Our Top 3
Bark-Tacular Dog Parade & Costume Contest
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 11. New Tampa Community Park, 17302 Commerce Park Blvd., Tampa. The Rotary Club of New Tampa will host a dog parade and costume contest featuring costumed pets and family-friendly fun. Donations will support youth programs. Free registration. For information, call Ginger at 813-631-9700 or email RDogParade@gmail.com.
Taste of Latino Festival
Noon-6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 11. Centennial Park, 1800 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa. The eighth annual Taste of Latino Festival and Empanada Smackdown celebrates Hispanic Heritage Month with live music, dance performances, food, art, a Top Latino Chef contest, and recognition of Florida Latino and Latina leaders. Free; VIP tickets available. www.TasteofLatino.com
Oktoberfest Tampa
Friday-Sunday, Oct. 9-11. Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park, 600 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa. Play in the Outrageous Bavarian Games for prizes and bragging rights, enjoy live music and authentic Bavarian food. https://oktoberfesttampa.square.site
THURSDAY
Thrills and Chills Genre Party
11 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Oct. 8. Lutz Branch Library, 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road, Lutz. Join fellow horror fans for origami bat bookmarks, illustration games and writing challenges designed to spark creativity and laughter. Recommended for adults. Free; registration recommended.
Downtown’s Backyard Market
Noon-4 p.m. Oct. 8. Tampa City Center’s Esplanade (Poe Plaza), 200 N. Franklin St., Tampa. This monthly market invites you to get down to earth as local businesses and vendors bring fresh produce and food to the heart of downtown. From petals to pastries, this is your chance to discover an abundance of local flavors in the city center. Every second Thursday of the month.
Carrollwood Strummers
Noon-1:30 p.m. Oct. 8. The Studio, Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. The New Horizons Ukulele Group meets weekly. All skill levels are welcome. Look for the green building behind the main building. Access parking from Casey Road. candyotte@aol.com
Dress for Success Tampa Bay En Fuego 28th Anniversary Celebration
5-7 p.m. Oct. 8. Tampa Firefighters Museum, 720 E. Zack St., Tampa. Dress for Success Tampa Bay will celebrate 28 years of empowering women with its En Fuego anniversary celebration featuring Tampa Fire Chief Barbara Tripp, remarks from Tampa Mayor Jane Castor and Wendi Cohen of Dress for Success Worldwide. The event will include networking, food and beverages, raffles, a silent auction and fundraising to support programs that help women achieve economic independence. $75. Visit go.rallyup.com/dfstb28 for tickets and sponsorships.
Line Dancing Lessons
7-9 p.m. Oct. 8. Keel and Curley Winery, 5202 Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. Grab your boots and join Keel and Curley Winery every Thursday for free line dancing lessons on the Patio at Keel Farms. Come early and enjoy a delicious dinner from our farm-fresh menu before heading outside to dance the night away under the stars.
Stripped and Script: Loyalist Women Writers of the American Revolution
7-8 p.m. Oct. 8. Riverview Public Library, 9951 Balm Riverview Road, Riverview. Dr. Kacy Dowd Tillman offers a perspective on patriotism and the American Revolution through the letters and journals of female Loyalists. Recommended for adults. Free; registration recommended.
FRIDAY
Howl-O-Scream
Select nights. Sept. 25-Oct. 31. Busch Gardens Tampa Bay, 10165 N. McKinley Drive, Tampa. Step into Tampa Bay’s most terrifying Halloween event, where fear takes over every corner of the park. Busch Gardens Howl-O-Scream transforms the entire park into a nightmarish realm of horror from haunted houses and scare zones to live shows and thrill rides consumed by darkness. https://tinyurl.com/4hu5ahma
Senior Social
3 p.m. Oct. 9. B&B Theatres Wesley Chapel, 6333 Wesley Grove Blvd. Join B&B Theatres every Friday for fun card games with the 50 and older community. Come alone or bring a few friends. Instruction available for all games. Free to play. Food and drinks available for purchase.
Side Splitters Comedy Club presents: Kevin Farley
7 p.m. Oct. 9-10. Side Splitters Comedy Club at the Grove, 6333 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel. Farley got his start studying at the famous Second City in Chicago. Soon after he starred in films such as Black Sheep (with his brother Chris) and The Waterboy (with Adam Sandler), and leading roles in An American Carol and White Knight. You can currently find Farley lending his voice to “F is for Family” on Netflix, on his podcast “Kevin Farley on the Road” and performing stand-up comedy. https://sidesplitterscomedy.com
Friday Moonlight Market
5-9 p.m. Oct. 9. The Hub at Bexley, 16954 Focus Loop, Land O’ Lakes. Every 2nd and 4th Friday. This is a kid-friendly and pet-friendly event that promises something special for everyone. Don’t miss out on this festive, community-filled evening. Enjoy live music, grab some delicious grub, and explore a variety of vendors offering everything from jewelry and soaps to pastries and unique decorations.
