It’s already “Back to School” week here in Tampa Bay, and we have some great events for this last weekend of summer vacay. There is some very grown-up fun too, so check out the list and mark your calendars today!
Thursday
New Exhibition: In a New Light: American Impressionism 1870–1940
Tampa Museum of Art, Tampa
In a New Light: American Impressionism 1870–1940 explores the reinterpretation of American landscape painting. Presenting works by a diverse group of more than 75 artists, the exhibition traces not only the development of Impressionism in the United States but also the emergence of a uniquely American style. In a New Light explores the ways in which local artists interpreted America’s rural, maritime and urban spaces and portrayed daily life using the Impressionist devices of capturing the moment with brisk brushstrokes, a vibrant palette and atmospheric effects.
Opens Thursday, August 7th and runs through November 30th
Find tickets and more information HERE.
The 9th Annual Countdown Improv Festival
Varied Locations, Tampa
The Countdown Improv Festival, based in Tampa, Florida, is the world’s only improv festival entirely devoted to trio, duo, and solo improv comedy. The best improv festivals are true community events; the Countdown Improv Festival creates a sense of community among all who attend. Come join in and fall in love with improv festivals all over again. Shows will take place across two separate locations: the HCC Ybor Performing Arts Building (1411 E. 11th Ave.) and The Commodore (811 E. 7th Ave.).
Thursday, August 7th through Sunday, August 10th
Find tickets, schedules, and more information HERE.
Friday
National Gaming Expo
Florida State Fair, Tampa
The National Gaming Expo brings together thousands of attendees from across the gaming universe—from tabletop RPGs and board games to mobile, console, and VR experiences—plus cosplay, anime, esports, and lifestyle brands. Whether you’re an indie creator, a game studio, or an established brand, we’ve designed this event to spotlight innovators like you, helping connect with a highly engaged and diverse audience.
Friday, August 8th @11am – 6pm
Find tickets, schedules, and more information HERE.
The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee
St. Petersburg City Theatre, St. Pete
Get ready for the return of your favorite juvenile genius misfits as they vie for the Putnam County Spelling Bee championship! Having seen this show many times (my baby played Leaf Coneybear in an Atlanta production), I can tell you, it’s hilarious!! And for extra good measure, the St. Petersburg Library will be on site August 8 to share resources to help the community read, spell and explore their interests. As I always say, support Community Theater!!
Opens Friday, August 8th through Sunday, August 10th
Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.
You Can’t Take It With You
The Carrollwood Players Theatre, Tampa
Opens Friday, August 8th through Saturday, August 23rd
Find tickets, performance times, and more information HERE.
Wings & Whiskey After Dark (21+ event)
Top Shelf Sports Lounge, Tampa
An unforgettable night of elevated flavor and rare pours awaits. This 21+ event is an upscale whiskey experience featuring a curated 5-course tasting menu paired with expertly crafted specialty cocktails and a very exclusive tasting of Eagle Rare 17 Year, a bourbon few ever get the chance to try. This immersive evening is designed for whiskey lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and those with a taste for the finer things. Live music will set the tone for a night of sophistication, indulgence, and unforgettable company. Tickets Include: First 40 customers who purchase a ticket receive a once-in-a-lifetime tasting of Eagle Rare 17 Year! ️ 5-course tasting menu, 5 Handcrafted whiskey cocktails or rocks pours Live music. This is not your average whiskey night-it’s Wings & Whiskey After Dark in Downtown Tampa, Florida at Top Shelf Sports Lounge. Limited seats available. Dress to impress and prepare for an extraordinary evening.
Friday, August 8th @8pm – 11pm
Find tickets and more information HERE.
Saturday
**Registry Spotlight Event**
As a ‘Back to School’ nod, Registry Tampa Bay shines a spotlight on this fun 2-day homage to Legos. What a perfect way to end summer vacation!
3rd Annual Brick Fan Expo – A LEGO Fan Event
Florida State Fairgrounds, Tampa
Join thousands of LEGO fans at the Florida State Fairgrounds for the 3rd Annual Brick Fan Event – A LEGO Fan Experience in Tampa!
See amazing displays such as LEGO Masters Season 2 winner Mark Erickson’s impressive DUNE MOC, fantasy inspired builds and more, Meet special guests such as LEGO Masters Champion Corey Samuels and special characters, have fun in our STEM and Interactive zones, and more!
Saturday & Sunday, August 9th & 10th @10am – 4pm
Find tickets, schedules, and more information HERE.
New Exhibit: Nina Samuels and Charles Morrison: Earth and Ocean Exhibition
Morean Center for Clay, St. Pete
Second Saturday ArtWalk is always a feast for the senses and a fun way to spend a Saturday evening. Jump on the trolley and visit participating venues, many of whom are having opening receptions. One such venue is the Morean Center for Clay. The opening reception for a beautiful new exhibit featuring two fine artists – Charles Morrison who seeks to illuminate connection to our ancestors through sculpture and pottery – and Nina Samuels, who describes her work as follows: “Nature has always been at the center of my work. I often use wild clays and other natural materials as a medium to sculpt with. When I’m not using materials I have sourced from the earth, I’m making work inspired by it.” Lots of beauty to be seen this weekend – don’t miss it.
Saturday, August 9th through October 4th
Opening reception: Saturday, August 9th @5pm – 9pm
Find more information HERE.
History in a Bottle: Aged & Distilled – A Historical Whiskey Journey
St. Petersburg Museum of History, DTSP
Saturday, August 9th @6pm – 8pm
Find tickets and more information HERE.
Pre-Season Game 1 – Tennessee Titans vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Raymond Jame Stadium, Tampa
Hard to believe that it’s coming up on NFL season again! Don’t miss a minute rooting for our Bucs by heading out to the first pre-season game vs. the Tennessee Titans at Ray Jay this Saturday. The chatter is that the Bucs have a dangerous team this year (fingers crossed), so get in on the ground floor of the ’25 – ’26 season. It’s always a great time watching the home team and welcoming back the NFL!
Saturday, August 9th @7:30pm
Find tickets and more information HERE.
**Concert Corner**
Brian Kelley: Sunshine State of Mind Tour
Jannus LIVE!!, DTSP
Thursday, August 7th @7pm
Find tickets and more information HERE.
History of Rock n Roll w/ Johnny Rogers
Skipper’s Smokehouse, Tampa
Friday, August 8th @8pm
Find tickets and more information HERE.
James Suggs: Tribute to Louis Armstrong
The Palladium, DTSP
Friday, August 8th @8pm
Find tickets and more information HERE.
Have a great Top 10 weekend!
Cindy
