Registry Tampa Bay

Weekend Top 10: Knights? Pirates? Tacos? No Need to Choose – Do it ALL this Weekend! Plus a Mini Review of Macbeth

Snow in Florida? Now we’ve seen it all! But the frigid temps won’t keep us from enjoying all the fun events happening this weekend in Tampa Bay! Registry Tampa Bay keeps you “in the know” and will keep the fun coming. Bundle up and get out there!   Thursday   Newly Opened: Source of All Hair, Wearer of All Socks Exhibition The Gallery at Creative Pinellas, Largo Walking into the gallery, you’ll be blown away at the size and scope of these installations throughout Creative Pinellas’ galleries. It’s an extraordinary exhibition by Nigerian Sri Lankan artist Sam Modder. Through mural-sized ballpoint pen drawings, Modder creates immersive, allegorical spaces where striking Black female figures navigate real and imagined realms. Blending childhood wonder with critical reflection, her work explores themes of power, resilience, and transformation, with Black hair as a central, dynamic character embodying strength and resistance. Don’t miss this captivating opportunity to experience Modder’s powerful storytelling. Now through February 23rd (Possible extension to April as of this writing) Find more information HERE.   Theater Thursday   Opening: This Girl Laughs, This Girl Cries, This Girl Does Nothing American Stage Theatre, DTSP In this modern fairytale, three sisters, left abandoned, take charge of their own destinies, and move ahead in different directions. The eldest, Albienne, heads East to show the world what she’s made of. Beatrix, the middle sister, heads West in search of adventure. Then there’s Carmen, the youngest, who finds comfort in staying put.  As the years roll by, each new experience comes with a new lesson, a new perspective, and maybe even a little bit of magic. It’s a heartwarming tale about sisterhood, courage, and the beauty of embracing life’s twists and turns with an open heart. Now through Sunday, February 9th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Opening: Venus in Fur TheatreFor, Clearwater David Ives’ Venus in Fur is a delightful romp that marries wit with seduction in a sharp examination of power dynamics. Set during an audition, the play centers on Thomas, a beleaguered playwright, and Vanda, an audacious actress who flips the script—quite literally—on gender roles. With a heady mix of clever banter and risqué humor, Vanda’s playful command turns the rehearsal into a deliciously chaotic exploration of desire and identity. As the lines between reality and role-play blur, the audience is treated to a satirical and insightful commentary on the absurdities of attraction and authority, all delivered with a captivating blend of charm and unexpected hilarity. Thursday, January 23rd through Sunday, February 9th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.   Final Weekend: Four Old Broads Catherine Hickman Theater Having been a nurse for a (very) long time, I usually protest the whole “nurse as a villain” scenario, but we must make sacrifices in the name of comedy, so I happily give this nod to the very talented Gulfport Community Players. Things have not been very pleasant since Nurse Pat Jones began working at the Magnolia Place Assisted Living. A mystery unfolds with laughter as the gals try to outsmart the evil Nurse and figure out why so many residents have been moved to “the dark side. Thursday through Sunday, January 26th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     **Mini Review** Macbeth (The Scottish Play) Jobsite Theater @The Jaeb, Straz Center, Tampa Jobsite, under the leadership of Producing Artistic Director, David Jenkins, has effectively and deservedly developed a reputation for creating stellar productions of the classic plays penned by the Bard, William Shakespeare. In this adaptation, set with intergalactic influences, Jenkins creates an environment of color, light, (and fog), that beautifully backdrops the drama of Macbeth – the scheming, the betrayal, the murders, the blood, the breakdowns. It’s a somewhat prophetic portrait of power and greed run amok that serves as a reminder to us that the frailties of human nature in the 15th century have not evolved all that much. The intergalactic flavor of this production, already mentioned, acts more as subtext. However, the visual presentation of the set, lighting, sound, and projections created by Chris Giuffe, with lighting design by Jo Averill-Snell, and music/sound composition by Jeremy Douglass, greatly add to the sensory experience. Costume design by Katrina Stevenson, (Lady Macbeth), is beautifully done and can be seen as period or futuristic. The ensemble performed in complete sync with standout performances, for me, by Giles Davies as Macbeth, Stevenson as Lady Macbeth, and Katherine Yacko as the perfectly Scottish brogued Porter. Of course, most cast assumed multiple roles and quickly transformed from one character to another seamlessly. When you consider how many intricate details go into creating magic on stage, that is no small feat. Macbeth runs until February 9th with a special 20% off night for the Friday, January 24th performance – use Code BLOOD. This production is Theatre Tampa Bay recommended. Runs through Sunday, February 9th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.   Friday   For a Good Cause: The Great Plate Fundraiser Dinner Morean Center for Clay, St. Pete Meet artists, eat pasta, support a good cause, go home with art! Sounds like a perfect evening to me. Diners will all go home with a unique ceramic plate made here at the Morean Center for Clay by the residents and staff. All participants will have the opportunity to enter drawings for raffles and bid on artwork in a silent auction. Proceeds from the evening will go towards sending our artists in residence to the annual ceramics conference, NCECA. Friday, January 24th @6pm – 8pm Find tickets and more information HERE.     Saturday   **Registry Spotlight Event** Hard not to shine a spotlight on Jose Gaspar and all his “Krewes” sailing into town this weekend. It’s a triple threat of fun and celebration totally unique to us, so if you’ve never experienced Gasparilla, make this your year!   Gasparilla Invasion, Parade, and Pirate Fest Bayshore Blvd, Tampa Since 1904, pirates have invaded Tampa Bay. Every year, the unruly plunderers take over

Weekend Top 10: What Do Cher, Tibetan Monks, Shakespeare, MLK Jr., and Pirates Have in Common? Find Out Here!