Rally Point
6 p.m. Oct. 9. Woodland Farms, 9318 Bahia Loop, Land O’ Lakes. Every second Friday, Woodland Farms hosts a veteran outreach program, Rally Point. Veterans of every branch and era are welcome to join this Fireside Chat.
Behind the Bottle
6:30 p.m. Oct. 9. Epperson Lagoon, 31885 Overpass Road, Wesley Chapel. In a new partnership with Tampa Bay Mixology, this series offers a hands-on, expert-led mixology experience to MetroLagoons’ locations. Behind the Bottle will take place through February with each month spotlighting a different liquor. $50. Guests must be 21+ and present a valid photo ID for entry. Reservations are required. MetroLagoons.com/Behind-The-Bottle
Scream-A-Geddon Horror Park
7 p.m. Sept. 25-Nov. 1. 27839 Saint Joe Road, Dade City. Scream-A-Geddon returns for horror lovers across the Bay Area. Offering 60 acres of terrifying scares makes Scream-A-Geddon one of the best horror parks in America. Closing hours vary. Tickets start at $35 and increase $6 when purchased at the gate. https://screamageddon.com
La Septima: The Club, Immersive Experience
7:30 p.m. Oct. 9-11. The Cuban Club, 2010 N Avenida Republica de Cuba, Tampa. As you move through one of Tampa’s most iconic landmarks, The Cuban Club, dance, music, film, and storytelling unfold around you, transforming the building into a living stage. This intimate, interactive experience invites you to explore Tampa’s past where so much of it was lived, in a way that’s personal and unforgettable. Additional showtimes for Saturday and Sunday include 4 p.m. and 7:30 p.m. $50-$200. https://tinyurl.com/yc5j72zj
SATURDAY
Hyde Park Village Pumpkin Patch
Oct. 10-25. Hyde Park Village, Tampa. Hyde Park Village’s annual Pumpkin Patch returns with pumpkins, seasonal activities and fall-themed programming benefiting the Humane Society of Tampa Bay. The patch will be open 3-6 p.m. Monday through Thursday and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Friday through Sunday. Proceeds support the Humane Society’s work helping animals in need.
Tampa Police Memorial Run
8 a.m.-noon. Oct. 10. Lykes Gaslight Square Park, 410 N. Franklin St., Tampa. The event honors the 32 Tampa Police officers who died in the line of duty with proceeds supporting the Tampa Police Memorial Foundation. $23-$45. https://tinyurl.com/mryhhrf8
Oldsmar Flea Market
8 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 10-11. 180 N. Race Track Road, Oldsmar. The Oldsmar Flea Market is one of the largest markets on Florida’s West Coast, featuring hundreds of vendors selling furniture, local produce, gourmet food, antiques, modern and contemporary household items, clothing, electronics, jewelry, and much more. https://oldsmarfleamarket.com
UTB Saturday Market
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 10. UTB Saturday Market, 101 State St. E., Oldsmar. Support local vendors while enjoying fresh produce, handmade crafts, and delicious food. Presented by the Upper Tampa Bay Chamber of Commerce.
Slamfest 35: Truck & Car Show
9 a.m. Oct. 10-11. Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. Hwy 301 N., Tampa. Visitors can explore hundreds of meticulously crafted show vehicles, connect with fellow automotive fans, browse vendor exhibits, and enjoy exciting competitions and live attractions throughout the weekend. $25 gets you in both days. Children under 12 are free. Pay at the gate with cash or card. Parking is $10 online or $12 at the gate. https://tinyurl.com/ythab4nm
Rise and Shine Car Meet-Up
9-11 a.m. Oct. 10. Parks Ford of Wesley Chapel, 28739 State Road 54. Calling all car enthusiasts, mark your calendars for an exciting event that promises a morning full of revving engines and good company. Participants displaying a vehicle are treated to free coffee and breakfast. Enjoy live music, meet fellow enthusiasts and admire a diverse range of vehicles. Every second Saturday of the month.
Scarecrow Festival
9 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 10. Pioneer Florida Museum, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City. Come out and enjoy this family-friendly day featuring activities such as building your own scarecrow, costume contest, pumpkin patch and painting, games, pony rides, model trains and more. Adults $15. Students $5. Children under 4 are free. https://tinyurl.com/4awhees8
Ybor City Saturday Market
9 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 10. Centennial Park, 1800 E. Eighth Ave., Tampa. One of the most popular shopping destinations for locally produced items unique to the Tampa Bay area.
