersburg, mlb.com/rays. STATE FAIR 2/6: Florida State Fair opening day. You may go for the livestock, the rides or the giraffe (yes, there’s a giraffe), but the Tampa Bay Times knows it’s all about the food, or, as Times reporter Gabrielle Calise so eloquently puts it, “new horrifying ways to dip, dunk, sugar-coat and deep-fry.” Continues through 2/17, Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. Hwy 301 N., Tampa. THEATER 2/7: Morningside opens at Stageworks. A group of women in Atlanta — played by some of the funniest actors ever to grace local stages, including Karla Hartley, Jonelle Meyer, Kari Goetz, Susan Haldeman, Emily Belvo and Jaime Giangrande-Holcom — gather for the worst baby shower ever. Through 2/23, Stageworks Theatre, 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., Suite 151, Tampa, stageworkstheatre.org.
Weekend Top 10: Holiday Theater Season Begins! Catch All the Best Shows or Find Many Other Spectacular Events in Tampa Bay
Up curtain!! There will be so many wonderful holiday shows opening this weekend, so be ready to enjoy the delights of live theater! Of course there are many other offerings to enjoy – Vintage cars, Beach Volleyball and Flamingos in December, and Elmo, Stevie Nicks, and Peter Noone all come to town. Don’t miss a minute! New Theater Thursday The Magi American Stage Theatre, DTSP In the O’Henry tradition, American Stage brings this holiday tale to the live stage for the season of giving. Even more noteworthy is that Eli Pafumi, son of producing artistic director, Helen Murray, wrote the score for the production. He is a music instructor at Green Brooms Music Academy and lends his talent to this very special family collaboration. The Story: Nix and Jude have been on the road as The Magi for eight years — and have shared nearly all of that time together, falling in love after seven years and eleven months. Now, as the holiday lights begin to glow, both the band and the couple find themselves at a breaking point. The Magi peels back the curtain on the sacrifices we make for those we deeply cherish. Equal parts festive concert, tender love story, and deliciously awkward moments — get ready for an evening as real as it is heartwarming. VIP experience available – be a part of the action! Preview – Thursday, December 4th @8pm Opening night – Friday, December 5th @8pm Runs through Sunday, December 21st Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. A Christmas Carol – Live Radio Play Straz Center, Shimberg Theatre, Tampa Celebrate the season with a timeless classic, reimagined! Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol comes to life as a live 1940s radio play, complete with holiday music, clever sound effects, and a cast of Tampa Bay favorites featuring Michael Gregory. Gather ‘round as the tale of Ebenezer Scrooge unfolds in a nostalgic evening of ghosts, redemption, and festive storytelling. It’s a heartwarming reminder that even the coldest heart can be warmed by the spirit of Christmas. Opens Friday, December 5th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Friday **Registry Spotlight Event** It’s genius to infuse the holidays, not only with smash hit comedy, but with a timely message that you’ll actually learn from while you laugh! Stageworks shines this week in the #RegistrySoptlight Latin History (For Morons) Stageworks Theatre, Tampa Latin History for Morons is a critically acclaimed play written and originally performed by John Leguizamo. The story follows John, a father who discovers a glaring absence of Latin American contributions in his son’s history textbooks. Determined to fill the gap, he embarks on a hilarious and poignant journey through 3,000 years of Latin history, from the Mayan civilization to modern-day heroes.It’s a fast-paced, irreverent, and laugh-out-loud show that blends personal storytelling with historical revelations. The play challenges the erasure of Latin / Hispanic history and celebrates its profound impact on the world. Audiences often leave feeling inspired to learn more and advocate for inclusive education. Opens Friday, December 5th – Sunday, December 21st Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Opens Friday, December 5th – Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. The Nutcracker Presented by: The St. Petersburg Ballet The Historic Palladium, Hough Hall, St. Pete Don’t we love a beautiful holiday classic live on stage? That’s just what you’ll find at the historic Palladium this weekend. The story of the “Nutcracker” begins on a magical Christmas Eve in St. Petersburg, Russia in 1872. It is told through the eyes of an eccentric toymaker, Herr Drosselmeyer, and his beloved Goddaughter, Clara. Clara must find the courage to believe in the power of love for the enchanted Nutcracker Prince in order to save him from the evil Mouse King. The Ballet features dancing children, mischievous boys, a Siamese Warrior, toy soldiers, giant mice, sword fights, Snowflakes, Spanish