Don’t let cooler temps keep you from all the amazing events going on in Tampa Bay this weekend! New theater, art, music, parades, boat shows, and much more await you if you brave the big chill. Registry Tampa Bay has you covered with all the best “stuff” to do!   New Theater Thursday   Limited Engagement – The Cher Show Straz Center, Morsani Hall, Tampa You know the old saying – after the nuclear holocaust, there will only be cockroaches, and Cher. Well, she still astounds in look and in sound through six decades as she continues to entertain at almost 80. This Tony Award winning musical at the Straz Center is a limited engagement, this weekend only. It’s a musical documentary of Cher’s amazing life and career that you simply don’t want to miss. The costume changes alone will be worth the price of admission! Now through Sunday, January 19th Find tickets, performance times and more information HERE.     Macbeth Jobsite Theatre @ The Straz Center Producing artistic director David Jenkins is well known for pushing the boundaries of classical works and presenting them in new and fascinating ways.  For this Macbeth, he worked closely with the design team as they looked for a way to possibly set this “off-world,” drawing from Sci-Fi — perhaps Frank Herbert’s Dune is the closest point of reference someone might most easily think of. “I think, visually, a style like this might break down some barriers or preconceived notions folks have about Shakespeare. People might often feel intimidated by this stuff, but then I watch them binge hours and hours of content in the worlds of Lord of the Rings or Game of Thrones or Dune with no problem. If we can adopt an aesthetic that makes this stuff feel more accessible to folks from jump, why wouldn’t we do that?” Come see innovation on stage starting this weekend. Thursday, January 16th – Sunday, February 9th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE. Thursday and Beyond   St. Petersburg Power & Sailboat Show (4 days) Mahaffey Yacht Basin & Albert Whitted Park, DTSP The St. Petersburg Power and Sailboat Show is the largest boat show on the Gulf Coast. The annual show takes place at Duke Energy Center for the Arts Mahaffey Theater Yacht Basin and Albert Whitted Park in St. Petersburg, Florida. The show will feature an impressive lineup of powerboats and sailboats in water and on land, including a 40,000-square-foot tent housing an extensive selection of marine gear, accessories, and equipment. Thursday, January 16th – Sunday, January 19th Find tickets, event schedules, and more information HERE.   **Registry Spotlight Event**   As the Sacred Arts Tour continues, the Monks come into the gallery to create a stunning mandala, one grain of sand at a time. That most certainly deserves to shine in the #RegistrySpotlight! It’s absolutely fascinating to watch. Tibetan Monks Sacred Arts Tour 2025 (3 days left) Florida CraftArt, DTSP The creation of the sand mandala at Florida CraftArt has long been a cherished tradition for St. Petersburg and the surrounding community. Over the course of several days, the eight monks will meticulously place millions of grains of vibrant sand into an intricate mandala—a stunning geometric representation of the universe and the enlightened mind. This ephemeral masterpiece symbolizes the impermanence of life and the beauty of creation. This year, the monks selected the healing mandala to reflect the challenges our community has faced in recent months. Trust me, you’ll find yourself mesmerized by the meticulous work done on the mandala by these religious icons. Check it out. Now through Saturday, January 18th Find times, and more information HERE.     Friday   Tampa Bay Rodeo’s Bull Bash & Country Music Festival (2 days) Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, Tampa Where can you see exciting rodeo antics and a full country music festival all in one place? The answer, of course, is our very own Hillsborough County fairgrounds. Famed artists like Chris Janson and Clay Walker grace the stage between rodeo phases to make your experience complete. But there’s more! Enjoy delicious food, a cold beer and test your skills on the mechanical bull before the Bull Bash begins. It’s big fun for the whole family, so don’t miss a minute! (No beer for the kids, though.) Friday & Saturday, January 17th & 18th Find tickets, event schedules, and more information HERE.     For a Good Cause: MLK Dream Big Weekend Celebration & Parade Multiple Venues, St. Pete In its 38th year, MLK Dream Big Parade is one of the Nation’s longest-running Martin Luther King Day Parades. This year features a full weekend of activities and fun for all.  On Friday, it’s the MLK Dream Big Banquet. On Sunday, it’s the MLK Dream Big Band Showcase at Gibbs High School. Then on the Monday holiday celebrating Dr. King’s life and legacy, is the main event – the MLK Dream Big Parade. This vibrant and inspiring parade travels through the heart of downtown St. Pete on 1st Avenue South, concluding at Tropicana Friday, January 17th – Monday, January 20th Find event schedule and locales, and more information HERE.     For a Good Cause – Dishes & Wishes: A Taste of Tampa Bay The Gathering @Armature Works, Tampa What better way to eat delicious food with friends and family, than when it benefits the Make-A-Wish of Southern Florida organization? Enjoy open bars, live music from The SugarSax and DJ Anthony Carollo, auctions and fabulous food from the bay area’s finest restaurants. Your taste buds will thank you and so will all the kids battling illness as they get their dream wishes granted. Get your tickets today. Friday, January 17th @7pm – 11pm Find tickets and more information HERE.     Opening Reception: Skinner & Skinner, Presence Felt, Lisa Bagley: Hopes & Fears, Luster Morean Arts Center, St. Pete Four exhibitions in one come to The Morean Arts Center this Friday with an opening reception. Skinner + Skinner features father and son artists Arthur and Joe Skinner in their first-ever

Weekend Top 10: Foodies, Filmophiles, and Phytophiles: Come One, Come All to This Perfect TB Weekend

There might be a chill in the air, but that doesn’t stop all the fun that awaits you this weekend in Tampa Bay. So, layer up and find your joy – whether it’s barbeque and oysters, rare gems, dolphins, lovely flora and fauna, international films, or a very unique local art show – you’re sure to find something especially for you on our finely curated calendar! There are also jammin’ concerts, and good causes to support, so make a plan, gather your people and get out there! All the links and info are right here, and to entice you further, there are TWO amazing spotlights this week – one especially for Second Saturday. Registry Tampa Bay has your fun weekend covered, so please, read on….   Thursday   Dunedin International Film Festival Multiple Venues, Dunedin For filmophiles: 48 films from around the world are gracing screens throughout the charming town of Dunedin. (The event started Wednesday.) Pick and choose your favorites, attend discussions and talk backs, meet producers, directors, and stars, and get the full experience of international cinema. It’s a jam-packed weekend, so click the link, buy your passes, and come up with your plan of attack. There’s simply nothing like a great film festival. While you’re at it, treat yourself, and book a night (or at least dinner), at the historic Fenway, a waterfront hotel as charming as the city. That will surely round out the experience! Now through Sunday, January 12th Find tickets, screening times, and more information HERE.     Newly Opened: Aqua Lanterns at CMA – Chinese Festival of Lights Clearwater Marine Aquarium, Clearwater Is there anything more beautiful than the sight of lit paper lanterns floating away to wherever your imagination takes them?  This luminous new after-hours experience, featuring dazzling lantern displays will blow you away! As the sun sets, the aquarium transforms into a glowing seascape, filled with stunning illuminated sculptures, up to 13-feet tall, of whales, penguins, jellyfish and other sparkling sea creatures. Stroll through this mesmerizing marine world and discover over 30 beautifully crafted lantern displays next to the amazing real animals that will inspire you throughout the aquarium. Now through February 2nd Find tickets, events schedules, and more information HERE.     New Theater Thursday   Green Cheese by Guy R. Newsham LAB Theatre Project, Tampa In Green Cheese, a casual game night spirals into a high-stakes battle where friendships, careers, and marriages hang by a thread. Secrets simmer, alliances shift, and every roll of the dice could change lives forever. It’s God of Carnage meets Trivial Pursuit, where winning might just be the ultimate loss. Support local theater! Thursday, January 9th (Opening night, Friday) through Sunday, January 26th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     The Ladies of the Camellias The Francis Wilson Playhouse, Largo The world’s two most famous actresses, Sarah Bernhardt & Eleonora Duce, are playing the same role in dueling productions. Mayhem ensues as they meet and the verbal weapons are played. Clever and funny, with a touch of slapstick! Thursday, January 9th through Sunday, January 19th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Friday   St. Petersburg Jewelry, Gem and Mineral Show and Sale The Historic Coliseum, DTSP Imagine the spectacle of 15,000 square feet of minerals, precious and semi-precious gems, and fabulous jewelry! It’s here, once again, this weekend at the beautiful, historic Coliseum. It is always so mind blowing to me to be reminded just how beautiful the natural world really is – and when you see hundreds of thousands of gems in one place, it’s a definite “wow” moment. Admission is only $5 and there’s ample parking, so come downtown and take home something pretty just for you. Friday – Sunday, January 10th – 12th @10am – 5pm Find more information HERE.     **Registry Spotlight Event** Anyone who has seen the Mandala Project in past years, knows why it’s in the spotlight this week. Celebrating local talent followed by the ancient tradition of mandala making by Tibetan Monks – it’s simply NOT to be missed! Opening Party: The Mandala Project 2025 Florida CraftArt, DTSP The Mandala Project is an invitational exhibition featuring works by over 80 renowned regional artists in conjunction with the annual Tibetan Monks Sacred Arts Tour (January 13-18, 2025). Now in its second year, The Mandala Project invites artists to explore the mandala’s timeless symbolism through their own creative lenses. The exhibition opening this weekend allows visitors can meet the artists and explore a wide range of mandala-inspired works. This celebratory event features live beats by DJ CUB and a cash bar. During the run of the exhibition, from January 13th to 18th, Tibetan Buddhist monks of the Drepung Gomang Monastery come to the Florida CraftArt exhibition space to create a dazzling sand mandala. Various special events accompany the Sacred Arts Tour: Learn more here. Friday, January 10th @5;30pm – 8:30pm Find more information HERE.     Saturday   Plantopalooza lll Sunken Gardens, Old NE, St. Pete For phytophiles: What better place to get beautiful plants, native to Florida, than at one of Florida’s longest existing garden attractions? For the 3rd year, Sunken Gardens is hosting this huge event where you can: >Take home free Florida native plant seedlings (while supplies last). >Browse unique native plants, garden décor, & more for sale by Tampa Bay area vendors. >Learn from local organizations who are working hard to protect Florida’s plants & pollinators. >Attend themed lectures by native plant experts & workshops for the kids Food, vendors, prizes, and much, much more! Surround yourself with nature this weekend and bring a bit of it home. Free w/ Garden admission. Saturday, January 11th @10am – 2pm Find more information HERE.  Tampa Bay Barbeque Festival & Competition Vinoy Park, DTSP For foodies: What could be better than sitting waterside, enjoying some smokey barbeque, sipping on a cold beer, playing cornhole and listening to some great live bands? The annual Tampa Bay Barbecue Festival at Vinoy Park is a festival full of rich &

Weekend Top 10: A Very Special Registry Spotlight! Plus, Find Great Ideas for a Post-Holiday Weekend Right Here!