Harvest Days
10 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 10-11. Keel Farms, 5202 Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. Celebrate fall on the farm every Saturday and Sunday in October. Free admission, $10 parking.
Carrollwood Market
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 10. Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. The Carrollwood Market is held the second Saturday of each month. The market offers a variety of fresh produce, plants, farmed eggs and meats, baked goods, artisan products, lunch bites, local art, handcrafts, and more.
Downtown Saturday Market
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 10. Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, 4424 Friendly Way. Visit a vibrant outdoor market experience filled with gifts, baked goods, home decor, and your favorite local small businesses just in time for the holidays. Every first and third Saturday of the month.
Westchase Locale Market
10 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 10. Westchase Town Center Plaza, 9520-9644 W. Linebaugh Ave., Tampa. Come wander through a lineup of handcrafted jewelry, artisan treats, and one-of-a-kind goodies from talented local makers. Every second Saturday of each month. www.facebook.com/westchaselocalemarket
The Heights District’s 9th Annual Fall Fest
Noon-5 p.m. Saturday and noon-4 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 10-11. Armature Works Pier, 1910 N. Ola Ave., Tampa. Join a festive weekend filled with pumpkins, family-friendly activities, seasonal treats, and plenty of autumn fun along the riverfront. Bring a non-perishable canned good to support Metropolitan Ministries and earn you a raffle entry for a chance to win a $100 Armature Works gift card. Parking is $10-$20. https://tinyurl.com/3y2m3bvx
Family Creative Corner
2-3 p.m. Oct. 10. Temple Terrace Public Library, 202 Bullard Parkway. Join the library every Saturday for a family activity. This program is for all ages. Children under 14 must be accompanied by a caregiver age 18 or older. The Saturday programs each month will be as follows: First Saturday: puzzle party; Second Saturday: Color Me Calm; Third Saturday: building with Legos 4; Fourth Saturday: game day.
Hispanic Heritage Festival
3-7 p.m. Oct. 10. Heritage Park, 5401 Land O’ Lakes Blvd. Come celebrate with Hispanic heritage, culture and blessings for 250 years of freedom, Latin style. Music, vendors, food trucks, bounce houses and games for kids. Free. https://tinyurl.com/mua6axjz
Rocktoberfest
8 p.m. Oct. 10. Saddlebrook Resort, 5700 Saddlebrook Way, Wesley Chapel. Welcome to Destruction brings the sound, attitude, and high-energy performance of Guns N’ Roses to the stage. Sing along to the iconic rock anthems and fan favorites that helped define a generation of hard rock. Doors open at 7 p.m. $34. https://tinyurl.com/y263wupv
Caribbean Night
7-11 p.m. Oct. 10. Krate at the Grove, 5862 Goldview Parkway, Wesley Chapel. Held each second Saturday of the month. Visit the Krate while DJ Q Spins the best Reggae, Soca, and calypso music.
SUNDAY
Seminole Heights Sunday Morning Market
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 11. American Legion Post 111, 6918 N. Florida Ave., Tampa. this vibrant market features over 70 local vendors offering everything from fresh produce and artisanal goods to delicious food and unique handmade items. Enjoy live local music as you stroll through the market, which is both dog-friendly and family-friendly, with free parking available. Every second Sunday of the month. www.tampabaymarkets.com/seminole-heights-sunday-market
Harvest Market
11 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 11. The Grove at Wesley Chapel, 6105 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel. Second and fourth Sunday Harvest Market hosts 60-plus vendors, artists, artisans, makers, crafters, and more. Free. www.facebook.com/flpenguinmarkets
Board Game Night
1-11 p.m. Oct. 11. The Tampa Bay Bridge Center, 114 W. 109th Ave., Tampa. The Tampa Gaming Guild invites the public out for weekly game nights on the first and third Sundays of the month, as well as every Wednesday and Friday evening from 5:30-11 p.m. Trial memberships give you access to regular gaming sessions up to 30 days free. tampagamingguild.org
MONDAY
The Science of Sea Monsters with Florida Aquarium
3-4 p.m. Oct. 12. Egypt Lake Partnership Library, 3403 W. Lambright St., Tampa. Discover the truth behind legendary sea monsters through marine animal biofacts, drawing activities and interactive presentations. Recommended for children. Free; registration recommended.
TUESDAY
Bingo
5:30 p.m. Oct. 13. John Nelson Memorial Fraternal Order of Police Lodge 29, 4300 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes. Every Tuesday, evening early bird game starts at 5:30 p.m. and the regular session begins at 6 p.m. The snack bar provides food and drinks for purchase. 727-992-1499.