dancers, Buffoons, Waltzing Flowers, and the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier. Friday, December 5th – Sunday, December 7th Find tickets, performance rimes and more information HERE. Saturday Gasparilla Cars in the Park: Presented by Gasparilla Concours d’Elegance Inc. Carrollwood Village Park, Carrollwood (Tampa) Come to Carrollwood village to see some of the most rare and beautiful collectable and vintage cars you might ever see in your life!. You’ll be awe struck by the amazing condition these cars are in as well as their rare sleekness and beauty. There will also be vendors, food, live entertainment and panel discussions. During the Event, our own Tom DuPont will moderate a discussion to discuss his long love affair with the classic automobile and “shine a spotlight on Tampa Bay’s thriving collector car community.” Read the intro on the event page. If you love the automobile, this ia a not to be missed event. Saturday, December 5th @10am – 3pm Find schedules, and more information HERE. Jobsite Rocks! New World Tampa Music Hall, Tampa Here’s a chance to celebrate all the amazing theater brought to us all year long at this Tampa Bay mainstay live performance venue. From our friends at Jobsite: Our Jobsite Rocks! tradition is now over two decades old, and we’re excited for the party of all parties this December! Join us early in the evening for a VIP reception inclusive of food and drink before an epic musical show featuring members of our ensemble and special guests! Help us celebrate another great year, hoist a glass with your favorite Jobsiteers, all while supporting us while we try to make our end-of-year fundraising goal to avoid further cuts in 2026. This is a come-as-you-wish event. There is no dress code. Saturday, December 6th @6:30pm – 9:30pm Find tickets and more information HERE. Sunday Special Announcement: Registry Tampa Bay Sponsors an Event benefitting The Children’s Dream Fund Santa’s Workshop Upham Beach Volleyball Courts, Tampa This Sunday, workout with Santa on Sunday December 7th at 9 AM at the
Racing, Roots & Giving Back: Rick Brandt, CEO of Brandt Drives Passion and Purpose to Tampa Bay
For nearly seven decades, Brandt, one of America’s leading agriculture companies, called a small town in central Illinois home. But five years ago, CEO Rick Brandt made the move to Tampa Bay — a decision that’s transformed both his business and his lifestyle. “Tampa’s just a much better place to do business,” Brandt shared. “It’s easier, especially from an international standpoint. The airport is incredible, and being here puts us right at the hub of agriculture in the U.S. We’re surrounded by other great companies and opportunities to grow.” That same enthusiasm extends beyond business and into the community. Brandt’s passion for cars and philanthropy perfectly align with this year’s Gasparilla Concours d’elegance: Cars in the Park, benefitting Champions for Children. “I’ve always been a car guy,” Brandt said with a smile. “We’ve been a NASCAR sponsor for over 15 years, and at the very first Gasparilla Concours d’elegance, we brought one of our NASCARs — it was such a hit. If there’s a car show, I want to be part of it — whether it’s showing a car or just walking around and taking it all in.” For Brandt, cars are more than just machines — they’re a way to connect people and purpose. Through the Brandt Foundation, launched in 2012, his family and team have championed charitable efforts across Tampa Bay, from partnerships with the Tampa Bay Lightning to support hunger relief, to deep involvement with the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. “Anything to do with charity, I’m going to be involved,” he said. “Giving back is part of who we are — it’s something my family and our entire team believes in.” At Cars in the Park on December 6, Brandt will showcase a particularly special car — an endurance championship race car co-driven by NASCAR’s Justin Allgaier and Porsche Series Brazil champion Miguel Paludo, both of whom have made their mark on the international racing stage. “It’s a very special car,” Brandt said. “Both of their names are on it — and it’s a really cool car to see up close.” While the connection between agriculture and auto racing may seem unlikely, for Brandt it’s always been about marketing, momentum, and meaning. “We first got into NASCAR as a marketing decision,” he explained. “It works across the board — men, women, kids, farmers — it connects with everyone. Over time, it’s become part of who we are. We like to say, we win on the track, and we win in the field.” And that drive — to compete, to innovate, to give — is what continues to make both Brandt and Tampa Bay unstoppable forces. Join Rick Brandt and other auto enthusiasts at Gasparilla Cars in the Park, where every engine rev helps drive change. Saturday, December 6 Carrollwood Village Park located in Tampa, FL 10 AM–3 PM Details & registration → gasparillaconcours.com/cars-in-the-park