Hold off the post-holiday doldrums and start your New Year off right. Great food, music, books, theatre, art, and self-care await you, and you can find them ALL right here on RegistryTampaBay.com. Here’s to your good health and happiness in 2025. Theater Thursday   Bayou Radio Theatre TheatreFor, Clearwater Step back in time and listen to the great radio shows of olde as performed by a cast of very talented voice actors. There’s even a Foley artist recreating all the cool sound effects of the classic radio shows of the 40s and 50s before there was a TV (or five) in every home. I love nostalgia and you will too, as you enjoy hearing the voices of the past – the voices your parents and grandparents listened to decades ago. Programs like Our Miss Brooks, The Bickersons, Sam Spade, and Abott & Costello’s famous Who’s on First, will entertain you so much, you’ll think the theater was a time machine. Thursday – Sunday, January 2nd – 5th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Friday   Swan Lake w/ Live Symphony Orchestra The Mahaffey Theatre, DTSP One of the world’s best-known ballets, Tchaikovsky’s classic Swan Lake embodies all the elements of great story telling, historic choreography, and hauntingly beautiful music. It’s visually stunning to watch and a wonderful way to embrace classical music and dance. Swan Lake is an essential ballet in contemporary classical theatre, and its psychological depth remains relevant today. The ballet’s classical elements are evident in its meticulously crafted structure, adherence to traditional dance styles, and the distinction between classical and character dance. Friday, January 3rd @7:30pm Find tickets and more information HERE.     Art Opening: Dr. Cora Marshall Brenda McMahon Gallery, Beach Blvd S, Gulfport Dr. Cora Marshall’s work is among my favorites by area visual artists. The colors are so soft, yet vivid. The faces are so full of emotion and purpose. I find myself studying the pieces for long periods of time when I have an opportunity to see them in an exhibition. Come to the opening reception (or view the work through 1/31), and see what I mean… Dr. Marshall says of her work, ‘I create and explore imaginative spaces that expand my notions of the nature of life and my place in the world. I am intrigued by spatial relationships that can be created using layers of paint and textures’. Friday, January 3rd @6pm – 9pm Find more information HERE.     Homemade Thai 101 A Good Human, 5th Ave N, St. Pete And now for something completely different: Ever want to learn to cook Thai food? Well, here’s your chance! In Homemade Thai 101, you’ll explore the vibrant flavors of Thailand as you learn to make Fresh Spring Rolls with Peanut Sauce, comforting Tom Kha (coconut soup), and sweet Mango Sticky Rice. This hands-on class is perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike who want to elevate their plant-based cooking skills. Friday, January 3rd @ 6:30pm – 8:30pm Find tickets, and more information HERE.     Limited Engagement: AIN’T TOO PROUD – The Life and Times of the Temptations The Starz Center – Morsani Hall, Tampa There are only a few performances, so come see the electrifying smash-hit Broadway musical that follows The Temptations’ extraordinary journey from the streets of Detroit to the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. Nominated for 12 Tony® Awards and the winner of the 2019 Tony Award for Best Choreography, it’s a thrilling story of brotherhood, family, loyalty and betrayal during a decade of civil unrest in America. Set to the beat of the group’s treasured hits, including “My Girl,” “Just My Imagination,” “Get Ready,” and “Papa Was a Rolling Stone,” Ain’t Too Proud tells the unforgettable story of the legendary quintet that Billboard Magazine named the greatest R&B group of all time. Friday through Sunday, January 3rd through 5th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Saturday   Safety Harbor Sidewalk Sale Downtown, Safety Harbor   Just walking around Safety Harbor on a weekend is occasion enough, but throw in a big annual sidewalk sale, and I’m there! Expect to see lots of steals and deals. Bring your friends and plan to shop ’til you drop. Make it a great dining experience too in one of the many tasty spots along the way. Bring your receipts to the Chamber of Commerce Visitors Center on 200 Main to be entered to win a gift basket full of goodies from Safety Harbor businesses. One raffle ticket per receipt! Saturday, January 4th @10am Find more information HERE.     New Year’s Health & Wellness Expo Gulfport Senior Center, Gulfport Start your resolution to keep your health goals by attending this event where you’ll have access to multiple free screenings. With over 500 participants expected, this well attended annual event offers a wealth of information concerning successfully maintaining your health and wellness. There will also be live entertainment, door prizes, and refreshments, so get a jump on your goals at this community minded event. Saturday, January 4th @10am – 2pm Find more information HERE.     Central Avenue Food Tour Multiple Locations, St. Pete (Meeting Point: Webb’s City Cellar by Green Bench Brewery) Another great tradition begins its season this Saturday in the ‘Burg’s Edge District on Central Ave. Enjoy a curated walking tour of all things culinary – even in galleries and museums! Taste the very best that St. Pete has to offer – and that is a lot! There are so many long-established ‘joints,’ as well as exciting new eateries with innovative cuisines and flavors. It’s sure to become one of your regular calendar events and a really fun group activity. There will also be a Food Tour offered for Beach Drive. Check the link and Bon Appétit! Begins Saturday, January 4th @1pm – 4pm Find tickets and more information HERE.     Monday   **Registry Spotlight Event** Gloria Muñoz is someone so special and very important to our community – the author,

Weekend Top 10 (Plus): A Holiday Convergence! What Will You Try That’s Different This Year? Here Are Some Ideas…