Tuesday Night Lights with Off Balance Run Club
6:30-8 p.m. Oct. 13. Armature Works Pier, 1910 N. Ola Ave., Tampa. Every 2nd Tuesday of the month, join Off Balance Run Club for a group 3-mile run starting and ending at Armature Works that travels along the Tampa Riverwalk. Take in the beautiful views and meet new people. All ages and experience levels are welcome.
Cornhole Tournament
7-10 p.m. Oct. 13. Shops at Wiregrass on Piazza Avenue, Wesley Chapel. Every second Tuesday of the month, join the Wiregrass cornhole tournament. Players can come solo or with a partner for a chance to win prizes, as well as fuel up with bites and drinks nearby. $10. Register online or at 6:15 p.m. before the tournament starts.
Big Band Jam
7 p.m. Oct. 13. Concordia Village Tampa, 4100 E. Fletcher Ave. Come out and enjoy music performed by a 17-piece big band every Tuesday in the senior ballroom. Free and open to the public.
WEDNESDAY
Senior Fitness Walk
10:30 a.m.-noon. Oct. 14. Citrus Park Town Center Mall, 8021 Citrus Park Town Center, Tampa. Free and fun Senior Fitness Walk every Wednesday morning. Meet at the mall entrance to Dick’s Sporting Goods. 813-494-6376.
Gift of Peace Luncheon
Noon. Oct. 14. Armature Works, 1910 N. Ola Ave., Tampa. The Gift of Peace Luncheon is one of The Spring’s signature fundraising events, dedicated to supporting survivors and their children through emergency shelter, advocacy, counseling, and prevention programs. Guests are encouraged to support survivors by bringing donations of gently used clothing, small furniture, household items. https://thespring.org/event/gift-of-peace
Hillsborough County Fire Rescue Engine Visit
2-2:45 p.m. Oct. 14. Arthenia L. Joyner University Area Community Library, 13619 N. 22nd St., Tampa. Meet firefighters, explore a fire engine and learn about firefighting equipment, home escape plans and community safety. Recommended for children. Free; registration recommended.
2nd Wednesday Monthly Night Markets
5:30-9:30 p.m. Oct. 14. The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel. Enjoy a warm evening strolling our monthly night market, including live music, food and treats, local makers, and family fun.
Central Pasco Democratic Club
6 p.m. Oct. 14. Meadow Pointe I Clubhouse, 28245 County Line Road, Wesley Chapel. Come meet other Democrats. Details on Facebook or centralpascodemocraticclub@gmail.com, or 813-453-1663. All friends of the Democratic Party are invited.
Magical Academia Genre Party
6:30-8 p.m. Oct. 14. North Tampa Branch Library, 8916 N. Blvd., Tampa. Fans of magical academia can create their own school, invent spells, discover rivals and participate in “The Trial” during this interactive writing event. Recommended for adults. Free; registration recommended.
Al-Anon Family Groups (Families and Friends of Alcoholics)
7-8 p.m. Oct. 14. Hillsborough United Methodist Church, 9008 Harney Road, Temple Terrace. Al‑Anon is a mutual support program for people whose lives have been affected by someone else’s drinking. The group meets each Wednesday.
Game Night at the Grove
7:30 p.m. Oct. 14. B&B Theatres, 6333 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel. Game nights alternate between trivia and bingo each week. This week’s theme is country music bingo. Free to play, no reservations required.
LOOKING AHEAD
Third Thursday Tampa
6-10 p.m. Oct. 15. Grand Central at Kennedy, 1120 E. Kennedy Blvd., Unit 208, Tampa. Since 2012, every third Thursday features live music, cocktails and food trucks on Madison Street at Grand Central at Kennedy in the center of the Channel District of downtown Tampa.
“Come From Away”
Oct. 16-18, 23-25. New Tampa Performing Arts Center, 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa. New Tampa Players will stage the acclaimed musical “Come From Away,” based on the true story of a small Canadian town that welcomed thousands of stranded airline passengers following the Sept. 11 attacks. Tickets available at NewTampaArtsCenter.org
Jim Dine: Swaying in the Florida Night Reception
5-8 p.m. Oct. 16. GraphicStudio, 3702 Spectrum Blvd., Suite 100, Tampa. The public is invited to a free reception celebrating the exhibition, featuring a survey of the artist’s collaborative prints and sculpture editions created at the studio from 1973 to 1989. This evening event includes complimentary refreshments and visitors will be allowed to view the exhibition and production areas of the studio. Visitor parking is free and available at Graphicstudio.
Upper Tampa Bay Oktoberfest
5-10 p.m. Friday, 11 a.m.-10 p.m. Saturday, and 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Sunday, Oct. 16-18. Tampa Bay Downs, 11225 Race Track Road, Tampa. The Upper Tampa Bay Oktoberfest is back with something for the entire family, with a full array of Bavarian-themed good times, open car shows, challenge games, wiener dog races, kids’ fun zone, and more.
“Artist Talks: Colores, Hilos e Historia”
6-8 p.m. Oct. 15. Ana G. Méndez University Tampa Bay Campus, 5225 Memorial Highway, Tampa. Presented by the Coalition of Hispanic Artists and Ana G. Méndez University, this artist-talk series is part of a Hispanic Heritage Month exhibition celebrating Latin American traditions through photography, painting, folkloric dress and cultural expression. Features artists from Puerto Rico, Ecuador, the Dominican Republic, Peru, Cuba, Venezuela, Mexico, Colombia, Guatemala and the United States. Free. artcha.org
Side Splitters Comedy Club presents: Fred Rubino and Michael “Wheels” Parise
7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Oct. 16-17. Side Splitters Comedy Club at the Grove, 6333 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel. Comedy Cosa Nostra brings together a pair of Italian-American comedians — Michael “Wheels” Parise and Fred Rubino for an unforgettable night of brutally honest, no-holds-barred comedy. https://sidesplitterscomedy.com
Karaoke Nights
7-9 p.m. Oct. 16. Shops at Wiregrass Center Court, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel. Guests can sing their heart out while listeners grab some light bites or drinks from nearby eateries. Karaoke is free. Normally presented every third Friday of the month. Lawn chairs and blankets are recommended.
Arsenic and Old Lace
8 p.m. Oct. 16-18, 23-25. Carrollwood Players, 4333 Gunn Highway, Tampa. Arsenic and Old Lace is a classic dark comedy about the only thing more deadly than poison: family. Matinee performances available. $28. https://tinyurl.com/mw5789r5
Bat Boy: The Musical
8-10:30 p.m. Oct. 16-18, 23-25. Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. Based on a ridiculous tabloid story, Bat Boy: The Musical is a comedy/horror show about a half-boy/half-bat creature who is discovered in a cave near Hope Falls, West Virginia. For lack of a better solution, the local sheriff brings Bat Boy to the home of the town veterinarian, Dr. Parker, where he is eventually accepted as a member of the family and taught to act like a “normal” boy. $30-$35. https://tinyurl.com/5pcpxx2v
Florida Extravaganza Toy Show
9 a.m. Oct. 17 and 10 a.m. Oct. 18. Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. Hwy 301 N., Tampa. All toy lines covered from vintage to modern. $10-$15. Parking is $10 online or $12 at the gate. https://tinyurl.com/3t22jh32
The Tampa Congenital Heart Walk
9 a.m.-noon. Oct. 17. Al Lopez Park, 4810 N. Himes Ave., Tampa. The Tampa Congenital Heart Walk is a 1 mile walk that raises money to fund congenital heart defect research. Nearly 40,000 babies are born with a CHD each year in the U.S. Register at https://secure.qgiv.com/event/tampa
Creepy Crawlies in the Garden
9 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 17. VISTA Gardens, 13572 S. Village Drive, Tampa. Free event for all ages featuring insect encounters, scavenger hunt, crafts, bug tasting, carnivorous plant demo, face painting and more.
Saturday @ Zephyr Market
9 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 17. First Baptist Church Zephyrhills, 38300 5th Ave. Enjoy artisan works and delicious eclectic choice of faire at Zephyr Park. A monthly event with something for everyone. Free admission and free parking.
Downtown Saturday Market
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 17. Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, 4424 Friendly Way. Visit a vibrant outdoor market experience filled with gifts, baked goods, home decor, and your favorite local small businesses just in time for the holidays. Every first and third Saturday of the month.
Fresh Market at Wiregrass
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 17. The Shops at Wiregrass, 28211 Paseo Drive, Wesley Chapel. Held the first and third Saturday of the month. Featuring over 50 vendors located on Paseo Drive in the heart of the shopping center. Guests can expect to find a variety of locally grown produce and take-home foods. The market also features local artists showcasing their creative efforts and eco-friendly products.