Still so much holiday to enjoy. Try some new traditions and expand your horizons, but above all, have fun being with those closest to you. Find the joy, peace, and love of the Season. Happy Holidays to one and all from your friends at RegistryTampaBay.com   Thursday   11th Annual First Night of Kwanza St. Pete Youth Farm, St. Pete Join in the celebration of the first night of Kwanzaa 2024, Umoja (unity) at St. Pete Youth Farm. Umoja stresses the importance of maintaining togetherness for the family and the community. This is reflected in the African Proverb: I AM because WE are. It’s a true celebration of family, community, and culture. African attire and drums are encouraged. This is a FREE, family-friendly event. *The St. Pete Youth Farm does so much to help educate and give direction to young people all year long. Check it out and get some delicious fresh produce while you’re at it. Thursday, December 26th @5pm – 8pm Find more information HERE.     Friday   Last Friday End of Year Jam Coachman Park, Clearwater Can’t wait for New Year’s Eve! Looking for a family – friendly celebration away from all the hub bub of NYE? Well, look no further than beautiful Coachman Park. Celebrate the end of 2024 with live music, great food and family-friendly activities. Best of all, this is a FREE event! Friday, December 27th @6pm Find tickets and more information HERE.     **Registry Spotlight Event** You can always count on the Ale & the Witch to showcase great local bands and this weekend’s show is a special full performance with FREE admission. Ya just can’t beat it, so this event shines in the #RegistrySpotlight The Applebutter Express LIVE The Ale & the Witch, Tower Plaza Courtyard, DTSP How to enjoy a post-Christmas, pre-New Year Friday, you ask? Head down to the Tower Plaza Courtyard and catch a full concert with local faves, The Applebutter Express – self-described as “Uncut Ukelele Funk.” Incredibly, there is no admission fee for this special appearance! Even better, during the ‘witching hour,’ between 3pm and 6pm before the show, all taps are just $5. (Unheard of nowadays!) The Witch is one of the best ‘hangs’ in St. Pete, so go enjoy and shake off any holiday stress. Friday, December 27th @6pm – 9pm Find more information HERE. (Free event)     Saturday The Nutcracker Magical Ballet The Mahaffey Theater, DTSP If you haven’t had an opportunity to see a production of The Nutcracker this season, well lucky you, there’s still a chance to see it this weekend! Celebrate America’s favorite Christmas tradition with an international all-star cast that blends world-class ballet with whimsical puppets, lavish costumes, and stunning acrobatics! Share the tradition of pure Holiday magic and Tchaikovsky’s timeless score with friends and family of all ages. Don’t miss this chance to create memories of a lifetime. Get tickets now! Saturday & Sunday, December 28th & 29th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Cam Bertrand Side Splitters Comedy Club, Tampa Change your HO HO HOs to HA HA HAs this weekend!  Holidays can also be stressful, so what could be better than a few laughs to decompress? This Saturday, enjoy some late-night comedy with Cam Bertran. Cam recently appeared on Season 16 of ‘America’s Got Talent’ receiving a “Yes” from all 4 celebrity judges. He also became the youngest comic to win the ‘Florida’s Funniest’ competition, beating out over 300 comics, previous winners include Daniel Tosh, Bert Kreischer, and JB Ball. The point is….he’s damn funny, so go have some laughs. Saturday, December 28th @10:30pm Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Flame – CYP Chanukah Experience Savant on 2nd, St. Pete   Celebrate The Festival of Lights with a fun gathering at the very chic Savant on Second. The ticket price of $36 includes an open bar and latke station. There will be a Chanukah ugly sweater contest, menorah lighting, and a dreidel tournament. Enjoy a night out in DTSP with friends and neighbors while observing centuries old traditions. Saturday, December 28th @8pm Find tickets, and more information HERE.     Sunday   Tampa Bay Buccaneers vs. Carolina Panthers Raymond James Stadium, Tampa The NFL season is winding down, and our hometown Bucs have put themselves on the bubble by losing to the Cowboys last Sunday in Primetime. Atlanta has taken over the lead in the NFC South and we need to win the last two games to have a shot at the division. The Panthers have struggled all season, but they are certainly not to be overlooked. They have shown some gutsy play of late and are very dangerous. Here’s a chance to support our Bucs and help them do what needs to be done! There’s really nothing like being at a game! Sunday, December 29th @1pm Find tickets and more information HERE.     Chanukah at the Beach Gulf Blvd, Treasure Island   Come to the beach this Sunday for another fun Chanukah celebration on the beautiful Gulf of Mexico! You can’t have too many latkes (they’re delicious!) or dreidel spins, if you ask me, so come on out and celebrate culture, history, friends, family, and community. The holidays are so rich in cultural diversity and world history. All are welcome to share and to learn. Sunday, December 29th @5:30pm Find registration, and more information HERE.     White Elephant Book Swap Studio Public House, St. Pete Come celebrate the holiday season with Wordier Than Thou – an organization that promotes literacy through innovative public programming. Bring a new wrapped book for this White Elephant gift exchange. The gift of reading never goes out of style. The Studio, a favorite venue in the ‘Burg, also now has a full liquor bar and is planning a drink special for the evening – The Hemingway! Sunday, December 29th @7pm – 9pm Find tickets and more information HERE.     **New Year’s Eve** Registry Tampa Bay has

Weekend Top 10: Broadway Stars Come to Town! First Ever College Football Playoffs Start Right HERE! Find Out More…

The holiday fun rolls on and #RegistryTampaBay chooses the cream of the festive crop just for you! Mark your weekend calendars now, and check out who shines in the #RegistrySpotlight this week!   **Mini Review** The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical Stageworks Theatre, Tampa It’s the final weekend for this hilarious holiday take on The Great American Trailer Park Musical at Stageworks Theatre in Tampa. I saw the show this past weekend, and without exaggeration, I laughed through the whole production. Betty (Haldeman), Lin (Krueger), and Pickles (Rifino) are trying to win $10,000 in holiday prize money for Armadillo Acres from an esteemed Trailer Park magazine. But their plans are at risk of being thwarted by the park ‘Scroogette,’ Darlene, played to perfection by Ashley Whiting – Darlene is literally shocked into amnesia, becoming more like Mary Bailey than Scrooge, and the hilarity ensues – with a little romance thrown in. Whiting’s ability to play polar opposite characters, along with her soaring vocals are a definite highlight, but the entire cast, including James Putnam (Rufus), and Quinton Paxton (Jackie), each have standout moments. Collectively, the cast is a well-oiled machine of comic timing, wonderful vocals, and true chemistry. The sound and set design are really impressive and the cues seamless. Of course, any show directed by Producing Artistic Director, Karla Hartley, is sure to be top notch. Don’t miss this final weekend – you won’t be sorry. Runs through this Sunday, December 22nd Find tickets HERE.     Thursday   Museum of Fine Arts Holiday Soiree Museum of Fine Arts, DTSP   Get ready to kick off the festive season in style at MFA’s Holiday Soirée! Grab your friends, bring a date, or gather the whole family for an evening of holiday cheer. Don’t miss the chance to snap the perfect photo in front of the spectacular tree in the Great Hall. Enjoy live music by Boho Sideshow, a captivating troupe blending eclectic tunes with whimsical tales that will leave you mesmerized. Indulge in the warmth of the season with complimentary hot chocolate, cider, and holiday cookies, or sip on a festive drink from the cash bar. Enjoy a night of fun for everyone with holiday-themed docent tours, a spirited scavenger hunt, and hands-on crafts to spark your creativity. Free for members, only $15 for ‘soon to be members.’ Thursday, December 19th @5pm – 8pm Find tickets and more information HERE.     Friday   16th Annual Gasparilla Bowl Raymond James Stadium, Tampa Our very own home state Florida Gators (SEC) take on the Tulane Green Wave (AAC) for an epic bowl battle right here in Tampa. Tampa Bay will be seen around the world, as the game will also be televised on ESPN2. Gasparilla Bowl is a key lead-in game for the first ever 12-team college football playoffs! There are related fan events, so make sure you check the website link. A portion of the proceeds will be reinvested in the community via multiple non-profit organizations. It’s always special when a ‘home’ team plays in a bowl game right in your back yard, so don’t miss it! Friday, December 20th @3:30pm Find tickets and more information HERE.     **Registry Spotlight Event** When Broadway stars come to town to create an amazing holiday concert, you sit up, take notice, and shine the #RegistrySpotlight on A Very Broadway Christmas. Enjoy! A Very Broadway Christmas Mahaffey Theater, DTSP Experience Christmas on Broadway with the largest collection of Broadway talent to hit the stage in St. Pete. Featuring musical numbers from some of your favorite Christmas shows, Broadway style production numbers, and even Santa Claus. The holiday musical magic features Broadway Stars representing over 25 Broadway shows. Listen to your favorite Christmas songs from Broadway and the radio sung by Broadway’s best alongside a live band. The show features amazing local talent including America’s Got Talent Semifinalist Pranysqa Mishra, the Pinellas County Center for the Arts Vox Nova Chamber Choir, and a 16-person ensemble performing full Broadway production numbers. Friday, December 20th @4pm & 8pm Find tickets and more information HERE.     Dance Theatre of Tampa – The Nutcracker 25th Anniversary Yuengling Center, Tampa For a quarter century, Dance Theatre of Tampa, has been performing one of the greatest Christmas traditions for the live stage. The Nutcracker embodies the best in dance, classic music, and breathtaking scenery. It’s a true holiday tonic for the senses that the whole family will love. Tickets are going fast, so jump on this opportunity to see a particularly beautiful show. Friday through Sunday, December 20th through 22nd Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Saturday   Old Fashioned Christmas Parade Highland Ave NE, Largo Everyone loves a parade, especially during the holidays, and this particular parade captures the magic of Christmas past. Grab your spot along the route and see all the old timey floats, costumes, cars, jeeps, music, and much more! It’s a wonderful free event for the whole family, so get there early for the best views. Saturday, December 21st @12pm Find more information HERE.     House for the Holidays – Block Party Humble House Records, St. Pete Humble House Records invites you to the ultimate winter wonderland street rave! Join in as an entire city street is transformed into a festive haven filled with the best house music, holiday vibes, a curated selection of vendors & much more. They are shutting down the block for a holiday celebration like no other, to honor the record label, the talented artists who bring the label’s vision to life, and the vibrant community that makes it all possible. Donations accepted. Saturday, December 21st @2pm – 11pm Find more information HERE.   Holiday Lighted Boat Parade Tampa RiverWalk, Tampa You know, rivers are frozen in many parts of the country – so being in Tampa Bay during the holidays presents a major advantage – lighted boat parades! Tampa’s largest lighted boat parade will happen this Saturday along the Hillsborough River in Downtown Tampa. The parade begins at

Weekend Top 10: Run Your Bells Off This Weekend – Or Go Back in Time to Christmas Past. Find Out How Right Here!

Capture some magic this weekend. No matter what your idea of holiday fun might be, there is something wonderful right here, and specially curated, just for you!    New Theater Thursday   Some Like it Hot – Limited Run Straz Center, Morsani Hall, Tampa I had the pleasure of seeing this production this past Tuesday and loved every minute. Adapted for the stage from the 1959 classic film starring Marilyn Monroe, Tony Curtis, and Jack Lemmon, Some Like it Hot is an uproarious comedy about 2 bumbling musicians on the run from the mob in disguise as women.  With gangsters hot on their heels, our heroes join an all-female band and catch a cross-country train for the life-chasing, life-changing trip of a lifetime. The musical is the winner of four Tony Awards®, including Best Choreography and Best Costumes, and the Grammy Award® for Best Musical Theater Album. The storyline has been perfectly updated to reflect our current realities. Now through Sunday, December 15th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Who’s Holiday The Off Central, St. Pete Cindy Lou Who is now a little long in the tooth (I can relate) and for this special Off Central production, she delights her audience with a trip down memory lane for a slightly naughty retelling of the fateful, Grinchy night that has captured our imaginations for generations. Get ready for some Suess style rhyming that will tickle your funny bones and put a blush on your cheeks. * Content is not for children. * Now through Sunday, December 22nd Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Dirty John’s XXX-Mas Spectacular!  The Studio @620, DTSP Speaking of Adults only holiday offerings, Dirty John’s is back with an evening of elfin debauchery from the delightfully warped minds of John Huls and Jay Hoff.  There will be singing, dancing, and all kinds of eye opening (seriously) skits full of laughs at the highest level of off-color holiday cheer. So, get the babysitter and come down to the Studio for some much-needed adults only fun. Thursday through Saturday, December 12th – 14th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.   **Registry Mini Review** It’s a Wonderful Life: A Live Radio Play Tampa Rep @Straz Center’s Shimberg Playhouse, Tampa Depression era radio broadcast style informs Joe Lanrdy’s adaptation of the Capra classic, It’s a Wonderful Life, currently being performed by the Tampa Repertory Theatre at the Shimberg Playhouse on the Straz Center campus.  The format is brilliant in that it allows the whole story with its many characters to be presented to live audiences without a huge cast or elaborate production. Five actors, outfitted with period garb and mics grace the stage with “On Air” and “Applause” signs, alongside a well-equipped Foley sound effects setup that makes you feel as if you are part of a live radio audience circa 1930s or 40s. Beautiful holiday decor adds just the right scenic ambiance and live music arranged and performed by Jeremy Douglass (who is also the Foley artist) create all the atmosphere you need to be transported to Bedford Falls. East cast member portrays multiple characters, and the performances are stellar – warm, hilarious, perfectly timed, and expertly presented. I especially loved Michael Gregory’s portrayals of Mr. Potter, Uncle Billy, “et al.” But make no mistake, George, Mary, Clarence, Violet, ZuZu, Bert, Ernie, and all the rest, are lovingly brought to life by this cast. Period commercial jingles and a pre-show mini concert by Ms. King just add to the charm of the whole production. Actress and singer Colleen Cherry makes her directorial debut here, but so expertly brings this lovely show together, that you would never guess it was her first time at the helm. Kudos to her and to all involved. Treat yourselves to a Christmas classic and be transported to an era you thought only possible in the movies. * Theatre Tampa Bay and Broadway World recommended. * Runs through December 23rd Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Friday   Imagine Museum’s Annual Holiday Party Imagine Museum, DTSP Celebrate the season with elegance and joy at Imagine Museum’s Annual Holiday Party! Join in for a festive evening filled with beautiful art, live jazz by Carl Amundson, and holiday cheer. The festivities begin with mingling in Imagine’s art-filled space. Enjoy light bites and seasonal treats while you soak in the festive atmosphere. A cash bar will be available, offering a selection of delightful drinks to enhance your evening. Unwind with a classic holiday film screening in the Theater Room, adding to the evening’s charm. There will also be a great silent auction and a meet and greet with glass artist, Susan Gott. Admission is free for members, and only $15 for non-members. What a great (and beautiful) idea for holiday fun! Friday, December 13th @5pm – 9pm Find tickets and more information HERE.     Saturday   Christmas in the Country Cracker Country, Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa Bring the family for a great day experiencing the sights, sounds, and smells of an old-fashioned country Christmas. Learn how the holiday traditions of the 19th century differ from those of the 21st through hands-on historical interpretations, carols, traditional decorations, and more! Activities include strolling through the four-acre complex and experiencing seasonal décor, music, and traditions in 13 original buildings. Collect holiday keepsakes like salt dough ornaments, Christmas card ornaments, and paper ornaments, and discover everyday pioneer chores like churning butter and cleaning laundry with an old-fashioned washboard. There are demos and craft-making activities that the whole family will love! Saturday, December 14th @10am – 4pm Find tickets, event schedules, and more information HERE.     Opening – Burst: Akiko Kotani Chihuly Collection, DTSP Internationally renowned artist, Akiko Kotani’s newest installation, BURST, depicts mother nature’s unrelenting power through color and form. Comprised of large, crocheted panels in vibrant satin waves, this piece conveys the potent force of nature, bursting forth from the gallery walls. Kotani’s work has

Weekend Top 10: Want to Meet Bucs WR Mike Evans? Or See Ybor Go Up in Smoke? Find Out How…