Fall Fest
10 a.m.-5 p.m. Oct. 17. Carrollwood Cultural Center, 4537 Lowell Road, Tampa. Enjoy live entertainment throughout the day with the Carrollwood Strummers, storyteller Windell Campbell, New Horizons, and the Carrollwood Jukebox Big Band. The kids’ zone will feature bounce houses and a petting zoo from 1-4 p.m. Free. https://tinyurl.com/3w9zd54u
Majesty of Rock
4-5:30 p.m. Oct. 17. Starkey Ranch TLC, 12118 Lake Blanche Drive, Odessa. Be transported back in time to experience a classic rock concert with Majesty of Rock. Majesty of Rock pays homage to Journey’s greatest hits with the perfect blend of guitars, synthesizer, acoustic piano and blended harmonies. $13. Seating is general admission. Purchase tickets at bit.ly/SRTheatreTickets
La Septima: The Salon
6 p.m. Oct. 17. University of South Florida School of Theatre & Dance, TAR 120, 3837 USF Holly Drive, Tampa. Experience selected excerpts from La Séptima, and join founder, artistic director and choreographer Paula Nuñez for an intimate evening exploring the research, inspiration and creative process behind the work. $50. https://tinyurl.com/375zhtsr
Pet Emergency Education
6-9 p.m. Oct. 17. Courteous Canine, 3414 Melissa Country Way, Lutz. Canine and feline CPR and first aid certification class. Proceeds raised will benefit Dog Safety Council. $75 covers official certificate, eBook copy of the class textbook and a 2-year subscription to an online animal resource center. To register, visit www.petemergencyeducation.com
Dog Bingo
6-10 p.m. Oct. 17. Keel Farms, 5202 Thonotosassa Road, Plant City. Play 10 rounds of Bingo, with each winner getting to choose a prize basket filled with dog swag and Keel Farms/Keel & Curley goodies. Plus, enter a 50/50 raffle for another chance to win while supporting Florida Giant Dog Rescue.
Juntos y con Ritmo Concert
7-10 p.m. Oct. 17. Yuengling Center, 12499 USF Bull Run Drive, Tampa. Suncoast Credit Union will host its inaugural Juntos y con Ritmo concert as part of its Hispanic Heritage Month celebration. The evening will feature a lineup of Latin music artists including Gente de Zona, Alexandra Queen, also known as Alexandra La Reina De La Bachata, and Grupo Manía. A portion of ticket proceeds will benefit local nonprofit organizations that support education, economic empowerment, health and community development. Suncoast members receive 50% off tickets. https://tinyurl.com/rarwtbma
The Market at Water Street Tampa
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 18. Water Street, 971 Water St., Tampa. Every third Sunday, start fresh with The Market at Water Street Tampa. Shop from 60-plus local food and wellness-focused vendors with an array of fresh, local, homemade, handcrafted, fair-trade, vintage or eco-friendly products.
Charity Golf Tournament
11 a.m. Oct. 18. Westchase Golf Club, 11602 Westchase Golf Drive, Tampa. Enjoy an afternoon on the green putting with the Westchase Krewe of Freebooters. Proceeds will benefit Westchase Charitable Foundation. https://freebooterskrewe.com/golf-1
Board Game Night
1-11 p.m. Oct. 18. The Tampa Bay Bridge Center, 114 W. 109th Ave., Tampa. The Tampa Gaming Guild invites the public out for weekly game nights on the first and third Sundays of the month, as well as every Wednesday and Friday evening from 5:30-11 p.m. Trial memberships give you access to regular gaming sessions up to 30 days free. tampagamingguild.org
East Pasco Democratic Club
6:30 p.m. Oct. 19. Genesis Center, 38112 15th Ave., Zephyrhills. Meets every third Monday of the month. Topic is winning the midterms elections. Refreshments served. All friends of the Democratic Party are welcome. For details visit www.eastpascodems.com, email eastpascodems@gmail.com or call 813-383-8315.
New Tampa Women’s Prayer Connection Luncheon
11 a.m.-1 p.m. Oct. 20. Tampa Palms Golf and Country Club, 5811 Tampa Palms Blvd., Tampa. $30. Make your reservation by calling Diana Strickland at 813-833-4458.
Here There Be Dragons
3:30-5 p.m. Oct. 20. Lutz Branch Library, 101 W. Lutz Lake Fern Road, Lutz. Explore dragon folklore from around the world and make a dragon egg replica to take home. Recommended for teens. Free; registration recommended.
Game Night at the Grove
7:30 p.m. Oct. 21. B&B Theatres, 6333 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel. Game nights alternate between trivia and bingo each week. This week’s theme is A Court of Thorn and Roses trivia. Free to play, no reservations required.
The Haunted History of Florida
2-4 p.m. Oct. 23. Town ’N Country Regional Public Library, 7606 Paula Drive, Tampa. Explore Florida’s most historic and unsettling hauntings and learn the real stories behind the state’s ghostly legends. Recommended for adults. Free; registration recommended.