Two Days ago, it was ‘Giving Tuesday.’ Please consider donating to your favorite non-profit organization. It’s never too late! Many are still suffering from state funding cuts and 2 major storms. ‘Tis the season to spread good tidings and maybe a little cash for good causes.   New Theater Thursday   It’s a Wonderful Life – A Live Radio Play Presented by: Tampa Repertory Theatre Shimberg Playhouse @ The Straz Center, Tampa I love the nostalgia and “over the topless” of a vintage-style radio show. That, and the fact that It’s a Wonderful Life is an integral part of my holiday consciousness, make this production by Tampa Rep a must-see (or should I say ‘hear’) stage production this season. Ring in the holidays with a heartwarming twist! Frank Capra’s classic film, “It’s a Wonderful Life” leaps to the stage as a live 1940s radio play. Join in for a nostalgic evening as some of Tampa Bay’s top actors bring the story of George Bailey to life, complete with sound effects and festive cheer. This beloved tale reminds us that no one is a failure who has friends, and that the true meaning of Christmas is richer than any fortune. There will be a special reception and celebration on the 19th. Thursday, November 5th – Monday, December 23rd Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Tinseltown, USA and Wonderful Life American Stage, DTSP American Stage will get a festive makeover and transform into Tinseltown USA, an immersive holiday experience! Enter a magical winter town and create your own adventure in this self-paced experience. For a short time, leave Florida behind and become a resident of Tinseltown USA where the whole family can take part in holiday fun. If you attend this magical holiday experience between December 5th and 8th or December 12th and 22nd, you can enjoy Wonderful Life, a one person retelling of the classic Capra story. Thursday, December 5th – Sunday, December 22nd Find tickets, performance time, and more information HERE.     The Wizard of Oz Francis Wilson Playhouse, Clearwater A magical journey to the Emerald City and beyond with Dorothy and all her wonderfully weird friends as they follow the YellowBrick Road to make their wishes come true. This timeless classic comes to technicolor life on stage to celebrate the Holiday season. PLEASE NOTE: Thursday, December 19th performance will be a begin at 7:00, and we encourage our audience to wear a fun Oz themed costume for that night only. Thursday, December 5th through Sunday, December 22nd Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Friday For a Good Cause: 6TH ANNUAL Catch for Christmas Bowling Night Bowlero, Tampa The 6th Annual Catch for Christmas Bowling Night is sure to be the best bowling night yet! Grab your friends or host your holiday work party and fill up the lanes with Bucs fans decked out in their Retro creamsicle attire for Mike’s 11th season as a Buccaneer. Mike will visit each bowling lane to take a group photo with guests and will have signed photos to hand out. Buy your tickets before the spots all fill up. Proceeds support the Mike Evans Family Foundation Catch for Christmas program, in which Mike and Ashli provide holiday gifts and experiences to local kids and families. Friday, December 6th @6pm Find tickets, and more information HERE.     Saturday   ArtJones Waterfront District, Gulfport If you’re jonesing for ART, then come to ArtJones: Gulfport, Florida’s Annual Artist Studio Tour. 22 artists located in 8 studios and galleries throughout Gulfport. Take a bike, drive your car or hike around (though not all the studios are close to one another). This is a free, self-guided tour where we welcome YOU into our private studios, ateliers and galleries to meet the artists, see the process and buy art. ArtJones is a FREE event. You’ll find food, music, art, friends and endless inspiration. Saturday & Sunday, December 7th (@10am – 5pm) & 8th (@11am – 4pm) Find more information HERE.   **Registry Spotlight Event** Not only is Creative Pinellas foregoing it’s biggest annual fundraising opportunity, but they are still putting on the party for the benefit of the arts community of Pinellas County recovering from 2 devastating storms and 100% state arts funding cuts. No doubt that level of community support deserves to shine in the #RegistrySpotlight! (Plus, it’s a great party!) For a Good Cause: Arts Annual Hurricane Relief Fundraiser The Gallery at Creative Pinellas, Largo This annual fundraising event, normally benefiting Creative Pinellas, has changed its focus this year to assist in hurricane recovery for artists throughout Pinellas County. It’s a grand evening celebrating multiple arts genres with great food, live entertainment and meet and greets with this year’s impressive list of participating artists. Here’s how the proceeds will benefit the arts community: Help an artist return to their studio: Not only have many artists lost their homes, but they have also lost their studios. Support housing stability for artists: Many artists are now scrambling for places to live; your support will help pay rent or help them find new places to live Help our cultural community regain their livelihood: Your donations will help artists and arts organizations continue their creative work, speeding up the cycle of recovery. Saturday, December 7th @6pm – 9pm Find tickets (VIP available), and more information HERE.     The Nutcracker – Presented by Tampa City Ballet USF Theater 1, Tampa     No holiday season feels complete without seeing a live performance of this Tchaikovsky classic. It’s a treat for the senses, featuring some of the most beautiful music you can imagine – a true fairytale ‘en point’. Each year, The Nutcracker performances rings in the holiday season as a long-held tradition celebrated around the world. In the Tampa Bay Area, TCB brings together audiences of all ages and backgrounds to participate in this family event. Supporting students of dance and taking advantage of affordable tickets are even more reasons

Weekend Top 10: What’s YOUR Favorite Event to Open the Holidays? Pick One Right Here!

Happy Thanksgiving to one and all! Tampa Bay opens so many traditional holiday events this weekend, and Registry Tampa Bay has your favorites right here! This week, YOU choose who shines in the #RegistrySpotlight. Thursday   Opening – 2024 Tampa Bay Festival of Lights & Santa’s Village Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, Tampa With more than 1.5 million lights, you and your family will travel over 2 miles through seasonal and Florida-themed displays and a drive-thru animated light tunnel. The expanded Santa’s Village will feature holiday- themed rides (Santa’s Carnival), and a self-guided walking tour of the Hometown Hillsborough Historical Village decked out in festive lights. Designed to appeal to all ages and backgrounds, the elaborate light displays themed to Florida and traditional winter holidays are a family favorite. Thursday, November 28th through December 29th Find tickets, daily & special event times, and more information HERE.     Friday   For a Good Cause: Arts Annual 2024 Exhibition The Gallery @Creative Pinellas, Largo   The Gallery at Creative Pinellas ushers in the holiday season with its most spectacular exhibition, party, and first-ever ‘Pop Up Gift Shop.’ Arts Annual is in its seventh year, showcasing the arts and artists of Pinellas County and bringing together the county’s most talented and innovative artists to spotlight what makes our community truly exceptional. Multiple genres of art are represented at Arts Annual – From visual arts and performing arts to film and literature. The 2024 exhibition will present a diverse range of works across all mediums. The opening reception on December 7th will be a true celebration with funds going to support those impacted by both hurricanes. Thursday, November 29th through January 4th Find more information and tickets to the 12/7 opening reception HERE.     Opening – The Great American Trailer Park Christmas Musical Stageworks Theatre, Tampa Music and Lyrics by David Nehls Book by Betsy Kelso Holiday time at North Florida’s Armadillo Acres means everyone’s filled with warmth and beer. But when a freak bout of amnesia strikes the trailer park Scrooge, neighborly love is put to the test. With Betty, Lin and Pickles on hand to amp up the fracas and festivity, this all-new musical is just as much of a cat-fightin’, sun-worshippin’, chair-throwin’ good time as the original – but with tinsel and Keg Nog. Friday, December 29th through Sunday, December 22nd Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Holiday Lights – Florida Botanical Gardens Pinewood Cultural Park, Largo This is the favorite time of year at the gardens for so many of us who visit on a regular basis. The magical atmosphere created throughout the grounds is a sensory delight and perfect outing for all. As a special opening event, Savoy South Dance Hall  is hosting a festive dance event in the Wedding Garden. Dance among the magical lights and your holidays have begun! Friday, November 29th @5:30pm through Saturday, January 4th (special extended hours) Find more information HERE.   Saturday   Shopapalooza! By Local Shops1 Vinoy Park, DTSP   This mainstay community festival is filled with local sounds, local tastes, and over 350 local makers, artists, and small businesses. There are delicious foods to try, huge kid zones, live entertainment, and so much more. It’s an epic celebration and one of the biggest of its kind in the United States. (Also, you’ll get a lot of Christmas shopping done!) Saturday & Sunday, November 30th & December 1st @10am – 5pm Find more information HERE.     96th Annual Santa Parade & Tree Lighting Albert Whitted Park to North Straub Park, DTSP Nothing says the holidays are here like this DTSP event. It’s been a true St. Pete tradition for almost a century. Join your neighbors for a festive evening as we usher in the holiday season with St. Pete’s annual Santa Parade & Tree Lighting. The fun begins with the Santa Parade at 6:30 PM, starting at Albert Whitted Park and twinkling down Bayshore Dr. to 5th Ave. NE. Right after the parade, we’ll gather in North Straub Park for the Tree Lighting, which will happen shortly after the parade wraps up. Saturday, November 30th @Albert Whitted Park at 6:30pm (Tree lighting after parade in North Straub Park) Get more information HERE.     Grand Opening – Winter Wonderland of Clearwater Winter Wonderland, Downtown, Clearwater A downtown tradition since 1993, Winter Wonderland is a complete Christmas village with an entertainment stage, photos with Santa, cookie decorating with Mrs. Claus, a hot chocolate shop and Holiday Express Train. People from all over the world have visited Winter Wonderland, gazing in awe at the thousands of lights that adorn the real pine trees and enjoying the wonderful entertainment that is on the stage all the time that Winter Wonderland is open.  Admission is free, but non-perishable food donations are requested. Opens Saturday, November 30th through Sunday, December 22nd Find more information HERE.     Holiday Tree Lighting Tampa Convention Center and Riverwalk, Tampa   Ring in the holiday season on the beautiful downtown Tampa waterfront.  Throughout the evening, Tampa City Ballet dancers will perform scenes from The Nutcracker along the Riverwalk, inviting audiences of all ages to experience the magic of the season with its mesmerizing blend of dance, music, and storybook charm. At 6:30 p.m., Mayor Jane Castor will symbolically “flip the switch” on this year’s Holiday Spectacular and a floating 35-foot tall Christmas tree. New this year, is a 30-foot LED holiday tree synchronized to music along the Riverwalk in front of the Sail Pavilion. Sunday, December1, 2024 @5:30pm – 7:30 p.m. Find more information HERE.     A Live Conversation with Chevy Chase Following a Screening of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation  Straz Center, Tampa Start your holiday season with hilarity at a screening of National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation followed by an appearance by Clark Griswold himself, Chevy Chase. Chase will share behind-the-scenes stories and anecdotes about the making of this beloved movie that has become a Christmas tradition. But the laughter doesn’t stop there! Chase also will be taking questions from the audience. Chevy Chase

Weekend Top 10: World Travel Without Leaving Tampa Bay? Mind Blowing Jazz? Find the Experiences Right Here!

New international cultural experiences, jazz greats, good causes and, of course, fun for the holiday season – Registry Tampa Bay shows you how to have another amazing weekend in Tampa Bay!   Thursday and Beyond   St. Pete Bike Fest OCC Roadhouse & Museum, Clearwater This four-day rally is one of the most electrifying events in the state, and you won’t want to miss it. Set against the backdrop of the stunning Tampa Bay area, this festival is packed with endless excitement and unforgettable experiences. Featured Events: Nightly concerts featuring national acts (GA FREE!) Free afternoon concerts with regional favorites Personal appearances by Orange County Choppers Bike shows that will make your engine purr Tons of vendors offering everything a biker could dream of The epic Sunshine Skyway Ride with Paul Sr. Thursday, November 21st through Sunday, November 24th Find tickets, event and concert schedules, and more information HERE.     The Sunshine Boys by Neil Simon The Studio @620, DTSP Everyone needs a loveable curmudgeon fix, and the late Neil Simon obliges with a comedy gem. The story follows the attempt by a young theatrical agent to re-unite his elderly uncle, a former vaudevillian great, with his long-time stage partner for a TV reunion. Despite their celebrated reputation, the two old men have not spoken in twelve years. Besides remastering their sketch, the two men have numerous issues to work out before they are ready to return to the public eye. Thursday, November 21st through Sunday, November 24th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Friday   SerbFest St. George Serbian Orthodox Church, Clearwater The Clearwater Serb Fest is an opportunity to engage in a culture other than your own, and to enrich your worldview in a meaningful way. Serbian Festival in Clearwater is an annual festival organized by the Serbian community in the Tampa Bay area.  The festival is a unique opportunity for the entire family to come out and have a fun, exciting, and totally different weekend. You will have a chance to immerse yourself in the irreplaceable experience starting with Serbian world-famous cuisine, imported drinks, and skillful folklore dancers followed by old country tunes. Friday, November 22nd through Sunday, November 24th Find event schedules and more information HERE.     Suncoast Jazz Festival Clearwater Beach, Clearwater (Sheraton Sand Key) This is a jazz lover’s dream happening right on the beach! Come enjoy a 3-day celebration of the music born in the USA – Jazz. Here are the headliners: Diego Figueiredo – Brazil,  Jason Marsalis – NOLA, Ken Peplowski – NYC, New Black Eagle Jazz Band – New England, Wally’s Warehouse Waifs – Michigan, Wycliffe Gordon – Georgia There are also many of your favorite local artists like Jame Suggs, Nate Najar, Daniela Soledade, La Lucha, and the Al Downing All-Stars – all your faves in one place, in one weekend. How can you resist? Friday, November 22nd through Sunday, November 24th Find tickets, program schedule, and more information HERE.     For a Good Cause: The 40th Annual Festival of Trees The Long Center, Clearwater The Festival of Trees is a cherished tradition in the Tampa Bay area that marks the beginning of the holiday season. Join in the celebration at the Long Center in Clearwater and immerse yourself in a winter wonderland, adorned with meticulously decorated trees contributed by many members of our Tampa Bay community. If you’re very lucky, you get to take one home! I am lucky enough to own a table top NYC-themed tree from this event. It’s so much fun and it’s for a good cause. Proceeds benefit the Arc Tampa Bay Foundation. serving people with I/DD. Premiere Night- Friday, November 22nd @6pm through Sunday, November 24th Find more information HERE.     Winter Village  Curtis Hixon Park, Tampa Open your holiday season on the waterfront by visiting the wonderous Winter Village at Curtis Hixon. Ice skate (in Florida!), Taste the spirit of the holiday season by visiting the Cafe at Winter Village, Shop boutiques from local makers and purveyors offering a gift idea for everyone on your list, or check out the NEW Tampa Bay Ice Show. On select nights, festive cheer meets breathtaking talent set against the stunning backdrop of the Hillsborough River. This enchanting performance will feature skilled skaters showcasing their artistry and athleticism. There’s something for everyone this holiday season on the Tampa riverfront. Opens Friday, November 22nd through January 5th, 2025 Find tickets, available activities, Times, and more information HERE.     **Registry Spotlight Event** The whole purpose of this free weekend event is to gather, and to celebrate the strength we find in our community and in each other – even after 2 massive hurricanes. The only agenda here is healing and that deserves to shine in the #RegistrySpotligt Still Shining Movies & Music Series Spa Beach, DTSP Enjoy Spa Beach at the St Pete Pier for a weekend celebration of resilience, community, and the beauty of St. Petersburg! The Still Shining Music & Movies Series invites you to enjoy a lineup of 9 curated films and 5 fantastic bands, all set against the stunning backdrop of Spa Beach’s sandy shores. This event is a testament to St. Pete’s enduring spirit, showcasing that we are still shining bright, even after recent hurricanes. Friday, November 22nd through Sunday, November 24th Find movie and concert schedules, and more information HERE.   **Also, be sure to check out the FESTIVAL of NEEDS at Horan Park on St. Pete Beach on Saturday @5pm. It’s a fun filled event that will help support Families that were affected by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. There will be nonprofits attending like the Kind Mouse, that will be giving essential items to our local friends most affected by the hurricane.     Saturday   India Festival Tampa Bay Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall, Tampa Here’s a chance to experience even more world culture. You experienced Serbia (see above), now let’s travel to India. This wonderful international event has recorded over

Weekend Top 10: The Holidays Are Upon Us! Get in the Spirit with These Great Weekend Events