Friday Moonlight Market
5-9 p.m. Oct. 23. The Hub at Bexley, 16954 Focus Loop, Land O’ Lakes. Every 2nd and 4th Friday. This is a kid-friendly and pet-friendly event that promises something special for everyone. Don’t miss out on this festive, community-filled evening. Enjoy live music, grab some delicious grub, and explore a variety of vendors offering everything from jewelry and soaps to pastries and unique decorations.
Side Splitters Comedy Club presents: Cody Smith
7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Oct. 23-24. Side Splitters Comedy Club at the Grove, 6333 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel. From a kid who couldn’t leave his room due to severe social anxiety to a comedian with 9 million-plus followers - that’s the Comedic Cody story. Cody Lewis Smith grew up in tiny Altavista, Virginia, and turned his natural gift for making people laugh into an empire. https://sidesplitterscomedy.com
Downtown Saturday Market
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 24. Avalon Park Wesley Chapel, 4424 Friendly Way. Visit a vibrant outdoor market experience filled with gifts, baked goods, home decor, and your favorite local small businesses just in time for the holidays. Every first and third Saturday of the month.
Sunshine Market
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Oct. 24. Midtown Tampa, 3650 Midtown Drive, Tampa. This vibrant community market offers an exciting variety of fresh produce, artisan goods, delicious foods, and unique finds from an incredible array of local makers. Live music kicks off at 10 a.m. sharp on the green, bringing even more energy to this dog-friendly and family-friendly popular market. Every fourth Saturday of the month.
Pioneers and Beers
10 a.m.-4 p.m. Oct. 24. Pioneer Florida Museum, 15602 Pioneer Museum Road, Dade City. Featuring the best of Florida’s pioneer heritage alongside craft beer and spirits tastings from local breweries and distilleries. Enjoy live entertainment, browse unique vendors, sample delicious food, and explore the kids’ zone. Visitors can also experience hands-on pioneer demonstrations, historic buildings, exhibits, and activities. $5-$25. https://tinyurl.com/4f7vt8tp
Tampa Riverwalk Trick or Treat
4-9 p.m. Oct. 24. Cotanchobee Fort Brooke Park, 601 Water St., Tampa. The celebration includes approximately 50 treat stations, costume contests, a 4:30 p.m. “Thriller” flash mob, DJs, food trucks and a 7:15 p.m. screening of “Ghostbusters.” New this year, a sensory relief zone with noise-reducing headphones, fidget and sensory items, comfortable seating and other resources.
Tall Tales of Old Florida
6:45 p.m. Oct. 24. Florida State Fairgrounds, 4800 U.S. Hwy. 301 N., Tampa. Explore Tampa’s 19th century living history museum by night. Meet storytellers who will spin wild yarns about a few of Florida’s unexplained oddities. A little scary, a little funny and always family friendly. Before and after your tour, enjoy Victorian games and activities. Not recommended for children under 6 years old. $18. All tickets include a festive snack and drink. Advance ticket purchase required. https://tinyurl.com/2eahyu7d
Sunshine Sunday
8-10 a.m. Oct. 25. Glazer Children’s Museum, 110 W. Gasparilla Plaza, Tampa. Sunshine Sunday is a special monthly event on the last Sunday of the month for children with special needs and their caregivers. Come explore the museum with lights and sounds turned down and sensory-adapted tools, special programs, and community resources at your fingertips. $5 for nonmembers, free for members.
Harvest Market
11 a.m.-3 p.m. Oct. 25. The Grove at Wesley Chapel, 6105 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel. Second and fourth Sunday Harvest Market hosts 60-plus vendors, artists, artisans, makers, crafters, and more. Free. www.facebook.com/flpenguinmarkets
Broadway Open Mic Night
7-9 p.m. Oct. 26. New Tampa Performing Arts Center, 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa. Enjoy an evening of Broadway favorites with live piano accompaniment during this open mic event. Free admission. NewTampaArtsCenter.org
Movie Screening: “Five Nights at Freddy’s”
6-8 p.m. Oct. 27. Maureen B. Gauzza Public Library, 11211 Countryway Blvd., Tampa. Enjoy a screening of the 2023 film “Five Nights at Freddy’s.” Recommended for teens. Free; registration recommended.
Dade City Photo Club
6:30-8 p.m. Oct. 27. The ABL, 14135 Seventh St., Dade City. Join fellow photographers to share ideas, showcase favorite photos, and connect with others who share a passion for capturing the world through a lens. Bring your camera and your favorite photograph of Dade City, or simply your favorite photograph, and be part of the beginning of a new creative community in East Pasco. https://tinyurl.com/sjaueuam
Ales and Tales Book Club
6-7 p.m. Oct. 28. In the Loop Brewing, 3338 Land O’ Lakes Blvd., Land O’ Lakes. Join an adults-only book club, recommended for ages 21 and older. This month’s book discussion will be on “Beartown” by Fredrik Backman.