If you’re gearing up for Thanksgiving and the holiday season, get in the swing by making plans to see a show, go to a concert, or eat your fill at amazing food fests. #RegistryTampaBay has you covered!   New Theater Thursday (Multiple Dates)   How the Grinch Stole Christmas! The Musical Straz Center @ Morsani Hall   Dr. Suess’ own green, fur-bearing iteration of a Scrooge-like character has been delighting audiences on TV for decades (me among them). Now, the Grinch and all the sweet Whos in Whoville have been brought to life in this beautifully staged musical. It’s a colorful, musical, magical way to open the holiday season for the whole family. It’s a short run, ending this weekend, so get your tickets now. Now through Sunday, November 17th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Oscar & Felix Early Bird Dinner Theatre, Clearwater Come to Easly Bird for a great theater experience as well as a delicious meal. This holiday season brings you a classic Neil Simon comedy based on the comedy, The Odd Couple – But this time, it has been cleverly updated! Oscar & Felix brings the trials and tribulations of Felix Unger and Oscar Madison to the present day. Those who love the original version will laugh all over again at the classic characters in an all-new setting. Now through Sunday, December 15th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Desdemona, a play about a handkerchief by Paula Vogel TheatreFor, Clearwater Desdemona, Emilia, and Bianca find an unlikely haven, sharing secrets amidst sheets and soapsuds. In the intimacy of the laundry, hierarchies blur. But outside, men wield the strings of fate, weaving a web of misogyny. Can these women forge their own paths, or will they remain forever trapped in roles dictated by a ruthless society? The answer lies in a single piece of linen, a handkerchief steeped in betrayal and desire. Is it a symbol of innocence lost or a weapon of cunningly veiled defiance? Come witness Desdemona, where Shakespeare’s classic tale gets a bawdy, irreverent twist. Unravel the mystery. Witness the transformation. Prepare to be shocked, amused, and deeply moved by these daring women. Now through Sunday, December 1st Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Crazy Quilts by Karen Fix Curry Lab Theatre Project, Tampa Lisa thinks she is interviewing and eclectic quilting group for her paper, but in reality, they are interviewing her for inclusion in their very exclusive group – a group with some pretty big secrets. What are those secrets? Will Lisa make the grade? What will really be expected of her? How will the club help Lisa ‘stitch’ her life back together? Find out in this compelling story of the power of women. Thursday, November 14th – Sunday, November 24th – Available “On Demand” until December 5th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Friday   Quilted Treasures of Tampa Bay St. Lawrence Catholic Church, Tampa Once I’ve seen a movie or play I enjoy, I have a habit of finding out as much as I can about it. So…if you’ve gone to see Crazy Quilts at Lab Theatre Project, make it a theme weekend by checking out the stunning quilts on display at Quilted Treasures.  There will also be: Vendor Mall, Food Truck, Boutique, Gift Basket Walk, Small Quilt Auction, and more. Learn about one of the most original and traditional American artforms there is. And while you’re at it, take one home! Friday & Saturday, November 15th & 16th @9am Find more information HERE.     For a Good Cause: Bert Kreischer & Mike Calta Present: Bert Aid Ruth Eckerd Hall, Clearwater, FL Comedian and Tampa native Bert Kreischer and local on-air personality Mike Calta announced the benefit show BERT AID taking place at the Ruth Eckerd Hall in Clearwater! Kreischer will headline the event with surprise guests to be announced later. All proceeds from BERT AID will go to Metropolitan Ministries to aid relief for those affected by Hurricane Helene and Milton. Friday, November 15th @7pm Find tickets and more information HERE.     Saturday   The Subversive Eye: Opening Day The Dali Museum, DTSP In celebration of the centennial of the founding of Surrealism in 1924, this exhibition will feature 100+ works by 50 artists, highlighting the movement’s original aims in the medium of photography and its far-reaching influence. By exploring the capacities of the medium, it will highlight how artists have ultimately used photographic techniques to question the nature of seeing itself, delving deeply into the inner realm. Opens Saturday, November 16th @10am Find tickets and more information HERE.     **Registry Spotlight Event** I love the idea of getting children interested in cultural events like opera. This presentation of Pinocchio by St. Pete Opera is the perfect way to do just that, and we applaud them by Shining the #RegistrySpotlight on St. Pete Opera’s production of Pinocchio. Pinocchio St. Pete Opera Central, DTSP Fast-moving, colorful, and comical, this one-hour opera adapted from Carlo Collodi’s timeless tale includes captivating scenes and songs that highlight the opera’s heartwarming message of the importance of family, friendship, and always telling the truth. Featuring easy-to-understand English lyrics with music by Mozart, Donizetti, Offenbach, and Verdi – Pinocchio is the perfect introduction to opera for the young and the young at heart! Saturday, November 16th through Sunday, November 24th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Sunday   Taste of Latino Food Fest Centennial Park, Ybor City Enjoy a great food, art, and music Festival with many activities and live entertainment right in the heart of historic Ybor City. Savor the authentic Latin flavors at Taste of Latino happening in Centennial Park. It’s a free family friendly festival on 3 closed city streets. Bring your lawn chair & enjoy!  it will be a beautiful day filled with LIVE Music and Dance performances.  Check out the closing ceremony for the 2024 Hispanic Heritage season, TOP Latino Chef Contest, and the 2024

Weekend Top 10: The Biggest Events of the Year? YES! PLUS: A ‘Gorey Stories’ Review and the #RegistrySpotlight

As we pay tribute to the Veterans who stand guard here in America and around the world, we gather to enjoy some of the coolest events in Tampa Bay this holiday weekend. Thank you, Veterans, for your service.   New Theater Thursday   Ken Ludwig’s Moriarty: A New Sherlock Holmes Adventure freeFall Theatre, St. Pete Eric Davis and Matthew McGee reprise their roles as Holmes and Watson in this adventure that has even more danger, more laughter, more romance, and more mystery than the smash hit production of Ken Ludwig’s Baskerville a few seasons back. Five actors blithely play over 40 roles in a hilarious new adventure. An investigation into the Bohemian king’s stolen letters cascades into an international mystery filled with spies, blackmail, and intrigue. With world peace at stake, Holmes and Watson join forces with American actress Irene Adler to take down cunning criminal mastermind Professor Moriarty and his network of devious henchmen. Now through Sunday, December 15th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     The Mountaintop by Katori Hall American Stage, DTSP In “The Mountaintop,” see Dr. King as you’ve never seen him before as he reflects on his life, struggles, and hopes for the future. But he’s not alone—enter Camae, the sassy and mysterious hotel maid with a lot to say. Through poignant dialogue and powerful monologues, “The Mountaintop” offers a humanizing portrayal of King, revealing the man behind the myth and highlighting the complexities of his life and work. A story about doubt, faith, and history in the making. Now through Sunday, November 24th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.      LIMITED: Moulin Rouge! The Musical Straz Center – Morsani Hall, Tampa I’ll be seeing this show for the THIRD this week, that’s how much I love this Tony Award (including Best Musical) winning show. The set and costume design are stunning, and the story, a bawdy, poignant, and very funny interpretation of the classic, La Boheme, is beautiful. You’ll know the words to every song, and the lyrics beautifully advance the plot! As the promos say, Moulin Rouge! The Musical is a celebration of Truth, Beauty, Freedom and, above all…Love. It is more than a musical — it is a state of mind. Treat Yourself! Now through Sunday, November 10th Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Mini Review: Gorey Stories – Presented by Jobsite Theatre Halloween may be over, but if you haven’t shaken your craving for the macabre, and still want a ‘treat’, Gorey Stories (Based on the short stories of Edward Goey), is sure to satisfy. I had the pleasure of seeing this production on opening weekend, and I can’t recommend it highly enough. With rehearsals shortened because of, you know, hurricanes, this cast still came through with one of the tightest ensemble performances I’ve seen. The set design and costuming are so visually striking, you’ll be sure to experience that ‘wow’ moment we love so much. The stories are set to music in a most delightful and hilarious way and the individual performances are as good as the ensemble. Colleen Cherry’s vocals provide yet another ‘wow’ moment. Luckily for us, this show continues this weekend, and on through next weekend, ending on the 17th. It’s Theatre Tampa Bay recommended and very popular, so get your tickets now! Directed by the amazing David M. Jenkins, with music direction by the equally amazing Jeremy Douglass Straz Center – Shimberg Playhouse Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.     Ongoing…   The Hillsborough County Fair Hillsborough County Fairgrounds, Tampa Come one, come all – to the fair! Nothing beats the sights, sounds, and flavors of a county fair. There’s so much to enjoy from competitions to circuses – lumberjacks to tractor pulls – rides, games, concerts, juried art, and too many events to fit here. You and the fam or a group of friends are sure to have a blast whatever you decide to enjoy. There’s truly something for everyone! Now through Sunday, November 11th Find tickets, event schedules, and more information HERE.     Garden Bros Nuclear Circus Tropicana Field, St. Pete Be a part of the excitement at the Largest Circus on Earth, featuring the world’s smallest person, awe-inspiring human cannonball, 7 Man-team in the Globe of Death and a spectacle like never before, all under the World’s Largest Big Top Arena.  Remember to come hungry to savor all the Circus treats available. Enjoy the circus midway with the World’s Largest inflatable slides, face painting, bouncy houses, pony rides, and more! There’s something for everyone in the family, so don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience. Now through Sunday, November 11th Find tickets, events, and more information HERE.     Saturday   For a Good Cause: PARTY ON THE PLAZA Featuring #NOFILTER The Mahaffey, DTSP Enjoy an unforgettable evening at the Duke Energy Center for the Arts – Mahaffey Theater Plaza with live music, food, and fun, all to benefit the Bill Edwards Foundation for the Arts. Rock out with #NOFILTER, the dynamic local band bringing the best hits from today and the classics of the 70s, 80s, and 90s. All proceeds directly support youth educational programs, giving Tampa Bay students the chance to experience the performing arts. Saturday, November 9th @7pm – 10pm Find more information HERE.     Red Bull Flutag Tampa Convention Center, Tampa What happens when teams gather on the Tampa waterfront to launch the most bizarre “flying machines” you’ve ever seen? Well, you’ve got yourself the Red Bull Flutag.  Welcome to the world’s most creative, exhilarating, and downright loony event where extraordinary, man-powered flying machines defy the laws of gravity. Marvel at the surreal engineering, laugh out loud at the team antics, and get caught up in all the fly or sink drama. In the link below, you will find pretty much everything you need to know to find your marks during the wackiest, aeronautical show of the year. It’s truly an entertainment unicorn, so