Game Night at the Grove
7:30 p.m. Oct. 28. B&B Theatres, 6333 Wesley Grove Blvd., Wesley Chapel. Game nights alternate between trivia and bingo each week. This week’s theme is rock and roll music bingo. Free to play, no reservations required.
Stage Fright
7 p.m. Oct. 29-31. Carrollwood Players, 4333 Gunn Highway, Tampa. This special limited engagement performance of classic scary tales read by some of CWP’s most accomplished actors is sure to get you primed for Halloween. Not recommended for young children. $20. Special matinee available 2 p.m. on Oct. 31. https://tinyurl.com/52dd354t
Loyalty and Allegiance During the American Revolution
7-8 p.m. Oct. 29. John F. Germany Public Library, 900 N. Ashley Drive, Tampa. Explore the many factors that influenced loyalties during the American Revolution and the complex nature of Revolutionary-era allegiances. Recommended for adults. Free.
Making Stickers with the Silhouette
4-5:30 p.m. Oct. 30. New Tampa Regional Library, 10001 Cross Creek Blvd., Tampa. Learn how to use the Silhouette Cameo and create simple vinyl stickers. Recommended for teens. Free; registration recommended.
Rock the Cosmos: Laser Light Show
6:30 p.m. and 8:15 p.m. Oct. 30. MOSI, 4801 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa. Step inside America’s second-largest planetarium and experience vivid laser visuals, dynamic music, and dazzling special effects. Before the lasers hit the dome, enjoy a live star show, taking you on a journey into the night sky. This evening’s shows feature the music of Fright Light (Halloween music) (6:30 p.m.) and Metallica (8:15 p.m.). All laser shows contain a sequence of flashing lights. $10-$13. https://mosi.org/event/laser-light-shows
The Music of James Taylor
8-10 p.m. Oct. 30. New Tampa Performing Arts Center, 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa. The St. Pete Collective will perform a tribute concert celebrating the music and legacy of singer-songwriter James Taylor. Tickets available at NewTampaArtsCenter.org
Great West Chase
7 a.m., 8 a.m., and 9 a.m. Oct. 31. West Park Village Town Center, Westchase. Organized by WOW magazine, the race benefits area elementary schools. The Great West Chase now sees over 1,300 runners in three different races—a 10k, 5k and Fun Run. $25-$60. https://greatwestchase.wixsite.com/website
Oakstead Family Fun Run
7:30 a.m. Oct. 31. Oakstead Elementary School, 19925 Lake Patience Road, Land O’ Lakes. Costumes are encouraged for this family fun run. Choose from a 2-mile course or 1-mile fun run. This event is not chip timed. T-shirt and medal registration must be completed by Oct. 15, finisher medal only registration deadline is Oct. 23. $20-$35. Register on Pasco ONE.
Scarecrow Run 5K
8 a.m. Oct. 31. Little Everglades Ranch, 17951 Hamilton Road, Dade City. Join the inaugural Scarecrow Run 5K, a family-friendly run/walk benefiting the Pioneer Florida Museum and Village. Whether you’re a seasoned runner or just looking for a fun way to spend your morning, participants of all ages and fitness levels are welcome. $40. https://tinyurl.com/52ev6rv5
The Brewer’s Masquerade
7:30 p.m. Oct. 31. The ABL, 14135 Seventh St., Dade City. Enjoy a “Dungeon Crawler Carl” Halloween Bash at the ABL. https://tinyurl.com/yev8vc83
Fresh Market at Hyde Park Village
10 a.m.-2 p.m. Nov. 1. Hyde Park Village, 1602 W. Snow Ave., Tampa. Fresh Market is a monthly farmers market every first Sunday of the month featuring over 80 local vendors including produce, handcrafted goods, plants and more. While you shop and stroll, enjoy live music. This event is pet friendly.
Board Game Night
1-11 p.m. Nov. 1. The Tampa Bay Bridge Center, 114 W. 109th Ave., Tampa. The Tampa Gaming Guild invites the public out for weekly game nights on the first and third Sundays of the month, as well as every Wednesday and Friday evening from 5:30-11 p.m. Trial memberships give you access to regular gaming sessions up to 30 days free. tampagamingguild.org
Mixtura
3-5 p.m. Nov. 1. New Tampa Performing Arts Center, 8550 Hunters Village Road, Tampa. Bassist and composer Alejandro Arenas leads Mixtura in a performance blending a variety of musical influences and styles. Tickets available at NewTampaArtsCenter.org